“I have recused myself in the matters that deal with the @POTUS campaign.” Watch AG Jeff Sessions’ news conference. https://t.co/8G6SFWASRG pic.twitter.com/BEnYQ2WD7m
— Fox News (@FoxNews) March 2, 2017
During a press conference this afternoon, Attorney General Jeff Sessions, after criticism from both Republicans and Democrats alike, said he would recuse himself from any investigation of Russia’s involvement into the 2016 presidential election. He said specifically he would not take part in any investigations “related in any way to the campaigns for president of the United States.” But, that literally contradicts what Trump said just hours ago when he spoke to reporters. President Trump said he had “total” confidence in Attorney General Jeff Sessions, and when pushed on whether Sessions should recuse himself Trump said “I don’t think so.” Trump made the remarks while touring the Navy’s new aircraft carrier in Newport News, Virginia.
Several journalists on twitter made note of the apparent contradiction:
Note the Attorney General is contradicting President Trump’s statement on recusal today.
— Ari Melber (@AriMelber) March 2, 2017
Sessions says he shared with WH counsel decision to recuse himself. So: timing? (@POTUS said couple hrs ago he didn’t think Sessions had to)
— Hallie Jackson (@HallieJackson) March 2, 2017
During a press conference late Thursday afternoon, Sessions made a point to say that he had no intent deceive the Senate during his confirmation hearings when he said he had never met with Russian officials, and he also denied that any of these conversations involved the 2016 election. The move is interesting because it is only a partial recusal which does not include excusing himself from matters after election day.
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