Nunes Stepping Aside From Russia Probe

House Intelligence Committee Chairman Devin Nunes is temporarily stepping aside from the investigation into Russian meddling in last fall's election and the Trump team's links to Russia.

"Several leftwing activist groups have filed accusations against me with the Office of Congressional Ethics," Nunes, R-Calif., said Thursday in an emailed statement. "The charges are entirely false and politically motivated, and are being leveled just as the American people are beginning to learn the truth about the improper unmasking of the identities of U.S. citizens and other abuses of power."

Nunes said he would continue to serve as the panel's chairman.

Nunes called the complaint filed against him with the Office of Congressional Ethics (OCE) "entirely false."

Nunes said he wants to talk with OCE as soon as possible "to expedite the dismissal of these false claims."

Speaker Paul Ryan said he supports Nunes' decision to step away and added that the chairman has his full support.

The Russia investigation will be taken over by GOP Reps. Michael Conaway, Trey Gowdy and Tom Rooney in Nunes' stead, Politico reported.

This report contains material from Reuters and Bloomberg.

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