Jeff Sessions recuses himself from investigation into Russian interference

WASHINGTON — Attorney General Jeff Sessions will recuse himself from any investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election.

“I have decided to recuse myself from any existing or future investigations of any matters related in any way to the campaigns for the President of the United States,” Sessions said Thursday afternoon.

Sessions faced mounting pressure from both Democrats and Republicans to step aside after revelations that he had twice talked with Moscow’s U.S. envoy during the presidential campaign. Sessions’ conversations with the ambassador seem to contradict his sworn statements to Congress during his confirmation hearings.

The Justice Department said there was nothing improper about the meetings. Sessions insisted he never met with Russian officials to discuss the campaign.

Attorney General Sessions: "I never had meetings with Russian operatives or Russian intermediaries about the Trump campaign." pic.twitter.com/otWf8qxt7o

— ABC News (@ABC) March 2, 2017

Sessions had said this week he would recuse himself when appropriate.

When attorneys general have recused themselves in the past, investigations were handled by lower-ranking but still senior political-appointees within the Justice Department. Deputy Attorney General Dana Boente will handle any matters related to the investigation.

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