FBI Director Chris Wray, who was chosen by Donald Trump during his first presidency, announced that he plans to resign before Trump’s second term begins.
This decision comes after Trump has repeatedly criticized Wray and expressed his desire to replace him.
CNN reported that Wray’s resignation will not happen immediately but will take place before Trump is officially inaugurated.
This timing suggests that Wray is stepping down to avoid being fired by Trump.
The New York Times also reported that Wray told FBI staff he would resign in January, acknowledging the reality that Trump has openly said he wants a new FBI Director.
Normally, an FBI Director serves a 10-year term. Wray still had two years left in his term, but Trump has been unhappy with the FBI and the Department of Justice (DOJ).
He has accused them of being part of a so-called “deep state” that he believes is working against him. Trump’s frustrations with Wray and the FBI grew stronger after the FBI seized classified documents from his Mar-a-Lago home.
Trump has already announced his plan to replace Wray with Kash Patel, a controversial figure. In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump said, “I am proud to announce that Kashyap ‘Kash’ Patel will be the next Director of the FBI.
Kash is a talented lawyer and investigator who has worked to expose corruption and protect justice. He will help reduce crime, break up dangerous gangs, and stop human and drug trafficking across the border.”
Kash Patel is known for his strong support of Trump and his controversial statements. He has faced criticism for threatening to target journalists who he claims were involved in spreading false information about the 2020 presidential election.
In late 2023, Patel appeared on Steve Bannon’s show and said, “We are going to find the conspirators, not just in government but also in the media. We will go after those who lied about Americans and helped Joe Biden rig the election.”
This planned leadership change reflects Trump’s ongoing dissatisfaction with the FBI and his desire to reshape the agency with people who fully align with his views. Critics worry that Patel’s past statements and actions could further politicize the FBI and impact its ability to operate independently.
