Pam Bondi’s time in front of the Epstein oversight committee was a sight to behold, but only because it provided yet more evidence that these meetings are useless in terms of learning anything. The stonewalling, the purposeful misdirection, the belligerent and dismissive tone, the snooty attitude Ms. Bondi displayed– they all added up to just more wasted time for everyone.
And of course, Jim Jordan did his best to manipulate the proceedings and tilt the playing field.
No amount of passionate, animated speech on the Democratic side even mattered, since this type of hearing often ends up being perceived as a power struggle, complete with high-octane bickering, and a despicable display of partisanship. They might as well not have held it.
Sadly, the Dems overplayed the victim card when they pretty much forced Ms. Bondi to turn to some of the victims who had gathered and apologize to them. This only provided undue drama and seemed more like a publicity stunt than anything someone would agree to do—partly because they were putting words in her mouth, but also because what were the chances she’d comply with such a request, given that she’s a Team Trump player who likes pleasing her boss?
At play in this setting is a burning desire on the part of Democrats to find a weak spot, create a gotcha moment before the world that exposes the smarmy, devil-may-care attitude of not only Pam Bondi but the whole Trump administration. It’s like this whole crew deserves a comeuppance and wake-up call. But they’re really good at deflection and playing defense.
And let’s face it—their offensive strategy has yielded results as well. Still, it’s very hard to watch, and painful, because they all come across as ugly human beings who harbor a frightening vision for America, who savor the bully pulpit and behave like they’re in the driver’s seat.
3 Cents' 