Comey Reacts to Dismissal of Charges Against Him
Former FBI Director James Comey expressed his appreciation for the federal judge who dismissed the charges against him on Monday. Comey stated that the case was rooted in “malice and incompetence.”
Judge Cameron Curry ruled that the false statements charge against Comey was brought forth by an improperly appointed U.S. attorney. While the Trump administration, through attorney Lindsey Harrigan, asserts her appointment was valid, they plan to pursue further legal action.
“I’m thankful that this case has been closed. It was a prosecution driven by malice and incompetence, reflecting poorly on the Justice Department under Trump,” Comey remarked, later acknowledging the efforts of his legal team.
He also mentioned that, while the case has personal significance, its dismissal serves a larger purpose. “The president must not use the Justice Department to attack political rivals. Regardless of anyone’s politics, this is fundamentally un-American and jeopardizes the rule of law that protects our freedoms,” he added.
Judge Questions Harrigan’s Authority
Comey mentioned that even with this setback, he anticipates ongoing pursuit from the Trump administration. He urged Americans to “stand up” against those who instill fear, hinting at the possibility of Trump acting as a tyrant.
In another related decision, the judge dismissed the Justice Department’s lawsuit against New York Attorney General Letitia James, similarly citing the issues surrounding Harrigan’s validity.
Curry commented that the Attorney General’s attempt to validate Harrigan’s position was not legitimate. He noted, “[Harrigan’s] interim role has been unlawful since September 22, 2025.”
Context of Harrigan’s Indictment
Curry, appointed by President Clinton, was brought in to address complications over Harrigan’s authority, creating a unique situation for the Virginia judge. Both Comey and James had similar concerns about Harrigan’s appointment.
Following Trump’s dismissal of interim U.S. Attorney Eric Siebert, Harrigan had proceeded with the indictment alone, leading to the controversy. Curry ultimately ruled that since Siebert’s term had ended, it was the responsibility of a Virginia judge to appoint a new interim U.S. attorney until Trump’s confirmation by the Senate.
Efforts by President Trump to have various U.S. attorneys from blue states confirmed have faced challenges, prompting the administration to sometimes bypass usual procedures in appointing individuals like Harrigan directly.
