My friends are reacting with joy on learning the latest news from special counsel Robert Mueller’s investigation. Former Donald Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort and his associate Rick Gates were indicted by a federal grand jury on 12 charges, including conspiracy against the United States. Both men pleaded not guilty to 12 counts, including conspiracy against the United States and conspiracy to launder money. Then former Trump campaign adviser George Papadopoulos pleaded guilty to making false statements to the FBI about his contacts with Russian officials.

By day’s end on Monday, three of President Trump’s associates had been indicted on criminal charges. These are the first indictments in special counsel Mueller’s investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 US elections, and whether members of the Trump campaign colluded with Moscow.

It’s safe to say that many Americans who wish Donald Trump had never become president are relieved, hopeful that this is just the beginning of getting to the truth of what happened in last year’s presidential election. Are more indictments to come? What of the president himself? Here is what my congressman, Rep. David Price, had to say:

“Today’s indictments underscore the importance of an independent, uninterrupted investigation of Russian influence in the 2016 presidential election and alleged collusion between the Trump campaign and Russian entities. The Special Counsel investigation, as well as separate Congressional investigations already underway, should continue unimpeded by the Trump administration or the President’s allies in Congress. The American people deserve all of the facts about what may have happened, and Congress should take immediate steps to prevent future attacks on our democratic institutions.”

In other words, let’s all calm down. And wait. I confess to feeling good about this news, however. Maybe we are getting closer to the truth. I also continue to believe that release of President Trump’s tax filings would show us plenty and reveal the real reason for his high regard for Vladimir Putin and his associates. Following the money trail will bring us closer to the truth.

Patience does not come easily, particularly now, but I’m lifting a glass today just the same, and I’m cheering Robert Mueller on.