FBI Director Christopher Wray announced he will step down early next year, following pressure from President-elect Donald Trump, who plans to replace him with Kash Patel. Wray, appointed by Trump in 2017, will leave before completing his 10-year term. “This is the best way to avoid dragging the bureau deeper into the fray,” Wray told employees.
Trump and his allies criticized Wray after the FBI’s 2022 search of Trump’s Florida estate for classified documents, which led to federal investigations. Trump, who denies wrongdoing, described these probes as politically motivated. His allies claim the FBI has become biased, though there’s no evidence of interference by President Joe Biden.
Patel, a former Justice Department official, has pledged to shut down the FBI’s Washington headquarters and redefine its role. If confirmed by the Senate, Patel promises immediate reforms. Republican allies, including Senator Chuck Grassley, support the move, citing the need for transparency and accountability.
Wray, a lifelong Republican, denied claims of partisan bias, emphasizing his impartial leadership during his tenure. He oversaw significant reforms, including changes to FISA warrant processes and investigations into the January 6 Capitol riots, which resulted in over 1,500 criminal charges.
Democrats praised Wray’s service, with concerns about the FBI’s future under Patel. Attorney General Merrick Garland highlighted the importance of the bureau’s independence in safeguarding the rule of law.
Wray, known for his tough stance on China, began his career in 1997 as a federal prosecutor and served under President George W. Bush. His resignation marks the second FBI director ousted by Trump, who fired James Comey in 2017 over investigations into his 2016 campaign’s alleged ties to Russia.
Also read: DOJ Subpoenas on Lawmakers, Journalists Raised Oversight Concerns: Watchdog
