AG Pam Bondi

Pam Bondi: This Is Why DOJ Is Not Investigating Signal Use by Trump Cabinet Members

AG Pam Bondi Responds to Questions About Trump Officials Using Signal

During a recent press briefing, Attorney General Pam Bondi addressed questions regarding the use of Signal, an encrypted messaging app, by members of the Trump administration's cabinet. Critics have raised concerns over whether the use of such apps could potentially involve the exchange of sensitive national security information outside of standard government protocols.

DOJ’s Stance on the Investigation

When asked why the Department of Justice (DOJ) has not launched an official probe, Bondi clarified:

"The agencies themselves said the information was sensitive but not classified. I believe one inspector general is looking into it now. These cases would have to be referred to me, and they have not been referred to me."

This statement suggests that any potential investigation would need to originate from intelligence agencies or oversight bodies before the DOJ could take action.

Key Takeaways from Bondi’s Response

1. No Classification, No Probe: Bondi emphasized that the information exchanged via Signal was deemed sensitive but not classified by intelligence agencies. She explained that previous investigations into such matters typically involved classified information, which is not the case here.

2. No Official Referral: The DOJ has not received any formal referrals from intelligence agencies regarding this issue. Without such referrals, Bondi stated there is no legal basis for the DOJ to intervene.

3. Inspector General Review: One agency’s inspector general is reportedly reviewing the matter internally. However, Bondi reiterated that unless this review results in a referral, the DOJ will not be involved.

Has Bondi Discussed the Matter with Trump or the White House?

When asked whether she had spoken to former President Trump or anyone at the White House about the issue, Bondi firmly denied it:

"I have not discussed it with the president."

This suggests that the decision not to investigate is based on the lack of an official referral rather than political considerations.

Criticism and Support for Bondi’s Position

• Critics argue that even if the messages were not classified, they could still involve sensitive national security discussions that warrant scrutiny. They also point out that previous DOJ probes were not solely based on classification status.

• Supporters counter that Bondi is following standard legal protocol, ensuring that the DOJ does not overstep its jurisdiction without an official referral from intelligence agencies.

What Happens Next?

For now, the DOJ is not pursuing an investigation. However, if further evidence emerges or if an official referral is made, the matter could escalate into a formal probe.

Bondi’s response makes it clear that unless intelligence agencies formally escalate the issue, no DOJ-led investigation will take place into the use of Signal by Trump cabinet officials.

FAQs: DOJ's Stance on Trump Cabinet Officials Using Signal

1. Why is the DOJ not investigating Trump cabinet officials' use of Signal?

Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that the information exchanged via Signal was deemed sensitive but not classified by intelligence agencies. Since past investigations were typically based on classified information, the DOJ has no legal basis to launch a probe at this time.

2. Has any agency referred the matter to the DOJ for investigation?

No, according to Bondi, no formal referral has been made to the DOJ. She emphasized that investigations into such matters must first be referred by intelligence agencies or oversight bodies.

3. Is anyone reviewing the issue?

Yes, Bondi confirmed that at least one inspector general is conducting an internal review of the situation. However, unless this review results in a formal referral to the DOJ, no further action will be taken at the department level.

4. Has Pam Bondi discussed this with Trump or the White House?

No. Bondi stated, “I have not discussed it with the president.” This suggests that the DOJ’s position is based on legal protocol rather than political influence.

5. What would trigger a DOJ investigation?

A DOJ investigation would require one of the following:

• A formal referral from an intelligence agency or oversight body.

• New evidence indicating that classified information was improperly shared.

• A legal basis proving that federal laws were violated in the process.

6. How does this compare to past DOJ investigations?

Critics argue that past investigations were not solely based on classification status, but also national security concerns. However, Bondi’s DOJ appears to be strictly following the legal requirement of a formal referral before intervening.

7. What happens next?

For now, the DOJ is not taking action. If the inspector general review uncovers significant concerns and refers the case to the DOJ, an investigation could be launched. Until then, the DOJ will not pursue the matter.