Trump to Sessions: You ruined many lives over Russia probe recusal

"Jeff, you had your chance & you blew it. Recused yourself ON DAY ONE (you never told me of a problem), and ran for the hills. You had no courage, & ruined many lives. The dirty cops, & others, got caught by better & stronger people than you. Hopefully this slime will pay a big price. You should drop out of the race & pray that super liberal @DougJones, a weak & pathetic puppet for Crazy Nancy Pelosi & Cryin’ Chuck Schumer, gets beaten badly. He voted for impeachment based on “ZERO”. Disgraced Alabama. Coach @TTuberville will be a GREAT Senator!"

Of note: Even before endorsing Tommy Tuberville for the Senate seat in early March, Trump repeatedly criticized Sessions on social media. Sessions touted his Trump ties as he was forced into a March 31 runoff in his bid to challenge Sen. Doug Jones (D) in the election and regain his former Senate seat.

What they're saying: Trump tweeted Friday evening: "3 years ago, after Jeff Sessions recused himself, the Fraudulent Mueller Scam began. Alabama, do not trust Jeff Sessions. He let our Country down. That’s why I endorsed Coach Tommy Tuberville the true supporter of our #MAGA agenda!"

• Sessions responded: "Look, I know your anger, but recusal was required by law. I did my duty & you're damn fortunate I did. It protected the rule of law & resulted in your exoneration. Your personal feelings don't dictate who Alabama picks as their senator, the people of Alabama do."

"I did my duty & you're damn fortunate I did."

Go deeper: Trump endorses Jeff Sessions' rival for Alabama Senate race

Editor's note: This article has been updated with Trump's Saturday comments.