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WASHINGTON (CHATNEWSTV) — Attorney General Merrick B. Garland on Wednesday praised FBI Director Christopher Wray’s leadership and integrity following Wray’s announcement that he will resign after seven years at the helm of the nation’s top law enforcement agency.
“Chris Wray has served our country honorably and with integrity for decades, including for seven years as the Director of the FBI under presidents of both parties,” Garland said in a statement.
Garland lauded Wray’s efforts in steering the bureau during a heightened threat environment, emphasizing his role in safeguarding Americans and leading an agency of 38,000 employees.
“Under Director Wray’s principled leadership, the FBI has worked to fulfill the Justice Department’s mission to keep our country safe, protect civil rights, and uphold the rule of law,” Garland said.
Wray, a former assistant attorney general and corporate attorney, was appointed as FBI director in 2017 amid political turbulence following the firing of his predecessor, James Comey. He faced the challenge of maintaining the bureau’s independence while navigating high-profile investigations into election interference, domestic terrorism, and cybercrime.
“There are few leadership positions more central to keeping the American people safe than the Director of the FBI,” Garland said. “Director Wray has done that job with integrity and skill.”
Garland credited Wray with fostering collaboration among the intelligence community, local law enforcement, and international partners. He also underscored Wray’s commitment to shielding the FBI from external pressures that could undermine its independence.
“That independence is central to preserving the rule of law and to protecting the freedoms we as Americans hold dear,” Garland said, adding that Wray had earned the respect of his colleagues and the gratitude of the American people.
Wray’s resignation marks the end of a tenure that spanned significant challenges, including rising domestic extremism and increasing threats from foreign adversaries. No immediate successor has been announced.
