If true, the US Department of Justice (DOJ) must provide answers to the Republican senators who have raised questions about reports that the department allegedly spied on its own staffers in Congress during the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election.
Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Ron Johnson (R-WI) wrote a letter to the DOJ’s Inspector General demanding an investigation into the matter. The letter cited anonymous sources who said that the DOJ used surveillance powers against congressional staff it suspected of being connected to the investigation. The senators also asked the DOJ why the use of foreign surveillance powers was necessary, if it was authorized by the president, and if there were any safeguards to protect the civil liberties of those targeted.
The senators are also demanding to know why the DOJ did not disclose the conducts that took place to congressional oversight committees.
The DOJ has not yet provided answers to the senators’ letter, and it is not clear when or if the department will do so. In the meantime, it is important to remind the DOJ that the use of surveillance powers in the investigation into Russian interference must be done according to the law, and with appropriate oversight. Any actions that may have gone beyond the limits of the law must be investigated and addressed.
