Langevin Statement on Appointment of Robert Mueller as Special Counsel to Oversee Russian Investigation

Washington, D.C.– Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) released the following statement after Deputy Attorney General Rod J. Rosenstein appointed former FBI Director Robert S. Mueller III as Special Counsel to oversee investigations into the Trump campaign’s ties with Russia:

“I applaud the Deputy Attorney General’s decision to appoint Robert Mueller as Special Counsel in the investigation into ties between the President, his campaign, and Russia. This appointment is long overdue. Since the Attorney General recused himself months ago, it has been abundantly clear that the Administration is incapable of overseeing a fair and impartial investigation. This was thrown into stark relief yesterday with the stunning revelation that, according to multiple reports, the President pressured then FBI Director James Comey to drop the investigation into former National Security Advisor Michael Flynn.

“I have a great deal of respect for Mr. Mueller, who, as both a career prosecutor and a former FBI director, has the skill set needed to uncover the truth. However, he will need full cooperation from the Administration, particularly because he is not protected from political interference, unlike past independent counsels.

“While the appointment of a Special Counsel is an important first step, we also need to continue the Congressional investigation into Russia’s interference with our elections through the enactment of my resolution to create a joint select committee. We also need Mr. Comey to appear before Congress and reveal the details of his conversations with the President as soon as possible.”