The Unconstitutional Abuses of the FBI

President-elect Trump has nominated Kash Patel, author of "Government Gangsters," to lead the FBI. Matt Taibbi wrote about the FBI's unconstitutional overreach from the 1960s onwards, highlighting its evolution into a spy agency that disrupts political dissent. Patel's role in creating the "Nunes memo" exemplifies media corruption and FBI misconduct. The FBI's transformation into a domestic spy agency has developed in two phases: post-9/11, when it used counterintelligence as a pretext for increased power; and after Trump's election, when it acted against the Trump administration with public and media support.

Reports from the ACLU and testimonials from whistleblowers have highlighted the FBI's troubling actions over the years. In the 1970s, the Church Committee revealed "Gestapo" tactics used by the FBI under J. Edgar Hoover against political activists. After scrutiny, the agency reduced its intrusive practices in the 1980s and 1990s, attempting to rebrand itself as a professional force. However, the 9/11 attacks led to a significant shift back to aggressive tactics, focusing on intelligence gathering over traditional law enforcement, often targeting immigrants and Muslim communities.

The FBI's shift towards analyzing thoughts rather than actions blurred the line between lawful conduct and ideologies. Former agent Mike German described this change as moving towards a thought-policing mission. Although complaints about the FBI's actions came from different factions during this evolution, they often addressed the same issues relating to the Bureau's politicization and overreach.

During the Trump-Russia investigation, the FBI engaged in warrantless surveillance and political spying, which led to a divide in perspectives, even among liberal outlets. Some recognized the Bureau's overreach, but many still supported its actions during Trump's presidency. Critics argue that the FBI became an illegal entity by targeting the sitting president, and there’s a growing consensus that the Bureau needs a major overhaul.

In light of these concerns, Kash Patel's nomination signifies a potential shift in the FBI, aiming to disrupt its current operation. Observers express uncertainty about Patel's capability to address the FBI's issues, but his appointment indicates a recognition that change is needed. The long-term view of the FBI's role and actions remains contentious, particularly if political circumstances allow for continued misconduct. 

https://www.lewrockwell.com/2024/12/ginny-garner/the-unconstitutional-abuses-of-the-fbi/