Making Sense with Sam Harris #157 — What Does the Mueller Report Really Say?
May 20, 2019
Benjamin Wittes, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and co-founder of Lawfare, shares his insights on the Mueller Report. He discusses the evolution of legal journalism and the founding principles of Lawfare. Wittes clarifies misconceptions surrounding the report's findings, particularly about Russian interference in the 2016 election. He critiques Attorney General Barr's handling of the report and delves into the complexities of obstruction of justice and foreign contacts with the Trump campaign, shedding light on the implications for national security.
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Wittes' Political Leanings
- Benjamin Wittes, while initially viewed as right-leaning, identifies as a centrist.
- He feels compelled to oppose Trump due to alarm at his actions, forcing a political stance.
Mueller Report Release Mishandling
- Wittes believes Barr's handling of the Mueller report's release was problematic.
- Barr's initial letter and press conference distorted the report's findings, favoring Trump's narrative.
Misrepresented Expectations
- Trump and his supporters misrepresent public expectations regarding the Mueller report.
- Many critics never expected proof of a Trump-Russia conspiracy to hack the election.