Sessions praises FBI pick as a ‘leader with proven skill’

Attorney General Jeff Sessions is praising President Trump’s selection of attorney Christopher Wray to lead the FBI, saying the attorney has a “brilliant legal mind.”

“I congratulate President Trump for choosing a leader of proven skill, independence, and integrity, a man in whom all Americans can have confidence,” Sessions said in a statement.

Sessions also cited Wray’s “outstanding accomplishments, and proven record of public service.”

{mosads}Wray served as an assistant attorney general from 2003 to 2005 under former President George W. Bush in the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division. He currently holds a position at the law firm Kim & Spalding.

Wray recently represented New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (R) in the investigation of lane closures on the George Washington Bridge, known as “Bridgegate.”  

The governor last week voiced support for the possible selection of Wray, telling reporters, “I have the utmost confidence in Chris, he’s an outstanding lawyer.”

If confirmed, Wray would replace former FBI Director James Comey, who was fired by Trump last month. Comey will testify before the Senate on Thursday in its investigation into Russian meddling in the presidential election.