Newsom slams Trump while honoring Robert Mueller: ‘He despises anyone with duty and patriotism’

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA: California Governor Gavin Newsom took aim at Donald Trump following the death of former special counsel Robert Mueller, delivering a blunt message that quickly drew attention online.

Reacting to the news on Saturday, March 21, Newsom wrote, “Trump despises anyone with a deep sense of duty, discipline, and patriotism. Rest in peace, Robert Mueller.”

Newsom slams Trump reaction to Robert Mueller death

Newsom’s criticism appeared to be a direct response to Trump’s own reaction to Mueller’s passing.

Shortly after reports of Mueller’s death emerged, Trump posted on Truth Social, “Robert Mueller just died. Good, I’m glad he’s dead. He can no longer hurt innocent people!”

The message, shared roughly 30 minutes after the death was first reported, sparked strong reactions.

Robert Mueller legacy shaped by Russia investigation

Much of the attention surrounding Mueller’s death has centered on his role as special counsel in the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election.

He was appointed in 2017 by then-Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein and later submitted his findings to Attorney General William Barr in 2019.

The report concluded that Russia had interfered in the election in a “sweeping and systematic fashion” aimed at helping Trump against Hillary Clinton.

At the same time, it stated that it “did not establish that members of the Trump Campaign conspired or coordinated with the Russian government.”

Even so, the investigation became one of the most defining political issues of Trump’s presidency. Trump had repeatedly criticized Mueller throughout the investigation, often calling it a “witch hunt.”

After the report was submitted in March 2019, Trump declared it a victory, saying it amounted to “Total EXONERATION,” while also arguing that the country should never have gone through the process.

It was in this context that Newsom’s statement landed, framing Mueller as someone defined by duty and patriotism.

Robert Mueller’s final years and health decline

Mueller’s family confirmed his passing in a statement, saying, “With deep sadness, we are sharing the news that Bob passed away on Friday (March 20) night,” while asking for privacy.

It had previously been disclosed that he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2021. He retired from legal practice later that year and eventually stepped away from professional life entirely by the end of 2022.