Context:

The Justice Department has acknowledged ongoing investigations into former FBI Director James Comey and former CIA Director John Brennan, reigniting scrutiny of the Russia investigation and raising concerns of political motivations. This renewed focus comes amidst a newly declassified CIA report criticizing Brennan's handling of the 2017 intelligence assessment on Russian election interference. The report accuses Brennan of favoring narrative consistency over analytical soundness, specifically regarding the inclusion of the controversial 'Steele dossier.' Despite past investigations finding no evidence of criminal conduct by senior officials, current FBI and Justice Department actions suggest a continuation of politically charged inquiries. These developments occur as the Justice Department faces criticism for allegedly weaponizing its powers to target perceived adversaries of the Trump administration, further fueling debates over the politicization of justice processes.

Dive Deeper:

• The Justice Department has confirmed investigations into James Comey and John Brennan, key figures in the Russia investigation, amid claims of political interference by the Trump administration. This situation has brought past unresolved issues back into the spotlight, especially given Trump's previous calls for inquiries into these individuals.

• A newly declassified CIA report, ordered by current CIA Director John Ratcliffe, criticizes former CIA Director Brennan for his oversight of the 2017 intelligence assessment on Russian interference in the 2016 election. The report claims Brennan prioritized narrative consistency over analytical soundness, particularly concerning the inclusion of the unverified 'Steele dossier.'

• Despite numerous previous investigations, including those by special counsel John Durham, that found no basis for criminal charges against senior officials, the Justice Department's recent actions suggest a continuation of politically motivated inquiries. These events occur amidst criticism from conservatives about the department's handling of other high-profile cases.

• John Brennan, in response to the renewed scrutiny, expressed concern over the politicization of the intelligence community, stating that individuals are sacrificing their reputations to serve Trump's politically based agendas. He maintains his pride in the intelligence work regarding Russian election interference.

• The Justice Department has faced allegations of using its powers for partisan purposes, opening inquiries into various Trump adversaries while refraining from investigating his allies. This has led to accusations that Trump is using the department to settle personal scores, further complicating the department's reputation and mission.