The powerful House Oversight Committee will hear testimony today from three so-called ‘whistle-blowers’- Gregory Hicks, Mark Thompson, and Eric Nordstrom - who all claim to have intimate knowledge of the government’s actual reaction to the Benghazi terror attack. Many insiders have claimed that the witnesses’ accounts will directly contradict the White House’s narrative and could reveal ‘explosive’ details of official misconduct.
Gregory Hicks is believed to be the star witness; he was the former deputy chief of mission in Libya, and recently-released excerpts from private statements he gave to investigators last month have helped to fuel the media fire surrounding today’s hearings. Mark Thompson, the acting deputy assistant Secretary of State for counterterrorism, Eric Nordstrom, former regional security officer in Libya, and Hicks are all expected to testify that everyone involved knew that the Benghazi attack was a an act of terrorism from the outset of the conflict.
Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Ca.) is the head of the House Oversight Committee and will preside over today’s hearing. He has suggested that the Administration’s shape-shifting statements to media outlets in the wake of the attack were ‘likely perpetrated by political concerns.’
The hearing will begin on Capitol Hill at 11:30 this morning. ViralRead will be live-blogging the event below.
That’s it for the Benghazi live-blog! Thanks for keeping up and check back with ViralRead as we continue to cover this investigation.
Thank you and Godspeed to the Whistleblowers, stay safe! #Benghazi
— Joel Reed (@JoelReed) May 8, 2013
NOT ONE DEMOCRATIC MEMBER OF THAT COMMITTEE WANT TO KNOW WHO SAID…..STAND DOWN……#BENGHAZIthink about that!
— jerie shirley black (@jerieblack) May 8, 2013
Repub reps shake hands and give further thanks to Mr. Hicks, Mr. Thompson, Mr. Nordstrom. Dems scatter like the rats they are. #Benghazi
— Dee (@chefelf1) May 8, 2013
Rep @darrellissa closes the hearing by noting that technology cannot fix appointment-level officials who ignore security requests. #Benghazi
— Jessica Seale (@JessaNaomi) May 8, 2013
Rep. Issa: “This hearing is closed, but this investigation is not over.”
RepCummings says of #Benghazi hearing and lead up = effort to launch “unfounded accusations and to smear public officials.”
— Shannon Bream (@ShannonBream) May 8, 2013
#Benghazi Hillary Clinton’s chief of staff Cheryl Mills led the preps for the October testimony of State Dept security team: Nordstrom.
— Jennifer Griffin (@JenGriffinFNC) May 8, 2013
#Benghazi Trey Gowdy has a “smoking gun” email & has challenged Dems to hold a press conference to release it & call upon State to fess up.
— FedUpInGA (@dvanvalk98) May 8, 2013
Elijah Cummings is taking some heat on Twitter today for his controversial comments during the Benghazi hearings. bit.ly/10GJ26s
— Red Alert Politics (@RedAlert) May 8, 2013
Rep. Lankford read from ARB report after 1998 Kenyan embassy bombing; claims we should have learned lessons from that attack.
Hello #realjournalists - Get back to #Benghazi oversight.house.gov/hearing/bengha…
— Michelle Malkin (@michellemalkin) May 8, 2013
ViralRead never left 
Nordstrom:Neither perp’s nor decision-makers have been held to account for murders of 4 Americans in #Benghazi
— Leslie Carbone (@lesliecarbone) May 8, 2013
Issa to all whistleblowers: Do we need more of you to come forward? Is that important? All: Yes #Benghazi
— TheBlaze (@theblaze) May 8, 2013
Rep. Lankford to Nordstrom: Are you aware of anyone that has been held to account in ANY way for these murders?
Nordstrom: No one.
RepGowdy - I say to the victims’ families - I will get to the truth and I “don’t give a damn” whose career it impacts#Benghazi
— Shannon Bream (@ShannonBream) May 8, 2013
Gowdy: “You have made a compelling case today on why it is important to tell the truth.”
