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Senator Wyden Questions Comey On Extent Of Trump's Ties To Russia

In a highly-anticipated appearance today, former FBI director James Comey spoke to the Senate Intelligence Committee on President Trump’s alleged ties to the Russian government. 

Oregon Senator Ron Wyden was among those questioning Comey.  In addition to asking about Trump’s role in possibly swaying the ongoing probe, Wyden also brought up Michael Flynn, the national security adviser who resigned after questions were raised about his contacts with the Kremlin and if he was vulnerable to blackmail.

Wyden:  "Flynn is gone, but other individuals with the Russians are still in extremely important positions of power. Should the American people have the same sense of urgency now in respect to them?"

Comey:  “Think all I can say Senator, is that the special counsel’s investigation is very important, understanding what efforts there were or are by the Russian government to influence our government, is a critical part of the FBI’s mission.  And you’ve got the right person in Bob Mueller to lead it. So it’s a very important piece of work.” 

Bob Mueller, a former FBI director, has been named Special Counselor for the Russia investigation.

Wyden asked Comey if he knew of anyone who recommended his firing.  Comey replied he had no information.  Trump abruptly fired Comey last month. 

WEB EXTRA: Hear the entirety of Senator Wyden's questions to Comey:

Copyright 2017, KLCC. 

Brian Bull is an assistant professor of journalism at the University of Oregon, and remains a contributor to the KLCC news department. He began working with KLCC in June 2016.   In his 27+ years as a public media journalist, he's worked at NPR, Twin Cities Public Television, South Dakota Public Broadcasting, Wisconsin Public Radio, and ideastream in Cleveland. His reporting has netted dozens of accolades, including four national Edward R. Murrow Awards (22 regional),  the Ohio Associated Press' Best Reporter Award, Best Radio Reporter from  the Native American Journalists Association, and the PRNDI/NEFE Award for Excellence in Consumer Finance Reporting.
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