NPR

Who Is Attorney General William Barr?

This is not the first time Barr has led the Justice Department. The seasoned D.C. lawyer has expressed expansive views on the powers of the president — and supported past presidential pardons.

With the completion of special counsel Robert Muller's investigation into Russian interference into the 2016 presidential election, attention now shifts to Attorney General William Barr, the man who will determine how much of that report to make public — along with what information will be provided to Congress.

Here are a few things to know about the 68-year-old Barr.

(1) He is a Justice Department veteran

This is Barr's during the administration of President George H.W. Bush from 1991 to 1993, during which time he was Mueller's boss, when Muller was in charge of the Criminal Division at DOJ. Barr and Mueller are said to be friends, and Mueller attended the weddings of Barr's children.

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR3 min readAmerican Government
In W. Va. Primary, Establishment Candidates For Governor Highlight Culture War Issues
Several Republicans with deep ties to state politics vye in the primary to face the Democrat in November
NPR3 min read
Justice Thomas Decries 'Nastiness' And 'Lies' Against Him
The Supreme Court justice told attendees at a judicial conference that he and his wife have faced "nastiness" and "lies" over the last several years and decried Washington as a "hideous place."
NPR4 min readWorld
In Gaza, A Hidden Threat Could Kill Palestinians Even After A Cease-fire
The United Nations says 7,500 metric tons of unexploded ordnance litter the Gaza Strip. The U.N. says it could take 14 years to dispose of these dangers.

Related Books & Audiobooks