FBI opposes release of House intel memo

NEW YORK (FOX5NY.COM) - The divide between President Donald Trump and his handpicked FBI Director Christopher Wray is deepening.

The FBI released a rare public statement warning against the release of a secret memo reportedly showing it abused its authority during surveillance of a Trump campaign member.

"We have grave concerns about material omissions of fact that fundamentally impact the memo's accuracy," the FBI said.

At the Oval Office, Trump avoided questions about the four-page memo, written by Rep. Devin Nunes, who has been critical of the FBI's response.

"Once the truth gets out, we can begin taking steps to ensure our intelligence agencies and courts are never misused like this again," Nunes said.

After the State of the Union address, the president was heard on an open mic pledging its release.

White House Chief of Staff John Kelly said the president wants the document released so that the "American people can make up their own minds."

But Democrats say the memo cherry-picks information to undermine efforts of the FBI and Special Counsel Robert Mueller.

Fox News obtained details of a heated debate between House intel committee Democrats and Republicans about its release. The transcripts show Chairman Nunes downplaying  accusations he produced the memo with the goal of benefitting the president.

Sources told Fox News the memo could be released Thursday.

FBI'S FULL STATEMENT