Donald Trump wishes ex-FBI boss 'luck' for blockbuster testimony

SPH Brightcove Video
When asked what message he had for ex-FBI chief James Comey before he testified on Thursday, President Trump said, 'I wish him luck', as he met with GOP leaders at the White House.
Trump takes his seat during a meeting with Republican Congressional leaders, June 6, 2017. PHOTO: REUTERS

WASHINGTON (AFP) - Donald Trump wished his fired FBI director "luck" ahead of what promises to be dramatic testimony to Congress on Thursday (June 8) that could spell more bad news for the White House.

Meeting Republican leaders in the Roosevelt Room, Trump was asked whether he had a message for James Comey, whom he summarily dismissed last month in the middle of an investigation into alleged Russian meddling in the US election last year, and the possible collusion of Trump campaign aides.

"I wish him luck" Trump said.

The ousted FBI director will appear on Thursday before the Senate intelligence committee for a hearing sure to be replete with political drama and intrigue.

Comey's testimony will be his first public remarks since he was summarily fired by Trump in early May, and represents a moment of great peril for this already embattled president.

He will face a barrage of questions from lawmakers about the circumstances of his firing, as well as suggestions that Trump tried to get Comey to shelve the investigation.

Most major US television networks plan to carry the event live.

Some bars in the US capital are even planning to open early for viewing parties.

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.