James Comey, the former FBI director serrving under President Obama, is to be indicted by the U.S. Department of Justice. The indictment comes on the heels of serious allegations against Comey. It includes deeply misleading the American public about his authorization of leaks to the press in both the Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton high-profile investigations.
In a major development, prosecutors allege that Comey’s testimony was untrue. Further they claim that he did not once authorize anyone within the FBI to leak non-classified information. This indictment raises enormous free speech issues. Comey was indeed fired by Trump in 2017, immediately after he declined to pledge loyalty to him. These contentious exchanges and conflicts between Comey and Trump have created much of the political drama since their initial public war of, ahem, words during the 2016 presidential campaign.
Here’s the story Comey first confirmed publicly to Congress that the FBI was investigating Russian attempts to help Trump win the election in 2016. This investigation received unprecedented political pressure and criticism from both sides of the aisle, further polarizing American politics.
Comey maintained his innocence in a video statement following the indictment. He looks forward to a trial to vindicate his name. He emphasized his commitment to justice, saying, “We will not live on our knees, and you shouldn’t either.”
Comey’s first appearance in federal district court is set for Friday morning. At the time, Pam Bondi, U.S. Attorney General, emphasized the importance of that indictment. She said that it demonstrates the Department of Justice’s commitment to accountability for those who misuse their power.
“This is a grotesque abuse of presidential power.” – Hina Shamsi
The indictment has been the basis for a tsunami of responses from all sides. Donald Trump, who has often criticized Comey, took to social media to assert that Comey “lied,” adding, “whether you like Corrupt James Comey or not… HE LIED!” This declaration highlights the apparent deep-seated hate thang that continues to brew between the two men.
Legal experts are still parsing what the indictment means. Barbara McQuade, a former U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan, pointed out the gravity of proving Comey’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
“That means proof beyond a reasonable doubt.” – Barbara McQuade
Comey’s legal team is demanding access to documents pertinent to his case, arguing for transparency and fairness in the proceedings. As tensions mount, many view this indictment as part of a broader pattern of politically motivated actions against civil society by the current administration.
Mike Zamore, speaking on behalf of those critical of the indictment, stated, “By firing his previously appointed U.S. Attorney and installing someone who would do his bidding and bring criminal charges at his direction. President Trump has yet again proven his disdain for the principles that have actually made America great.” Zamore’s comments reflect widespread concerns about the integrity of the justice system under Trump’s leadership.
The Open Society Foundations (OSF) criticized the Trump administration for what they termed “politically motivated attacks on civil society,” following reports that the Justice Department instructed federal prosecutors to devise plans to investigate OSF, which is funded by George Soros.
That’s true, and the political climate around this indictment is incredibly, incredibly charged. Both sides appear to be preparing for a trial that will undoubtedly be involved and dramatic.