Updated Sep 25, 2025 - Politics & Policy

Comey on indictment: "I'm not afraid"

Rebecca Falconer

A graying, black-haired former FBI Director James Comey gestures with his left hand as he holds a mic in his right hand in front of a mockup of a building with lights on and a blue screen that signifies night time. — Author James Comey, former FBI director, in New York City in May. Photo: Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images

Former FBI director James Comey said he's "innocent" after he was indicted Thursday on charges of making false statements to Congress and obstructing its investigation into the Russia probe.

The big picture: Comey, who's had a fractious relationship with President Trump since he was fired as FBI chief during the Republican leader's first administration, said his "heart is broken for the Department of Justice," but he has "great confidence" in the federal judicial system.

Zoom in: "My family and I have known for years that there are costs to standing up to Donald Trump," said Comey in a video posted to his Instagram account. "But we couldn't imagine ourselves living any other way. We will not live on our knees, and you shouldn't either.

"I am not afraid. Somebody that I love dearly recently said that fear is the tool of a tyrant and she's right," said Comey, quoting his daughter Maurene Comey's comments after she was fired as a federal prosecutor in the summer.
"But I'm not afraid, and I hope you're not either. I hope instead you are engaged. You are paying attention, and you will vote like your beloved country depends upon it, which it does," he added. "I'm innocent, so let's have a trial."

More from Axios:

Editor's note: This article has been updated with more comment from former FBI director James Comey and further context.

Add Axios on Google

Comey on indictment: "I'm not afraid"

What to read next