NEW ALBANY – House Speaker Paul Ryan can probably expect some questions about the sudden firing of FBI Director James Comey when Ryan visits central Ohio Wednesday.
Both of Ohio’s U.S. Senators have said the firing and the timing of the action raise questions:
“Director Comey’s tenure as FBI Director has been marred by questionable judgment. I want to learn more about the reasons behind his removal. At the same time, the President firing the FBI Director in the middle of an investigation into the White House’s ties to Russia raises serious questions about the independence of the FBI and the integrity of the ongoing investigation. The President must nominate a replacement with an independent record that is beyond reproach. Now more than ever, we need an independent investigation into Russian ties to ensure the American people can have full confidence in the findings.”– Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH)
“Regardless of his handling of the Clinton email matter during the presidential election last year — for which both parties had questions and concerns — [Comey] has always done what he believed was in the best interest of the country. Given the timing and circumstances of the decision, I believe the White House should provide a fuller explanation regarding the president’s rationale. The American people must have faith in a strong, independent FBI. I’m concerned about eroding trust in this premier law enforcement agency. It is important that whoever is nominated to succeed Director Comey is a highly-qualified and respected leader who will provide a fresh start for the bureau.” -Sen. Rob Portman (R-OH)
Ryan travels to New Albany to hear from U.S. manufacturers and make the case for tax reform legislation.
The Republican speaker from Wisconsin is scheduled to tour Accel, Inc., a contract packaging company in New Albany, then hold a roundtable discussion with local business leaders on “how fixing the tax code will create good jobs and bolster American manufacturing.” Participants include Republican Reps Pat Tiberi of Genoa Township and Steve Stivers of Columbus, and Accel CEO and founder Tara Abraham and founder and President David Abraham.
Accel has reportedly been slapped with a $3.5 million tax bill by the state.