By Steve Neavling
FBI Director Christopher A. Wray’s announcement on Wednesday that he will resign at the end of President Biden’s term has prompted a response from the FBI Agents Association (FBIAA), which represents more than 14,000 active and former Special Agents.
The association praised Wray for his leadership during challenging times and called for a stable transition of leadership as the bureau faces mounting national security and criminal threats.
FBIAA President Natalie Bara expressed gratitude for Wray’s tenure, saying, “FBIAA thanks Director Christopher Wray for his support for Special Agents, his leadership in the Bureau, and his service to his country. Director Wray has led the Bureau through challenging times with a steady focus on doing the work that keeps our country safe.”
Wray’s resignation comes amid indications that President-elect Trump intends to nominate Kash Patel as the next FBI director. Patel is a close Trump ally who has been a vocal critic of the FBI’s handling of investigations into Trump and his allies.
The FBIAA’s statement underscored the critical role of special agents in upholding the FBI’s mission, regardless of political changes or shifts in leadership.
“FBI Special Agents will always be focused on our vital mission — protecting this great nation, safeguarding communities, and upholding the U.S. Constitution,” Bara said. “This commitment is at the core of who we are as Special Agents, and it does not waver when there are changes in a presidential administration or when the leadership in the Bureau changes.”
Wray, who was appointed by Trump in 2017 after the controversial firing of former FBI Director James Comey, is in his seventh year of a 10-year term. His decision to step down sidesteps potential political clashes with a Trump administration.
At a town hall on Wednesday with FBI employees, Wray emphasized the importance of keeping the Bureau’s focus on its mission rather than becoming embroiled in political controversies.
“My goal is to keep the focus on our mission — the indispensable work you’re doing on behalf of the American people every day. In my view, this is the best way to avoid dragging the Bureau deeper into the fray, while reinforcing the values and principles that are so important to how we do our work,” Wray said, according to excerpts released by the FBI. His announcement was me.
The FBIAA also highlighted the importance of continuity and steady leadership during this transition.
“Our country faces a barrage of national security and criminal threats, making a stable transition of leadership in the Bureau essential to the safety of the American public,” Bara noted. “It is important that the next director uphold the central role of the rank-and-file Special Agents in fulfilling this mission.”
The association added that it’s open to meeting with Trump’s team.
“The FBIAA welcomes the opportunity to meet with President-elect Trump’s team to discuss the perspectives and priorities of rank-and-file FBI Special Agents,” the statement concluded.
