Senator Adam Schiff Faces Scrutiny Over Alleged Leak of Classified Information

Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA) is under renewed scrutiny following declassified FBI documents and whistleblower claims alleging he authorized the leaking of classified information during his tenure as chair of the House Intelligence Committee. The allegations stem from 2017, amid the Trump–Russia investigation.

A whistleblower, described as a former Democratic intelligence staffer, claims Schiff encouraged the selective release of classified details to the media to politically damage then-President Trump. The whistleblower said his internal concerns were dismissed and that he later faced retaliation for speaking out. He reported the misconduct to the FBI’s Washington office and later approached agents in St. Louis in 2023, alleging that no investigation was pursued—raising questions about unequal enforcement of classified material laws.

Legal experts note that leaking classified national security information can carry prison sentences of up to 10 years per offense. Additional charges could include obstruction of justice or abuse of office, depending on the findings of any investigation. As of now, there has been no formal DOJ probe or indictment announced.

The whistleblower also claimed Schiff maintained close relationships with select journalists and aspired to a top intelligence role in a future administration. Critics argue that Schiff’s public handling of sensitive information blurred the line between political advocacy and official duty.

Schiff has previously denied any wrongdoing. However, calls for accountability are growing among lawmakers, with some framing the case as a crucial test of how the justice system treats powerful elected officials accused of misconduct.