Comey Critiques Current FBI Leadership Amid Controversy

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Former FBI Director James Comey expressed his concerns about the current leadership at the FBI during a recent CNN interview. In the May 28 interview with Wolf Blitzer, Comey aired his doubts about FBI Director Chris Wray and Deputy Director Dan Bongino, both of whom he believes lack the necessary experience for their roles.

“There are lots of people in the FBI who know what they’re doing,” Comey said. “I hope these two guys are letting them guide them.” Comey’s comments come after a history of tension with former President Donald Trump, who terminated him in 2017.

When Blitzer pressed him on whether Bongino, a Trump appointee, could effectively lead the bureau, Comey stated, “Nothing in their life or their career gives me confidence that they know anything about leading an organization like that.” He criticized the FBI’s recent focus on three potential public corruption cases, including the discovery of cocaine in the White House in 2023 and the leaked draft opinion that overturned Roe v. Wade.

While discussing the cocaine incident, Comey noted that the investigation by the Secret Service was closed due to a lack of evidence. He also referred to the investigation of the leaked opinion, stressing that the source of the leak could not be identified.

Comey expressed confusion over Bongino’s announcement of a new probe regarding pipe bombs found near the Democratic and Republican national committees on January 6, 2021, questioning the intent behind the message.

In addition to his criticism of the FBI leadership, Comey has faced his own controversies, particularly after a now-deleted social media post that included an image of seashells spelling out “8647.” Many interpreted these numbers as a violent message towards Trump, prompting an investigation by the Secret Service.

“I’m always worried about my security,” Comey admitted during the interview, noting the public and political backlash since his firing by Trump.

Comey has not shied away from voicing his opinion on MAGA Republicans, warning that they will “be deeply sorry” for their reckless actions. He believes that the dismantling of nonpartisan justice could have dangerous long-term consequences if a Democratic president returns to power.

Comey’s remarks highlight an ongoing rift in U.S. politics, marking a profound tension between current FBI leadership and the former director who established a precedent for independence in the bureau.