The White House has given the FBI permission to expand the scope of its probe into sexual assault allegations against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, as long as the investigation is finished by the end of the week, The New York Times reported Monday.
NBC News’ subsequently confirmed the White House’s authorization.
According to two people briefed on the matter who spoke to the Times, the directive gives the FBI the ability to interview “anyone it deems necessary,” in the Times’ words. The White House was reportedly attempting to stifle the investigation by, among other things, limiting which accusers the FBI interviewed and prohibiting the bureau from talking to former classmates who might dispute Kavanaugh’s claims that he wasn’t a heavy drinker.
Trump indicated during a press conference on Monday that he wanted to probe to be “comprehensive,” but “guided by what the senators are looking for.”
This post has been updated.
