In the latest twist added the scandal surrounding the White House, an independent Special Counsel has been appointed to oversee the investigation into Donald Trump's reported link to Russia. Trump was defiant in his response, which promoted Twitter to quickly trend on the issue at hand.
Trump's denial
Since the start of the 2016 presidential election, Donald Trump has denied that he was ever in cahoots with Russia. Despite his denial, the former host of "The Apprentice" has faced an onslaught of criticism from the Democratic Party, as well as the majority of the mainstream media.
One of the first red flags to cause speculation on the issue was Trump refusing to release his tax returns, leading to many wondering what was possibly hiding in his financial records. In addition, Trump made it a habit to bad mouth many world leaders, while vowing to "Make American Great Again," but always made sure to stop short in criticizing Russian President Vladimir Putin. During and after the election, various advisers and associates close to the president have been caught with ties to the Kremlin, with former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn being the most high-profiled, causing him to resign from his position. Over the last two weeks, multiple reports have revealed that Trump shared "highly classified" information with two Russian officials, while also attempting to convince former FBI Director James Comey to back off the ongoing investigation into Flynn.
On Wednesday, former FBI director Robert Mueller was tapped to oversee the investigation into Russian election interference, leading to a Trump response, as reported by ABC News on May 17.
The Department of Justice announced on Wednesday that Robert Mueller will be the head person in charge in regards to the ongoing investigation into Russia, their role in the most recent United States election, as well as what link the Kremlin might have with Donald Trump's campaign and administration.
Shortly after the news broke, Trump released a statement in response.
BREAKING: Robert Mueller on appointment to oversee Trump campaign/Russia investigation: "I accept this responsibility."
— The Associated Press (@AP) May 17, 2017
"As I have stated many times, a through investigation will confirm what we already know, that there was no collusion between my campaign and any foreign entity," Donald Trump wrote.
The president went on to say that he looks forward to the matter being handled quickly, before vowing to "never stop fighting for the people."
Twitter reacts
In response to the news of a special counsel handling the Russian investigation, social media users were to the point in their views. "Robert Mueller’s appointment is a positive step. I am hopeful that he will help us get to the bottom of the Trump campaign’s ties to Russia," Bernie Sanders tweeted out.
The fat lady is warming up her vocal chords.
— Rob Reiner (@robreiner) May 17, 2017
Score a big one for Rod Rosenstein's reputation. He appoints Robert Mueller to run the Trump/Russia investigation. This is huge.
— Joe Scarborough (@JoeNBC) May 17, 2017
"Score a big one for Rod Rosenstein's reputation.
He appoints Robert Mueller to run the Trump/Russia investigation. This is huge," MSNBC host Joe Scarborough wrote on his Twitter account. "The fat lady is warming up her vocal chords," actor and director Rob Reiner added.
Robert Mueller’s appointment is a positive step. I am hopeful that he will help us get to the bottom of the Trump campaign’s ties to Russia.
— Bernie Sanders (@SenSanders) May 17, 2017
haha. Saleno Zito saying Trump should do what Clinton did during special counsel. problem? Clinton was beloved. Trump is widely despised
— Eric Boehlert (@EricBoehlert) May 17, 2017
Today's a good day for Democracy. Thank you DOJ for following Title 28 of Code of Fed Regs & appointing Robert Mueller as Special Counsel!!! https://t.co/EoAfwOymVs
— Ted Lieu (@tedlieu) May 17, 2017
"Haha.
Saleno Zito saying Trump should do what Clinton did during special counsel. problem? Clinton was beloved. Trump is widely despised," Eric Boehlert pointed out. As the backlash continued to pour in, it appeared that those who oppose Donald Trump are pleased at what is currently taking place in Washington.