Newly released FBI interview summaries have revived allegations that Senator Adam Schiff authorized the leak of classified information during the Trump–Russia investigation. According to a whistleblower, a former Democratic intelligence officer, Schiff allegedly instructed staff to share material that was “derogatory” to then-President Donald Trump, with the goal of damaging his political standing. The claim suggests the leaks were intended to influence public perception of Trump during a politically sensitive period.
The whistleblower also pointed to Representative Eric Swalwell as a potential conduit for the information. Swalwell has denied any involvement in leaking classified material and has questioned the credibility of the allegations. The summaries do not provide direct evidence that he acted on Schiff’s instructions, leaving the claims largely based on the whistleblower’s account.
Allegations of political motives have also been raised. The whistleblower claimed Schiff had aspirations to become CIA Director under Hillary Clinton and, following her loss in the 2016 election, sought to undermine Trump’s presidency through leaks. The source stated they reported these concerns to authorities but were subsequently dismissed from their position, a detail that has fueled debate about the origins and intent of the leaks.
Media connections are another focus of the allegations. Investigative journalist Paul Sperry suggested that the leaked material may have reached Washington Post reporter Ellen Nakashima, potentially influencing the newspaper’s coverage of the Trump–Russia investigation. While this claim has circulated widely, there is no definitive public confirmation that Nakashima received or acted on any classified information.
Political analysts note that the allegations come at a time when scrutiny of intelligence operations and media reporting is particularly high. Schiff, a key figure in the House Intelligence Committee during the Trump–Russia probe, has consistently defended his actions as lawful and in line with congressional oversight responsibilities. The renewed claims have sparked debate over the proper handling of sensitive information by members of Congress.
As the controversy develops, it underscores ongoing tensions over transparency, classified information, and political accountability in high-profile investigations. Both Schiff and Swalwell remain in prominent political roles, and the story highlights how allegations of misconduct can influence public discourse and perceptions of government oversight, even years after the events in question.
