Former FBI director James Comey has pleaded not guilty to two charges of making false statements to lawmakers and obstructing a congressional proceeding. His lawyer entered the plea on his behalf in federal court in Alexandria, Virginia, on Wednesday morning.
Patrick Fitzgerald, Comey's attorney, stated that he plans to move for the case's dismissal, citing political targeting as a key factor. The indictment was issued shortly after Trump urged his attorney general to take action against Comey.
Comey requested a speedy trial, and the judge set a date for January 5, 2026. Both the prosecution and defense expect the trial to last just two or three days.
Marking a significant moment in the proceedings, Fitzgerald indicated they would file motions to dismiss based on claims of vindictiveness in prosecution and issues related to the appointment of a U.S. attorney overseeing the case. Comey was famously dismissed as FBI director in 2017 while investigating Russian interference in the 2016 elections.
The allegations specifically refer to a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing in September 2020, where Comey reportedly misled Congress about authorizing leaks regarding investigations into Trump's campaign and Clinton's email use.
Comey, remaining optimistic and in good spirits, expressed innocence following his indictment on social media, emphasizing his belief in standing against perceived tyranny.
