Mueller's Health Decline Halts Epstein Testimony Amid Parkinson's Diagnosis
September 1, 2025
Robert Mueller, the former FBI director who served from 2001 to 2013, was appointed special counsel in 2017 to investigate Russian interference in the 2016 election, leading to a report that confirmed Russia's interference and detailed contacts between Trump's campaign and Russians, but found no conspiracy.
Mueller's investigation resulted in multiple charges, including indictments of Trump campaign figures like Paul Manafort and Roger Stone, though many were later pardoned, and his final report suggested possible obstruction of justice by Trump, without exonerating him.
Concerns about Mueller's health emerged publicly during his 2019 testimony before Congress, where he appeared disoriented and struggled with basic questions, with reports of trembling hands and a tremulous voice, later confirmed to be related to Parkinson's disease diagnosed in summer 2021.
Mueller's health issues have impacted his ability to participate in public and congressional activities, including a planned testimony related to the Jeffrey Epstein investigation, which was ultimately withdrawn due to his health decline.
Mueller was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2021, which has affected his speech and mobility, leading the House Oversight Committee to withdraw its subpoena for him to testify about Epstein, citing his health concerns.
Initially, Committee Chairman James Comer ordered Mueller to testify about his FBI tenure and insights into Epstein's case, but his health issues prevented him from fulfilling this role.
Mueller was summoned to testify as part of an investigation into Jeffrey Epstein, due to his overlapping tenure at the FBI during Epstein's investigations, but his health issues prevented his participation.
During Mueller's investigation into Russian interference, indictments included key figures like Manafort and Stone, who were later pardoned, highlighting the scope and political sensitivity of his work.
Mueller's background includes studies at Princeton and the University of Virginia, military service, and legal roles such as Assistant U.S. Attorney, with his career marked by high-profile investigations and leadership at the FBI.
Mueller's earlier investigation into Epstein during his FBI tenure involved a non-prosecution agreement, but it remains unclear if he had specific knowledge of the deal.
Today, at 81, Mueller's health decline has become a significant factor in his ability to participate in ongoing legal and congressional inquiries, drawing attention to his legacy and the impact of his health on his public duties.
Summary based on 17 sources
Get a daily email with more US News stories
Sources

New York Post • Sep 1, 2025
Robert Mueller, former Trump-Russia special prosecutor, diagnosed with Parkinson's 4 years ago: family
Los Angeles Times • Sep 1, 2025
House panel looking into handling of Epstein case withdraws Mueller subpoena - Los Angeles Times
HuffPost • Sep 1, 2025
Robert Mueller Diagnosed With Parkinson's Disease, Family Says