Trump, the FBI, and the Rule of Law: A Long and Winding Road

The FBI's Investigation into Russian Interference in the 2016 Election

The FBI's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election began in July 2016, after the bureau received intelligence reports that Russia was attempting to interfere in the election. The investigation was led by Special Counsel Robert Mueller, who was appointed by Attorney General Jeff Sessions in May 2017. Mueller's investigation concluded in March 2019, and his report found that Russia had interfered in the election in a "sweeping and systematic fashion." The report also found that there was not enough evidence to establish that Trump or his campaign had colluded with Russia.

Trump has repeatedly denied any wrongng and has accused the FBI of bias and misconduct. He has also claimed that the Mueller investigation was a "witch hunt." In December 2018, Trump fired FBI Director James Comey, who was overseeing the investigation into Russian interference. Comey has since accused Trump of obstructing justice.

The FBI's Handling of the 2017 Email Server Controversy

In October 2016, the FBI began investigating the use of a private email server by Hillary Clinton, the Democratic presidential nominee. The FBI's investigation concluded in July 2016, and the bureau announced that it would not recommend criminal charges against Clinton. However, the FBI's handling of the investigation was criticized by both Democrats and Republicans.

Trump has repeatedly accused the FBI of bias and misconduct in its handling of the email server controversy. He has also claimed that Clinton should have been prosecuted. In May 2018, Trump fired FBI Director James Comey, who was overseeing the investigation into the email server controversy. Comey has since accused Trump of obstructing justice.

The relationship between Trump, the FBI, and the rule of law has been a complex and often contentious one. Trump's repeated accusations of bias and misconduct against the FBI have raised serious questions about the rule of law in the United States and the ability of the FBI to maintain its independence and integrity. It remains to be seen how this relationship will evolve in the years to come.