During a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on September 16, 2025, Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) alleged that the FBI, under former Director Christopher Wray, targeted several Republican organizations, including Turning Point USA, as part of a politically motivated investigation known as Arctic Frost.
Explainer Senator Grassley Alleges FBI Targeted Republican Groups Under Wray
Grassley presented documents indicating that 92 Republican-linked entities were under scrutiny by the FBI. He described Arctic Frost as a multi-year operation involving extensive resources from the FBI, Department of Justice (DOJ), and the Office of Inspector General (OIG).
"It’s well-understood that your predecessor left you an FBI infected with politics," Grassley said, addressing current FBI Director Kash Patel. He emphasized that the investigation was not limited to former President Donald Trump but extended to various Republican organizations.
The Arctic Frost investigation reportedly involved over 150 interviews and more than 400 subpoenas, primarily targeting bank records. Grassley stated that the scope of the investigation included search warrants for electronic devices and email accounts of high-level government officials.
Grassley asserted that the investigation was initiated by Timothy Thibault, an FBI agent he described as anti-Trump. He claimed that Arctic Frost was used as a vehicle for partisan agents to investigate the broader Republican political apparatus.
"These new records show that Arctic Frost was much broader than just an electoral matter," Grassley said. "It was the vehicle by which partisan FBI agents and DOJ prosecutors could achieve their partisan ends."
The senator listed several other organizations that were reportedly targeted, including the Republican National Committee, the Republican Attorneys General Association, and various Trump-affiliated groups. He emphasized that the investigation aimed to probe the finances of political opponents, raising questions about the justification for such actions.
Critics of the FBI's actions argue that the agency's resources should be focused on combating crime rather than investigating political adversaries. Grassley noted that the Biden Administration's use of government agencies for such investigations was a misuse of power.
In response to Grassley's claims, a spokesperson for the FBI stated that the agency does not comment on ongoing investigations. However, supporters of the FBI argue that investigations are necessary to uphold the law and ensure accountability among political figures.
The hearing and Grassley's revelations have sparked renewed debate over the FBI's role in political matters and its perceived bias in investigations. As the situation develops, further scrutiny of the FBI's practices and oversight may be anticipated.
Beth Brelje, an elections correspondent for The Federalist, contributed to this report.
Why it matters
- Senator Grassley alleges FBI's Arctic Frost investigation targeted Republican groups, raising concerns over political bias in federal agencies.
- Grassley claims the investigation involved extensive resources and scrutiny of 92 Republican-linked entities, questioning its legitimacy.
- The hearing highlights ongoing tensions between political parties regarding the FBI's role and perceived misuse of power under the Biden Administration.
What’s next
- Further investigations into the FBI's practices may be initiated following Grassley's allegations.
- Senator Grassley may push for legislative measures to increase oversight of the FBI's political investigations.
- Expect upcoming hearings or discussions in Congress regarding the implications of the Arctic Frost investigation.
