Washington — The federal government’s evaluation and selection of a new FBI headquarters was unaffected by the Trump administration, according to a report released by the Justice Department’s Office of the Inspector General. The report addressed concerns raised by congressional Democrats about President Donald Trump’s potential influence on the decision.
The FBI had originally considered moving its headquarters from downtown Washington, D.C., to suburban Maryland or Virginia. However, in 2019, the FBI changed its recommendation and opted to remain in the nation’s capital near the Justice Department.
The review conducted by the Justice Department watchdog focused on the shift in preference and allegations that Trump wanted to keep the FBI headquarters in D.C. to avoid competition with his nearby Trump International Hotel. The report concluded that there was no evidence of improper considerations or motives in the FBI’s decision-making process.
Under the Biden administration, plans have changed, and the FBI intends to split its headquarters between Washington, D.C., and another location. The General Services Administration (GSA) is currently evaluating three potential sites in Virginia and Maryland for the new headquarters.
The report expressed concerns about the lack of progress in establishing a new facility and highlighted the necessary decisions and congressional support required before the FBI’s mission can be supported by a new headquarters.
The inspector general’s investigation included interviews with key figures, including FBI Director Christopher Wray and former Associate Deputy Attorney General Robert Hur, who is now serving as special counsel for a separate investigation.
Wray confirmed that the topic of the new headquarters came up in conversations with President Trump but stated that he did not feel pressured or bullied. The report emphasized Wray’s assertion that the decision to change the location recommendation was based on merit and other relevant factors.
The FBI’s potential relocation has sparked debate between representatives from Virginia and Maryland due to the economic benefits associated with the development. The FBI has chosen not to comment on the report.
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