8. May 2026
Comey Hopes to Sidestep Court Appearance in Trump 'Threat' Case
WASHINGTON-- Former FBI Director James Comey is seeking to cancel an upcoming federal court appearance in North Carolina tied to a case involving alleged threats against President Donald Trump, according to court filings submitted this week.
Comey’s attorneys asked a federal judge to excuse him from appearing at a scheduled hearing later this month, arguing that his testimony is not necessary at this stage of the proceedings and that any relevant information can be presented through written filings or other witnesses.
The case centers on an investigation into online threats allegedly directed at Trump during his presidential campaign and after his return to office. Federal prosecutors have charged a North Carolina man with making interstate threats and posting violent messages on social media platforms referencing Trump and several current and former government officials.
Court records show prosecutors previously indicated they may seek Comey’s testimony regarding communications and investigative procedures tied to the handling of certain evidence in the case. Defense attorneys, however, have challenged aspects of the investigation and subpoenaed several former federal officials, including Comey.
In the filing, Comey’s legal team described the proposed testimony as “irrelevant and cumulative,” arguing that compelling the former FBI director to appear would place an unnecessary burden on both the court and the witness.
“The matters identified by the defense do not require Mr. Comey’s personal appearance,” the filing states. “Any limited factual questions can be addressed through documentary evidence already available to the parties.”
Federal prosecutors have not publicly opposed the request, though the Justice Department said in prior filings that the case should remain focused on the defendant’s alleged conduct rather than broader political disputes involving former federal officials.
The case has drawn heightened attention because of Comey’s long-running and contentious relationship with Trump, dating back to Trump’s 2017 decision to fire him as FBI director amid the bureau’s investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election.
Since leaving office, Comey has frequently criticized Trump publicly, while Trump has repeatedly accused Comey of political bias and misconduct during his tenure leading the FBI.
Legal analysts say the dispute over Comey’s testimony reflects a broader pattern in politically charged criminal cases, where defense teams often attempt to draw high-profile current or former officials into proceedings in an effort to challenge the legitimacy of investigations.
The defendant in the North Carolina case has pleaded not guilty. Prosecutors allege he used social media and encrypted messaging platforms to issue repeated violent threats targeting Trump and other officials over several months.
A hearing on Comey’s request is expected in the coming days. The trial remains scheduled for later this year.