The investigation into the alleged interference by Russia into the 2016 presidential election and the question as to whether there was collusion between the Trump campaign and the Russians, just went from a matter of foreign intelligence to a criminal investigation.

On Wednesday, due to the fact that Attorney General Jeff Sessions recused himself from the Russian probe in order to avoid a potential conflict of interest because Sessions was a major supporter of President Trump’s during the presidential campaign, Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein announced the appointment of a special prosecutor to head the investigation, even though, thus far, there has been no evidence of collusion between the Trump campaign and the Russians, other than speculation and innuendo.

Rosenstein named Robert Mueller, a former U.S. Marine and attorney who served for 12 years in the U.S. attorney office and was a former Director of the FBI under both President George W. Bush and Barack Obama.

“My decision is not a finding that crimes have been committed or that any prosecution is warranted. I have made no such determination,” Rosenstein, who was recently confirmed in the U.S. Senate on a bipartisan 94-6 vote. “What I have determined is that based upon the unique circumstances, the public interest requires me to place this investigation under the authority of a person who exercises a degree of independence from the normal chain of command.”

Mueller appointment is good news for WH. Releases pressure. Mueller stature gives Dems few places to go. 1/

— Ron Nehring (@RonNehring) May 17, 2017

“Special Counsel Mueller will have all appropriate resources to conduct a thorough and complete investigation, and I am confident that he will follow the facts, apply the law and reach a just result,” Rosenstein stated.

In the letter, Rosenstein said that “If the Special Counsel believes it is necessary and appropriate, the Special Counsel is authorized to prosecute federal crimes arising from the investigation into these matters.”

Mueller is great choice! We must follow the FACTS wherever they lead & put this to rest one way or other

— Rep. Jeff Duncan (@RepJeffDuncan) May 17, 2017

FOX News anchor Bret Baier further reported that the investigation has now been taken to a new level:

Breaking News: Former @FBI head Robert Mueller named to oversee Russia election probe. Read more: https://t.co/PzSK2AVy79 pic.twitter.com/ZCkozWELsm

— Fox News (@FoxNews) May 17, 2017