FBI Director Under Investigation

James Comey. Credit: Fbi.gov

James Comey. Credit: Fbi.gov

The Department of Justice Inspector General Michael Horowitz has announced the investigation into the FBI director James Comey and the handling of Hilary Clinton’s emails throughout the 2016 Presidential Election.

The Inspector General created this investigation in response to the public and numerous members of Congress who believed it was necessary.

Back in July of 2016, the FBI director stated that Hillary Clinton would not be prosecuted for using a private server that contained classified information, but called her actions “careless.” However, only 11 days before the election, Comey released a statement that the FBI department found new emails involving her private server, and decided to reopen the case. The Department of Justice Inspector General is looking to see if Director Comey violated any rules or procedures in telling the American public so close to election day.

Senator Bernie Sanders is calling for the resignation of James Comey.

“I think he should take a hard look at what he has done, and it would not be a bad thing for the American people if he did step down,” said Sanders on ABC’s “This Week” last Sunday, January 15th.

Sanders is not the only Democrat to believe Comey negatively influenced the election. Many, including Hillary Clinton, believe his decision to reopen the case involving her emails impacted the election, leading to her unexpected loss.

President Donald Trump’s spokesperson said that Trump declined to back the FBI director, but says that he expects the two individuals to meet after Trump takes office.  However, Trump has tweeted directly at Hilary Clinton and her supporters about the recent investigation.

“What are Hillary Clinton’s people complaining about with respect to the FBI. Based on the information they had she should never have been allowed to run – guilty as hell.” He also stated that the claims made are “made-up facts by sleazebag political operatives,”

As of January 24th, a New York Times article announced that Donald Trump plans to keep Comey as the FBI director.