Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard was not aware that former National Counterterrorism Center Director Joe Kent was under FBI investigation for allegedly leaking classified information prior to his resignation, a senior intelligence official told Fox News Digital Thursday.
Kent stepped down Tuesday after publicly breaking with President Donald Trump over the war in Iran, writing in his resignation letter that Tehran posed "no imminent threat" to the United States.
What the Left Is Saying
Progressive Democrats and civil liberties advocates have raised concerns about the handling of Kent's case, noting that the director of national intelligence was not informed about an active FBI investigation. Some progressive voices have argued that the lack of communication between ODNI and the FBI represents a breakdown in interagency coordination at a time when sensitive intelligence was being managed.
Democrats on the Hill have also questioned the administration about why Kent, who they note had raised concerns about war justification, was described by senior officials as a "known leaker" without more public explanation. House Progressive Caucus members have called for transparency about the investigation's timeline.
What the Right Is Saying
Conservative Republicans have largely supported the administration's handling of Kent's departure, with many arguing that leaking classified information is a serious offense regardless of the leaker's policy position. House Republican Conference leaders have praised Trump's firm stance on Iran and defended the administration against suggestions of improper conduct.
Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., pressed Gabbard during a recent hearing on whether she agreed with Kent's resignation statement. When Stefanik read portions of the letter aloud and asked if Gabbard agreed with Kent's claims, Gabbard responded: "He said a lot of things in that letter." When pressed on whether Kent's comments concerned her, she answered: "Yes."
What the Numbers Show
Two sources briefed on the matter told Fox News that the FBI investigation into Kent had been underway for weeks before his resignation. These sources requested anonymity to discuss an ongoing FBI inquiry.
FBI leak investigations are typically tightly held in early stages to avoid alerting the subject. The fact that Gabbard was not informed raises questions about how decisions regarding Kent's access to sensitive information were managed in the weeks leading up to his departure.
Administration officials have said Kent had been cut out of planning meetings related to the current Iran mission, known as Operation Epic Fury, as well as the president's daily briefings prior to his resignation.
The Bottom Line
The revelation that Gabbard was unaware of the FBI probe adds a new dimension to the story of Kent's abrupt departure. The potential security implications of a top intelligence official not being briefed on an active investigation involving a subordinate with access to sensitive information are likely to draw further congressional scrutiny. Gabbard is scheduled to appear before the Senate for additional questioning next week.