The speaker discusses the surprise firing of FBI Director James Comey by President Trump, citing it as a threat to democracy. They argue that Trump's claim that Comey was fired due to his treatment of Hillary Clinton during the email investigation is false, and that the real reason is likely related to the FBI's investigation into Russia's interference in the US election. The speaker notes that Comey's firing has echoes of Watergate and that Trump's actions are reminiscent of an autocrat. They criticize Congress for failing to hold Trump accountable and express concern that the firing of Comey undermines the checks and balances of the US system, leaving the public with little hope of holding Trump accountable. The segment ends with a mock conversation between Trump and a Russian official, implying that Trump is acting on behalf of Russian interests.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. President Trump fired James Comey as director of the FBI.
2. Comey was leading the investigation into whether Trump's campaign had colluded with Russia to win the 2016 election.
3. Comey had asked for more resources for the investigation into Russia just days before he was fired.
4. Subpoenas were issued for associates of Michael Flynn, a former Trump advisor.
5. Attorney General Jeff Sessions recommended Comey's firing, according to the Trump administration.
6. Comey was the second FBI director to be fired by a president in American history.
7. The firing of Comey has raised concerns about a constitutional crisis and the potential for a cover-up.
8. Trump claimed that Comey was fired because of his handling of the Hillary Clinton email investigation.
9. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met with US Secretary of State Tillerson on the same day as Comey's firing.
10. Trump met with Russian officials on the same day as Comey's firing.