Both Republicans and Democrats are questioning President Trump’s decision to fire FBI Director James Comey on May 9.
Although the stated reason for Director Comey’s dismissal is policy violations that occurred last year, the FBI is actively investigating Russian interference in the U.S. elections that could have benefitted the president. These circumstances create the appearance of a conflict of interest.
FCNL supports the independent, transparent functioning of law enforcement as a critical part of our government. According to FCNL’s Statement of Legislative Policy: “We hold our government institutions and officials to rigorous ethical standards of fairness, honesty, openness, and avoidance of even the appearance of conflicts of interest.”
Unlike many presidential appointees, the FBI director holds a 10-year term to avoid even the appearance that political considerations factor into their appointment. The FBI director should not be removed without a strong, substantive, publicly disclosed reason. Director Comey’s dismissal does not seem to meet this standard.
