Corker: Mueller Firing Would Bring 'Uprising and Revolt'

There would be an "uprising and revolt" if President Donald Trump decided to fire former FBI Director Robert Mueller as special counsel in the Russia election meddling probe, Sen. Bob Corker said Thursday, while insisting that he does not think that will happen.

"I think there would be an uprising and revolt," the Tennessee Republican told MSNBC's "Morning Joe" program. "I think that's beyond the pale. I don't think it's being considered. I get no indication from the White House that this is something they're even thinking about."

His comments were in response to those made on the Senate floor Wednesday by Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., who said the growing demands from Trump's allies to "shut down" Mueller and the Russian probe are "irresponsible and reckless" and "a danger to us all."

Corker told MSNBC that he and other Republicans are sending "strong, strong signals," such as through his interview Thursday, that firing Mueller "would be a totally unacceptable move to make."

"I know the House Republicans seem to be agitated more that way," Corker said. "I don't know of anybody here in the Senate — I'm unaware of anybody, not a single person in the Senate that believes that is a move that should be tolerated."

He further said that even though the House Judiciary Committee has been attacking Mueller and the FBI's credibility, the Senate would not tolerate that happening inits chamber.

"The House is a little bit different body," Corker said. "It acts in a little bit more partisan manner."

Corker also commented on speculation that his name is being passed around that he's on the short list to replace Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, saying that he does not think the former Exxon/Mobil CEO will be going anywhere soon.

"I'm his biggest fan, I think you know," Corker said. "Certainly he has not been perfect and has not handled the reforms at the state department in a great way. He's had other issues just dealing with the public. He's sound in his judgment, and I appreciate the team that he and Mattis and Mcmaster and Kelly are in dealing with our foreign policy issues. Again, there's no indication to me that something is on the brink. I talk to him in a very close and personal way."

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