Though senators introduced two bipartisan bills earlier this year that would shield Mueller if Trump were to try to fire him, GOP lawmakers said they see no obvious signs that Trump is making moves to threaten Mueller and so do not need to advance any legislation at the moment.

“I don’t feel an urgent need to pass that law until you show me a reason Mr. Mueller’s in jeopardy,” said Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), who has co-authored one of the bills. “I don’t think anybody in their right mind in the White House would think about replacing Mr. Mueller.”

Instead, as Mueller’s Russia probe entered a new and politically explosive phase Monday, Republicans largely offered words of support for the special counsel’s effort and suggested he should be allowed to continue unimpeded, even without new protection from Congress.