Rep. Franks: Special Counsel Mueller Must Resign, He's in 'Clear Violation of Federal Code'

Because of his "long, close relationship" with former FBI Director James Comey, the Special Counsel for Russia Investigation Robert Mueller apparently is in violation of federal law concerning "conflict of interest," and he must resign, said House Representative Trent Franks (R-Ariz.), who serves on the Armed Services Committee and the Judiciary Committee.

In an Aug. 1 statement, Rep. Franks cited federal law (28 CFR 600.7), which apparently "prohibits Mueller from serving if he has a 'conflict of interest.'" Even if there is an "appearance of a conflict," it qualifies as a violation. The Code of Federal Regulations defines a conflict of interest as the following: "a personal relationship with any person substantially involved in the conduct that is the subject of the investigation or prosecution" (28 CFR 45.2).

As Franks noted, the "language is mandatory, saying the employee 'shall' disqualify himself -- not 'may' or 'should.'"

More