WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) released the following statement on Wednesday after Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein appointed former FBI Director Robert Mueller to serve as special prosecutor overseeing the investigation into Russian influence in the 2016 presidential election and potential ties to the Trump campaign. Mueller served as FBI Director from 2001 to 2013 under both President George W. Bush and President Barack Obama. Murphy has repeatedly called for a special prosecutor and an independent investigation following the firing of former FBI Director James Comey.

“The appointment of a special prosecutor is an important step toward getting to the truth about the president's connection to Russia's manipulation of the 2016 election. I applaud Deputy Attorney General Rosenstein for making this call.

“But circumstances surrounding the firing of James Comey still raise significant questions about whether Mr. Mueller will be able to have both the resources and the latitude to get the bottom of this unfolding crisis. Will President Trump attempt to interfere in the special prosecutor's work, as he reportedly did in trying to influence Mr. Comey? Will Attorney General Sessions really stay clear of the investigation, or does his involvement in Comey's firing suggest that he is only half-recused from the Russia inquiry? 

“These are all pressing questions that need to be answered, and I look forward to hearing from the Deputy Attorney General in closed session tomorrow. As for Mr. Mueller, I hope that he vigorously pursues justice—the future of American democracy as we know it may depend on him.” 

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