U.S. Attorney General nominee says he will not obstruct Robert Mueller's investigations

Donald Trump's nominee for Attorney General of the United States defended his decision to send a memo to the Justice Department criticizing Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian interference. William Barr, who appeared before the U.S. Senate on Tuesday, January 15, stated that he wanted to warn senior Justice Department officials to avoid prolonging discussions about whether the President was obstructing justice. However, he attempted to assure that he would not obstruct Mueller's investigations, expressing confidence in Mueller's integrity, with whom he has been friends for thirty years. President Trump has repeatedly referred to Mueller's investigation as 'a witch hunt' and has criticized former Attorney General Jeff Sessions for recusing himself from the investigation into potential Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. Barr stated that he believes Sessions made the right decision. He expressed concern regarding whether the President was hindering the investigation and discussed this with Rod Rosenstein, the former Deputy Attorney General who appointed Mueller. Barr added that he had previously advised the Justice Department on various issues, including warning them about prosecuting Democratic Senator Robert Menendez. Ultimately, Barr stated that Mueller should be allowed to complete his investigation and that Congress and the public should be informed of its results. William Barr served as Attorney General from 1991 to 1993 under President George H.W. Bush. Trump claims that Barr is respected by both major parties, Republicans and Democrats.