Rep. Gowdy again references this mysterious Mills email, which ‘demonstratively undermines’ the Susan Rice talking points. Again demands it be released.
Gowdy: It’s too dangerous for the FBI, but it’s just fine for diplomats. I’m trying to reconcile this.
— Diana West (@diana_west_) May 8, 2013
Rep. Gowdy: How was Benghazi too unsafe for FBI to investigate but safe enough for an unprotected diplomat?
Back to Rep. Trey Gowdy (R-SC)
#benghazi Wow. Mrs. Maloney.Show a little respect towards the witnesses!
— Chris Wagener (@WagenerChris) May 8, 2013
Chairman Issa clears up the myths perpetuated by Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D) who just embarrassed herself #benghazi #wiright
— briansikma (@briansikma) May 8, 2013
#Benghazi mrs maloney is rude and trying to manipulate the testimony
— Jade (@MyTweetbeatsurs) May 8, 2013
Thompson, Hicks, and Nordstrom: “No,” we were never told not to meet with the Democrats. #Benghazi
— TheBlaze (@theblaze) May 8, 2013
This effing Maloney is on my last nerve.. #Benghazi
— Josie (@vwjosie) May 8, 2013
Rep. Cummings agrees with Maloney and argues that Democrats never got access to Thompson as well; Issa directly asks Thompson if that is true and he says no.
Rep. Issa interjects to say that is basically just a blatant lie. “That’s just not true.”
Chairman Issa says “hold the clock” as he responds to Rep. Maloney’s claim of unequal access to witnesses.
Rep. Maloney claims the Democratic minority was denied access to Mark Thompson, says they should have had equal access to witnesses.
Rep. Chaffetz gets emotional reading ARB report, holding back tears.
Reps. Jordan and Chaffetz bringing up the fact that Sec. Clinton and other heads blamed lack of security on Nordstrom, who did not actually have that kind of power.
Arias is guilty. Now back to your regularly scheduled programming. #Benghazi
— Amy Lutz (@amylutz4) May 8, 2013
Sarah Palin responds to WaPo’s earlier “Chick-Fil-A” statement: https://www.facebook.com/sarahpalin/posts/10151603053303588
Rep. Chaffetz has the floor again, reiterates the need to release all unclassified documents to the committee.
Rep. Issa calls Rep. Cummings out for trying to say the ARB interviewed Sec. Clinton, which it did not.
MT @speakerboehner WH claims “stylistic” change to #Benghazi talkers but actually removed all references to terrorism j.mp/10rtkSs
— Darrell Issa (@DarrellIssa) May 8, 2013
Rep. Cummings speaking again.
Hicks: Officials from the State Department told me to breach protocol.
#Benghazi #HillaryClinton chief of staff called angrily to Benghazi and demanded report on Cong Chaffetz visit from Hicks. Was unhappy.
— Jennifer Griffin (@JenGriffinFNC) May 8, 2013
Seems like Hick’s#Twitter Feed knew more #Benghazi than Hillary Clinton
— ★♥ Harriet Baldwin(@HarrietBaldwin) May 8, 2013
Who is this lawyer that was sent to monitor Hicks after #Benghazi attack? Where is this lawyer? Call him IN for Questioning. #tcot
— Rolliby (@rolliby) May 8, 2013
Rep. Jim Jordan asks why, if this is all about getting to the truth, the State Department refused to allow him to speak to Rep. Chaffetz unless he had a State Department lawyer present; Hicks says he has no idea. This is ‘completely unprecedented,’ says Jordan.
Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) asks again about “concerted effort” to shield Hicks from Rep. Chafettz.
Hearing goes to a second round of questioning.
He’s not very well-known yet but, guys, @repdesantis rocks, too.I can vouch for his awesomeness.#benghazi #FF
— Bethany Bowra (@BethanyBowra) May 8, 2013
Rep. John DeSantis (R-Florida) asks about President Obama’s phone call to Hicks, six days after attack; Hicks says it was merely congratulatory.
