Robert Mueller, the former FBI director and special counsel who led the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election, has died at the age of 81, according to his family. A cause of death was not disclosed, though he had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2021.
Mueller’s career in public service spanned decades and multiple presidential administrations. He served as director of the FBI for 12 years, beginning in 2001 just days before the September 11 attacks. His tenure became one of the longest in the agency’s history and was marked by a significant shift in focus toward counterterrorism and national security in the aftermath of the attacks.
Appointed by the Justice Department in 2017 as special counsel, Mueller oversaw a nearly two-year investigation into whether the campaign of then-President Donald Trump coordinated with Russia. The final report detailed numerous contacts between individuals linked to the campaign and Russian figures but did not establish a criminal conspiracy. It also examined potential obstruction of justice but did not reach a definitive conclusion.
Mueller’s death prompted sharply divided reactions across the political spectrum. Donald Trump publicly criticized Mueller following news of his passing, while prominent Democrats, including Adam Schiff and Chuck Schumer, condemned the remarks and defended Mueller’s legacy.
Former presidents from both parties offered more traditional tributes. Barack Obama praised Mueller’s commitment to the rule of law, while George W. Bush, who appointed him FBI director, highlighted his leadership during a critical period for national security.
Born in New York City in 1944 and raised in Philadelphia, Mueller served as a Marine officer during the Vietnam War, earning both a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart. He later built a distinguished legal and government career, holding Senate-confirmed roles under presidents from both major political parties.
Source: Yahoo