Potential Criminal Liability for Former Intelligence Officials
During a recent episode of FNC’s Sunday Morning Futures, CIA Director John Ratcliffe indicated that former CIA Director John Brennan and former National Intelligence Director James Clapper might still face criminal charges, even though some legal protections for Obama administration officials regarding actions taken during the 2016 election have lapsed.
Host Maria Bartiromo expressed appreciation on behalf of the audience for the investigative efforts by Ratcliffe and Devin Nunes. She noted that many of the viewers are already aware of past events but seek accountability. With many restrictions now expired, she pointed out that almost a decade has passed for some individuals involved.
Bartiromo recalled that both Brennan and Hillary Clinton testified before Congress within the last few years, specifically mentioning testimonies from 2020 and 2021.
Ratcliffe affirmed her statements.
Bartiromo pressed for clarification about whether any restrictions still apply and inquired about the possibility of criminal prosecution. She reminded Ratcliffe that he had sent a criminal referral to the Department of Justice three weeks prior and asked him about its outcomes.
Ratcliffe responded by discussing previous revelations about Brennan, Clapper, and Comey, accusing them of promoting false intelligence, particularly related to the Steele dossier, which was tied to the investigation known as Crossfire Hurricane.
He mentioned that much foundational intelligence is currently undergoing a declassification process, as part of the John Durham Report. Ratcliffe suggested that some of this information implicates Clinton’s plans and the FBI’s role in facilitating the dissemination of the false Steele dossier.
Bartiromo noted that Brennan had provided testimony to John Durham in August 2020, and both Brennan and Clinton had testified again under oath in 2022. James Comey had also testified before a Senate committee in September 2020. All these events occurred within the last five years, and Ratcliffe observed that some of the testimonies contradict the intelligence that is soon to be declassified.
He added that Pam Bondi has authority to act, indicating a need for the Department of Justice and FBI to investigate how these officials allegedly conspired to deceive the public and undermine President Donald Trump.
Ratcliffe seemed to worry about the reaction from the political left, suggesting they might be upset about the ongoing inquiries. He framed Trump’s election as a statement from the American people against unjust actions, emphasizing the need to understand how those actions occurred to prevent future occurrences.
Bartiromo asked if there still might be chances for prosecution regarding Brennan, Comey, and possibly Clinton, who may have misled under oath.
Ratcliffe confirmed this possibility, indicating that his introductions of referrals are aimed at ensuring the Department of Justice pursues fairness and justice.
