The Atlantic

The Mystery of Andrew McCabe's Exit

The Trump-detested deputy director of the FBI is leaving his post earlier than expected, but there’s no clear explanation for why.
Source: Eric Thayer / Reuters

Updated on January 29 at 4:16 p.m.

In a win for President Trump, FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe is leaving his post effective Monday—and that’s about the only clear thing about his departure.

McCabe, who was appointed to that job under former FBI Director James Comey, was expected to leave his job this spring, when he reached eligibility for a pension. New FBI directors typically choose their own deputy directors, so it would make sense for new chief Christopher Wray to want his own pick. Because McCabe was a civil servant rather than a political appointee, Trump (and other superiors) could not summarily remove him., “FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe is racing the clock to retire with full benefits. 90 days to go?!!!”

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