Hicks: I was not told who gave the order to stand down. That’s a question for Lt. Col. Gibson.
Hicks: Damage from Susan Rice “immeasurable.” Delayed FBI probe, Libyan govt couldn’t secure compound/documents. #benghazi
— Michelle Malkin (@michellemalkin) May 8, 2013
Hicks: The damage Rice did by blaming YouTube video included hampering ability to secure the compound for evidence-gathering. #Benghazi
— TheBlaze (@theblaze) May 8, 2013
Nothing to hear here! CNN, MSNBC hosts talk over Benghazi hearing testimony bit.ly/10H28cy
— TwitchyTeam (@TwitchyTeam) May 8, 2013
LOVE Rep. Gowdy:”Are you aware of any crime scene that improves with time?” #Benghazi
— Ann-Marie Murrell (@politichickAM) May 8, 2013
Rep. Gowdy explains that, directly because of Susan Rice’s false statements-including the lie that the FBI investigation had already begun-the FBI was not able to access the crime scene for 18 days and made their ability to investigate ‘very difficult.’
Rep. Gowdy asks “Are you aware of any crime scene that improves with time?” drawing laughs from audience.
Rep. Gowdy calls for State Department to release this email, which was sent on Sept. 12th.
Rep. Gowdy interjects to ask if Nordstrom recalls receiving an email from Beth Jones about Sharia, reading an excerpt.
Rep. Meadows focusing on the short-comings of the ARB report.
Hicks: We have “more to do” than what the #Benghazi report has suggested.
— TheBlaze (@theblaze) May 8, 2013
Rep. Mark Meadows (R-NC) to the witnesses, “The people back home are standing with you.”
Rep. Mark Meadows speaking now. (R-N.C.)
Washington was fully aware that Chris was going to #Benghazi #NoConcerns
— Kathy in SC (@KBinSC) May 8, 2013
Hicks: White House knew Stevens would be in Benghazi as early as August 22nd.
Rep. Doug Collins (R-GA) references the earlier “warm sling shot” comment and says, “we’re not looking for that, we’re looking for the truth.”
Shorter @repthomasmassie : Couldn’t ( shouldn’t) we have sent help anyway? Thompson: Yes. We actually practice for it. #Benghazi
— Michelle Ray (@GaltsGirl) May 8, 2013
Rep. Danny Davis (D-Ill) speaking now.
Nordstrom explains that not getting a State Department response to a cable such as the one his team sent is “unheard of.”
Rep. Rob Woodall (R- Georgia) now speaking.
Rep. Lummis now reading an email sent to Nordstrom from Ambassador Stevens.
President Obama tweeting during the Benghazi hearing….about climate change.
Retweet if you agree: It’s time for Congress to stop denying the science on #climatechange.
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) May 8, 2013
Rep. Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming) is the first to resume questioning after the break.
Hearing has gaveled back in.
Democrats calling into C-Span saying they are embarrassed by the way their party is representing them in the hearing #benghazi
— Sarah Faircloth (@SarahFaircloth) May 8, 2013
There she blows…DWS decries hearing as ‘witch-hunt’ against Hillary #Benghzi - ow.ly/kQ8R5
— National Review (@NRO) May 8, 2013
Another note: so far, not one Democrat has asked a single question about the actual events that transpired on the ground.
Looks like a major media defense will be to just call these testimonies lies:
http://www.theatlanticwire.com/politics/2013/05/gregory-hicks-chris-stevens/65017/
Hearing to take 10 minute break.
Rep. Doc Hastings (R-Washington) questioning now.
The bravest: “I hang out with a very noble and brave crowd” - Marine/counterterrorism coordinator & #benghazi whistleblower Mark Thompson.
— Michelle Malkin (@michellemalkin) May 8, 2013
Rep. Farenthold and Hicks discussing friendly relationship, at the time, between US and Libyan government.
Rep. Blake Farenthold (R- Texas) speaking now.
