The Department of Justice announced Wednesday the appointment of former FBI Director Robert Mueller as special counsel to oversee the investigation into Russian involvement in the 2016 U.S. presidential election.

"Special Counsel Mueller will have all appropriate resources to conduct a thorough and complete investigation, and I am confident that he will follow the facts, apply the law and reach a just result," Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein said in a statement.

Many members of Congress had a positive reaction to the appointment.

"Former Director Mueller is a respected public servant of the highest integrity. The Trump Administration must make clear that Director Mueller will have the resources and independence he needs to execute this critical investigation," Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi said in a statement.



"It is obvious to the American people that the Russia-Trump investigation requires a special counsel, & I am glad we finally have one," tweeted Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Massachusetts.



"Mueller is a great selection. Impeccable credentials. Should be widely accepted," Rep. Jason Chaffetz, R-Utah, said on Twitter.

"A special counsel is very much needed in this situation and Deputy Attorney General Rosenstein has done the right thing. Former Director Mueller is exactly the right kind of individual for this job. I now have significantly greater confidence that the investigation will follow the facts wherever they lead," Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-New York, said in a statement.

"I look forward to hearing from Deputy AG Rosenstein about his decision to appoint a special counsel when he briefs the Senate tomorrow," Sen. Bob Corker, R-Tenessee, said.

Democrat Rep. Elijah Cummings, D-Maryland, says Mueller is a "solid choice." He urged Mueller to follow the facts with "integrity and independence," according to The Associated Press.

