Former CIA Director John Brennan has been summoned to testify before a grand jury in Florida. This development is part of a Justice Department investigation into whether former law enforcement and intelligence officials plotted against then-President Donald Trump. Additionally, Brennan faces a separate probe regarding alleged false statements made to Congress, according to his legal team.
Subpoena Details
Attorney Ken Wainstein, representing Brennan, revealed the existence of the subpoena while requesting a court order for the Justice Department to preserve all investigation records. He contended these documents are essential for understanding the government’s stance on indicting Brennan, a known critic of Trump. Wainstein emphasized the unprecedented nature of the situation, noting his extensive experience within the Justice Department and alleging attempts to falsely accuse his client.
He addressed U.S. District Judge Jia Cobb, citing alleged manipulative actions by the Justice Department, including directives to target adversaries like Brennan and personnel changes among skeptical prosecutors.
The Broad Investigation
Brennan’s subpoena, issued last Thursday, requires his appearance on October 15 before a grand jury in Fort Pierce, Florida, in the jurisdiction of Trump-appointed Judge Aileen Cannon. Wainstein explained the subpoena relates to a broad investigation concerning a theory that officials involved in Trump’s probes over the years, such as the 2016 Russia interference and classified documents retention, conspired to infringe on Trump’s civil rights.
Brennan reportedly remains a target in an inquiry into whether he provided false testimony to Congress about a U.S. intelligence assessment of Russian interference in 2016. Wainstein said previous subpoenas for grand jury testimonies in the false statements investigation were rescinded in favor of voluntary interviews.
Prosecution and Disputes
The same day Brennan received the subpoena, prosecutor Joe diGenova, leading the so-called ‘grand conspiracy’ investigation, resigned. A source cited frustration with the pace and management of the probe from the Justice Department and White House. DiGenova defended his record, stating, ‘It takes time to gather the evidence,’ though he acknowledged differences in urgency.
No replacement for diGenova has been announced. Brennan’s defense is particularly interested in communications suggesting directions from Trump or White House officials to pursue Brennan, citing past record conservation issues as a basis for their preservation request. The Justice Department deemed the request premature, stressing Brennan’s non-defendant status and uncertainty over charges. Judge Cobb has not yet made a decision on the preservation order.