Hicks: I have been demoted to “desk officer”. #Benghazi
— Nels (@debitking) May 8, 2013
Greg Hicks has been demoted from Deputy Chief of Mission to desk Officer.Is that PUNISHMENT for being a WHISTLEBLOWER?#Benghazi
— Valentine Cotton (@vmpcott) May 8, 2013
“I felt like I had been tried and convicted in absentia” - Hicks #Benghazi
— Michelle Ray (@GaltsGirl) May 8, 2013
Dejarlais asked Hicks if he felt a shift in how he was treated after #Benghazi. Hicks said yes there was s shift.
— Georgia Blue (@CureOurCountry) May 8, 2013
Hicks: “I’ve been effectively demoted.”
Rep. DesJarlais: we have a president who’s been quick not to knee-jerk on everything, so why did he go out and immediately claim it was a protest?
RT @gopoversight: @desjarlaistn04 “This hearing is about one thing: getting the truth” #Benghazi
— Darrell Issa (@DarrellIssa) May 8, 2013
Hicks: I got an angry call from Hillary Clinton’s top aide #benghazi wapo.st/12gFeM3
— Aaron Blake (@AaronBlakeWP) May 8, 2013
Hicks says he was surprised at backlash; felt judged and ‘convicted.’
The Benghazi Talking Points shar.es/l8uIr via @sharethis
— Matt Vespa (@mVespa1) May 8, 2013
Rep. DesJarlais asks how Hicks has been treated since deciding to come forward.
#RepDesJarlais (TN) begins well. #Benghazi
— Jules (@juleslalaland) May 8, 2013
Rep. Scott DesJarlais (R- Tenn.) speaking now; says he doesn’t understand the partisanship in the hearing today when this is supposed to be an objective investigation of the truth.
Unfolding controversy: Democrats saying Ambassador Thomas Pickering, who co-chaired the State Department committee investigating the attack, wanted to testify today and Republicans said no. Republicans are saying that Pickering refused to testify.
http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/politics/2013/05/benghazi-hearing-your-government-at-work/
“Yes, she [my wife] is very glad to have me home” - Hicks.#Alive #Benghazi
— Michelle Ray (@GaltsGirl) May 8, 2013
Damning details may well come out on Benghazi. If so, I welcome them. But is it THE scandal of the Obama Admin? I can’t see it.
— Conor Friedersdorf (@conor64) May 8, 2013
“A political decision was made to keep the Benghazi consulate open despite knowing the risk” -Nordstrom #benghazi
— Katie Pavlich (@KatiePavlich) May 8, 2013
Rep. Tony Cardenas (D-Calif.) speaking now.
Nordstrom: “A month after we arrived, there was talk of ‘normalizing’ our footprint.It was in the budget.” #Benghazi
— Shoshana McCrimmon (@sdmccrimmon) May 8, 2013
Rep. Meehan: What is Normalization & is this appropriate for #Benghazi“Hicks: Defined as moving towards normal life like a regular embassy
— Georgia Blue (@CureOurCountry) May 8, 2013
Flashback, October 2012:
Destroying Rep. Clay’s debunked assertion that funding was an issue: realclearpolitics.com/2012/10/15/lib… #Benghazi
— Dana Loesch (@DLoesch) May 8, 2013
Rep. Meehan citing attacks leading up to Benghazi attack, asking why they weren’t taken as warnings that the consulate could become a target.
Tip for @oversightdems: If you’re going to blame x on y, you should probably make sure y preceded x. #sequestration #benghazi
— Corie Whalen (@CorieWhalen) May 8, 2013
ViralRead’s Gabriella Hoffman:
If you want to talk about spending in relation to State Dept, you should question the F-16s & billions in aid sent to MB-controlled Egypt.
