NOT "later deemed classified." Classified.
This was the *head of the FBI* and it was his own content. At the time the memos were written, even HE stated (in writing) that they were classified.
I love that “later deemed classified” meme! That might actually work for a subordinate if a document weren’t properly marked. In Comey’s case, however, he had (emphasis on the past tense) Original Classification Authority and was responsible for taking into control, properly classifying and marking classified documents. No more a defense for him than it should have been for the Clinton bitch, but he no longer has a sleazy FBI Director to cover his ass - at least I don’t think so...