FBI nominee contradicts Trump, says Russia probe isn't witch hunt
Donald Trump's nominee for FBI director, Christopher Wray has rejected the president's labelling of an investigation into Russia's alleged interference in the US presidential election as a witch hunt. Wray said during his Senate confirmation hearing that he would quit if Trump asked him to do anything illegal. Trump had fired the previous FBI director James Comey on May 9.
Trump fires FBI director James Comey over Clinton emails
On May 9, US President Donald Trump fired FBI director James Comey over his handling of an investigation into Hillary Clinton's emails. His dismissal came after it emerged that he provided inaccurate information about Clinton's emails in a Congressional testimony the previous week. The White House announcement sent shockwaves across Washington. Comey reportedly learnt of his dismissal while watching television news.
Trump nominates Christopher A. Wray as new FBI director
On June 7, President Donald Trump nominated Christopher Wray as the new FBI director. Trump described Wray as "a man of impeccable credentials" in a tweet. Wray previously served as assistant attorney general during former President George W Bush's administration.
Senators ask Wray about how he'd handle Trump
During his confirmation hearing, Wray was asked a series of questions on how he would handle Trump in various situations. These were based on concerns expressed by Comey after he was fired by Trump.
Wray: No one in Trump administration asked for his loyalty
Ex-FBI director James Comey had told a congressional hearing last month that Trump had requested him to pledge his loyalty, which Comey refused. Wray said: "My loyalty is to the constitution, to the rule of law, and to the mission of the FBI." "And nobody asked me for any kind of loyalty oath… during this process… and I sure as heck didn't offer one."
Wray agrees Russia did interfere in US elections
Wray said he'd never let "the FBI's work to be driven by anything other than the facts, the law, and the impartial pursuit of justice. Period." Wray said he has "no reason to doubt" US intelligence agencies' assessment that Russia tried swaying the US election in Trump's favor. His statement contradicts Trump who recently called the allegations a "hoax" concocted by rival Democrats.
Wray says no to one-on-one meeting with president
Comey had told congress that he was worried by Trump's frequent requests for one-on-one meetings and conversations as the FBI director should operate autonomously. Wray said it's "highly unlikely" he'd respond to a private invitation from Trump. He would ensure his relationship with the President remains professional. He said the FBI director shouldn't discuss the progress of any investigation with the president.
