Current and former FBI officials fear that potential firings of agents involved in Jan. 6 investigations could weaken the agency’s ability to combat terrorism, investigate public corruption, and retain staff, NBC News reports.
Many of these agents work on counterterrorism cases within Joint Terrorism Task Forces across the U.S.
Officials warn that punishing agents could deter future investigations into politically sensitive cases, leading to concerns over retaliation from both political parties.
Morale is reportedly low, despite Acting FBI Director Brian Driscoll Jr.’s efforts to resist pressure for dismissals and reassure the workforce.