Mueller was less sharp and vital than I expected, ... clearly a product of age. [That explains why he brought Zebley with him today.]
I know top shelf lawyers who have tried cases with Mueller. He is a highly regarded trial lawyer, as talented and skilled as they come. Regarded by all as highly ethical and a very good man.
But today, Mueller failed to breathe life into his team’s extensive work product. He did not help the public better understand his report.
As a Marine, it was frustrating that he was painstakingly so “by the book” refusing to answer questions in a self imposed strait-jacket on numerous fronts because of DOJ policy restraints. By not engaging some of the questions/weak sauce assertions by Republican members, the “State TV” widgets will assume that Mueller’s refusal to answer constitutes an acknowledgement.
Mueller let DOJ internal rules prevent him from “taking the hill” like a Marine.
But, there was nothing in his extensive 400 + page report that was refuted, or attempted to be refuted.
Mueller disavowed any notion that the Russian interference was a “hoax” or that his investigation was a “witch-hunt.”
Mueller made clear that the Russian interference in the 2016 election was sweeping and substantial, and that Trump welcomed it, as it was designed to benefit Trump.
Mueller made clear that numerous members of the Trump campaign lied about their interaction with the Russians, and that Trump publicly lied about his dealings with the Russians.
Mueller made clear that Trump was unwilling to be questioned about the Russian interference and/or Trump’s own obstruction efforts.
Mueller made clear that Russian cyber ops are a clear and present threat to our democracy going forward.
Clear that after today, a divided nation will remain divided re Trump and the Mueller investigation. Nancy has wisely read the temperature of the nation. Not enough public sentiment to impeach Trump.
For those who have not read Mueller’s report, you should. The book is much better than today’s movie.