The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has taken the unprecedented step of retracting or substantively revising 19 intelligence reports issued over the last decade, citing a failure to meet the agency’s rigorous standards for objectivity and impartiality. The announcement, made on Friday, February 20, 2026, marks a significant shift in the agency’s internal oversight under current Director John Ratcliffe.
Internal Review Flags “DEI-Infused” Content
According to agency officials, the retracted documents covered a range of sensitive and “hot-button” social issues, including white nationalism, LGBTQ+ activism, and traditional gender roles. Director Ratcliffe ordered the move after a review board determined the assessments were not independent of political considerations. One specific report reportedly rescinded included warnings regarding women in traditional gender roles, which critics within the administration labeled as “DEI-infused” (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) rather than objective intelligence.
The move has sparked intense debate in Washington. Supporters of the retraction argue it restores the CIA’s mission of providing “raw” and unbiased data to policymakers. Conversely, critics suggest the purge of these reports may itself be politically motivated, potentially silencing intelligence on domestic extremism and social movements.
Lawmakers Press for Epstein Files
The CIA is also facing mounting pressure from Capitol Hill regarding its historical records. Representative Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) has formally requested that the agency release all documents related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell. This follows public speculation and whistleblower claims regarding potential ties between Epstein and various intelligence agencies. Lawmakers are demanding transparency to determine if any “intelligence shield” was used to protect Epstein’s operations over the decades.
The CIA’s Core Mission and Structure
Established in 1947 by President Harry S. Truman under the National Security Act, the CIA remains the United States’ primary agency for collecting and analyzing foreign human intelligence (HUMINT). The agency is currently organized into five major directorates:
- Directorate of Analysis: Processes and evaluates information from all sources to provide timely insights.
- Directorate of Operations: Conducts clandestine collection of foreign intelligence and covert actions.
- Directorate of Science & Technology: Develops technical systems to support intelligence collection.
- Directorate of Support: Handles logistics, security, and administrative functions.
- Directorate of Digital Innovation: Focuses on cyber intelligence and modernizing the agency’s digital footprint.
CIA in Popular Culture: New CBS Series Debuts
While the real-world agency grapples with policy shifts, the CIA’s image continues to permeate American media. CBS recently premiered its latest procedural drama, titled “CIA,” a spin-off from the popular “FBI” franchise. The show, which debuted this week, has received mixed reviews from critics who question the timing of a “rule-breaking” law enforcement drama amidst ongoing national debates regarding intelligence oversight and accountability.
As of Monday, February 23, 2026, the agency has not released the specific text of the retracted reports, though officials maintain that the revisions are necessary to uphold the “gold standard” of American intelligence.