The House Task Force on the Declassification of Federal Secrets is preparing for its inaugural session concerning the newly unveiled John F. Kennedy files, with discussions centered on whether the CIA misled Congress about the assassination.
Republican Representative Anna Paulina Luna from Florida made this announcement, emphasizing the need for transparency. This move has been long anticipated by many who seek clarity on the events surrounding Kennedy’s death.
In a Zoom meeting with Mary Ferrell Foundation Vice President Jefferson Morley, Luna discussed the early details of the investigation. The main focus is on the intelligence agencies’ failures, particularly the CIA, in preventing Kennedy’s assassination.
Luna underscored the importance of transparency, stating, “The reason that you have such an array of theories is because the government was not transparent.”
Morley, a seasoned independent investigator and declassification advocate, is set to serve as an expert witness during the hearings.
The committee prioritizes ensuring that all records eligible for declassification under President Trump’s executive order are released. This order mandated the director of national intelligence to devise a plan for the release of the JFK records within a 15-day period.
Researchers like Morley have criticized the Trump administration for delaying the full document release beyond the set timeline. However, Trump assured the public that he directed the National Archives to release documents, even those containing unredacted social security numbers of likely deceased individuals.
“We even released social security numbers. I didn’t want anything deleted,” Trump stated, highlighting his commitment to transparency.
Luna highlighted that some documents authorized for release during the Biden administration were delayed at the National Archives. She expressed frustration with the frequent stonewalling in Washington, especially involving intelligence agencies.
“You kind of need a pitbull if you will, or multiple pitbulls,” Luna remarked, emphasizing the need for persistent efforts to ensure document release.
The National Archives informed Luna that 80,000 anticipated documents would be scanned and available by week’s end. Physical copies can be reviewed in person at the National Archives’ second headquarters in College Park, Maryland. The Archives released documents in three separate tranches this week, with the latest batch issued on Thursday night.
Luna expressed optimism about the complete release of records due to significant changes at the National Archives, CIA, and FBI. She mentioned that CIA Director John Ratcliffe supports releasing the documents. This backing is crucial for the task force’s mission to uncover the truth.
Congressional investigators are actively searching for a CIA Inspector General report flagged by a whistleblower. If verified, this report might reveal that the CIA misled the House Select Committee on Assassinations during its investigation from 1977 to 1979.
Luna assured, “We are working night and day to try to locate this document,” indicating the task force’s dedication.
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This initiative by the House Task Force represents a significant step towards transparency and accountability. It reflects the principles of openness and truth that many believe are essential for a functioning democracy. Luna and her team are committed to ensuring that these values are upheld in the investigation.
