Senate Majority Whip John Cornyn, under consideration for FBI director, said Tuesday he has informed the White House he does not want the job.
Cornyn, R-Texas, said he told the Trump administration he plans to stay in the U.S. Senate.
“Now more than ever the country needs a well-credentialed, independent FBI Director,” Cornyn said in a statement Tuesday. “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.”
Cornyn is the second lawmaker to drop out of consideration for the job to replace FBI Director James Comey, who Trump fired last week.
Rep. Trey Gowdy, R-S.C., announced this week that he does not want to be considered for the job.
Here is Cornyn’s statement:
“I have always considered public service to be a great privilege. How I can best serve my fellow Texans and my country has, and will continue to be, my guiding principle.
“Now more than ever the country needs a well-credentialed, independent FBI Director. 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.
“Working for 28 million Texans in the U.S. Senate is an honor I never expected to have, and one I cherish each and every day. I’m eager to continue working with the Administration and the rest of my colleagues to make Texas and our country stronger.”
