The Justice Department released a statement from Attorney General Merrick B. Garland following the announcement of FBI Director Christopher Wray's resignation. In his statement, Garland praised Wray for his service and leadership over the past seven years under presidents from both political parties.
"Chris Wray has served our country honorably and with integrity for decades, including for seven years as the Director of the FBI under presidents of both parties," said Garland.
Garland highlighted Wray's efforts in protecting the American public during heightened threat environments. He commended Wray for leading an agency of 38,000 public servants committed to their communities' safety.
"In a heightened threat environment, Director Wray has worked tirelessly to protect the American people and to lead an agency of 38,000 dedicated public servants, many of whom put their lives on the line every day to serve their communities," he stated.
Under Wray's leadership, the FBI focused on various threats ranging from terrorism and violent crime to cybercrime and financial crime. "Under Director Wray’s principled leadership, the FBI has worked to fulfill the Justice Department’s mission to keep our country safe, protect civil rights, and uphold the rule of law," Garland added.
Garland emphasized the critical role of an FBI Director in ensuring national safety and maintaining agency independence. "There are few leadership positions more central to keeping the American people safe than the Director of the FBI."
"The Director of the FBI is responsible for protecting the independence of the FBI from inappropriate influence in its criminal investigations. That independence is central to preserving the rule of law and to protecting the freedoms we as Americans hold dear," he continued.
In conclusion, Garland expressed gratitude towards Wray's contribution: "Director Wray has done that job with integrity and skill. He has my gratitude, the gratitude of the FBI agents and employees whose respect and admiration he has earned, and the gratitude of the American people."