— Gabriella Hoffman (@Gabby_Hoffman) May 8, 2013
Another Democrat, another talking-point lecture — got any QUESTIONS for the WITNESS, Congressman Horsford? #Benghazi
— Robert Stacy McCain (@rsmccain) May 8, 2013
#Benghazi: Another Dem attempting to blame #GOP funding cuts for DECISIONS made by Obama & Hillary & Penetta to ABANDON consulate. #tcot #p2
— Squeaky Wheel (@GetsGreased) May 8, 2013
Rep. Meehan references Lamb testimony about security budget cuts.
Rep. Patrick Meehan (R- Penn) now speaking.
Rep. Horsford using questioning time to say Congress should be among the groups that must be held accountable in this whole debate over accountability.
Rep. Horsford again touting Republican diplomatic security budget cuts.
Rep. Steven Horsford (D-Nev) now speaking; says he thinks the victims’ families would rather have recommendations moving forward, that it is finally time to move toward learning lessons from this.
Hicks, No. 2 in Libya that night before Stevens’ death, says he was never interviewed by FBI in their #Benghazi investigation
— Bridget Johnson (@Bridget_PJM) May 8, 2013
To discredit a whistle blower because his boss denies the claim sorta defeats the point of whistle blowing. #benghazi
— Dale Canterbury (@dalecanterbury) May 8, 2013
Hicks: “I was never interviewed by the FBI.”
Hicks in response to Hillary “what difference did it make?”: Libyan leader was embarrassed by YouTube talking points. #Benghazi
— TheBlaze (@theblaze) May 8, 2013
Hicks says Hillary’s “What difference does it make” remark about #Benghazi had negative repercussions in #Libya.
— Jonathan S. Tobin (@TobinCommentary) May 8, 2013
Most of the media is currently awaiting the White House talking points before commenting on #Benghazi.
— RB (@RBPundit) May 8, 2013
Hicks: “I think the question is what difference DID it make?”
Infamous clip of Hillary’s “What difference does it make?” outburst now playing for the record.
Is rep. Connolly using the New York Times as a source as opposed to people that were there? Wtf? #Benghazi
— Lauren Coker (@MamaLC3) May 8, 2013
Rep. Connolly enters New York Times article into official record.
Rep. Connolly asks Hicks again about the YouTube video.
Rep. Connolly saying video was at least partial cause of the violence; Hicks denies it was an ‘instigator’ and that he saw no demonstrations anywhere in Libya in response to it.
Rep. Kelly yields her time to Rep. Gerald Connolly (D- Virginia).
Rep. Robin Kelly (D- Ill.) reading statement claiming no stand down order can be found and that the team could not have intervened.
Pentagon Denies #Benghazi File Request shar.es/l8rVh via @sharethis
— Jim Treacher (@jtLOL) May 8, 2013
Questions now focusing on plane grounded in Tripoli.
“We live by a code, that code says you go after people when they’re in peril.” -Thompson
Chaffetz asks whether we sought permission from the Libyan govt to fly “anything other than an unarmed drone” over Libya during the attack?”
— David Freddoso (@freddoso) May 8, 2013
The answer was no.
Hicks: US never requested overflight from Libya for anything other than UA drone on night of attack. No intent to rescue #p2 #Benghazi
— Nathan Hale (@NathanHale1775) May 8, 2013
Hillary Clinton to receive award in Beverly Hills tonight.Ambassador Stevens unavailable for comment.#Benghazi
— Miss Stacia (@glockandpearls) May 8, 2013
Nordstrom on specific recommendations in wake of this: More money is not always the situation. “Better” is the solution. #Benghazi
— TheBlaze (@theblaze) May 8, 2013
Rep. Issa suggests that the reporting board could be modified by Congressional power after #benghazi.
— briansikma (@briansikma) May 8, 2013
Rep. Tammy Duckworth (D-Illinois) requests that “politics be put aside” today.
