John Cornyn Withdraws Name From FBI Director Search

Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) took himself out of the running to be the nation’s next FBI director, informing President Donald Trump’s administration that he intends to stay in the Senate instead.

In a statement released by his office on Tuesday, Cornyn, the Senate’s majority whip, said the country needs a “well-credentialed” and “independent” FBI director to replace James Comey, who was fired by the president last week.

“I’ve informed the Administration that I’m committed to helping them find such an individual, and that the best way I can serve is continuing to fight for a conservative agenda in the U.S. Senate,” he said.

Cornyn was one of several candidates who interviewed for the post over the weekend, but the possibility of him being named the nation’s top cop was met with resistance from members of both parties. On Sunday, Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) said the next FBI director ought to be someone “outside the political lane.”

Trump is also reportedly considering tapping Judge Michael J. Garcia of the New York Court of Appeals, who previously served as U.S. attorney in the Southern District of New York, and former Assistant Attorney General Alice Fisher, who used to work in the Justice Department’s Criminal Division.

Rep. Trey Gowdy (R-S.C.), who did not interview for the job, also took himself out of the running on Monday, stating he “would not be the right person” for the job.