Durham: FBI’s Trump Campaign Probe Unjustified

The FBI’s Investigation into Trump’s Campaign

The FBI’s decision to launch a full investigation into Donald Trump’s campaign based on unverified intelligence has come under scrutiny. Special counsel John Durham, speaking publicly for the first time, stated that the investigation was not justified.

In July 2016, the FBI received information from Australian officials regarding Trump campaign adviser George Papadopoulos. Despite not conducting necessary checks or interviews, the FBI proceeded with a full investigation.

“Based on our investigation, it is not a legitimate basis to open a full investigation,” Durham said.

The FBI’s failure to consult its own databases or interview Australian diplomats was highlighted in Durham’s report. The bureau neglected to gather evidence that would have contradicted the claims made against Trump.

During a hearing on Capitol Hill, Durham expressed his concern over the FBI’s immediate decision to launch a full investigation without proper assessment.

When asked for comment, the FBI referred to previous statements acknowledging the identified “missteps” and the implementation of corrective actions.

Durham concluded that the FBI should have initiated a preliminary investigation or assessment instead of a full investigation. According to FBI rules, a preliminary investigation is required before a full investigation can be opened.

In July 2016, FBI official Peter Strzok opened a full investigation, known as Crossfire Hurricane, into Papadopoulos. This investigation was later expanded to include three other Trump campaign officials.

The FBI justified their swift action by citing Russia’s potential involvement in the 2016 election and connections to WikiLeaks. However, critics argue that the FBI should have conducted a more thorough assessment before launching a full investigation.