In a recent broadcast, Sean Hannity presents a forceful argument affirming the existence of a "deep state" within America—a clandestine network of unelected bureaucrats allegedly manipulating policies behind the scenes. Hannity supports this claim primarily through insights from a new Monmouth poll showing that 74% of Americans believe such a hidden faction is working covertly to influence government actions. This article explores Hannity’s key points and the evidence he highlights to substantiate his perspective on the deep state phenomenon.

The McCabe Controversy: An Illustration of Deep State Activity

Central to Hannity’s exposition is the case of Andrew McCabe, the former Deputy Director of the FBI. Contrary to media narratives suggesting President Trump fired McCabe, Hannity clarifies that McCabe was dismissed by the FBI itself, following an internal investigation. The Justice Department Inspector General (DOJ IG) along with the FBI’s Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) reviewed McCabe’s conduct and recommended his termination due to serious breaches.

Hannity emphasizes that these breaches included unauthorized disclosures to the press and a lack of candor under oath—actions amounting to lying to federal investigators. The gravity of these charges points to McCabe’s misconduct as not just ethical lapses, but potential criminal offenses. Sources suggest McCabe could face multiple future charges reinforcing the severity of his alleged actions.

Furthermore, Hannity draws attention to McCabe’s connections within political circles, noting that his wife received significant financial contributions—over $700,000—for a failed state senate campaign, funded by associates of Hillary Clinton. This association raises concerns about partisan influence within federal law enforcement ranks. The former FBI official’s delayed notification to Congress about discovering thousands of Hillary Clinton’s emails on laptop investigations adds further suspicion about McCabe’s impartiality.

Media and Political Response: Mixed Signals

According to Hannity, mainstream and liberal media have largely attempted to dismiss or misrepresent the seriousness of the McCabe investigation and firing. Hannity brands these attacks as "fake news,” criticizing media outlets for overlooking notable facts and dismissing the concerns of many within the FBI itself who reportedly opposed McCabe’s continuation in office.

Interestingly, even some Democrats, such as Representative Adam Schiff—often regarded as a staunch Trump critic—have conceded that McCabe’s firing might have been justified based on the Inspector General’s findings. This rare admission adds nuance to the debate surrounding the deep state narrative.

Deep State Figures and the Shadow War

Others identified as players in the so-called deep state include former Obama administration officials like John Brennan, who served as CIA Director. Hannity highlights Brennan’s confrontational rhetoric aimed at President Trump and accuses him of prioritizing personal and political agendas over serving the American people. Brennan’s past political affiliations and inflammatory statements suggest a deeply entrenched resistance within the intelligence community against Trump’s presidency.

Moreover, McCabe’s own statements after his dismissal have sparked further scrutiny. He acknowledged sharing information with the media through proper channels but hinted that former FBI Director James Comey was aware of these interactions. This admission could implicate Comey, revealing coordinated leaks by top FBI officials—a serious breach that Hannity argues exemplifies deep state efforts to undermine political leadership.

Conclusion: The Deep State in Focus

Sean Hannity’s arguments present a compelling case for the existence of a deep state operating within the U.S. federal government, driven by unelected bureaucrats who exercise power beyond democratic reach. Through the example of Andrew McCabe’s dismissal, political funding controversies, insider cooperation, and mixed responses from media and politicians, Hannity contends that this faction actively works to shape policy and sway public opinion covertly.

While the deep state remains a contentious concept with supporters and detractors on both sides, Hannity’s presentation invites Americans to critically examine the integrity of some government officials and question the limits of institutional oversight. Whether one agrees with Hannity or not, the enduring debate around deep state activities underscores ongoing concerns about transparency, accountability, and democratic governance in the United States.