The conversations are evidence of rising tensions between the president and congressional Republicans heading into a critical legislative span.
Behind the scenes, Trump is trying to derail congressional action on Russia and the Mueller investigation. He is so consumed by the issue that it is driving a wedge between him and Republicans in Congress. Trump has reportedly had testy exchanges with at least three Republican Senators.
1) Earlier this month Trump called Thom Tillis of North Carolina to pressure him against legislation that would limit his ability to fire Special Counsel Robert Mueller. Tillis has partnered with Democratic Senator Chris Coons on a bill that would protect Mueller's investigation from Trump.
2) In July, Trump urged Senate Foreign Relations Chairman Bob Corker to drop an effort to bolster Russian sanctions. It didn't work. The legislation overwhelmingly passed and Trump was forced to sign it. This exchange might help explain Corker's recent comments on Trump. Earlier this week he questioned the president's "competence" and "stability."
3) Mueller's investigation has also fueled Trump's feud with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. Frustrated by the mounting investigation, Trump chastised McConnell for not defending him publicly. Their relationship has gone cold since.
As a senior Republican aide on Capitol Hill told Politico, "It seems he is just always focused on Russia." Trump has been disengaged and uninterested in the major legislative initiatives his administration has pursued, but has lobbied hard against anything that has to do with Russia. These Republicans need to hold their ground and protect Mueller's investigation.
By Josh Dawsey And Elana Schor
