Welch Statement on Manafort Conviction and Cohen Guilty Plea

Statement

"The conviction of Paul Manafort and the guilty pleas of Michael Cohen are important victories for the rule of law in America. In spite of withering efforts by the president and his allies to undermine and discredit his investigation, Robert Mueller is credibly and methodically following the facts to determine the truth about unlawful efforts to influence the 2016 election.

This is not a witch hunt. The facts speak for themselves: President Trump's former campaign chairman, former national security advisor, former personal attorney, and two former campaign aides have either been convicted of crimes or pleaded guilty to crimes. 28 others have been indicted or pled guilty, including 13 Russian nationals and 12 Russian intelligence officers. And Mr. Cohen's admission to his role in violating campaign finance laws directly implicates President Trump.

It is vital that Mr. Mueller complete his investigation without intimidation or interference and that every individual who he concludes broke the law is held accountable. No one in this country is above the law, including the president.

The most important thing that Congress and the American people can do at this time is ensure that neither the president nor any member of his administration acts to derail this investigation. Doing so, in my view, would be an impeachable offense."

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