During a Monday broadcast of the “War Room” program, political commentator Jack Posobiec and former Trump adviser Steve Bannon pressed for a federal investigation into California Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell’s historic interactions with an alleged Chinese intelligence operative.
Background of the Allegations
The discussion referenced a recent report by Just The News that examined Swalwell’s contacts while he served on the House Intelligence Committee. The report alleges that Swalwell communicated with an individual linked to China’s Ministry of State Security, the country’s top intelligence agency that combines domestic and foreign operations.
Bannon’s Questions
Bannon asked Posobiec how Swalwell could have remained on the sensitive committee while allegedly engaging with a foreign intelligence figure. He noted that the committee handles some of the most sensitive national‑security information and suggested that Swalwell’s continued service raised serious security concerns.
“He’s on the House Intel. Not only is he getting fed the most sensitive information our government has, or virtually the most sensitive, let’s say. He’s, in addition, running the Star Chamber during President Trump’s first term, and nobody backs him off,” Bannon said.
Posobiec’s Call for Action
Posobiec argued that counter‑intelligence officials should determine whether foreign actors attempted to influence congressional actions or leverage sensitive material. He emphasized that the issue was not merely about what information might have been passed, but about the directionality of the relationship and any requests made by the alleged operative.
“So you’re telling me that it wasn’t a Russian intelligence operation, but we have direct evidence now that a Chinese intelligence operation was involved in Trump’s first Russiagate conspiracy and running, by the way, the House Intel Committee,” Posobiec said.
He urged the FBI and the Department of Justice to open a formal investigation, asking, “Where are the arrests? Where’s the counterintelligence investigation? Why are we allowing these things to operate on our soil?”
Swalwell’s Response
Swalwell has previously stated that he cut all ties with the individual after receiving a defensive briefing from federal investigators in 2015. He has not been charged with any wrongdoing, and no formal investigation has been announced to date.
Implications for National Security
The conversation highlighted concerns about foreign influence operations targeting U.S. lawmakers, especially those with access to classified or highly sensitive information. While the allegations remain unproven, the call for a thorough review reflects broader anxieties about China’s intelligence activities and their potential impact on American governance.
Both Bannon and Posobiec framed the issue as a matter of constitutional importance, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in the nation’s intelligence oversight mechanisms.
Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.
