Former FBI Director James Comey has declared his innocence after being indicted Thursday on charges of making false statements to Congress and obstructing its investigation into Russian interference in U.S. politics. Comey, who has long had a tense and hostile relationship with former President Donald Trump following his dismissal as FBI chief during Trump’s first term, said the indictment deeply saddened him but did not shake his trust in the American justice system. Read More
“My heart is broken for the Department of Justice,” Comey said, “but I continue to have great confidence in the federal courts and in the rule of law.” In a video message posted to Instagram, he reflected on the personal toll of his clash with Trump. “My family and I have known for years that there are costs to standing up to Donald Trump. But we couldn’t imagine living any other way. We will not live on our knees, and neither should you.”
Comey also invoked words from his daughter, Maurene Comey, who herself was dismissed from her position as a federal prosecutor in the summer. “Somebody I love dearly once told me that fear is the tool of a tyrant, and she was right,” he said. “But I am not afraid, and I hope you are not either. I hope you’re engaged, paying attention, and ready to vote like your beloved country depends on it—because it does.”
Closing his statement, Comey was resolute about the charges. “I am innocent,” he said. “So let’s have a trial.”
