FBI Morale PLUMMETS Amid New Leak-Hunting Tactics!
The FBI’s controversial new use of polygraphs to root out internal leakers is triggering alarms about civil liberties, agency morale, and press freedom.
At a Glance
FBI launches mandatory polygraph tests to identify potential internal leakers
Move linked to broader Trump-era efforts to crack down on unauthorized disclosures
Attorney General Pam Bondi rescinds protections shielding journalists from subpoenas
Critics warn the policies are creating fear and damaging agency morale
FBI Takes a New Approach
The FBI has officially added polygraph examinations to its investigative protocols for suspected internal leaks, according to Newsmax. The new measure, ordered by Director Kash Patel, aims to intensify internal security by deterring employees from leaking sensitive information.
While polygraphs are historically controversial due to questions about their accuracy, their reinstatement signals a hardened stance toward unauthorized disclosures. Patel’s move reflects rising frustration over leaks believed to have disrupted Trump administration initiatives.
Watch FBI’s internal polygraph initiative explained.
Policies Complicating Freedom of the Press
In a parallel move intensifying scrutiny, Attorney General Pam Bondi rescinded previous Department of Justice policies that restricted using subpoenas and search warrants against journalists, as reported by The New Republic. The decision opens the door for investigators to compel reporters to reveal sources during leak probes, a significant reversal of long-standing DOJ guidelines.
Civil liberties groups and press advocates argue the change threatens journalistic freedom and could have chilling effects on investigative reporting. These criticisms add to broader concerns about eroding transparency in government affairs.
Implications for National Security
The aggressive new security measures reportedly have created an environment of fear within federal agencies, leading to a marked decline in morale among FBI personnel. While protecting national security is vital, experts warn that undermining internal trust could harm the very institutions the policy aims to safeguard.
The administration’s broader strategy—prioritizing strict information control over traditional norms of press freedom and employee trust—will be tested as leak investigations proceed. Whether polygraphs will prove effective in stemming leaks or whether the fallout will cripple agency effectiveness remains an open question.
Follow Reuters’ update on FBI morale and national security concerns.
As the situation develops, the FBI’s internal challenges and the tension between secrecy and transparency will remain critical issues shaping public trust in American law enforcement and intelligence agencies.