
House Judiciary chair Jerry Nadler spoke with reporters this afternoon following special counsel Robert Muller’s statement regarding his investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election.
“Given that Special Counsel Mueller was unable to pursue criminal charges against the President, it falls to Congress to respond to the crimes, lies, and other wrongdoing of President Trump – and we will do so,” Nadler stated.
In his earlier statement, Mueller reiterated the findings from his report, pointing out that there were multiple efforts by the Russian government and private entities to influence the outcome of the 2016 election. Specifically, that those entities used “sophisticated cyber techniques” and social media to influence public opinion against Hillary Clinton and in favor of Donald Trump.
“Although Department of Justice policy prevented the special counsel from bringing criminal charges against the President, the special counsel has clearly demonstrated that President Trump is lying. He is lying about the special counsel findings, lying about the testimony of key witnesses in the special counsel’s report, and above all, lying and saying that the special counsel found no obstruction and no collusion.”
Muller stated that there was “insufficient evidence” to charge a broader conspiracy, but that “if we had confidence that the President clearly did not commit a crime, we would have said so.” Mueller repeatedly pointed out that Justice Department policy prevented him from indicting the President of a crime, saying that it was something he “could not consider.”
When asked if Mueller’s statement could be used as grounds for impeachment, Nadler stated, “All options are on the table, and nothing should be ruled out.”
“No one, including the President of the United States, is above the law,” Nadler said.
Jenn Bentley is a writer and editor whose work has been featured in publications such as The Examiner, The High Tech Society, FansShare, Yahoo News, and others. Follow her on Twitter: @JennBentley_