So I think this is actually a little bit of a naive viewpoint. The next level beyond it is to consider why they’re saying something. You don’t have to assume they’re telling the truth, but politicians say things for a strategically chosen reason.

I do think the fact that Johnson even piped up about the Epstein files is meaningful. There is a break in the thinking between the coalitions of the Republican parties. Johnson was probably trying to woo some of them, got pressured, and then backed off. But even the fact that he had to be pressured means they had to expend effort to keep him in line. That can’t keep working forever.

Which is also why I think the Epstein files are no mere distraction. There is a breakdown, and they’re not easily falling in line.