Shelby slams FBI director in scathing new letter about Clinton investigation

Sen. Richard Shelby (R-Ala.)
Sen. Richard Shelby (R-Ala.)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — In an stunning and unexpected move, the FBI announced that it is assessing new emails “pertinent” to the investigation into Hillary Clinton’s use of a private email server. Alabama Senator Richard Shelby (R) immediately weighed in and ripped into FBI Director James Comey for his previous decision to not press charges.

Comey let Clinton off the hook earlier this year because he stated his agency failed to accumulate enough evidence to prove that Clinton acted with criminal intent. According to The Hill, the new emails were uncovered as a result of a separate investigation into Anthony Weiner, who allegedly sent sexually explicit messages to an underage girl. Weiner’s wife, Huma Abedin, is a long time aide to Clinton.

You can view the text of Shelby’s scathing letter below.

Dear Director Comey:

I am writing in response to the letter you sent me regarding the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) intention to re-open the investigation of former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. Due to the serious nature of this matter, I request that the FBI expeditiously and thoroughly conduct its review.

In July, you held a press conference where you explained to the American people that Secretary Clinton was “extremely careless” with classified information while using a private e-mail server. Unfortunately, it has now become apparent that the FBI, with all its extensive resources and highly-trained personnel, closed an incomplete investigation that resulted in only partial findings. I firmly believe that the American people deserve to know the facts – all of them.

There is much at stake in how this investigation is conducted. Not only is the Bureau’s examination a reflection on the current Administration and Secretary Clinton, but it is also critical to the integrity of the FBI and the American people’s ability to place their trust in government. I believe that your recommendation and the Department of Justice’s decision not to prosecute Secretary Clinton set a dangerous precedent for the way we hold our public officials accountable.

While I am pleased that the FBI is re-opening this case in light of new information, it is imperative that the Bureau immediately evaluate the material to complete this investigation. The American people are electing their next Commander-in-Chief only days from now, and they deserve to know the conclusion of your review prior to Election Day. Let me be clear: This should be your utmost priority.

Sincerely,

Richard C. Shelby