Intel chief warns Barr could imperil national security by declassifying documents

Source: Politico | May 24, 2019 | Quint Forgey

The nation’s intelligence chief expressed hope Friday that Attorney General William Barr would adhere to “long-established standards” during his investigation into the origins of the Russia probe — but warned the release of “highly-sensitive classified information” would imperil national security.

“Much like we have with other investigations and reviews, the Intelligence Community (IC) will provide the Department of Justice all of the appropriate information for its review of intelligence activities related to Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election,” Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats said in a statement.

“As part of that process, I am confident that the Attorney General will work with the IC in accordance with the long-established standards to protect highly-sensitive classified information that, if publicly released, would put our national security at risk,” Coats said.

He added that the intelligence community “will continue to faithfully execute its mission of providing timely, apolitical intelligence to the President and policymakers.”

The steely words of caution from America’s top intelligence official follow President Donald Trump’s memo Thursday granting Barr sweeping new investigatory powers, allowing the attorney general to make public classified documents related to the Justice Department’s inquiry into Russia and the 2016 election.

……….

Viewing 2 posts - 1 through 2 (of 2 total)
  • Discussion
  • Consistent #29685

    Consistent #29691

Viewing 2 posts - 1 through 2 (of 2 total)

You must be logged in to reply to this topic.