Republicans Back Nunes as Democrats Call for His Recusal

Republicans are standing behind Rep. Devin Nunes, R-Calif., despite calls by Democrats for him to recuse himself from an investigation into alleged ties between the Trump campaign and Russia, Politico reported.

"I honestly think it's much ado about nothing – I do," Rep. Chris Stewart, R-Utah, a member of the Intelligence panel, told Politico. "We understand that what he's done was in the best interest of the committee. I really believe that."

Added Rep. Pete King, R-N.Y., also a member of the panel, "He did exactly the right thing. He had an obligation to tell the president."

Nunes last week briefed the president with evidence his transition aides were monitored by U.S. intelligence, information he did not take to the committee first. But Nunes told House Speaker Paul Ryan, R-Wis., of his actions ahead of time. 

"Speaker Ryan has full confidence that Chairman Nunes is conducting a thorough, fair, and credible investigation," Ryan spokeswoman AshLee Strong said.

Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., called on Nunes to recuse himself.

Schiff's statement Monday said, "I believe the public cannot have the necessary confidence that matters involving the president's campaign or transition team can be objectively investigated or overseen by the chairman."

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