FBI Revealed Former Counterterrorism Chief Joe Kent Was Under Active Investigation Prior to Resignation

by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Washington D.C. Bureau Chief

WASHINGTON (Worthy News) – The FBI has been investigating former National Counterterrorism Center Director Joe Kent for several months over allegations that he improperly shared classified information, according to multiple reports.

Kent resigned Tuesday, publicly breaking with the Trump administration’s stance on the ongoing war with Iran. In his resignation letter, he claimed Iran posed “no imminent threat” to the United States and suggested the conflict was driven by pressure from Israel and its allies.

However, officials indicate the FBI probe predates his resignation and centers on suspected leaks of classified intelligence. Sources familiar with the matter say Kent had been under scrutiny for months, with one telling Axios he “left quite an online paper trail.”

The White House responded swiftly, labeling Kent “a known leaker” and confirming he had already been excluded from key presidential briefings prior to his departure. President Donald Trump described Kent as “weak on security,” while former Deputy Chief of Staff Taylor Budowich issued a sharper rebuke, accusing Kent of undermining the chain of command and leaking sensitive information.

Reports also suggest Kent was suspected of sharing intelligence with media figures, including commentator Tucker Carlson. Kent appeared on Carlson’s program shortly after resigning, where he reiterated his position that Iran was not close to developing a nuclear weapon.

Carlson defended Kent during the interview, arguing the former official was being targeted for opposing the war narrative.

The investigation adds a new layer of tension within Washington’s national security establishment, as debates intensify over Iran policy, intelligence transparency, and internal dissent during wartime.

As the investigation moves forward, the controversy underscores a deeper struggle within America’s national security apparatus — where leaks, internal dissent, and political narratives can directly affect the nation’s safety.

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