Fact Check: The CIA and FBI conducted a review of their intelligence assessments.

Fact Check: "The CIA and FBI conducted a review of their intelligence assessments."

What We Know

The claim that the CIA and FBI conducted a review of their intelligence assessments is substantiated by recent reports from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI). Specifically, the 27th and 28th Joint Assessments of FISA Section 702 Compliance detail the compliance reviews conducted by the CIA, FBI, and other intelligence agencies. These assessments are mandated by Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) and require the Attorney General and the Director of National Intelligence to evaluate the government's adherence to established procedures and guidelines.

The assessments indicate that during the reporting periods, which cover from June 1, 2021, to May 31, 2022, the CIA and FBI were actively involved in compliance efforts. The reports highlight that these agencies implemented procedures and followed guidelines that reflect a focused effort to comply with the requirements of Section 702, including internal reviews and training to prevent compliance issues (ODNI Releases 27th and 28th Joint Assessments of FISA).

Analysis

The evidence supporting the claim comes from official government reports, which are generally considered reliable due to their authoritative nature. The ODNI's assessments are conducted by a joint team of experts from the DOJ National Security Division and the ODNI, ensuring a thorough and independent review process. The reports specifically mention that the CIA and FBI continued to implement Section 702 procedures effectively, indicating a proactive approach to compliance and oversight (2025 Annual Threat Assessment of the U.S. Intelligence).

However, it is essential to note that while these assessments are credible, they are also produced by agencies that may have an interest in portraying their activities positively. This potential bias should be considered when interpreting the findings. Nonetheless, the structured nature of the assessments and their requirement for transparency lend them significant credibility.

Additionally, the assessments reveal ongoing challenges, particularly for the FBI, which has historically faced compliance issues related to querying procedures. The reports indicate that substantial resources were invested in improving these compliance measures, further supporting the claim that a review process was in place (ODNI Releases 27th and 28th Joint Assessments of FISA).

Conclusion

The claim that the CIA and FBI conducted a review of their intelligence assessments is True. The evidence from the ODNI's Joint Assessments confirms that both agencies were actively involved in compliance reviews and improvements related to their intelligence assessments. The assessments reflect a commitment to oversight and adherence to legal standards, despite acknowledging past compliance challenges.

Fact Check: The CIA and FBI conducted a review of their intelligence assessments.