Former FBI Director James Comey Enters Plea, Gets Trial Date in First Court Appearance
Former FBI Director James Comey — the man at the center of some of the most controversial actions in modern political history — pleaded not guilty Wednesday to federal charges that he lied to Congress and obstructed a criminal proceeding related to his handling of confidential information and leaks to the media.
The arraignment took place at the federal courthouse in Alexandria, Virginia, where Comey’s attorney entered the plea before U.S. District Judge Michael Nachmanoff, a Biden appointee and former chief federal defender. A trial date was set for January 5, 2026.
The two-count indictment alleges that Comey made a false statement to the Senate Judiciary Committee on September 30, 2020, when he denied authorizing an associate to serve as an anonymous source for leaks to the press. Prosecutors also accuse him of obstructing a congressional proceeding, a charge that underscores how the former FBI director allegedly used his power to shape narratives around federal investigations.
Comey, who infamously led the FBI’s 2016 investigation into Hillary Clinton’s private email server and later spearheaded the Trump-Russia probe, has denied any wrongdoing. His legal team indicated they plan to challenge the indictment, suggesting they will argue that the charges represent “selective or vindictive prosecution.”
Observers note that such claims are typical when establishment figures face accountability under President Donald J. Trump’s Justice Department — now aggressively pursuing those accused of abusing their authority during the previous administration.
Comey’s family members were seen accompanying him to court Wednesday, including his daughter Maurene Comey, who was fired earlier this year from her position as a federal prosecutor in Manhattan. Also present was Comey’s son-in-law, Troy Edwards Jr., who resigned his post as a prosecutor in the Eastern District of Virginia just minutes after Comey was indicted — the same office that filed the charges.
The case adds to a widening investigation by the Justice Department into several high-profile Democratic officials. Alongside Comey, prosecutors are reportedly investigating New York Attorney General Letitia James and Sen. Adam Schiff (D-CA) for alleged misconduct tied to their roles in targeting conservatives and President Trump’s allies.
Comey’s downfall marks a remarkable reversal for the former FBI chief once celebrated by establishment media. Now, he stands accused of lying to the very institution he once served — and obstructing the oversight process meant to keep powerful officials in check.