The White House response to today’s indictments in the Russia investigation is basically a big fat “so what.” Read the statement it and you’ll notice instantly what’s missing.
NEW: White House responds to Russian hacking indictments. pic.twitter.com/rtj16iq7yR
— Peter Alexander (@PeterAlexander) July 13, 2018
After an indictment like this where the Deputy Attorney General flat out says, “the goal of the conspirators was to have an impact on the elections” you would think any administration would take swift action. Where is the condemnation? Where is the talk of sanctions? Instead, the statement from the White House doesn’t seem to blame Russia for anything. Trump’s team actually seems pleased with the indictments because this round of charges doesn’t implicate Donald Trump or any of his associates.
Lacking in this White House statement is any condemnation of Russia's efforts to undermine the US election. Rosenstein, in announcing the indictments, spent time on this theme and said Americans need to be united against foreign meddling. https://t.co/58o8k0yXeK https://t.co/652TYzNCJK
— Shane Harris (@shaneharris) July 13, 2018
The White House statement on today's indictment includes no condemnation of Russia. It also refers to "alleged hacking." The fact that hacking happened is not an allegation.
— Chris Megerian (@ChrisMegerian) July 13, 2018
As for the White House’s “positive” spin on today’s news, look closely at the wording in the indictments because there may be a lot more pieces we still need to complete this puzzle.
Let's stop arguing about whether Trump colluded with the Russians.
It happened it public.
Only July 27, Trump asked the Russians to hack Hillary's email.
That same night, they got to work. https://t.co/6BlJrFZm31
— Judd Legum (@JuddLegum) July 13, 2018
And if you are waiting on a response (or a public hearing) from Republican leaders, don’t hold your breath. It’s radio silence.