FBI Director Wray Responds to Trump's Pledge to Investigate Political Rivals

In an exclusive interview with NBC News on Monday, FBI Director Christopher Wray responded to former President Donald Trump's pledge to investigate his political rivals if re-elected in 2024. Wray, who was appointed by Trump in 2017, stated unequivocally that as long as he is FBI director, he will ensure the agency follows its rules, procedures, and core values, and enforces the law without fear or favor.

"I'm enjoying the job, and I would like to continue it as long as I can do it by the book," Wray said. "But if I were replaced by a new administration, I would expect them to want somebody who's going to do what they want." He acknowledged that he would likely be replaced by a Trump loyalist if the former president were to win back the White House.

Trump has previously stated that if elected again, he would order the Department of Justice to investigate his political opponents. However, Wray's comments directly contradict this plan. FBI rules prohibit agents from opening investigations without evidence of criminality, and Justice Department guidelines state that agents may never make decisions regarding investigations or prosecutions for the purpose of giving an advantage or disadvantage to any candidate or political party.

Why this matters: Wray's firm stance highlights the ongoing tension between the FBI's commitment to impartiality and the potential for political interference. As the 2024 presidential election approaches, the role and independence of federal law enforcement agencies will be a critical issue.

During the wide-ranging interview, Wray also addressed other pressing national security threats, including terrorism, cyberattacks, and the Chinese-owned social media platform TikTok. He expressed concern about the increasing threats of violence against public officials, including FBI agents, calling them "unacceptable" and "despicable." Wray broke with Trump's characterization of January 6 defendants as "hostages," instead referring to them as "criminal defendants" being charged with federal crimes.

As Wray put it, "We're going to follow our rules, our procedures, and our core values, and the law, the facts, and the evidence, wherever they lead, to whomever they lead, no matter who likes it." His resolute commitment to upholding the FBI's integrity sets the stage for potential clashes if Trump or another administration seeks to exert undue influence over the nation's premier law enforcement agency.

Key Takeaways

• FBI Director Wray vows to uphold FBI's independence, rules, and values if re-elected.
• Wray expects to be replaced by a Trump loyalist if former president wins in 2024.
• FBI rules prohibit investigations without evidence of criminality, contradicting Trump's plans.
• Wray expresses concern over increasing threats of violence against public officials.
• Wray's stance sets stage for potential clashes with Trump or future administrations.