Rep. James Comer said on Wednesday that FBI director Christopher Wray ignored a congressional order for an FD-1023 document that allegedly contains evidence of a bribery plot involving former Vice President Joe Biden.
We previously reported that House Republicans confirmed the existence and subpoenaed the form after the FBI refused cooperation in Congress’ investigation. Wray unilaterally decided he didn’t need to obey the subpoena. This is a problem, given that others have been prosecuted when they ignored them.
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FBI Director Wray is defying a congressional subpoena for an unclassified record alleging a criminal scheme involving then-VP Joe Biden and a foreign national.
If Director Wray refuses to hand over this record, @GOPoversight will begin contempt of Congress proceedings. pic.twitter.com/mVttLatbJ5
— Rep. James Comer (@RepJamesComer) May 24, 2023
Comer points out that the document is not classified, so any claim to privilege based on national security concerns would appear to be moot. House Republicans have also pledged to protect whistleblowers and are not asking for the identity of those who made the disclosure. Wray refuses to give it to the public despite having no legal authority to do so.
House Republicans will escalate the situation in response. Comer writes in his letter that he will try to narrow and clarify the scope of the summons one last time. If Wray continues to obstruct, contempt proceedings against him will be brought. The DOJ is currently run by Merrick Garland. This means that there is zero percent chance of Wray being prosecuted.
