FBI Seeks Interviews with Democratic Lawmakers Over Controversial Video

FBI Inquiry into Lawmakers' Video

• FBI is seeking to interview six Democratic lawmakers who posted a video reminding service members and intelligence officials they don't have to obey unlawful orders.
• Senator Elissa Slotkin stated the FBI's counterterrorism division appeared to open an inquiry into her.
• Lawmakers jointly released a statement accusing President Trump of using the FBI as a tool for intimidation and harassment.

White House and Presidential Response

• The White House supports these investigations, with President Trump personally wanting them brought against those who challenge him.
• Trump expressed significant anger over the video, posting about it multiple times and accusing the lawmakers of seditious behavior.
• The administration's argument is that the lawmakers' statements equate to telling military members to circumvent the chain of command.

Pentagon Investigation and Lawmaker Stance

• Concurrently, the Pentagon has launched a separate investigation into allegations of misconduct against Senator Mark Kelly.
• Lawmakers remain undeterred, stating that no amount of intimidation will stop them from doing their jobs and honoring the Constitution.

Legal Perspective on FBI Involvement

• Former FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe argues the FBI should not be investigating First Amendment protected activity.
• He asserts that the video constitutes political speech and there's no evidence of lawmakers encouraging illegal actions.
• McCabe highlights that opening a case on a member of Congress is a sensitive matter requiring multiple levels of approval, questioning how this was bypassed.
• He suggests that pressure from the administration may be causing the FBI to engage in activities they know they shouldn't.