Ex-FBI Director Comey Asks US Court To Quash Congressional Subpoena

WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 30th November, 2018) Former FBI Director James Comey is seeking a court order to overturn a subpoena to testify before a congressional committee behind closed doors on December 3 about his decision to exonerate Hillary Clinton of criminal liability for her use of a private email server while serving as US secretary of state, according to a motion filed with a Federal court in Washington, DC.

"The subpoena, which called for a closed, non-public deposition of Mr. Comey exceeds proper legislative purpose, is issued in violation of House [of Representatives] rules, and unduly predjudices and harasses the witnesses," the court filing stated on Thursday.

"This motion is accompanied by a related motion to stay the proceedings thereunder until this motion can be heard."

The US House of Representatives Judiciary Committee subpoena orders Comey to appear for questioning on December 3.

Comey has offered to appear in a public hearing, but has opposed a closed-door deposition, citing the prospect of media leaks that could distort his testimony.

Democrats, who will take over the Judiciary Committee in January have said they will halt House of Representatives investigations of Clinton and open multiple investigations of President Donald Trump, the Trump Foundation and controversies during Trump presidency.