My Reaction to Special Counsel Mueller’s Testimony

Today, Special Counsel Robert Mueller testified before the House Judiciary Committee. I am grateful to him for his service to our country, for conducting a thorough and fair investigation, and for taking the time to answer our questions.

Special Counsel Mueller made clear that, contrary to the President’s repeated assertion, the report did NOT exonerate him. The Special Counsel detailed in his report that the Russian government interfered in our elections in sweeping and systemic fashion and that President Trump engaged in several instances of obstruction of justice in an effort to derail this investigation. This report also illustrates a presidency founded on opportunism, lacking in understanding of history or the functions of government, and devoid of respect for public service or the rule of law.

This report was a directive to Congress, to conduct constitutionally mandated oversight and to hold the executive accountable. I come away from this hearing today with new urgency for Congress to continue these oversight efforts and to begin an impeachment inquiry. The President’s obstruction of justice is not confined to the findings of the Mueller Report, but extend to several issues critical to the American people — the people we took an oath to protect and represent. The President has also withheld information about healthcare enrollment data, how many children have been separated from their families at our border, and misrepresented reports about the quality of our water and air.

No one is above the law, including the President. Having the courage to not only think about the long-term consequences of this administration, including our position in the world, the foundation of our republic, and the rule of law should not be partisan. It is the courage that we as Americans must have, together.

Please find my full exchange with Special Counsel Mueller here.