Recently released FBI interview records have reignited public and political scrutiny surrounding Senator Adam Schiff, following allegations that he approved the release of classified information during the peak of the Trump–Russia investigation.
The documents, based on statements from a whistleblower described as a Democratic intelligence officer who once served on the House Intelligence Committee, allege that Schiff personally authorized the dissemination of sensitive materials intended to politically harm then-President Donald Trump. The interviews, conducted between 2017 and 2023, detail repeated claims that Schiff used his influence and position to guide disclosures of classified intelligence to the media.
At the time, Schiff was a leading Democrat on the committee, later rising to chairman—a role granting him access to some of the most closely held national security information. The whistleblower asserted that Representative Eric Swalwell served as an intermediary, transferring restricted details to members of the press to reinforce the “Russiagate” narrative that dominated political discussion throughout Trump’s presidency.
One FBI record reportedly recounts Schiff telling committee aides during a closed-door meeting that specific classified material “derogatory to Trump” would be leaked and subsequently used to pursue legal action against him. Swalwell has firmly denied any wrongdoing, rejecting what he described as “baseless political smears” and criticizing FBI Director Kash Patel’s management of the broader issue.
The whistleblower further claimed that Schiff had been considered for the role of CIA Director in a prospective Hillary Clinton administration and, after her 2016 election loss, continued efforts to undermine Trump through orchestrated disclosures. Despite raising concerns to federal officials multiple times, the individual alleged that the Justice Department declined to act and that they were ultimately dismissed after reporting their findings—an outcome that raises additional questions about whistleblower protections and internal accountability.
Investigative reporter Paul Sperry has suggested that some of the leaked material may have been funneled to Washington Post journalist Ellen Nakashima, who has longstanding relationships with senior intelligence figures. Schiff’s office has not yet issued a formal public statement addressing the allegations.
If verified, the claims could carry significant legal and political ramifications. As a sitting U.S. senator and influential member of the Democratic Party, Schiff’s actions during his tenure on the House Intelligence Committee are likely to come under renewed examination. The situation has also reignited discussions about the limits of congressional authority, the handling of classified information, and the ongoing balance between national security and political transparency in Washington.