Senators of all stripes are defending special counsel Robert Mueller's ability to lead the investigation into possible collusion between Russia and the Trump campaign. Mueller expanded the probe to include a deep dive into President Trump's business ties with Russia - even though he warned Mueller on Wednesday not to cross that red line.
Senators like Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) suggested that Trump's threat could be perceived as obstruction of justice.
Threatening the Mueller investigation is more evidence of obstruction of justice - a criminal case unfolding in real time before our eyes. https://t.co/hCPyiKt5IH
— Richard Blumenthal (@SenBlumenthal) July 20, 2017
Trump's lawyers are arguing that his business dealings are irrelevant to the Russia investigation. Yet, again, some lawmakers beg to differ - including those on intelligence committees.
Mueller has authority to investigate any ties Trump family has to Russia, including financial, and anything that arises. That is his duty.
— Adam Schiff (@RepAdamSchiff) July 20, 2017
Meanwhile, Republicans like Sen. Marco Rubio (FL) are defending Mueller's integrity and urging Trump not to follow through on his threats.
It would be a "mistake" to fire Mueller, he told reporters, adding that the former FBI director is a "highly credible individual who will do a good job."
While Trump seemed to leave open the possibility that he'd fire Mueller from the investigation, Deputy Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said on Thursday that he has "no intentions" to do so at the time being.