James Brien Comey Jr., born on December 14, 1960, in Yonkers, New York, is an American lawyer and former law enforcement official best known for serving as the 7th Director of the FBI from 2013 to 2017. Appointed by President Barack Obama, Comey became a central figure in politically charged investigations, including the Hillary Clinton email controversy and Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election.
As of 2025, James Comey’s estimated net worth is $15 million, accumulated through government service, private-sector leadership, book royalties, and speaking engagements.
Quick Facts of James Comey
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | James Brien Comey Jr. |
| Date of Birth | December 14, 1960 |
| Place of Birth | Yonkers, New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | College of William & Mary (B.A.), University of Chicago (J.D.) |
| Spouse | Patrice Failor (m. 1987) |
| Children | Five |
| Net Worth | $15 million (2025) |
| Notable Roles | FBI Director (2013–2017), U.S. Deputy Attorney General (2003–2005) |
| Major Achievements | Authored A Higher Loyalty, featured in The Comey Rule miniseries |
| Other Facts | Height: 6’8″, known for principled leadership and public service |
Early Life and Family Background
Comey was born to Joan Marie Herald and J. Brien Comey. His father worked in corporate real estate while his mother was a homemaker and computer consultant. Raised in Allendale, New Jersey, Comey grew up alongside siblings in an Irish-American family emphasizing public service and ethics.
A traumatic home invasion in 1977, involving the criminal later dubbed “The Ramsey Rapist,” profoundly influenced his commitment to law enforcement. He attended Northern Highlands Regional High School and pursued higher education at the College of William & Mary, majoring in chemistry and religion, before earning a Juris Doctor from the University of Chicago Law School in 1985.
Career Beginnings and Key Milestones
After law school, Comey clerked for Judge John M. Walker Jr. and worked as an associate at Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher. He began his public service as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York under Rudolph Giuliani, prosecuting organized crime families, including the Gambino family.
- 2002–2003: U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York
- 2003–2005: Deputy Attorney General under President George W. Bush, notably opposing unauthorized NSA wiretapping
- Private Sector: General Counsel at Lockheed Martin and Bridgewater Associates
- 2013–2017: Director of the FBI, overseeing major investigations
Notable Works and Achievements
FBI Directorship (2013–2017)
- Hillary Clinton Email Investigation: Announced in July 2016 that Clinton acted “extremely careless” but not criminally liable; reopened investigation weeks before the election.
- Russian Election Interference: Oversaw the FBI probe into Russian meddling in 2016.
Post-FBI Career
- Authored the memoir A Higher Loyalty: Truth, Lies, and Leadership
- Subject of the Showtime miniseries The Comey Rule (2020)
Personal Life and Relationships
James Comey has been married to Patrice Failor since 1987. They have five children and are known for supporting foster care initiatives. Comey’s towering height of 6’8″ and principled reputation have made him a notable figure in U.S. public life.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
Comey’s estimated net worth is $15 million as of 2025. Sources include:
- Salaries from high-ranking government roles
- Private sector legal positions
- Book royalties (A Higher Loyalty)
- Public speaking engagements
He owns properties in Virginia and Connecticut and maintains a relatively modest lifestyle compared to other public figures.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
- Grandfather was a Yonkers police commissioner
- Once considered becoming a minister
- Shifted political affiliation from Republican to unaffiliated during FBI tenure
- Frequently appears in media discussing leadership and ethics
Charitable Work and Legacy
Comey and his wife support foster care initiatives and other philanthropic causes. His legacy centers on ethical law enforcement, independence, and integrity, often putting him at odds with political figures while shaping modern FBI policies.
Future Plans and Impact on Culture
James Comey continues to influence discussions on law enforcement ethics and leadership, contributing through lectures, writings, and public appearances, cementing his role as a pivotal figure in American governance.
