FBI reopens investigation into Hillary Clinton’s e-mails

The FBI has re-opened its investigation into Hillary Clinton’s emails with just days to go until the US election. 

In a letter to members of Congress, the agency’s director James Comey revealed new messages have been found that are “pertinent to the investigation”.

The FBI had announced in July that its investigation into the Democrat presidential candidate’s private e-mails server had concluded. Director James Comey criticised Mrs Clinton as “careless”, but said no charges should be brought.

But in a letter sent to government officials, Mr Comey said new e-mails had been discovered in a different case – and while it does not necessarily mean a reopening of the criminal investigation, it will involve “additional work” by investigation.

In connection with an unrelated case, the FBI has learned of the existence of e-mails that appear to be pertinent to the investigation …

I agreed that the FBI should take appropriate investigative steps designed to allow investigators to review these emails to determine whether they contain classified information, as well as to assess their importance to our investigation. – JAMES COMEY, FBI DIRECTOR

He went on to say that there is no indication yet as to whether the material would prove “significant”, and does not know how long the additional scrutiny will take.

In response, the Senate judiciary committee said it was not expecting the announcement, and it had not been in response to any question from Republican party members on the committee.

Judiciary committee Republican spokesman Taylor Foy said they have no additional information concerning to what e-mails Mr Comey’s letter was referring.

“We’re interested know what else they’re going to be looking at,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Clinton campaign reportedly has “no idea” what the investigation is about. 

Here are some transcripted excerpts from Comey’s letter to Congress:

“Due to recent developments, I am writing to supplement my previous testimony,” FBI director Comey writes.

“In connection with an unrelated case, the FBI has learned of the existence of emails that appear to be pertinent to the investigation… the FBI should take appropriate investigative steps…

“Although the FBI cannot yet assess whether or not this material may be significant, and I cannot predict how long it will take us to complete this additional work, I believe it is important to update your committees about our efforts in light of my previous testimony.”