As the 2022 midterms approach, many Republicans are concerned about the potential for Democrats to retain control of the Senate. One of the key races they are watching is in California, where former House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff is running for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Dianne Feinstein.
But Schiff’s campaign has been dogged by allegations that he leaked classified information during his time as chairman of the House Intelligence Committee. Former CIA Director Mike Pompeo recently argued that Schiff should no longer have access to classified information due to his alleged leaks.
“During my time as CIA director and secretary of state, I know that he leaked classified information that had been provided to him,” Pompeo said, adding that Schiff played a crucial role in the Trump-Russia investigation, which was plagued with leaks to the media for years.
And while Schiff has denied these allegations, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy has already removed Schiff from the House Intelligence Committee. In a letter to Hakeem Jeffries, McCarthy stated that he would not reinstate Schiff or California Democrat Rep. Eric Swalwell.
“I cannot put partisan loyalty ahead of national security, and I cannot simply recognize years of service as a sole criterion for membership on this essential committee. Integrity matters more,” McCarthy wrote.
But Schiff remains undeterred, and has launched his campaign for the U.S. Senate. In a tweet announcing his candidacy, Schiff said that “Our democracy is at great risk. Because GOP leaders care more about power than anything else.”
Schiff’s campaign is likely to focus on his record of standing up to President Trump during the impeachment hearings, as well as his work on the House Intelligence Committee.
But Republicans will likely continue to raise questions about his alleged leaks of classified information, which could hurt his chances in a state that has traditionally been a Democratic stronghold.
As the race heats up, Republicans will be watching closely to see if Schiff can weather these allegations and hold onto his lead in the polls. But with national security and classified information at stake, many will continue to question whether Schiff is fit to serve in the U.S. Senate.