FBI Director Chris Wray announced his resignation effective at the end of the Biden administration, as stated by the agency on Wednesday. This decision follows indications that President-elect Donald Trump would force him out. Trump, who nominated Wray after dismissing the previous FBI director, has signaled his intention to appoint Kash Patel to the position, even though Wray still has three years remaining in his 10-year term. Patel has been actively meeting with senators to garner support for his confirmation vote next year.
Sources indicate that Wray struggled with the decision to resign, considering Trump’s expressed desire to replace him. He aimed to ensure a smooth transition, but some within the FBI expressed concerns that his departure would legitimize Trump’s tendency to replace FBI directors he disapproves of, undermining the position’s intended insulation from political influence.
Wray took charge of the FBI after Trump dismissed Director James Comey, who was involved in investigations into Russian interference in the 2016 election. Many lawmakers viewed Wray as a stabilizing choice for the agency; however, he faced a similar fate as Comey by overseeing an FBI that investigated Trump, leading to two federal cases against the former president.
Trump publicly criticized Wray following the FBI’s court-approved search of his Mar-a-Lago resort in August 2022, which was part of an investigation into his alleged mishandling of classified documents. Recently, Trump expressed dissatisfaction with Wray during an NBC interview, stating, “He invaded my home,” referring to the search.
Wray shared his resignation announcement during a town hall meeting at FBI headquarters in Washington, D.C., where he received a standing ovation and some attendees were seen in tears. He remarked, “After weeks of careful thought, I’ve decided the right thing for the Bureau is for me to serve until the end of the current Administration in January and then step down. My goal is to keep the focus on our mission — the indispensable work you’re doing on behalf of the American people every day.” He further emphasized that this decision was not easy for him, expressing his love for the institution and its mission.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump celebrated Wray’s resignation as a “great day for America,” asserting it would end what he described as the “Weaponization” of the FBI. He expressed uncertainty about what had happened to Wray but claimed they would restore the rule of law for all Americans. Kash Patel stated he looks forward to a smooth transition and is ready to serve from day one.
Senator Josh Hawley called Wray’s resignation “a great development,” labeling him “the worst FBI director in American history” and accusing him of constitutional violations during his tenure. Conversely, Massachusetts Representative Seth Moulton criticized Trump’s push to oust Wray, warning that it risks politicizing the FBI and returning it to an era reminiscent of J. Edgar Hoover.
Initially appointed by Trump in 2017 amid positive relations, Wray’s tenure soured as Trump publicly criticized him for his cautious approach regarding investigations into Russian interference and voter fraud allegations. Following Trump’s election victory last month, he promised to replace Wray with Patel, who has pledged to eliminate what he calls the “Deep State.”
Wray’s FBI conducted its largest investigation in response to the January 6 Capitol attack, resulting in over 1,500 arrests. Recently, Wray had contemplated whether to resign or wait for termination as influential Republicans began signaling their support for his ousting. Senator Chuck Grassley expressed a lack of confidence in both Wray and Deputy FBI Director Paul Abbate through a letter that was perceived internally at the FBI as a precursor to an attack on its leadership.
Attorney General Merrick Garland praised Wray’s integrity and leadership during his career at the FBI. He stated that preserving the independence of the Bureau from inappropriate influence is essential for upholding the rule of law and protecting Americans’ freedoms.
During his address on Wednesday, Wray reaffirmed that the FBI must remain committed to doing what is right every time. He highlighted that this commitment represents the real strength of the Bureau: its mission’s importance and its personnel’s dedication.