Crime in Progress by Glenn Simpson Summary

Crime in Progress by Glenn Simpson and Peter Fritsch chronicles their investigation into Donald Trump’s financial ties, Russian connections, and alleged collusion during the 2016 election. As founders of opposition research firm Fusion GPS, they detail how their work led to the controversial Steele dossier, which outlined Trump’s relationships with Russian oligarchs, money laundering risks, and potential election interference. The book also critiques the Mueller investigation and Republican tactics to shield Trump.

This book is essential for readers interested in political scandals, investigative journalism, or U.S.-Russia relations. It appeals to those seeking a behind-the-scenes look at opposition research, the Steele dossier’s origins, and Trump’s alleged corrupt dealings. Political analysts, historians, and fans of real-life political thrillers will find its granular details on Fusion GPS’s methods compelling.

Yes, for its unprecedented insider perspective on one of modern politics’ most explosive scandals. The authors blend meticulous research with firsthand accounts of uncovering Trump’s Russian ties, offering clarity on complex events like the Trump Tower meeting and GOP efforts to discredit the investigation. Critics praise its gripping narrative and evidence-heavy approach.

The book reveals how Fusion GPS hired ex-British intelligence officer Christopher Steele to analyze Trump’s Russia links. Steele compiled memos (later the dossier) alleging collusion, financial crimes, and compromising material on Trump. Simpson and Fritsch defend Steele’s credibility, detailing how his findings aligned with their own research into Trump’s lawsuits, bankruptcies, and opaque overseas projects.

The authors cite Trump’s reliance on Russian financing for stalled projects, meetings with oligarchs linked to organized crime, and Donald Trump Jr.’s 2016 Trump Tower discussion with Russian operatives. They also highlight Trump’s repeated praise for Vladimir Putin and his associates’ ties to Russian intelligence agencies.

Simpson and Fritsch argue Mueller’s probe underestimated Trump’s ties to Russian money and failed to pursue key financial records. They criticize Mueller’s reluctance to subpoena Trump directly and his narrow focus on election interference rather than broader corruption. The book also questions James Comey’s handling of the FBI’s initial inquiry.

The authors accuse GOP figures like Devin Nunes of obstructing investigations by spreading conspiracy theories, withholding evidence, and using congressional power to attack Fusion GPS. They detail Nunes’ alleged coordination with the White House and his misuse of campaign funds for luxury travel during the probe.

It scrutinizes Trump’s history of dubious ventures, including Trump University’s scams, repeated bankruptcies, and deals with figures tied to Russian organized crime. The book argues these patterns revealed a reliance on sketchy financing and a willingness to bypass legal and ethical norms.

Unlike third-party accounts, this is written by the investigators themselves, offering granular details on sourcing, dead-end leads, and navigating media leaks. It also exposes Fusion GPS’s struggles against political retaliation and legal battles with Russian oligarchs.

Simpson and Fritsch argue that while the dossier contained errors, many claims—like Russian kompromat on Trump—were corroborated by later intelligence. They emphasize Steele’s reputable background and stress that the dossier was a starting point, not conclusive evidence, for further inquiry.

Detractors claim it oversimplifies complex intelligence matters and downplays the dossier’s unverified claims. Conservative critics dismiss it as partisan, though the authors note their work was initially funded by a Republican appalled by Trump’s candidacy.

The book serves as a cautionary tale about foreign interference, legal loopholes, and the weaponization of disinformation. Its insights into Trump’s transactional governance style remain relevant amid ongoing debates about authoritarianism and electoral integrity.