A congressional summons for an FD-1023 form, which purportedly contains proof of a bribery plot involving then-Vice President Biden, was disregarded, according to Representative James Comer, who made the announcement this week.
Conservative reporters said that when the FBI declined to participate in Congress’ probe, House Republicans had already verified the existence of the document and proceeded to subpoena it. Given that others have been punished for disobeying subpoenas, Wray has now unilaterally determined that he is exempt from doing so.
The material is unclassified, as Comer points out, so any claim of privilege based on interests in national security would appear to be pointless. Additionally, House Republicans have vowed to protect any whistleblowers who come forward and are not asking for the identity of the individual who disclosed the information. Wray seems to have no legal authority to withhold it, yet he is nevertheless doing so.
House Republicans are now prepared to worsen the situation in response. Comer states in the letter that he will attempt again by defining and limiting the subpoena’s scope. The next step will be contempt of Congress proceedings if Wray continues to impede. Sadly, Merrick Garland, the AG, is in charge of the DOJ, therefore there is 0% possibility that Wray will be charged.
Author: Blake Ambrose
