Trump administration illegally fired James Comey's daughter, judge rules

What the report says

A federal judge has ruled that the US Justice Department unlawfully fired Maurene Comey, a federal prosecutor in New York and daughter of former FBI director James Comey. According to BBC World News, the decision means the Trump administration must reinstate her and provide back pay after her July 2025 dismissal. Comey had argued that she was removed because of her family connection to James Comey, a prominent critic of President Donald Trump, and because of perceived political views.

Judge Jesse Furman found that the firing violated the Constitution and denied Comey fair process. He said prosecutors can be removed by the attorney general, but only for specific reasons and through proper procedures. The ruling also said Comey had been well regarded in her role, with experience on major cases including those involving Jeffrey Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell and Sean "Diddy" Combs.

The Justice Department said it disagreed with the ruling and plans to appeal. In court filings, it said the decision was made by former Attorney General Pam Bondi. Comey’s lawyers called the ruling a victory for civil servants and the rule of law. The case adds to wider legal and political tensions surrounding the Comey family, including separate federal actions involving James Comey reported by the BBC.