The collective behavior of institutions derive from the illusions and drive for self preservation of its individuals. I am sure asshats like Comey are secure in their delusional belief of the righteousness of their actions. They destroy the Republic by fantasizing they are saving the Republic. That is why government must be made small and the citizenry armed.
It may go back further but from reading in the past it started at least as far back as Romney’s dad against Goldwater. It has been there strong ever since.