A report released last week by the Department of Justice Inspector General alleges that Democratic Members of Congress and their staff leaked classified materials to the media during President Trump’s first term, helping to advance the Russia collusion hoax narrative. Despite being aware of the leaks and their sources, the FBI failed to take sufficient action. Representatives Adam Schiff (D-CA) and Eric Swalwell (D-CA) were specifically named in the report, which claims they leaked classified documents to corporate media outlets.
A whistleblower, identified as a Democratic staffer on a congressional committee, reportedly told the FBI that they “suspected that Member 1 had previously leaked classified information and that Member 2 wanted to influence public opinion via the release of classified information.”
The report further identifies a senior Democratic congressional staffer who allegedly provided classified information to at least three members of the media, resulting in its publication. Despite this evidence being handed over to the FBI, the agency declined to pursue an investigation. The New York Times identified the suspected leaker as Michael Bahar, though no charges were filed.
The Inspector General’s investigation also involved a review of communications from multiple congressional staffers, including those from both Republican and Democratic offices, as well as nonpartisan roles. In total, 21 Democrats and 20 Republicans had their communications examined. The report concludes that while individuals were implicated in the leaks, no prosecutions were pursued.
