There is continued pressure within Congress for Robert S. Mueller III, special counsel for Russian investigation, to resign from his position due to suspected bias.
Rep. Trent Franks (R-Ariz.) released a statement calling for his resignation, saying that Mueller’s leadership in the investigations creates a “conflict of interest,” due to his friendship with former FBI Director James Comey.
In his statement, Franks cited the Code of Federal Regulations in defining a conflict as, "'a personal relationship with any person substantially involved in the conduct that is the subject of the investigation or prosecution' (28 CFR 45.2)."
“Bob Mueller is in clear violation of federal code and must resign to maintain the integrity of investigation into alleged Russian ties,” he said. “Those who worked under them have attested he and Jim Comey possess a close friendship, and they have delivered on-the-record statements effusing praise of one another.”
Franks continues that it is apparent that Mueller is a “partisan arbiter of justice.”
Another member of the House Judiciary Committee, Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.), previously called for Mueller to recuse himself from the investigation
Franks also criticized Mueller for hiring members who donated to Hillary Clinton’s campaign. He said that "These obviously deliberate partisan hirings do not help convey impartiality."
He referenced the president's earlier statements he gave in an interview, saying he “pointed out” the partisan support of Clinton. President Trump has expressed concern over the possible bias that Mueller will bring to the investigation.
“Well he’s very, very good friends with Comey, which is very bothersome. But he’s also—were gonna have to see,” Trump said in a video, dropping off.
While Franks' and the president both agree that Mueller has a friendship with Comey, the president expressed respect for Mueller's honesty.
“Robert Mueller’s an honorable man," he had said. "and hopefully he'll come up with an honorable solution.”