A recent watchdog report released by the Justice Department's inspector general has revealed that during Donald Trump's first term, phone records of two members of Congress and 43 staffers were secretly obtained as part of a leak investigation. The report raises concerns about the department's methods in identifying reporters' sources among federal employees with access to classified information.
Although the report does not name the individuals targeted, sources familiar with the matter have identified Kash Patel, a former GOP House intelligence committee staffer, along with Democratic Reps. Adam Schiff and Eric Swalwell as among those whose records were sought. Additionally, emails from journalists at major news outlets such as CNN, The Washington Post, and The New York Times were also requested.
The investigation was based on the proximity of individuals to leaked information, potentially hindering Congress's oversight of the executive branch. The inspector general highlighted the risk of impeding Congress's constitutional duties and the appearance of executive branch interference in legislative oversight activities.
Despite the broad scope of the investigation, the inspector general did not recommend charges against any individuals involved. Furthermore, there was no evidence to suggest that the career prosecutors handling the case were politically motivated in their pursuit of the leak investigation.
