The Blockbuster That Wasn’t

Peter Baker: “In the days leading up to the special counsel’s much-anticipated appearance before Congress, Democrats argued that hearing from Robert Mueller on television could transform the impeachment debate. While Americans might not read the book, the argument went, they would watch the movie.”

“If so, the movie Americans tuned into on Wednesday was not the blockbuster Democrats had sought nor was Mr. Mueller the action star they had cast. Dignified but shaky, and at times struggling to keep up, he largely stuck to ‘yes’ and ‘no’ and ‘refer you to the report’ answers, steadfastly refusing to dramatize his conclusions as President Trump’s critics wanted him to do.”

“By the time he finished nearly seven hours later, Democrats were disappointed they did not get the made-for-TV accusatory moment they wanted, and the prospect for impeachment appeared far more difficult.”