Federal Probe Into Trump Officials’ Alleged Misconduct in Schiff Investigation

Washington, D.C. — The Department of Justice is investigating two high-ranking Trump administration officials for potentially compromising ongoing criminal investigations related to California Senator Adam Schiff, sources told ABC News on November 20, 2025.

U.S. Pardon Attorney Ed Martin and Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte are under scrutiny for allegedly enlisting outside individuals to investigate mortgage fraud allegations against Schiff. This inquiry coincides with ongoing cases led by the Maryland United States Attorney’s Office.

One witness, Christine Bish, has received a grand jury subpoena requiring her to surrender all communications with Martin and Pulte, according to ABC News. She previously reported wrongful conduct surrounding Schiff’s mortgage claims. During her testimony, Bish expressed frustration over the focus of the investigation shifting towards her possible connections with the two officials.

“If they’re trying to tie me into some kind of clandestine conspiracy, it’s not there,” Bish said. She insisted she had no direct communications with Martin or Pulte, maintaining her investigation into Schiff began independently.

The allegations suggest that Martin may have breached DOJ protocols by sharing sensitive grand jury information regarding the Schiff case with unauthorized individuals. Concerns about the integrity of the investigations have been raised, especially with two senior officials expressing worries that such conduct could jeopardize future trials.

Martin has publicly commented on his role within the DOJ, indicating strong support from Attorney General Pam Bondi, who has appointed him as a special attorney for mortgage fraud. However, officials within the DOJ are reportedly apprehensive about his methods.

FBI agents first stumbled upon these potential missteps while trying to interview Bish. They noted a prior connection between her and an individual identified as Robert Bowes, who claimed to be working with the DOJ on mortgage fraud matters. However, no formal authorization was granted for Bowes to engage in these activities.

Bowes contacted Bish about her allegations against Schiff without informing federal investigators, leading to serious investigation protocol concerns. Bish also stated that Pulte directly reached out to her in July, shortly before President Trump publicly commented on her complaints against Schiff.

The DOJ has recently faced pressure from both the public and political leaders to investigate Schiff and others who have opposed Trump. Public sentiment among some officials suggests that the investigations might be driven by political motivations, with allegations aimed at manipulating justice for partisan gain.

As of now, no charges have been filed against Schiff, who, along with others involved, denies any wrongdoing. The unfolding investigation continues to attract scrutiny regarding its political implications and legitimacy.