Thompson: “My concern is that there was a terrorist event that we did not respond to as a terrorist event.” #Benghazi
— Shoshana McCrimmon (@sdmccrimmon) May 8, 2013
*New Video* Benghazi witness: ‘The YouTube event was a non-event in Libya’ washingtonexaminer.com/article/2529185
— Charlie Spiering (@charliespiering) May 8, 2013
Meaning there were clearly smoking guns today. RT @theblaze: Rep Pocan (D-WI): No smoking gun here today. #Benghazi
— Jason B. Whitman (@JasonBWhitman) May 8, 2013
#Benghazi witness describes effort to lure more Americans into a separate ‘ambush’: fxn.ws/11SQQnS
— Fox News (@FoxNews) May 8, 2013
Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Wisconsin) says he “doesn’t think there is a smoking gun here today, I don’t even think there is a warm sling-shot.”
Greg Hicks: I briefed Hillary on Benghazi that night; Clinton continued to blame video bit.ly/ZPVHZi
— TwitchyTeam (@TwitchyTeam) May 8, 2013
Hicks to Rep. McHenry: “The YouTube video was a non-event in Libya.”
Rep. Speier was basically just running out the clock.
This -> Former Special Forces Commander: DOD Could Have Flown Rescue Team From Tripoli to #Benghazi ow.ly/kPt7f
— CNSNews.com (@cnsnews) May 8, 2013
“Not to bring the subject of this hearing back to the subject of this hearing.” Rep Patrick McHenry
— Kansan (@KSTXN) May 8, 2013
“The YouTube video was a ‘non-event’ in Libya” - Hicks
Rep. Speier asks interesting question of Hicks: Where do you now want to be posted? Hicks: I’d have to talk with my wife. #benghazi
— TheBlaze (@theblaze) May 8, 2013
RT @buzzfeedpol: Benghazi Hearing Witness Says State Dept. Told Him Not To Meet With Congressional Investigators buzzfeed.com/andrewkaczynsk…
— WhiteHousePressCorps (@whpresscorps) May 8, 2013
Video of Rep. Cummings telling Benghazi witnesses that ‘death is just a part of life:’
Rep. Jackie Speier, (D-NY) acknowledges support in Benghazi was “inadequate”.
Hicks asked if ARB report lets anyone off the hook. Answers: “Yes.” ID’s presidential appointees approved by senate #benghazi
— Michelle Malkin (@michellemalkin) May 8, 2013
Fox News Analysis: The real bombshell here is not that the administration clearly lied, but that options to go in and engage the terrorists were available and intentionally ignored.
Today’s hearing shows need for much more testimony on Benghazi: From survivors actually on ground at consulate…
— Byron York (@ByronYork) May 8, 2013
VIDEO: Carney Struggles For Talking Points When Confronted By Benghazi ARB Board Problems youtube.com/watch?v=NgJJ-0…
— Kirsten Kukowski (@kakukowski) May 8, 2013
Rep. John Duncan (R-TN) asks Thompson if he knows why he wasn’t interviewed. He said he has no idea.
Media seems to be seizing on partisanship nature of this hearing, not the incredible implications of these testimonies:
Mark Thompson requested to be interviewed by review board. He was declined.
Americans are dead. This administration lied to the American people about why and how. Forget politics, all Americans should be outraged.
— AG (@AG_Conservative) May 8, 2013
So, Hillary Clinton spoke to Hicks during the attack, but the “ARB” never interviewed Hillary Clinton? REALLY??? #Benghazi
— RB (@RBPundit) May 8, 2013
Hicks says he doesn’t know why Lt. Colonel Gibson’s team was told to stand down.
Hicks: The team was made a “training” team from a “security” team, thus meaning they did not report to the ambassador. #Benghazi
— TheBlaze (@theblaze) May 8, 2013
Team told to stand down was in Libya to defend embassy in Tripoli, according to Hicks. Originally comprised of 14 operatives, the team had recently been stripped to 4.
Destroying Rep. Clay’s debunked assertion that funding was an issue: realclearpolitics.com/2012/10/15/lib… #Benghazi
— Dana Loesch (@DLoesch) May 8, 2013
Rep. Mike Turner (R-OH) asking about stand down order.
Carney repeated that the State Dept’s Accountability Review Board report on Benghazi incident was critical & unsparing.
