The Leak No One Was Supposed to Notice—Until Now
Whistleblower Allegations Threaten to Shake Adam Schiff’s Political Future
A series of explosive allegations from a longtime Democratic staffer, supported by newly declassified FBI documents, could pose a major legal and political threat to Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA), a prominent figure in Democratic leadership and a key player in past intelligence investigations involving former President Donald Trump.
If proven accurate and pursued by federal prosecutors, the claims could result not only in Schiff’s political downfall but also in severe legal penalties—including large fines and potential prison time.
Classified Leaks and Alleged Conspiracy
According to a report by Just The News, the whistleblower in question worked for over a decade as a staff member on the House Intelligence Committee, where Schiff served as both ranking member and later chairman during the high-profile Trump–Russia investigation. The whistleblower alleges that Schiff knowingly authorized the leaking of classified information to the media, with the intent to undermine then-President Trump.
In a reported staff meeting, Schiff allegedly told his team that the committee would “leak classified information derogatory to President Donald J. Trump” in hopes that such disclosures would lead to indictments against him.
The whistleblower claims he immediately objected to the plan, warning Schiff and others that such leaks were not only unethical but potentially criminal. He reportedly referred to the idea as “possibly treasonous,” but was told by colleagues that the leaks would be untraceable and they “would not be caught.”
Promises, Power, and Fallout
The whistleblower also told the FBI that Schiff believed he had been promised the role of CIA Director had Hillary Clinton won the 2016 election—suggesting a motive for Schiff’s alleged actions.
Additionally, the whistleblower identified Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA), another Intelligence Committee member, as a possible conduit through which leaks were delivered to the press. After raising the issue with the FBI, the whistleblower says he was suddenly dismissed from his position without explanation.
Despite raising alarms with the FBI as early as 2017, the whistleblower claims the bureau took no meaningful action. He says he repeated the allegations to agents in the FBI’s St. Louis office in 2023 but once again saw no movement from the agency’s leadership.
Legal Experts Weigh In
Brett Tolman, a former U.S. Attorney and legal analyst, has said the claims—if proven—could carry serious consequences. Speaking with political commentator Benny Johnson, Tolman explained that leaking classified material comes with steep financial penalties.
“The fine is up to $250,000 for each leak that’s charged,” Tolman said, adding that additional charges could multiply the legal exposure. “It also depends on the purpose of the leak. If it’s done to undermine the government or manipulate political outcomes, it adds another layer of legal risk.”
Tolman pointed out that while the evidence may not meet the high bar for a treason charge, other laws could apply—including conspiracy to obstruct official proceedings or the illegal handling of national security information.
“If the motive was to harm a sitting president’s ability to govern,” Tolman said, “then you’re talking about a broader conspiracy. And if prosecutors prove intent to undermine the United States government, some of those charges can carry sentences of up to 20 years in federal prison.”
The FBI Under Fire
Critics say the FBI’s apparent inaction on the allegations reflects a larger pattern of political bias under Director Christopher Wray’s leadership. Former Trump administration official Kash Patel has frequently accused the FBI of ignoring potential wrongdoing by political insiders while aggressively investigating the administration’s allies.
Patel, who held several national security roles, has pointed to the FBI’s use of confidential informants ahead of the January 6 Capitol riot as evidence that the agency had prior knowledge of potential unrest but failed to act accordingly. He says the bureau has demonstrated a “selective approach” to enforcement, shielding allies and targeting opponents.
Schiff Responds—Or Doesn’t
As of now, Senator Schiff has not publicly responded to the latest claims. In the past, he has strongly denied allegations that he leaked classified information, labeling such accusations as politically motivated attacks aimed at discrediting his work on oversight and national security.
Throughout his career, Schiff has been a lightning rod for controversy, particularly during the Trump administration, when he led impeachment-related efforts and other high-profile investigations. His critics argue that his actions were driven by partisanship, while his supporters defend his role as a watchdog holding power to account.
What Comes Next?
The next steps will likely depend on whether federal prosecutors choose to act on the whistleblower’s statements and the supporting documents now available. Legal experts say the case could take months or even years to develop—if it moves forward at all.
Still, the combination of internal allegations, declassified FBI interviews, and growing political scrutiny puts Schiff in a precarious position. If charges are ever filed, the fallout could reverberate through the Democratic Party—and reshape Schiff’s political legacy entirely.