Leadership & Organization — 2026-03-20

Joe Kent Under FBI Investigation for Alleged Classified Leaks

FBI opened a months-long leak investigation into former NCTC Director Joe Kent before his March 17 resignation over the Iran war. Kent is suspected of disclosing classified material to Tucker Carlson and another conservative podcaster, including intelligence on Israel and Iran. FBI Director Patel wants to declassify the allegedly leaked material to preempt accusations the probe is retaliatory.

Analysis
Prior brief covered Kent's resignation as the highest-ranking administration break over Iran policy. The leak investigation predates the resignation, suggesting Kent was already under suspicion when he publicly contradicted the White House. The 03-19 IC brief reported FBI CI-12 counterintelligence unit was gutted of Iran specialists -- the same unit that would normally handle this type of case.