James Comey is an American lawyer who served as the 7th Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) from 2013 to 2017. Here’s a summary of his background and key events:
🔹 Early Life & Career
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Born: December 14, 1960
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Education: College of William and Mary (B.S. in Chemistry and Religion), University of Chicago Law School (J.D.)
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He served as a U.S. Attorney and later as Deputy Attorney General under President George W. Bush.
🔹 FBI Director (2013–2017)
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Appointed by President Barack Obama.
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Initially respected by both parties for his professionalism and independence.
🔹 Major Controversies
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Hillary Clinton Email Investigation (2016):
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Comey announced the conclusion of the investigation into Clinton’s use of a private email server in July 2016, stating no criminal charges were warranted.
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Just days before the 2016 election, he publicly disclosed that the FBI was reopening the case, which critics say affected the election outcome.
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Trump & Russia Investigation (2017):
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Comey confirmed the FBI was investigating potential ties between the Trump campaign and Russian interference in the 2016 election.
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Allegedly pressured by President Trump to drop the investigation into Michael Flynn.
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Fired by President Donald Trump in May 2017—Comey later testified before Congress, saying he believed he was dismissed due to the Russia probe.
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🔹 Aftermath & Legacy
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Comey published a memoir in 2018 titled A Higher Loyalty, which criticized Trump and discussed his views on ethical leadership.
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He’s been a vocal advocate for rule of law and institutional integrity since his dismissal.