On a recent Thursday, Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri requested the dissolution of the recently formed “Homeland Intelligence Experts Group” from the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, Alejandro Mayorkas. The senator’s concern stemmed from the fact that three of the group’s members were involved in dismissing the Hunter Biden laptop incident before the 2020 U.S. elections.
Hawley pointed out that John Brennan, James Clapper, and Paul Kolbe were among those who, in October 2020, signed a letter labeling the Hunter Biden laptop narrative as potential “Russian misinformation.” Hawley indicated that recent findings have shed light on the questionable motives behind the letter. He questioned the credibility of these individuals in intelligence-related matters, given this backdrop.
The DHS had recently introduced this expert group, explaining it as a diverse assembly consisting of ex-intelligence officials, media representatives, and notable civil rights and civil liberties champions. Their purpose is to convene quarterly and discuss topics like terrorism, drugs, border-related matters, and innovative technology.
Brennan, Clapper, and Kolbe, who were involved in the October 2020 letter, are part of this 17-person committee. In that letter, initially covered by the New York Post, the Hunter Biden laptop saga was likened to potential Russian disinformation, a view shared by 51 ex-intelligence professionals.
Additionally, it’s noted that the CIA had given a nod to the release of the Hunter Biden laptop letter, based on information acquired by Fox News Digital in May.
Hawley criticized the inclusion of these individuals, especially with the upcoming 2024 presidential elections, suggesting potential bias by the DHS. This sentiment was also echoed by other Republican representatives, who had earlier reached out to Mayorkas, hinting at possible partisanship.
By mid-October, Hawley, a member of the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, expects the DHS to disclose all details related to the formation of this intel group. This includes its inception communications, minutes, legality assessments, recruitment records, and any White House interactions about its creation or member appointments.
In response to the formation of the group, Mayorkas had conveyed his appreciation to the selected members, emphasizing the significance of actionable intelligence for the nation’s safety.
