Gabbard releases documents alleging Obama officials conspired on Russia

Tulsi Gabbard released declassified documents claiming a conspiracy by Obama officials.

New allegations about the Russia investigation lack strong evidence

On Friday, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard released declassified intelligence documents. She asserted these documents revealed a conspiracy by key Obama administration officials to fabricate the narrative of Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. However, a bipartisan Senate investigation in 2020 and sources familiar with the intelligence community suggest these allegations misrepresent the findings. The new documents do not dispute the core conclusion that Russia engaged in a campaign to influence the election in favor of Donald Trump, according to multiple congressional sources. Gabbard's claims blend pre-election intelligence assessments with statements confirming that while Russians did not change vote outcomes, they conducted influence operations and cyber-attacks targeting U.S. officials.

Gabbard's allegations amplify a narrative embraced by some political figures seeking to reshape the history of the Russia investigation. By selectively interpreting intelligence, she aims to undermine the established consensus about Russian interference. Public trust in intelligence institutions is already fragile, and such claims could deepen divisions, particularly among political supporters who believe in this revisionist approach. As investigations continue into these allegations, the risk of disinformation spreading remains significant, especially if not addressed promptly by authorities.

Highlights

The ongoing political battle over intelligence could shape future elections.