Former FBI Director James Comey pleaded not guilty to charges of making false statements and obstructing a congressional proceeding.

His lawyer, Pat Fitzgerald, entered the plea during Comey’s arraignment in Alexandria, Virginia, where a trial date was set for January 5, 2026.

The charges stem from Comey’s 2020 Senate testimony, and his indictment came soon after former President Trump pressured prosecutors to accelerate their investigation.

The Justice Department replaced the lead prosecutor on the case with Trump aide Lindsey Halligan, who secured the indictment and brought in outside prosecutors, NPR has reported.

Comey’s legal team plans to seek dismissal of the case, arguing it reflects a vindictive and politically motivated prosecution.