Newly declassified records allege that Senator Adam Schiff, while serving as the top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, authorized the leaking of classified information during the Trump–Russia investigation.
A whistleblower, a former Democratic staffer with extensive experience on the committee, claims that Schiff led staff meetings encouraging leaks to target President Trump. The whistleblower also stated that there was a system of organized leaking within the committee.
Rep. Eric Swalwell was named as another frequent source of leaks. Despite the allegations, no investigation was launched at the time due to constitutional protections under the Speech or Debate Clause.
Schiff, who was censured by House Republicans in 2023, now faces a separate grand jury probe into alleged financial misconduct. The FBI has also been investigating former intelligence officials regarding actions taken during the Trump–Russia probe.
The revelations have intensified political tensions and raised questions about the handling of classified information during the investigation.