James Comey Pleads Not Guilty in Virginia Federal Court
ALEXANDRIA, Va. — Former FBI Director James Comey entered a not guilty plea on Wednesday to two felony charges in a federal court in Virginia, responding to an indictment that has many calling it an unusual pressure campaign from President Donald Trump.
A federal grand jury in Alexandria indicted Comey in September. The two charges include making false statements to Congress during his 2020 testimony and obstructing Congress. Interestingly, prosecutors had pushed for an additional false statement charge, but the grand jury opted against that.
If convicted, Comey could be facing as much as five years in prison and a hefty fine of $250,000 for each count. The indictment came just days before the statute of limitations was set to expire, which adds another layer to this already complex situation.
Trump has had his sights on Comey for some time, particularly due to Comey’s involvement in the FBI’s investigation into Russian interference during the 2016 presidential election. After attempts to pressure Comey to terminate the investigation failed, Trump famously fired him.
The back-and-forth between the two has continued publicly since then, with Comey maintaining his innocence. In September, Trump took to social media, calling upon Attorney General Pam Bondi to act against Comey and other political rivals, expressing frustration over his prosecution and demanding accountability.
In his post, Trump said, “Pam: I have reviewed over 30 statements and posts that are essentially ‘same old story from last time, all talk and no action.’ We cannot delay it any longer. This is damaging our reputation and credibility.” He lamented being impeached and indicted multiple times without what he called a basis, insisting that “justice must be served now.”
Following this, Trump dismissed the acting U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia when he refused to pursue charges against Comey, appointing former personal attorney Lindsey Harrigan in his place, which led to the indictment.
Comey’s legal team has indicated plans to challenge Harrigan’s appointment, labeling it illegal. U.S. District Judge Michael S. Nachmanoff, who was appointed by President Joe Biden, has agreed to allow Comey’s trial to proceed with a scheduling request that pushes it beyond the December 17 deadline for a speedy trial. The judge has urged both parties to facilitate security clearance for Comey and his lawyer, as some evidence may be classified.
Oral arguments are set for November 19 and December 9, with the trial expected to begin on January 5.
