Topic: Pierre Thomas

ABC News reporter Pierre Thomas reveals that the FBI is conducting polygraph tests on its workforce, allegedly asking employees if they have spoken negatively about Director Kash Patel. These "loyalty tests" aim to identify "deep state" actors with political motivations against President Trump, drawing comparisons to the Pete Strzok investigation.

President Trump issued a full pardon to former National Security Advisor Michael Flynn. The hosts criticize ABC News and correspondent Pierre Thomas for incorrectly reporting that Flynn "pled guilty twice," noting that the legal saga was a drawn-out effort by the DOJ to drop charges that were stalled by a DC judge.

President Trump publicly criticized Attorney General Jeff Sessions for tasking the Inspector General with investigating FISA abuse rather than using Justice Department lawyers. ABC News reporting on the friction is scrutinized for claiming Sessions told Trump to "fire me," a phrase not found in his official statement.

ABC News reported that President Trump allegedly asked Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, "Are you on my team?" The hosts deconstruct the report, arguing that the media is attempting to establish a pattern of Trump demanding "loyalty" similar to previous allegations involving James Comey and Andrew McCabe.

Legal experts and journalists discuss the implications of Michael Flynn's cooperation with Special Counsel Robert Mueller. While Flynn faces potential jail time for false statements, the hosts argue the investigation is being used by the media to create a narrative of collusion despite a lack of evidence. The suspension of Brian Ross is highlighted as a rare instance of high-level disciplinary action for journalistic malpractice.

Federal agents reported that an IRS phone scam originating in India has stolen over $300 million from American families. Scammers threaten victims with immediate arrest unless they pay bogus tax debts via vouchers or wire transfers. In some cases, scammers have "swatted" victims who refused to pay by calling 911 and reporting violent crimes at their residences, leading to dangerous police interventions.

An ABC News article by Pierre Thomas and Jack Cloherty is analyzed for its use of "chilling" details and urgent language to predispose the audience to fear. The discussion questions the validity of the "alarming rise" in domestic terrorism and suggests the FBI plays a role in radicalizing the individuals it later arrests.