DNI Gabbard Alleges Obama-Era Coup Against Trump With Declassified 2016 Election Files

Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has released declassified documents alleging that Obama administration officials orchestrated a coordinated effort to manipulate intelligence and undermine President Donald Trump's 2016 election victory. Gabbard claims this included suppressing and altering intelligence findings about Russian interference, labeling it a "years-long coup" and a "treasonous conspiracy." Her office has made a criminal referral to the Justice Department seeking investigation into these allegations. However, multiple bipartisan investigations, including a 2020 Senate Intelligence Committee report and CIA reviews, have confirmed Russia's interference aimed at influencing the election, without evidence of a criminal conspiracy by Obama officials. Gabbard's assertions have been met with fierce criticism from Democrats and some commentators who argue her claims misrepresent intelligence facts and processes, potentially endangering intelligence community personnel. The controversy highlights ongoing partisan battles over the interpretation of events surrounding the 2016 election and intelligence assessments.