Call for Compulsory FBI Investigations
LEAH CEDULA JAYLEEN LAM Staff Writers
Recently, there has been some heavy controversy concerning a few individuals in high ranking positions. What has mainly aroused these conflicts is the questionable act of one person: Brett Kavanaugh. The American judge and Supreme Court Nominee was recently put on trial from a sexual assault accusation filed by psychology professor Christine Blasey Ford. Investigations into events such as these should be conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigations. These investigations should be mandated for high ranking government positions.
In the process of FBI investigations, factors that would be examined are a person’s work history and finances. In addition, personal insight could be gained through interviewing coworkers, neighbors and family members. By inspecting a person’s records, it would make it easier for officials to decide whether or not they are fit for the position. Personal insight is another important factor in determining someone’s validity because it provides information that reaches far beyond facts. For instance, an individual’s personality could be revealed truthfully by a close family member or friend. As a result of these examinations, the percent of untrustworthy employees and controversies would decline.
According to a tradition dating back to the Herbert Hoover presidency, it is customary for the White House to request the FBI to commence background checks on Supreme Court nominees. The FBI utilizes a checklist, dubbed by former FBI supervisory special agent James Gagliano as “Carla F. Bad” – character, associates, reputation, loyalty, ability, finances, bias, alcohol and drugs.
With access to state-of-the-art technology and rigorous training in the processes and protocols of background investigations, the FBI is able to meticulously search and interview in preparation for a report to be sent to the White House. Their nonpartisan bias makes them a fine choice in interviewing family members and colleagues of prospective employees.
As another incentive, a government fine of $1,001 upon charges of lying to any federal investigator in accordance to The False Statements Act and a possible sentence of five years in prison discourages many interviewees from deceiving an FBI agent. While this practice rarely uncovers aspects of concern about the individual, it is ultimately up to the Senate to decide the fate of the nominee.
In the current turmoil of American national politics, United States residents need assurance that our public officials are truly devoted to their cause of serving America.