DNC Chair Statement on Trump’s Troubling Statements on his Relationship with the Russian Government

WASHINGTON – DNC Interim Chair Donna Brazile issued the following statement:

“At his first press conference in 168 days, Donald Trump finally admitted that Russia hacked American political targets. After refusing to answer a question at the press conference about whether his campaign had any contacts with Russian officials, Trump reportedly told a reporter that there was no contact between anyone on his campaign and the Russian government – despite numerous reports to the contrary. Even more troublingly, in response to a question asking whether he would acknowledge the Intelligence Community’s conclusion that he was Russia’s preferred candidate, Trump also said it was a good thing that murderous dictator Vladimir Putin got the American President he wanted.

“We need a thorough, independent, and bipartisan investigation into the Russian attacks immediately. As part of that investigation, the commission must investigate President-elect Trump’s personal and financial ties to Russia, ties between his aides and Russia, and the alleged existence of compromising material obtained by Russia that could be used to blackmail him. Our national security is far too important to let Mr. Trump continue dodging these critical questions.”

Rough transcript below:

Reporter: Thank you, Mr. President-elect. On that intelligence report, the second part of their conclusion was that Vladimir Putin ordered it because he aspired to help you in the election. Do you accept that part of the finding and will you undo what president Obama did to punish the Russians for this or will you keep it if place?

Trump: If Putin likes Donald Trump, I consider that an asset, not a liability.

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