Since October John Durham has been operating as special counsel within the DOJ. Appointed by Barr, Durham will be able to continue investigating origins of the 2016 Russia probe.

Today, Barr presented a letter to Congress, informing them of Durham’s status and reasons for the delayed announcement, stating he wanted to give Durham, “the assurance that they could complete their work, without regard to the outcome of the election.”

While Durham has been leading the inquiry into the actions of investigators, his new designation provides Durham additional protection and authority, even if Biden comes into office.