Federal Grand Jury Charges Ex-Bureau Chief With False Statements and Obstruction
Washington, D.C. (MT) — Former FBI Director James Comey, a central figure in the long-running battle between Donald Trump and his critics, has been indicted by a federal grand jury, marking a dramatic escalation in the former president’s pursuit of accountability against his political adversaries.
The Justice Department announced that Comey faces charges of making false statements and obstructing a congressional proceeding connected to his testimony about the 2016 investigation into Russian election interference.
Attorney General Pam Bondi, who has faced pressure from Trump to move aggressively against former officials, issued a statement saying: “No one is above the law. Today’s indictment reflects the Department of Justice’s commitment to holding those who abuse positions of power accountable for misleading the American people.”
Trump’s Influence and DOJ Concerns
While Bondi publicly endorsed the indictment, officials inside the Eastern District of Virginia privately expressed concerns about the strength of the case. According to reports, internal memos revealed hesitation about whether prosecutors had enough evidence to secure a conviction.
Bondi reportedly wrestled with those doubts but concluded an indictment was still viable. Trump, meanwhile, has made no secret of his desire to see Comey prosecuted. Speaking at the White House, the president called Comey a “bad person” but claimed he would not personally direct the case, saying: “They’re going to make a determination. I think I’d be allowed to get involved if I want, but I don’t really choose to do so.”
Political Undertones
The indictment comes amid repeated complaints from Trump and his allies that prosecutors were willing to charge him in multiple cases after he left office, but reluctant to pursue cases against figures like Comey. Trump has argued publicly that the Justice Department should bring charges swiftly against his opponents, even if the evidence leaves questions for the courts to decide.
Lindsey Halligan, Trump’s former personal attorney who was recently appointed as the top prosecutor in the Eastern District of Virginia, played a key role in discussions about whether to pursue the charges. Some officials described her as willing to “jump on a grenade” for Trump, a reason many believe contributed to her elevation to the position.
Political Allies React
The move has energized Trump loyalists. White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller, appearing on Fox News, said: “Comey, who of course is corrupt, who was at the center of the Russia gate attack on American democracy, it has to lead somewhere to accountability.”
Former Trump adviser Peter Navarro, who previously served prison time for refusing to comply with a congressional subpoena, also cheered the indictment, saying Comey belonged “at the top of the list” of those who should face prison.
A Historic Step
Comey’s indictment marks the first time a senior government official has been formally charged in connection with Trump’s grievances over the Russia probe, which defined much of his first term. Whether the case will hold in court remains uncertain, but the political consequences are already reverberating across Washington.
This article is adapted from CNN reporting by Hannah Rabinowitz, Kristen Holmes, and Britney Lavecchia.
