Troubling issues abounded at the first hearing Monday of the House committee appointed to investigate Russia’s possible involvement in efforts to sway the U.S. presidential election.

Most serious is FBI Director James Comey’s confirmation that the FBI is investigating whether President Donald Trump’s campaign associates had coordinated with Russia during the election. Trump’s campaign was energized by the release of e-mails hacked from Hillary Clinton’s campaign staff through Wiki-Leaks. National security officials believe Russia was involved in the hacking and leaking of the e-mails.

The idea that Trump’s campaign may have been involved somehow carries serious ramifications for Trump’s administration. If that can be established as fact, it creates a serious question as to whether he deserves to remain in office.

This is not “fake news.” This is the director of the FBI, under oath, telling members of Congress that the investigation is being pursued.

Comey and NSA director Adm. Michael S. Rogers also confirmed they have found no evidence to support Trump’s claims that he was “wire tapped” by former President Barack Obama. Since Trump tweeted the accusation two weeks ago, he and his spokespeople have refused to back down on their claims.

It is vitally important that the FBI pursue this investigation to its conclusion. The U.S. government draws its power from the will of the people. The citizens of the U.S. must be able to trust that their government really does represent them and their votes, without interference or meddling from foreign powers.