— Mark Knoller (@markknoller) May 8, 2013
I watch a lot of news/cspan, etc. Never seen ANYthing like the #benghazi hearing. I keep rewinding tocheck I’m hearing correctly-so unreal.
— Emily Snook (@hoopersnook) May 8, 2013
RT @jeneps: Carney doubts Obama is watching the Benghazi hearing: “The president tends not to watch TV during the day”
— WhiteHousePressCorps (@whpresscorps) May 8, 2013
Video of White House walking back the Republican budget cut charge:
Emails show White House doctored Benghazi talking points bit.ly/16huSkE
— Rare (@Rare) May 8, 2013
Move on MT@markknoller: Re: Benghazi hearings, WH/Carney says the attack and US response has already “been looked at exhaustively”
— Guy Benson (@guypbenson) May 8, 2013
Reporter Megyn Kelly acknowledges that Fox should now be covering equal number of Democratic & Republican questioning.
Case study in declining WaPo relevance. RT @washingtonpost: Who’s tweeting about Benghazi? Rich, middle-aged men and Chick-fil-A lovers
— Sean Davis (@seanmdav) May 8, 2013
Video of Charlene Lamb’s testimony that the budget was not a factor:
Shorter Dems: “how dare anyone politicise this hearing, BUT REPUBLICANS KILLED STEVENS WITH BUDGET CUTS!” #benghazi
— Jacob Perry (@jacobperry) May 8, 2013
Rep. Issa asks Rep. Clay if he was present when testimony that the budget was not a factor was read; Clay claims he ‘doesn’t remember.’
Clay (D-MO) implies #benghazi was Republicans’ fault for cutting the budget. What a joke. #benghazi
— joshbranson (@joshbranson) May 8, 2013
Demand answers bit.ly/10iM29d MT @stephenfhayes Carney’s claim that change 2 Benghazi talkers were “stylistic” is demonstrably false
— NRCC (@NRCC) May 8, 2013
Rep. Clay hits Rep. Chaffetz on voting to cut security funds.
Actually, @washingtonpostI had a turkey sandwich for lunch. twitter.com/washingtonpost… Where’s my retraction? @michellemalkin #benghazi
— Robert Stacy McCain (@rsmccain) May 8, 2013
@rsmccain Turkey, chicken … what difference, at this point, does it make?
— Kyle Wingfield AJC (@kwingfieldajc) May 8, 2013
“These cuts are based on their priorities and choices.” -Rep. Clay
Rep. Clay suggesting House Republicans may be to blame because they voted to cut embassy security.
Rep. William Lacy Clay (D- Missouri) speaking now.
Mr Hicks. “I was instructed not to allowmyself to be interviewed” by @jasoninthehouse
— Hugh Hewitt (@hughhewitt) May 8, 2013
Hicks got calls from senior officials warning him about his testimony to Congress. First time in his 22 year career. #benghazi
— Buck Sexton (@BuckSexton) May 8, 2013
The media is latching onto opening Cummings-Issa clash:
http://www.latimes.com/news/politics/la-pn-benghazi-hearing-partisan-note-20130508,0,6956043.story
Hicks: State told Hicks not to talk to RepChaffetz @jasoninthehouse when he visited. Had that ever happened b4? Hicks: “NEVER.” #benghazi
— Michelle Malkin (@michellemalkin) May 8, 2013
Rep. Jim Jordan (R-OH) commends Mr. Hicks record, a sharp contrast from Rep. Tierney’s questions.
RT @davidmdrucker: “I offered my services to the ARB…” -Thompson, directly contradicting Tierney’s accusation that he declined to testify
— WhiteHousePressCorps (@whpresscorps) May 8, 2013
Rep. John Tierney (D-MA) plays video of Lt. Gen. James Clapper (Ret.) defending Susan Rice.
This is not politics folks, this is history.Don’t wait on the nightly news to brief you later.#benghazi
— Holly Syx (@iGoBOGO) May 8, 2013
All three witnesses state that they were not consulted about talking points.
