Alexandria, Virginia: Former FBI Director James Comey pleaded not guilty in a criminal case that has highlighted the Justice Department’s efforts to target adversaries of US President Donald Trump, with lawyers for the former FBI director saying they plan to argue the prosecution is politically motivated and should be dismissed.

The arraignment lasted less than half an hour, but it was nonetheless loaded with historical significance given that the case has amplified concerns the Justice Department is being weaponized in pursuit of the Republican president’s political enemies and is operating at the behest of an administration determined to seek retribution.

Former FBI director James Comey speaks during a Senate Intelligence Committee hearing in 2017. Credit: AP

Comey’s not guilty p

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