The recent revelations about the FBI’s tracking of Trump family travel and monitoring of phone records of top aide Susie Wiles have sparked strong criticism from former Democratic officials. Comparisons have been drawn to practices from the Nixon era during the Watergate scandal.
The investigation, known as ‘Plasmic Echo,’ was later overseen by special counsel Jack Smith. This inquiry focused on Trump’s alleged improper handling of classified national-defense materials and potential obstruction. It involved tracking trips made by first lady Melania Trump and Barron Trump leading up to the 2022 Mar-a-Lago search, and logged metadata from Wiles’ phone calls involving attorneys, media personnel, and others.
Julian Epstein, once chief counsel for the House Judiciary Committee’s Democrats, voiced concern comparing these actions to the scandal that led to President Richard Nixon’s downfall. Epstein stated, “It’s hard to think of good justifications for this. To me, it feels a little Nixonian.” He emphasized the gravity of the allegations, insisting that those responsible should justify their surveillance practices involving Trump’s family and advisors.
Nixon maintained an ‘Enemies List’ developed by aides under adviser Charles Colson and formalized by counsel John Dean. Dean, a current critic of Republicans like Trump, had described it as using federal machinery against political adversaries.
Epstein questioned the legal grounds for monitoring communications, especially those involving journalists and lawyers, suggesting it seems excessive.
Tuesday witnessed few prominent Democrats publicly challenging the revealed tactics, such as the tracking of Melania and Barron Trump’s travel and the metadata collection of Wiles’ calls.
Fox News Digital inquired with Sen. Richard Blumenthal, a Democrat from Connecticut who previously broke party silence to question earlier revelations from Smith’s probe. Blumenthal acknowledged Republicans’ right to be upset regarding subpoenas executed without notice, emphasizing the need for more clarity and investigation into breaches of norms and unauthorized access to communications.
Additional disclosures revealed that Smith’s investigation into the 2020 election included reviewing text exchanges between Trump officials and members of Congress from both parties.
Theo Wold, an ex-acting assistant U.S. attorney general under Trump, stated that these revelations vindicate Republicans warning about a so-called ‘Deep State.’ He claimed that government authorities have targeted groups including Catholics and pro-life activists, using power for political purposes against opposition figures.
The White House condemned the newly disclosed surveillance, labeling Smith’s operation as a clear misuse of power for political gain. White House spokesperson Lauren Bis demanded accountability for those involved.
On a single day in March 2023, investigators logged metadata for 39 calls made or received by Wiles, including calls connected to Melania Trump.
Elizabeth Pipko, a former Republican National Committee official, emphasized Wiles’ historic role as the first woman to serve as White House chief of staff. Pipko asserted that Wiles should inspire young women, yet the surveillance indicates the harsh reality faced by those supporting certain political candidates.
Sen. Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, announced that Smith’s probe also intercepted communications from journalists, including Fox News affiliates.
Counsel for Smith was contacted for comment.