Wray receives praise from Garland for his "principled" approach and "integrity and skill" after announcing his resignation.

On Wednesday, Merrick Garland commended Christopher Wray as a trustworthy leader who devoted 20 years to serving the U.S. with integrity, following Wray's announcement that he would depart at the conclusion of Biden's presidency.

Garland praised Wray's long-standing career as a civil servant and U.S. prosecutor, highlighting his roles as U.S. assistant attorney general and head of the Justice Department's Criminal Division, in a statement on Wednesday.

Garland wrote Wednesday that Chris Wray has served our country with integrity for decades, including for seven years as the Director of the FBI under presidents of both parties.

"Director Wray has been praised for his tireless efforts to protect the American people and lead an agency of 38,000 dedicated public servants, many of whom put their lives on the line every day to serve their communities. Garland wrote that Wray's role in fulfilling the Justice Department's mission to keep the country safe, protect civil rights, and uphold the rule of law is commendable."

"The Director of the FBI is crucial in safeguarding the American people from various threats, including nation-state adversaries, terrorism, violent and cybercrime, and financial crime, as stated by Garland."

Following the announcement of his plans to resign at the FBI town hall in Washington, D.C., President-elect Donald Trump revealed his nomination of Kash Patel to succeed Wray. This gave Wray the choice to either leave on his own or be terminated after Trump assumes office.

On Wednesday, Planet Chronicle reported that Patel aims for a "seamless handover" to replace Wray.

"After careful consideration, I have decided to remain in my position as Director of the FBI until the end of the current administration in January, after which I will step down. My objective is to maintain the bureau's focus on its mission and the critical work you are doing for the American people every day. In my view, this approach will help us avoid becoming embroiled in political controversies while upholding the values and principles that underpin our work."

Garland highlighted the significance of the FBI director's responsibility to safeguard the agency's autonomy from what he referred to as "unwarranted interference in its criminal probes." He underscored that this independence is crucial in maintaining the rule of law and upholding the liberties cherished by Americans.

"Garland expressed gratitude for Director Wray's integrity and skill in performing his job, as well as the gratitude of FBI agents and employees who respect and admire him, and the American people."