FBI chief sacking: ‘Four to be interviewed’ to replace Comey

THE first interviews to find a replacement for fired FBI Director James Comey are set to take place.

Acting FBI Director Andrew McCabe is among four people who will meet Attorney General Jeff Sessions and his deputy Rod Rosenstein.

But about 11 people in all are being considered, US media report.

President Trump has faced a backlash for sacking Mr Comey, who had been investigating alleged Russian meddling in the US election.

White House spokesman Sean Spicer told reporters the president would fill the job “as soon as he finds a candidate that fits the qualities that he feels are necessary”.

Fox News quoted a government source as saying they were moving “quickly and expeditiously” to find a replacement, adding: “We’re doing our due diligence — we are not going to cut any corners.”

One of those being interviewed is Republican Senator John Cornyn, the second highest-ranking member of the Senate and a former Texas Attorney General.

Andrew McCabe was the FBI’s deputy director until the abrupt departure of his boss. He appeared to contradict the White House this week when he described the inquiry into alleged Russian meddling in the US election as “a highly significant investigation”.

He also cast doubt on White House claims that Mr Comey had lost the confidence of his staff. — BBC News