The speaker discusses the sudden firing of FBI Director James Comey by President Trump, suggesting it was motivated by Comey's investigation into Trump's campaign's alleged collusion with Russia. The speaker argues that this move undermines democracy and is a step towards authoritarianism. They also criticize Trump's claim that Comey was fired due to his handling of the Hillary Clinton email investigation, calling it a weak excuse. The speaker notes that Comey's firing has echoes of Watergate and that Congress's inaction is a concern, as it allows Trump to act without accountability. The segment ends with a satirical take on a meeting between Trump and Russian officials, implying that Trump may be beholden to Russia.
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 is supposed to be politically independent and almost untouchable as director of the FBI.
4. Trump's firing of Comey is only the second time in American history a president has taken that step.
5. Concerns have been raised about a constitutional crisis due to Comey's firing.
6. The administration claims Comey was fired because he treated Hillary Clinton unfairly during the email investigation.
7. Comey had asked for more resources for the investigation into Russia just days before he was fired.
8. Subpoenas were issued for associates of Michael Flynn around the time of Comey's firing.
9. Trump's decision to fire Comey has been compared to Watergate and has raised concerns about the president's authority and accountability.
10. The Congress has shown no intention of holding the president accountable for his actions.
11. The firing of Comey has been seen as a blow to the people's hopes of holding Trump accountable.