Former CIA chief warns Trump of politicizing counterterrorism to target leftists

John O. Brennan, who once led the CIA, warned that the Trump administration is repurposing counterterrorism agencies to chase undocumented workers and left-wing activists instead of confronting authentic domestic terror groups. Speaking with Michael Steele on MS NOW, he argued that the focus on “phantom” leftist threats like Antifa diverts and weakens the nation’s ability to stop real extremist violence. Brennan highlighted that the administration has broadened terrorist designations to cover gangs, cartels and loosely defined anti-fascist movements, a move he says serves political goals over security.

He also pointed out the administration’s reluctance to address right-wing extremist groups, such as neo-Nazi organizations, that pose a genuine danger. Former CIA analyst Julia Curlee echoed these criticisms, describing a broader assault on the intelligence community, including public firings and revocation of clearances for dissenting officials. Both veterans contend that this politicization threatens America’s safety by misdirecting resources and undermining objective threat assessment.