Yet Another Former Senior Official With Knowledge Of The Situation Effectively Calls The President A Liar
James Clapper, who served as Director of National Intelligence in the Obama administration, is the latest reliable source to categorically deny President Donald Trump’s claim that his predecessor wiretapped him during last year’s campaign.Â
“I will say that for the part of the national security apparatus that I oversaw as DNI, there was no such wiretap activity mounted against the president-elect at the time, as a candidate, or against his campaign,” Clapper told NBC News’ “Meet the Press” on Sunday.Â
Clapper added that while he can’t speak for all intelligence or law enforcement entities, he would be aware if an agency such as the FBI obtained a court order authorizing surveillance of Trump.Â
“At this point, you can’t confirm or deny that that exists?” host Chuck Todd said.Â
“I can deny it,” Clapper responded.
“There is no FISA Court order?” Todd said, referring to the Federal Intelligence Security Court.Â
“Not to my knowledge,” Clapper responded. Â
“Of anything at Trump Tower?” Todd said.Â
“No,” Clapper responded.Â
Clapper joins other former senior U.S. intelligence officials who’ve rejected Trump’s claims outright. Nevertheless, the White House on Sunday morning doubled down on the allegations, calling for a congressional investigation.Â