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US Justice appoints special counsel to investigate Trump-Russia scandal

US Justice appoints special counsel to investigate Trump-Russia scandal

Posted May. 19, 2017 07:18,   

Updated May. 19, 2017 07:38

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The U.S. Justice Department has decided to conduct an independent investigation into President Donald Trump’s alleged ties with Russia and interference in the presidential election. Former FBI Director Robert Mueller has been appointed special counsel to oversee the investigation.

The decision came as the cloud of uncertainty swirled over former FBI Director James Comey’s dismissal after President Trump failed to stop him from investigating Russia’s role in the presidential election. President Trump has refuted the relationship between the investigation and the ouster of the former FBI director. Once special counsel starts investigation, numerous claims and arguments around the president’s ties with Russia and the dismissal will likely emerge accordingly.

Muller, appointed special counsel, is thought to be a person who sticks to the principles in U.S. politics. He is a seasoned investigator who served as an FBI director from September 2001 under the Bush administration to September 2013 under the Obama administration. Upon hearing the appointment, he said, “I accept this responsibility and will discharge it to the best of my ability.”

In U.S. Congress, allegations over the Trump-Russia scandal and the anti-Trump movement are growing. Bigwig Democrats are serving as snipers at President Trump, heavily criticizing for the president. Rep. Al Green (D-TX), a seven-time congressman, called for Trump's impeachment on the House floor. It is the first time that an impeachment is mentioned during the official congressional session.

“Calling for impeachment is not something done lightly, but I believe it’s necessary to protect our country’s national security & democracy,” J.B. Pritzker, a Democrat running for Illinois governor, said on Twitter. “There are credible reports that Donald Trump has obstructed justice in the investigation of the Russian hacking of our democracy.”

Even Republicans are beginning to talk of the possibility that President Trump could face impeachment. Asked by The Hill if the details in the memo would merit impeachment if they're true, Rep. Justin Amash (R-MI) replied to The Hill reporter, "Yes." Asked by another reporter whether he trusted Comey's word or Trump's, Amash said, "I think it's pretty clear I have more confidence in Director Comey."



Se-Hyung Lee turtle@donga.com