Alleging firings lacked investigation or discipline, 9 former FBI agents who worked Trump classified docs case sue
Reported by ABC News · October 16, 2026
Agents challenge their dismissals
Their attorney, Abbe Lowell, said in the lawsuit that the firings served the President’s personal vendetta. He also said the agents received no notice, hearing or chance to appeal, and that no internal investigation or disciplinary process preceded their dismissals.
Lawsuit cites security risks
The agents seek to have their employment reinstated. They point to public statements by Patel and Attorney General Todd Blanche, arguing that the officials smeared their character while defending the firings.
Justice Department defends authority
The spokesperson said the President is not required to state a cause when removing federal employees. The department argued that setting a standard for review would subject presidential power to an outside agency or another branch of government.
Key points
- Nine former FBI agents are suing over their dismissals, alleging they were fired for working on the Trump investigation.
- The agents seek reinstatement and say the firings lacked an investigation, notice, a hearing or an appeal opportunity.
- They argue the dismissals disrupted the transfer of active counterintelligence and terrorism cases.
- The Justice Department says the President can remove federal employees without stating a cause.