Special counsel Robert Mueller's first and possibly last public statement on the Russia investigation is fueling fresh calls on Capitol Hill to begin impeachment proceedings against President Donald Trump, a step that Democratic leaders have so far resisted.
Surprising Washington with brief remarks Wednesday, Mueller indicated it's up to Congress to decide what to do with his findings. The special counsel reiterated that, bound by Justice Department policy, charging a sitting president with a crime was "not an option."
"We have one remaining path to ensure justice is served," said Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey, a Democratic presidential candidate. "It's clear that the House must begin impeachment proceedings. No one is above the law."
Rep. Seth Moulton of Massachusetts, another Democratic presidential hopeful, said,
"Mueller did his job. Now it's time to do ours. Impeachment hearings should begin tomorrow."
"I fully expect the responsible House committees to expedite their investigations and, as soon as possible, formally draft articles of impeachment."
Mueller made clear his desire to avoid testimony, declaring the report his final word on the matter. He said it wouldn't be "appropriate" for him "to speak further about the investigation."
The GOP chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, said that Mueller "has decided to move on and let the report speak for itself. Congress should follow his lead."
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