In Farewell Address, Wray Calls on FBI to Remain ‘Above Partisanship and Politics’

Outgoing FBI Director Christopher Wray stated in his farewell address on Friday that the bureau must uphold its independence and steer clear of partisanship in fulfilling its mission to safeguard the public.

“Regardless of the external circumstances, within these walls, we must remain dedicated to executing our duties correctly every time. With professionalism, rigor, and integrity,” he remarked.

Wray announced his resignation in December following Trump’s nomination of Kash Patel, a former federal prosecutor, for the position.

He delivered his farewell remarks as he anticipates concluding his role at the end of the Biden administration. Having served as FBI director since 2017, he will conclude his service earlier than the standard 10-year tenure typically afforded to an FBI director.

“This means conducting investigations without bias or preference. It also means refraining from pursuing investigations absent adequate cause. That encapsulates the essence of the rule of law,” Wray declared.

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“We must uphold our independence and objectivity, staying above political biases and partisanship. That is what the American people expect of us, and it’s what they rightfully deserve,” he emphasized.

Wray expressed gratitude to FBI officials for their dedication and “steadfast commitment to the rule of law,” commending the achievements made through collaborations with local, tribal, and federal law enforcement agencies.

“These collaborations have brought about significant and tangible improvements in people’s lives. Together, in recent years, we have apprehended nearly 50 violent offenders daily,” he noted.

“Thank you for continuing that mission in the years ahead. It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as your director.”

During the farewell ceremony, Attorney General Merrick Garland shared that attending threat briefings with Wray was his favorite part of the day, focusing solely on strategies to mitigate threats and allocate essential resources.

Allegations of Partisanship

Trump appointed Wray during his first term in 2017 after dismissing the previous director, James Comey. President Joe Biden opted to retain Wray upon taking office in 2021.

“Under Christopher Wray’s leadership, the FBI unlawfully raided my home without justification, worked diligently to illegally impeach and indict me, and interfered with the success and future of America,” Trump commented.

“They have abused their extensive powers to threaten and harm many innocent Americans, some of whom will never recover from the consequences,” the former president added.

In 2022, the FBI executed a search warrant at Trump’s Florida residence, part of two federal cases against him. Trump has consistently maintained his innocence. After his victory in the November 2024 election, the cases were closed by prosecutors.

The FBI also investigated President Biden regarding the handling of classified documents and inquiries related to his son, Hunter, concerning tax and gun violations. While Biden was not charged, his son faced conviction. In December, Biden granted a blanket pardon to his son.

Trump and numerous Republicans have persistently criticized the FBI, alleging that its actions have been driven by partisan motives.

Wray addressed a House committee in 2023, stating that he has been a Republican throughout his life. “The notion that I harbor bias against conservatives seems quite absurd to me, given my background,” he expressed at that time.

Report contributed by Zachary Stieber, Reuters, and The Associated Press.