Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent defended Trump’s remark about Robert Mueller’s death, citing emotional distress from the Mar-a-Lago raid, sparking backlash.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent defended President Trump’s statement expressing gladness over the death of former FBI Director Robert Mueller, urging empathy for Trump and his family due to the emotional toll of the 2022 Mar-a-Lago raid and ongoing legal challenges. Bessent cited a video shown at Davos depicting the search, claiming it deeply affected Trump, though he did not directly address whether celebrating a fellow American’s death is appropriate. Mueller, a Vietnam veteran and decorated public servant, led the 2016 Russia investigation, which found no collusion but documented obstruction. The raid was unrelated to Mueller’s probe. Bessent’s remarks drew criticism for framing Trump as a victim of political persecution.