President Donald Trump fired FBI director James Comey on Tuesday, according to the White House.
“While I greatly appreciate you informing me, on three separate occasions, that I am not under investigation, I nevertheless concur with the judgment of the Department of Justice that you are not able to effectively lead the bureau,” Trump said in a letter to Comey dated May 9.
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“It is essential that we find new leadership for the FBI that restores public trust and confidence in its vital law enforcement mission,” he wrote.
Trump cited letters from Attorney General Jeff Sessions and Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein “recommending” Comey’s dismissal.
Commentators and elected officials were quick to note that the firing comes as the FBI is investigating any Russian meddling in the 2016 election, and any Russian ties to Trump associates.
Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) said Comey “should be immediately called to testify in an open hearing about the status of Russia/Trump investigation at the time he was fired.”
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