Alex Wong/Getty Images(WASHINGTON) — Following President Donald Trump’s firing Tuesday of FBI Director James Comey, a number of political figures spoke out, with reactions spanning the spectrum, from approval to suspicion.
Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-South Carolina
“I know this was a difficult decision for all concerned. I appreciate Director Comey’s service to our nation in a variety of roles. Given the recent controversies surrounding the director, I believe a fresh start will serve the FBI and the nation well. I encourage the President to select the most qualified professional available who will serve our nation’s interests.”
Sen. Diane Feinstein, D-California
“President Trump called me at 5:30 p.m. and indicated he would be removing Director Comey, saying the FBI needed a change. The next FBI director must be strong and independent and will receive a fair hearing in the Judiciary Committee.”
Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa
Chairman @ChuckGrassley Statement on the Termination of @FBI Director James Comey https://t.co/PM9WiTexoW pic.twitter.com/oROM96cKmD
— Senate Judiciary (@senjudiciary) May 9, 2017
Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Connecticut
Firing of #Comey compromises investigation of White House ties to Russians – no doubt now special prosecutor is necessary.
— Richard Blumenthal (@SenBlumenthal) May 9, 2017
Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Maryland
Firing Comey has the foul stench of an attempt to stop an ongoing investigation into collusion between the Trump campaign and the Russians.
— Chris Van Hollen (@ChrisVanHollen) May 9, 2017
Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Oregon
Comey should be immediately called to testify in an open hearing about the status of Russia/Trump investigation at the time he was fired.
— Ron Wyden (@RonWyden) May 9, 2017
Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Virginia
Trump firing Comey shows how frightened the Admin is over Russia investigation
— Senator Tim Kaine (@timkaine) May 9, 2017
Comey firing recommended by Sessions. I thought he had recused himself from Russia investigation!
— Senator Tim Kaine (@timkaine) May 9, 2017
Comey firing part of a growing pattern by White House to cover-up the truth
— Senator Tim Kaine (@timkaine) May 9, 2017
Rep. Trey Gowdy, R-South Carolina
Statement on FBI Director Comey ➡ pic.twitter.com/vB822Nw5OR
— Trey Gowdy (@TGowdySC) May 9, 2017
Rep. Joaquin Castro, D-Texas
The firing of FBI Director Jim Comey at this time by Donald Trump is obviously very suspicious.
— Joaquin Castro (@JoaquinCastrotx) May 9, 2017
Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, D-New York
POTUS just fired FBI Director leading Trump/RussianHacking criminal investigation. Coverup?
— Hakeem Jeffries (@RepJeffries) May 9, 2017
What is Trump hiding from American people? We need independent special counsel. NOW.
— Hakeem Jeffries (@RepJeffries) May 9, 2017
John Podesta, former Clinton campaign chair
@realDonaldTrump Didn’t you know you’re supposed to wait til Saturday night to massacre people investigating you? https://t.co/dQpgWsR6ND
— John Podesta (@johnpodesta) May 9, 2017
Robby Mook, former Clinton campaign manager
Surprised I’m saying this, but I don’t see how this bodes well for the Russia investigation. https://t.co/51lE83mr3q
— Robby Mook (@RobbyMook) May 9, 2017
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