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Comey on Friday sent a brief letter to Congress stating that the FBI was investigating newly found messages that appeared to be related to its investigation into how Clinton handled classified material as secretary of State.

That bombshell report, coming 11 days before the election, provoked prominent liberals like former Labor Secretary Robert Reich to question the timing of the release and to fume over the lack of details.

The timing couldn’t be worse or more irresponsible. Just over a week before an election that’s overflowed with... https://t.co/0pI6QvgrXX — Robert Reich (@RBReich) October 28, 2016

Comey's substance-less bombshell couldn't be timed more irresponsibly. If he has evidence, he must release it immediately. — Robert Reich (@RBReich) October 28, 2016

Liberal economist Paul Krugman posted a series of tweets calling Comey’s actions a direct effort to swing the election in favor of the GOP presidential nominee.

If we don't hear more from Comey, we just have to conclude that he was trying to swing election. And *that* should be the story. — Paul Krugman (@paulkrugman) October 28, 2016

No, Comey needs to realize that he can't be cute. This is the second time he has put a finger on the scales without charges. Not OK. https://t.co/qLjPZqE0dA — Paul Krugman (@paulkrugman) October 28, 2016

Yet the announcement has done measurable damage to the Clinton campaign -- which was predictable. Comey behavior inexcusable. https://t.co/lXvBGgwRJj — Paul Krugman (@paulkrugman) October 28, 2016

The lack of details about the new review also frustrated liberals, who worried that the vague announcement would lead to wild speculation that damages Clinton in the homestretch of the campaign.

Why would FBI Director Comey find it pertinent to release a speculative letter a week before a presidential election? Totally inappropriate. — Matt McDermott (@mattmfm) October 28, 2016

#Comey wow. Sorry but put up or shut up. Instead you give GOP#Trump days of on-air speculation of a parade of horribles? #Politicalhatchet — Hilary Rosen (@hilaryr) October 28, 2016