Attorney General William Barr said Wednesday he was “surprised” that special counsel Robert Mueller left it up to him to decide whether or not President Trump obstructed the Russia investigation.
Mr. Barr said he was surprised because Mr. Mueller was serving as an investigator prosecutor, bringing charges against scores of individuals during the the course of his two-year investigation.
Some of those indictments were brought against members of Trump’s inner circle, including former campaign chairman Paul Manafort.
Mr. Barr told the Senate Judiciary Committee it was “confusing” that Mr. Mueller reached a decision about other matters during the Russia conspiracy probe, but not on the obstruction issue.
When asked if he discussed clearing Mr. Trump of obstruction with Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, Mr. Barr responded, “constantly.”
Sen. Lindsey Graham, Republican South Carolina, asked if Mr. Rosenstein was in agreement to to proceed — and Mr. Barr said he was.
DOCUMENT: Read Robert Mueller's letter of complaint to AG William Barr
• Jeff Mordock can be reached at jmordock@washingtontimes.com.
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