The F.B.I. memo warning of potential threats from “radical-traditionalist” Catholics has sparked controversy and accusations of religious persecution, according to a recent internal Justice Department inquiry.
The 11-page memo, leaked last year, was quickly withdrawn and criticized by Republicans who claimed it was part of a broader campaign by the Biden administration to target Catholics and conservatives. However, the Justice Department’s watchdog found no evidence of malicious intent or improper targeting based on religion.
The memo, drafted by F.B.I. agents in Richmond, Virginia, highlighted potential threats from self-identified Catholic extremists and far-right white nationalists leading up to the 2024 election. While the memo was intended to predict possible activity, it failed to meet analytic standards and showed errors in professional judgment.
The investigation that prompted the memo focused on a Henrico County resident who described himself as a “radical traditional Catholic Clerical Fascist” and was suspected of preparing for a domestic terrorist attack. The F.B.I. placed a confidential informant in a conservative Catholic congregation attended by the suspect to gather information.
Former President Donald J. Trump and Republican lawmakers have criticized the F.B.I. for its handling of the memo, with some demanding answers and threatening subpoenas. F.B.I. Director Christopher A. Wray has denied targeting Catholics and ordered a review of the incident.
The controversy surrounding the memo highlights the challenges of balancing national security concerns with protecting civil liberties and religious freedoms. The F.B.I. has since tightened approval requirements for similar reports and taken steps to ensure adherence to professional standards.
