In a significant action reminiscent of a “purge,” the Trump administration has terminated three senior FBI officials linked to the Bureau’s investigation of the January 6 Capitol riot, signaling a move by the Department of Justice to eliminate perceived insubordination, leaks, and cover-ups.
The officials dismissed include Brian Driscoll, who briefly served as acting FBI director at the beginning of President Donald Trump’s second term; Steven Jensen, the Assistant Director in Charge of the Washington Field Office; and veteran Special Agent Walter Giardina. Reports from Politico confirm their terminations.
Driscoll, a veteran of 20 years with the FBI, acknowledged his dismissal in an internal email obtained by NBC News, stating, “Last night I was informed that tomorrow will be my last day in the FBI. I understand that you may have a lot of questions regarding why, for which I currently have no answers.” Driscoll had previously had conflicts with senior Justice Department officials over his refusal to provide a complete list of FBI personnel involved in January 6 investigations.
In his farewell message, he stated, “It has been the honor of my life to serve alongside each of you… I regret nothing. You are my heroes, and I remain in your debt.”
Steven Jensen, who had only been appointed to lead the Washington Field Office, a crucial control center for the January 6 probe, also confirmed his firing in a letter dated August 8, stating, “I intend to meet this challenge like any other I have faced in this organization, with professionalism, integrity, and dignity.” He urged his colleagues to “Continue to be bold and aggressive in the pursuit of justice.”
Jensen’s appointment raised concerns among Trump supporters, who perceived him as a significant figure in the ongoing January 6 investigation. His dismissal is seen by some political commentators as evidence that Trump’s team, under FBI Director Kash Patel, has secured what it needed from internal inquiries.
Walter Giardina, the third official removed, had previously participated in the Mueller investigation concerning Trump-Russia ties and was involved in the controversial arrest of former Trump trade advisor Peter Navarro, who criticized the arrest as politically motivated and excessive.
The FBI Agents Association released a statement condemning the firings, emphasizing that agents do not choose their cases and those dismissed acted with professionalism and integrity while adhering to the law. They warned that firing agents without due process could compromise public safety.
Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) characterized the firings as part of “a disturbing pattern of retaliation and politicization” at an institution tasked with protecting national security and upholding the rule of law.
Just weeks ago, U.S. District Judge Jia Cobb dismissed a legal attempt by anonymous FBI officials to prevent potential retaliation related to their roles in the Capitol riot probe, describing the situation as a “whirlwind of chaos and fear” but deeming claims of imminent retaliation too speculative.
All three of the terminated officials had extensive tenures and held senior leadership positions within the Bureau. With more dismissals anticipated, the Trump administration sends a clear signal to those who may consider undermining it: dismissal is imminent.
