In this file photo taken on Sept. 1, President Donald Trump and U.S. Attorney General William Barr step off Air Force One upon arrival at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland.
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U.S. Attorney General William Barr is considering stepping down before the end of President Donald Trump’s term, the New York Times reported Sunday.
Citing three people familiar with his thinking, the Times said Barr could announce his departure before the end of the year. The Times added that a final decision has not been made, and he may yet stay in place until President-elect Joe Biden’s inauguration on Jan. 20.
The Times said it was unclear if Barr’s potential early exit was related to Trump’s displeasure with him. While Trump has repeatedly made false claims that the election was stolen from him, Barr has said the Justice Department has found no proof of widespread voter fraud. Last week, Trump refused to give Barr a vote of confidence.
While Barr has been a strong supporter of Trump in most matters, Trump has often complained that Barr has not done enough to support him.
One source told the Times that Barr feels he has done everything he set out to accomplish at the Justice Department.
If Barr steps down early, Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen would likely lead the department until the Biden administration takes over.
