It’s been a whirlwind week for President Trump following his decision to fire FBI director James Comey, who was leading an investigation of Trump’s alleged connections to Russia during his presidential campaign. Although Comey might not be involved in this mission anymore, the Justice Department has now appointed former FBI director Robert Mueller as a special counsel for the investigation, the New York Timesreports.
Deputy Attorney General Rod J. Rosenstein, who appointed Mueller, shared with the Times, “I determined that it is in the public interest for me to exercise my authorities and appoint a special counsel to assume responsibility for this matter. My decision is not a finding that crimes have been committed or that any prosecution is warranted. I have made no such determination.”
Mueller would still be under Rosenstein’s command (and technically still in Trump’s control), but will have more power to explore the issue with or without the Justice Department being aware of his doings. He will also have the ability to request special resources for his job. Having worked under both Democratic and Republican presidents for over 10 years, he definitely seems to be a trustworthy force.
“You need an independent assessment of what the president has done, how he has done it and perhaps why he has done it,” said John S. Pistole, the former FBI deputy director. “The appointment of Director Mueller is exactly what is needed to attempt to bring credibility to the White House when there are so many questions about the president’s actions and motives.”
Seeing how complex this investigation is becoming, Mueller may be just what the country needs to provide some much-needed answers and clarification.