Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz has launched an inquiry into the actions of FBI agents who were observed kneeling before Black Lives Matter demonstrators in Washington, D.C. during the summer of 2020. Gaetz's investigation, initiated via a letter to FBI Director Christopher Wray, seeks to determine if these agents received career benefits due to their displayed support for the protests.

The protests, sparked by the death of George Floyd, occasionally escalated into violent riots across the nation. Gaetz claims some of the kneeling agents were subsequently commended and even promoted within the FBI. He questions whether these actions constituted a reward for political performance rather than merit-based advancement.

Gaetz specifically named Sarah Linden, Assistant Special Agent in Charge at the FBI's Washington field office, as one of the agents who allegedly knelt. He cited whistleblower testimony and other sources suggesting that career opportunities within the FBI were linked to participation in such displays of support. Gaetz emphasized that career progression within federal law enforcement should be based on merit and not political demonstrations.

He expressed concern that the FBI's actions demoralize law enforcement officers at all levels by prioritizing political posturing over the core duty of ensuring public safety. Gaetz believes this behavior demonstrates a misunderstanding of the role of law enforcement, which should focus on upholding the law and protecting citizens, not engaging in political activities.

Gaetz's letter to Wray seeks confirmation of the whistleblower's allegations and demands transparency regarding Linden's career trajectory. He seeks to ascertain whether her current leadership role is a result of merit or a consequence of her actions during the 2020 protests. While Gaetz is uncertain about the identities of the other agents involved, he aims to investigate whether they also received undue career advancements.

He criticized the Biden administration for allegedly rewarding individuals who engage in virtue signaling over fulfilling their professional responsibilities. Gaetz referenced the case of Sam Brinton, a former Department of Energy official, as an example of this alleged practice. His letter to Wray detailed the extensive property damage and violence that occurred during the 2020 riots, including attacks on Secret Service agents and the arson of St. John’s Episcopal Church. He contrasted these events with the image of FBI agents kneeling before protesters, questioning the message such actions convey.

Gaetz has given Director Wray a deadline of July 7th to respond to his inquiries. The FBI has not yet issued a statement regarding the matter.