WASHINGTON (AP) Matthew Whitakers future at the helm of the Justice Department appeared uncertain at best Friday as President Donald Trump denied even knowing the man he had named acting attorney general just two days earlier. The Senates top Republican predicted a permanent replacement could be named soon for Whitaker, who is now overseeing the Trump-Russia probe.
In addition to the negative comments from Trump and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, Whitakers past business ties and comments on special counsel Robert Muellers Russia investigation and other topics were drawing scrutiny from Democrats and ethics groups.
Speaking to reporters Friday, Trump said: I dont know Matt Whitaker. That contradicted Trumps remarks on Fox News last month, when he called Whitaker a great guy and said I mean, I know Matt Whitaker.
