The right wing noise machine got out in front of it all and proclaimed it a disaster for Democrats like 5 minutes into the hearings, and weenies like David Axelrod played right into their narrative. But all morning the Republicans did what they could to salvage the day for the Democrats. They probably should have just waived their time, looked at their watches, and rolled their eyes. Instead, they each chose to grandstand by attacking Mueller. Eventually he pushed back and in with Rep. Buck it exploded in the Republican’s face.
And then came the Intelligence Committee hearing. Maybe Schiff had a better game plan than Nadler from the beginning. Maybe he had all morning to watch the hearing. Either way, the climate turned.
His opening was great, but he was acting like a lawyer in the closing minutes. He managed to get concessions from Mueller with precise questions, and this will be the theme. Of course the right wing noise machine got out it’s “hearing was a bust” theme early, but there’s a slow train coming and I noticed they’re getting quieter as the day progresses. He is getting almost universal praise and the right wing media is just avoiding the details altogether.
Here’s what Mueller said:
- Russia interfered in our election to help Trump.
- Russians made numerous contacts with the campaign.
- Campaign welcomed their help.
- No one reported these contacts or interference to FBI.
- They lied to cover it up.
To quote Dylan, “there’s a slow train coming…..”