Former FBI Director James Comey Indicted; New Tariffs on Heavy Trucks, Drugs, Kitchen Cabinets | NTD Good Morning (Sept. 26)

A federal grand jury has indicted former FBI Director James Comey. He stands accused of lying to Congress and obstructing a Senate investigation, with each charge carrying a maximum five-year sentence. Comey oversaw the bureau during the Russia collusion investigation, which alleged foreign interference in the 2016 presidential election. Several Trump administration officials, including Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel, praised the indictment as a step against political weaponization. Comey said he’s innocent and welcomed a trial.

President Donald Trump is rolling out a set of new tariffs, hitting items from heavy-duty trucks to kitchen cabinets and pharmaceutical drugs. The tariffs are set to take effect on Oct. 1. They include a 25 percent tax on imported trucks, 50 percent on kitchen and bathroom furniture, and 100 percent on some foreign-made drugs. Meanwhile, Trump says some tariff revenue will go toward supporting struggling U.S. farmers.

Federal agencies are preparing for mass layoffs on White House orders if Senate Democrats maintain their position of forcing a government shutdown. Despite having a majority in both chambers, Republicans have conceded to maintaining current levels of funding instead of reducing spending. Trump is supporting congressional Republicans’ attempts to keep the government open to avoid unnecessary reductions in the federal government workforce. The Senate will likely vote again next week on the House-passed continuing resolution.