FBI Probe "Arctic Frost" Targeted Over 160 Republicans, Including CPI President Ed Corrigan

Recent revelations indicate the FBI's "Arctic Frost" investigation extensively targeted conservative figures and organizations, with internal documents showing that over 160 Republicans and Trump allies, including prominent conservative leader Ed Corrigan, were under scrutiny. The inquiry, which received approval from top Justice Department and FBI officials in April 2022, has drawn sharp criticism from conservative circles who allege political weaponization of the bureau. The findings suggest a wider scope of investigation into conservative institutions than previously acknowledged.

Documents released by the House reveal the FBI's interest extended to the Conservative Partnership Institute (CPI) and its president, Ed Corrigan. Unverified allegations found in internal FBI emails described Corrigan as "pro-Putin," aiming to "train people for civil war," and secretly controlling the House Freedom Caucus. These rumor-level materials were reportedly used to justify criminal inquiries into mainstream conservative institutions, raising significant concerns about the investigation's seriousness and professionalism.

Ed Corrigan, President and CEO of the Conservative Partnership Institute, boasts over 25 years of leadership experience on Capitol Hill and within the conservative movement. He was recognized by GQ as one of the "50 Most Powerful People in DC" in 2009 and led personnel selection for domestic policy departments during the Trump Transition. His extensive background includes senior roles in the U.S. Senate and at the Heritage Foundation, solidifying his status as a beloved figure across conservative factions.

The targeting of Corrigan has ignited strong reactions, with Mollie (MZHemingway) stating, > "This is so insane and so divorced from reality that it tells us the situation at the FBI was a million times worse than even those who think it’s unsalvageable believed." Kevin Roberts, President of the Heritage Foundation, echoed this sentiment, calling the FBI's actions an "indictment of the @FBI." Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) defended Corrigan, describing him as a "decent, peace-loving, patriotic American" and calling the allegations "absurd."

Critics argue the investigation reflects a broader trend of the FBI being perceived as weaponized against political opponents, a concern often voiced within the conservative movement. The Conservative Partnership Institute, under Corrigan's leadership, has become a significant hub for the "America First" movement, playing a key role in initiatives like Project 2025 to staff a future conservative administration. This context further fuels the debate over the FBI's scrutiny of such influential conservative entities.