Washington, DC – Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, released the following statement on the confirmation of Christopher Wray to serve as the eighth Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Today, Whitehouse joined the majority in the Senate to confirm Wray 92-5.
“Now more than ever, the Bureau needs a resolute and independent leader. Christopher Wray has assured us he can be that leader.
“Mr. Wray met my core qualifications for the job. He knows law enforcement and the Justice Department. He is not a present or former politician. His loyalty lies with the American public and the people with whom he will serve—the attorneys, agents, and all those who make the FBI the most effective law enforcement organization in the world.
“Just as important, however, Mr. Wray has vowed to remain independent. The President and his administration will test that independence, likely with political pressure and threats. The new Director knows he must rise above partisan pressure and pursue the facts. As Mr. Wray said during his confirmation process, the men and women of the Bureau do not bend to fear or political influence, and nor will he.
“Congratulations to Director Wray. I thank him for his willingness to serve, and wish him well with the challenges he now confronts.”
###
