Additional Coverage:
Local FBI agents are seeking court protection to keep their identities secret. They fear retaliation for their work on investigations related to the January 6th Capitol attack and the former president’s handling of classified documents.
The agents are asking for a temporary restraining order against the FBI. They believe the agency has a list of employees who may face discipline or termination and are worried about its public release.
A court hearing Thursday saw heated discussions between the Justice Department and lawyers for the agents. The DOJ lawyer assured the court that the department itself wouldn’t release the list while the case proceeds.
However, the judge and the agents’ lawyers remained concerned. The DOJ lawyer couldn’t guarantee that other government entities wouldn’t disclose the information. He admitted he couldn’t confirm under oath that the list wouldn’t be leaked.
The judge questioned whether the White House, for instance, might seek and release the names. The DOJ lawyer stated that those currently with access to the list have no intention of releasing it.
He explained difficulty in getting superiors to agree on specific language preventing the list’s release, citing other pressing legal matters. The two sides will return to court Friday unless they reach an agreement outside of court.
The agents’ lawyers argue that releasing the list could have severe consequences for national security. They cited past instances of officials being publicly named and facing backlash. They expressed concern about potential actions by supporters of the former president.
The Justice Department, however, argues the agents’ request is based on speculation and lacks evidence of imminent threats. They’ve urged the judge to reject the restraining order.