• James Comey seeks dismissal of charges, citing President Trump's "personal spite."
• Comey's legal team argues the prosecution is unlawfully motivated and vindictive.
• Comey pleads not guilty to charges of false statements and obstruction.
• The case is being overseen by U.S. District Judge Michael Nachmanoff.
• Similar charges have been brought against other political figures opposing Trump.

Former FBI Director James Comey has filed motions in federal court to dismiss criminal charges against him, claiming they are rooted in "personal spite" expressed by President Donald Trump. Comey's legal team argues that the U.S. attorney involved in the case, Lindsey Halligan, was unlawfully appointed, questioning the legitimacy of her authority to bring the charges. “The indictment in this case arises from multiple glaring constitutional violations and an egregious abuse of power by the federal government,” the filing states, echoing claims that Comey is being unfairly targeted as a result of his criticism of Trump, according to The Hill and Reuters.

Comey has pleaded not guilty to allegations of making false statements and obstructing a congressional investigation related to the 2016 presidential election. His charges are among those similar to those faced by other Trump adversaries, including New York Attorney General Letitia James and former National Security Adviser John Bolton, who have also been accused of various legal infractions post-Trump's presidency. Comey's attorneys assert that Trump specifically directed the Justice Department to pursue charges against him, citing Trump's public statements as evidence of malicious intent, according to South China Morning Post and Anadolu Agency.

The case against Comey is set to be overseen by U.S. District Judge Michael Nachmanoff, with a trial date scheduled for January. The judge has acknowledged the complexity surrounding Halligan’s appointment, emphasizing that the legitimacy of her role is pivotal to the prosecution's case. Comey’s legal team contends that Halligan's appointment followed undue pressure from Trump, further supporting their claim of vindictive prosecution, as noted by multiple sources including The Hill and Reuters.