The Biden Department of Justice (DOJ) defended its choice to arrest Trump adviser Peter Navarro by labeling him as “combative.” However, audio from the encounter with FBI agents, which was obtained by the Daily Caller News Foundation in May 2022, challenges this assertion.
The recordings indicate that Navarro didn’t act aggressively when expressing his displeasure to the FBI agent who arrived at his home with a subpoena. An audio excerpt will be released by Senate Attorney Chuck Grassley alongside records from other whistleblowers.
Navarro, formerly a senior advisor on trade and manufacturing, previously held a similar position during Trump’s first term. He was arrested while on his way to give a talk at Reagan National Airport on June 3, 2022, after spending four months in prison for defying a subpoena from the January 6 committee.
“However, contrary to the defendant’s claims, this is not the standard law enforcement procedure,” noted a court filing on August 15, 2022. “The defendant was unrepresented during his arrest. Initially, he refused to open the door, and when he finally did, he told the agent to ‘get the f*** out of here.’
The judge who later presided over Navarro’s case expressed surprise that he hadn’t been permitted to self-surrender.
“It’s quite curious… at least why the government managed Navarro’s arrest in that fashion,” remarked Amit Meta, an Obama appointee, during a July 2022 hearing. “While it’s a federal crime, it’s not categorized as a violent one.”
Navarro’s legal team opted not to comment further.
During a brief interaction, Navarro instructed FBI agents Walter Giardina and Sebastian Gardner to leave the summons at the door. After opening up, he refused to engage further, maintaining a calm demeanor even as he told the agent to “get the f*** out.” He questioned the FBI’s motives, asking, “What is this, or are you just doing this for the FBI?” Giardina replied they were there to ask “a few questions.” Navarro remained firm, reiterating, “You have a subpoena, just get the f*** out of here.” He added, “This is a threat from Merrick Garland, and you should be ashamed of yourself.” The agent concluded with, “Have a great day.”
Despite his challenges, Navarro is back in the public eye, pushing for an appeal and requesting the DOJ clarify its shift in position after years of standing firm on the congressional charges against him. He emphasized that the DOJ shouldn’t be allowed to change its narrative after such a lengthy period without providing sound reasons.
In August, Giardina was dismissed from the FBI. Grassley had previously informed Attorney General Kash Patel and Attorney General Pam Bondi about alleged misconduct on Giardina’s part. A whistleblower claimed that he inaccurately asserted certain documents were “backed as truth” and indicated hostility towards President Trump. Grassley noted that if the allegations hold any truth, accountability must extend to all others involved.
