Robert Mueller III, the former FBI director who later became the special counsel investigating Russian interference in the 2016 election, has passed away at the age of 81. His family confirmed his death and requested privacy. The law firm where Mueller worked also expressed their condolences, praising him as an exceptional leader and public servant. Mueller, who served as FBI director under Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama, was lauded for his exemplary service to the country.
Last year, it was revealed that Mueller had been battling Parkinson’s disease. He was appointed as FBI director by Bush in 2001 and was known as the second-longest-serving FBI director in history. Following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, Mueller played a key role in shifting the FBI’s focus to preventing future attacks.
Under the Obama administration, Mueller’s term continued, with Obama praising him as one of the finest directors in FBI history. Mueller’s most notable role as special counsel came in 2017, when he led the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. The report did not establish a criminal conspiracy between the Trump campaign and Russia, causing contention between Mueller and President Trump.
Trump’s negative comments about Mueller continued even after Mueller’s death, but Mueller’s legacy as a respected public servant was recognized by many, including former colleagues and politicians on both sides of the aisle. Holder described Mueller as the ultimate public defender and a true patriot who always chose the path of service and sacrifice for the country.
Along with his distinguished career in law enforcement, Mueller was also a military veteran who served in the Marine Corps and received several prestigious awards for his service. Born in New York City and raised in Philadelphia, Mueller had a long-standing career in various roles within the Justice Department before his tenure as FBI director.
