Trump’s stans are too far gone to be reached; they were probably watching Tucker Carlson, or pursuing pedophiles at the local pizza parlor. Most of the rest of America has probably tuned out. The hearing didn’t reveal a whole lot that we didn’t already know. And yet, the process is not a waste of time. Here’s what the committee can do:
- PERSUADE THE UNDECIDED THAT THE RIOTERS WERE NOT TOURISTS: The Trump/Carlson narrative is difficult to sustain–at least in the eyes of reasonable people– in light of the video and the witness testimony, which was pretty compelling.
- TO THE EXTENT THE EVIDENCE SUPPORTS IT, TIE GOP HOUSE MEMBERS TO THE RIOTERS: We now know that at least one House member asked Trump for a pardon after the fact. How many more were involved? Were any of them in direct communication with the Proud Boys and the Oath Keepers? If so, the committee should name names.
- CONNECT THE DOTS BETWEEN JANUARY 6 AND THE ONGOING EFFORTS TO RIG THE 2024 ELECTION: This story is ongoing. Trump and his acolytes are still fighting the same battle, but with different weapons. It is essential to stop them.
Thus far, the committee has done its job well. Liz Cheney was particularly effective. As to the future, time will tell.