Robert Mueller named special counsel

Katy Harriger

Katy Harriger, author of “The Special Prosecutor in American Politics,” can comment on the appointment of a special counsel for an investigation of ties between the Trump campaign and the Russian government. Harriger is professor and chair of politics and international affairs at Wake Forest University.

“I think the events of the past week made it inevitable that a special counsel would be appointed and Robert Mueller is an excellent choice,” Harriger said. “Going forward there will need to be a delicate dance between the special counsel and the congressional investigations – both are important but each could step on the other’s toes.”

Harriger can discuss the historical development of the special prosecutor and provide details on how the process has worked with other investigations.  Inspired by the Watergate hearings of her high school years, she has dedicated much of her academic life to researching and writing about the use of federal special prosecutors in American government. Her first book, “Independent Justice: The Federal Special Prosecutor in American Politics,” focused on the legacy of Watergate.

Here is a link to a recent blog she wrote on Russian Hacking Scandal & Investigatory Options.

Categories: Faculty