FBI, DNI back CIA judgment that Russia meddled in election and favored Trump
FBI Director James Comey and Director of National Intelligence James Clapper back the CIA’s judgment that Russia meddled in the 2016 presidential election and favored Donald Trump’s candidacy, CBS News confirmed Friday, citing U.S. intelligence sources.
CIA Director John Brennan, announced this deveopment in a message to the agency’s workforce.
“Earlier this week, I met separately with (Director) FBI James Comey and DNI Jim Clapper, and there is strong consensus among us on the scope, nature, and intent of Russian interference in our presidential election,” Brennan wrote, U.S. intelligence sources confirmed. “The three of us also agree that our organizations, along with others, need to focus on completing the thorough review of this issue that has been directed by President Obama and which is being led by the DNI.”
Earlier this week, President Obama, as well as GOP senators, called for a probe into Russia’s intereference in the presidential election.
Brennan’s message was first reported by the Washington Post -- the news broke shortly before President Obama began what is expected to be his year-end press conference.
CBS News’ Andres Triay contributed to this report