Sessions resigns at Trump's request, setting up likely clash over Russia probe

WASHINGTON - Attorney General Jeff Sessions has resigned, ending a tortured relationship with President Donald Trump and opening what could be a historic fight over the sprawling criminal investigation that has clouded his White House tenure.

In a letter delivered to the White House, Sessions wrote that he was submitting his resignation at the request of Trump, who has been highly critical of his attorney general since he recused himself last year from overseeing investigation into Russia's interference in the 2016 election.

Sessions wrote that he had been honored to serve as attorney general and sought to uphold the rule of law. "I came to work at the Department of Justice everyday determined to do my duty and serve my country," he wrote. "I have done so to the best of my ability."

Trump long had wanted Sessions gone but resisted