Michael Zeldin, a CNN legal analyst, served as deputy independent counsel, and later as independent counsel, in the investigation into allegations that the administration of George H. W. Bush violated the privacy rights of candidate Bill Clinton in the 1992 presidential campaign. He also served as a special counsel to Robert Mueller in the Department of Justice. The opinions expressed in this commentary are his; view more opinion articles on CNN.

(CNN) In his written testimony, attorney general nominee William Barr refers to special counsel Robert Mueller and states that if he is confirmed, he "will not permit partisan politics, personal interests, or any other improper consideration to interfere with this or any other investigation." He writes: "I will follow the Special Counsel regulations scrupulously and in good faith, and on my watch, Bob will be allowed to complete his work."

Michael Zeldin

Barr acknowledges the importance of the public and Congress being informed of the results of Mueller's investigation. He indicates that his goal "will be to provide as much transparency as I can consistent with the law." And, his legal judgment will be "based solely on the law and will let no personal, political, or other improper interests influence my decision."

Barr's written testimony, released in advance of his confirmation hearing starting Tuesday, provides the long-sought reassurance that Congress and the public have been seeking -- that Mueller will be permitted to complete his investigation. On its face, his words about providing as much transparency as he can to the public and Congress about the results of Mueller's work also appear reassuring.

This may be Barr's honest intention, but because he is basing his transparency decisions and judgments on the special counsel regulations and the law, his statements raise questions about the extent to which he, in fact, will disclose Mueller's results and in what form. (Note that Barr speaks of the "results of Mueller's work," as opposed to the report itself.)

It is important, therefore, to understand the special counsel regulations and Justice Department policy that govern Mueller's investigation and to question Barr about his interpretation of the regulations and those policies.

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