WASHINGTON – Seven years before President-elect Donald Trump urged FBI Director Christopher Wray to announce his resignation at the end of President Biden’s term, Trump had appointed Wray, praising him as “a model of integrity.” Over the years, their relationship soured as Wray oversaw investigations into Trump’s alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 election and his retention of classified documents after leaving office in January 2021.

Trump had already signaled his intention to replace Wray by nominating Kash Patel, a staunch Trump ally, to succeed him as FBI Director.

Below is a timeline of significant events that highlight the tumultuous relationship between Trump and Wray, which began in 2017 with Wray’s nomination to lead the Federal Bureau of Investigation.