Controversy Surrounds FBI’s Surveillance of Trump Family and Aides

The FBI’s tracking of travel belonging to the Trump family and phone records of Susie Wiles, a key aide, has sparked significant criticism. A former prominent Democrat has drawn parallels to abuses of power from the Nixon era that were highlighted during the Watergate scandal.

The investigation, codenamed “Plasmic Echo,” delved into allegations regarding Trump’s improper retention of classified materials and possible obstruction of justice. As part of the probe, the FBI monitored Melania Trump’s and Barron Trump’s travel in preparation for a 2022 Mar-a-Lago search. They also logged metadata from Wiles’ calls with attorneys, journalists, and other individuals.

Julian Epstein, formerly the chief counsel for the House Judiciary Committee’s Democrats, likened the situation to the scandal that led to Nixon’s downfall. Epstein stated, “It’s hard to think of good justifications for this. To me, it feels a little Nixonian.” He highlighted the need for those responsible to provide explanations about monitoring family members and advisors’ private conversations.

The Nixon administration had an “Enemies List,” used to target political adversaries, developed under White House aides and formalized by John Dean, the White House counsel. Epstein questioned the legal grounds for the current surveillance, especially involving interactions with lawyers and journalists.

Few Democrats have voiced disapproval of these newly revealed investigative methods, including the surveillance of Melania and Barron Trump and the collection of Wiles’ call data. When contacted, Sen. Richard Blumenthal, a Democrat, expressed that Republicans’ concerns about potential breaches of norms were valid. He called for more information and an investigation into the matter.

Recently, records from the GOP-led Senate Judiciary Committee indicated that text messages between Trump officials and various Congress members were reviewed in Smith’s election investigation. Theo Wold, a former official under Trump, claimed these disclosures support long-standing Republican warnings about the so-called “Deep State.” He criticized the misuse of power against political opponents.

The White House condemned the surveillance activities, labeling them as a misuse of law enforcement power. White House spokesperson Lauren Bis emphasized the need for accountability for those involved in the operations.

In March 2023 alone, 39 of Wiles’ phone calls were logged, including those to campaign contacts, a lawyer, and Melania Trump. Elizabeth Pipko, a former RNC official, criticized the surveillance of Wiles, emphasizing her achievements and suggesting that her story should inspire, not subject, her to scrutiny.

These revelations follow exclusive information given to Fox News by Sen. Charles Grassley about Smith’s probe capturing communications with several journalists, including some from Fox News. Fox News Digital reached out for comments from Smith’s counsel.