A Democrat whistleblower’s allegations, supported by newly declassified FBI interview reports, now threaten to derail Senator Adam Schiff’s (D-CA) political career. The claims date back to Schiff’s time as ranking member and later chairman of the House Intelligence Committee during the Trump-Russia investigation. The whistleblower, who worked with Democrats on the committee for over a decade, told the FBI starting in 2017 that Schiff authorized leaks of classified intelligence to the media to damage then-President Donald Trump.
According to the whistleblower, Schiff declared in a staff meeting that the group would leak derogatory classified information about Trump, intending to use the leaks to indict the president. The source said he immediately objected, calling the plan “unethical and possibly treasonous,” but was assured the leaks would go undetected. The whistleblower also alleged Schiff expected to become CIA Director if Hillary Clinton had won the 2016 election and identified Rep. Eric Swalwell as a likely conduit for the leaks. After raising concerns with the FBI, the whistleblower says he was abruptly fired.
Despite repeated reports, including one to the FBI’s St. Louis office in 2023, no action was taken against Schiff. Former U.S. Attorney Brett Tolman warned that if prosecutors pursue charges, Schiff could face fines up to \$250,000 per leak and up to 20 years in federal prison, depending on the intent and relevant statutes. Tolman also noted the leaks could amount to a conspiracy to undermine a sitting president.
Critics have accused FBI Director Christopher Wray of shielding politically connected figures and ignoring misconduct, pointing to the bureau’s handling of the January 6 investigation as an example. Some argue that this inaction fits a broader pattern of political bias within the agency.
Senator Schiff has not publicly responded to the newly surfaced allegations. However, he has previously denied leaking classified material and dismissed such claims as partisan attacks aimed at discrediting his oversight work.
