Legal Expert Doubts Trump-Backed Prosecutor Can Indict Brennan

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A legal expert expressed skepticism about the ability of a U.S. Attorney in Miami, who was hand-picked by former President Donald Trump, to successfully indict former CIA Director John Brennan. The expert cited a CNN report that Reding Quiñones and the Department of Justice are pushing for an indictment, but are facing difficulties due to a lack of evidence against Brennan.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing political tensions and allegations of abuse of power that have surrounded the Trump administration's efforts to target perceived political enemies. The struggle to build a viable case against Brennan raises questions about the integrity of the justice system and the potential for politically motivated prosecutions.

The details

According to the CNN report, U.S. Attorney Jason Reding Quiñones in the Southern District of Florida and officials in Trump's Department of Justice have been pushing to indict Brennan over his involvement in the 2016 investigation into Russia's interference in the general election. However, the push has been thwarted by weak evidence against Brennan. The legal expert, Michael Popok, noted that Reding Quiñones is also struggling to get other prosecutors in his office to sign on to the indictment, a sign that there may not be enough evidence to convince a grand jury that charges are warranted.

• The CNN report was published on March 10, 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The judge overseeing the potential case against Brennan will likely closely scrutinize the evidence presented by Reding Quiñones and the Department of Justice before deciding whether to allow the case to proceed.