FBI Fires Agents, Disbands Unit Over GOP Senators Surveillance

FBI Director Kash Patel announced the firing of several agents and the dismantling of the CR-15 public corruption unit after revelations that the FBI, under former Special Counsel Jack Smith, surveilled the private communications and phone locations of multiple Republican senators and a congressman during investigations related to the Jan. 6 Capitol riot. The surveillance included subpoenaing telephone companies for call records and tracking movements, actions Patel and other officials described as "weaponizing law enforcement" against U.S. citizens and political opponents. Patel emphasized transparency and accountability, stating the FBI is undergoing reforms to restore integrity and remove those who acted unethically, promising more accountability measures ahead. The surveillance was part of the Arctic Frost investigation, which targeted conservative figures and organizations but ultimately did not result in successful prosecution. Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley criticized the FBI's prior conduct and highlighted additional concerns over politically motivated actions by the bureau, including aggressive investigations into Trump allies and questionable arrest tactics. Attorney General Pam Bondi labeled the FBI's conduct a "historic betrayal of public trust," underscoring the widespread invasive probes into Republican figures and organizations.