Attorney General Jeff Sessions issued a statement Thursday that appeared to be directly addressed at President Trump’s claim on a Fox and Friends interview that Sessions “never took control” of the department, where “the Dems are very strong.”
“I took control of the Department of Justice the day I was sworn in,” Sessions’ statement said, while touting the department’s “unprecedented success at effectuating the President’s agenda.”
Trump, in the Fox News interview, took particular issue with Sessions’ decision to recuse himself from the Russia probe.
“You know, the only reason I gave him the job is because I felt loyalty,” Trump said.
Sessions’ statement said that, under his leadership, the Justice Department “will not be improperly influenced by political considerations.”
Read the full Sessions’ statement below:
“I took control of the Department of Justice the day I was sworn in, which is why we have had unprecedented success at effectuating the President’s agenda—one that protects the safety and security and rights of the American people, reduces violent crime, enforces our immigration laws, promotes economic growth, and advances religious liberty.
While I am Attorney General, the actions of the Department of Justice will not be improperly influenced by political considerations. I demand the highest standards, and where they are not met, I take action. However, no nation has a more talented, more dedicated group of law enforcement investigators and prosecutors than the United States.
I am proud to serve with them and proud of the work we have done in successfully advancing the rule of law.”
