President Donald Trump has canned FBI Directed James Comey, and now Democrats are crying foul, saying that the firing had everything to do with the ongoing investigation into Trump advisors possibly colluding with the Russians during the 2016 general election.
Trump took to Twitter (of course he did) to make the case for why he fired Comey.Cryin' Chuck Schumer stated recently, "I do not have confidence in him (James Comey) any longer." Then acts so indignant. #draintheswamp
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 10, 2017
James Comey will be replaced by someone who will do a far better job, bringing back the spirit and prestige of the FBI.
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Completing this poll grants you access to Shark Tank updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to this site's Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 10, 2017
Comey lost the confidence of almost everyone in Washington, Republican and Democrat alike. When things calm down, they will be thanking me!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 10, 2017
In a letter from Trump to Comey that was released to reporters by the White House, Trump tells Comey the reason for his dismissal.
“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,”
Many members of U.S. Congress opined on the firing, including Rep. Carlos Curbelo (R), who sided with Democrats in questioning the presidents move, putting him at odds with colleague Rep. Ron DeSantis, who supported the move to replace Comey.
“Today’s extraordinary decision raises many questions all of which must be answered. Congress and the American people need a transparent explanation as to how this decision was reached and why it was executed at this time. It is critical that the FBI can continue all of its pending work with independence and integrity – especially the investigation into the Russian government’s efforts to influence our last election and undermine American democracy. Today I reiterate the need for Congress to establish a Select Committee with full investigatory powers to thoroughly examine this matter.”-Rep. Carlos Curbelo (R)
Here is what DeSantis said:
“President Trump made the right decision to relieve FBI Director James Comey of his duties. I look forward to the President nominating a strong director who will keep the FBI focused on its core mission and out of the political thicket.”-Rep. Ron DeSantis (R)
And of course, here are what other members of the Florida congressional delegation had to say:
“This is a dark day for justice in America. The conduct of FBI Director James Comey before the 2016 Election was certainly disturbing, and undoubtedly deserved criticism and scrutiny,” Wasserman Schultz said in a statement. “But the reasoning and timing behind this firing is absolutely preposterous and unbelievable. It smacks of a Nixon-esque cover up of President Trump’s Kremlin ties. And with this egregious political power play, there is now no question that a special prosecutor is needed, because Americans absolutely deserve an open, independent investigation into Trump’s Russian connections.”-Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D)
“Like many, I was stunned to learn that President Trump has fired FBI director James Comey,” Wilson said in a statement. “This dismissal came as Comey was leading an investigation into whether individuals connected to the president“now it is more clear than ever that we need an independent commission to get to the truth of Russia’s interference with our election.”-Sen. Bill Nelson (D)
“This abrupt action raises many serious questions and is further proof that an independent prosecutor should be named to head the Russia investigation. It also could make the possibility of such an appointment more likely. The president may think that firing Comey will help his case, but no matter who conducts the investigation, Comey will now likely be called to testify under oath and his words could do the administration far more harm than good.”-Rep. Frederica Wilson (D)