Apr 13, 2018 - Politics & Policy

War of words: Trump vs. former intelligence officials

Alayna Treene

From left: James Comey, President Trump, John Brennan. Photos: Getty Images

The media firestorm that is surrounding the leaked excerpts of former FBI Director James Comey's new book has led to a war of words between the nation's former intelligence officials and the White House.

Quick hits: Comey said Trump is "untethered to the truth" and compared him to a mob boss. Trump called Comey a "weak and untruthful slime ball." And former CIA Director John Brennan told Trump his "kakistocracy is collapsing after its lamentable journey."

James Comey, in his forthcoming book,"A Higher Loyalty": He says Trump is consumed by political appearance, unethical, and runs a toxic White House unlike anything he's seen before.
Trump, on Twitter this morning: "James Comey is a proven LEAKER & LIAR. ... He leaked CLASSIFIED information, for which he should be prosecuted. He lied to Congress under OATH. He is a weak and... untruthful slime ball who was, as time has proven, a terrible Director of the FBI ... It was my great honor to fire James Comey!"
John Brennan, replying to the president on Twitter: "Your kakistocracy is collapsing after its lamentable journey. ... we have the opportunity to emerge from this nightmare stronger & more committed to ensuring a better life for all Americans, including those you have so tragically deceived."

Note: "A kakistocracy is a system of government which is run by the worst, least qualified, or most unscrupulous citizens."

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War of words: Trump vs. former intelligence officials

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