Early Tuesday, Maria Medetis Long was removed from the investigation into John Brennan. This probe focuses on whether Brennan lied to Congress about the CIA’s role in the intelligence assessment regarding Russian interference in the 2016 election.
As of midday, the Justice Department stated that it is routine practice to move attorneys around on cases. However, some observers question this rationale.
Long reportedly informed her superiors that she did not believe there was enough evidence to bring charges against Brennan. This raises questions about the motivations behind her removal.
The investigation began following a referral from the Republican-led House Judiciary Committee. It has been ongoing for months, with Brennan’s lawyers preparing for a possible indictment during that time.
Within hours of Long’s removal, Chris DeLorenz was assigned to take over the case. Still, the specific reasons for Long’s departure remain unclear.
The Justice Department has conducted interviews and issued subpoenas as part of this investigation. Notably, pressure from Donald Trump for the Justice Department to expedite investigations against his critics has been mounting.
Long is the head of the national security section for the U.S. attorney’s office for the Southern District of Florida. Her sudden removal is seen as unusual by some legal experts.
Greg Brower, a former federal prosecutor, stated that such moves are not typically considered normal and healthy as suggested by DOJ representatives.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding who will take over the investigation following Long’s exit. The probe is examining allegations that Brennan made false statements to Congress in 2023.
This development adds another layer of complexity to an already contentious political landscape surrounding investigations into Russian election interference.
