Thursday, January 10, 2002

Following is the text of a Department of Justice statement announcing Attorney General John Ashcroft's recusal from all matters regarding Enron.

After review of the relevant facts and law, the Attorney General and his Chief of Staff, Mr. David Ayres, have recused themselves in all matters arising out of allegations of misconduct by Enron Corporation due to the totality of the circumstances of the relationship between Enron and the Attorney General. The Attorney General has not been involved in any aspect of initiating or conducting any investigation involving Enron. Any and all responsibilities that would be exercised by the Attorney General with regard to any such matters will be handled by the Deputy Attorney General.