US Launches Probe Into 'Russiagate' Conspiracy

Obama-era actions, Trump's 2016 campaign and Russian interference have long been under scrutiny

- Bloomberg

The US Justice Department has opened a criminal investigation into claims that national security officials participated in a conspiracy in late 2016 and early 2017 to link President Donald Trump to Russia's election interference and undermine his legitimacy, according to a person familiar with the matter.

Attorney General Pam Bondi directed prosecutors to use a grand jury to investigate claims made by Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, said the person, who asked not to be named speaking about a confidential matter.

Gabbard claimed last month that officials working under former President Barack Obama "manufactured and politicized intelligence to lay the groundwork for what was essentially a years-long coup against President Trump."

Gabbard made a criminal referral to the Justice Department to investigate that matter.

It wasn't immediately clear what specific actions are under investigation and whether prosecutors will use an existing grand jury or convene a new one. It also wasn't clear in which city and court the case will be presented.