Rep. Tierney showing playback of General Clapper’s defense of Rice’s statements back in the fall.
Now it’s MA Dem. Rep Tierney’s turn to Save Susan Rice. #benghazi
— Michelle Malkin (@michellemalkin) May 8, 2013
Rep. Tierney focusing his questions on the origins of the false talking points.
Hicks: Clinton wanted #Benghazi converted into a permanent post - Stevens was supposed to report back by Sept. 30
— Bridget Johnson (@Bridget_PJM) May 8, 2013
Rep. John Tierney (D- Ma) speaking now.
Rep. James Lankford (R- Ok) speaking now.
Nordstrom “it is my understanding that the only person who could add security is the Sec of State.” #Benghazi
— Dagny Taggart (@Indepgirlism) May 8, 2013
And now Rep. Norton going full blown attack the whistleblowers #benghazi
— Katie Pavlich (@KatiePavlich) May 8, 2013
Here’s a screenshot of Eleanor Holmes Norton’s face as she attacks #benghazi whistleblower Thompson. twitter.com/michellemalkin…
— Michelle Malkin (@michellemalkin) May 8, 2013
‘Ms. Norton’ is eating the clock on purpose and totally trying to discredit the witnesses. They are protecting Obama & Hilary. #benghazi
— Sergio Michel (@smichelmusic) May 8, 2013
Thompson wasn’t kept out of the loop for political reasons. This is important to Ms Norton #Benghazi
— Stuart(@Ringo6) May 8, 2013
VIDEO: Greg Hicks says Lt. Col. Gibson was furious about not sending Benghazi reinforcements youtu.be/P5QRzLsdp7s #Benghazi
— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) May 8, 2013
“I do not politicize my job, madam.” - Thompson, to Rep. Eleanor Norton (D-DC)
Rep. Eleanor Norton (D- Washington D.C.) speaking now, asking Thompson if he believes counterterrorism unit was cut out of loop by Clinton for political reasons
“This is exactly what they’re trained for. And they were never asked to go into action.” -Rep. Chaffetz (concerining Special Ops teams told to stand down)
Ranking Member Rep. Cummings suggests suspending hearing to review documents that different Congressmen have via non-official channels.
Hicks: “This is the first time in my career that a diplomat has more balls than someone in the military.” #Benghazi
— Lauren Luxenburg (@LaurenC_Lux) May 8, 2013
‘Death is a part of life’: Rep. Cummings tells whistleblowers ‘I feel your pain’ bit.ly/13i6MDj
— TwitchyTeam (@TwitchyTeam) May 8, 2013
“In the name of fairness, I think it is worth noting that FOX is cutting away for every Democrat Representatives Line of Questioning.”- ViralRead Contributor Sam L. Clemens
Rep. Chaffetz asks, “Where did the stand down order come from?”
Chaffetz: “How did the personnel react to being told to stand down?”
Hicks: “They were furious.”
.@darrellissa stops Rep Carolyn Maloney: “The gentlelady’s time has expired but if anyone wants to respond, they may.” No one does.
— Toby Harnden (@tobyharnden) May 8, 2013
Rep. Jason Chaffetz (R-Ut) speaking now.
Rep. Maloney is more outraged over attacks on Hillary Clinton than the attack that left four Americans dead #benghazi
— Katie Pavlich (@KatiePavlich) May 8, 2013
Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) asking panelists, yes or no, if they agree procedure was followed by the State Dept., regarding cables leaving the Secretary’s office without the Secretary’s actual signature or knowledge.
Jesus, Maloney seems to think the purpose of the hearing is to investigate rhetorical attacks against Obama and Clinton.
— jimgeraghty (@jimgeraghty) May 8, 2013
Reminder: You can watch the hearing live here: http://oversight.house.gov/hearing/benghazi-exposing-failure-and-recognizing-courage/
And now. Rep. Maloney is in full defend Hillary Clinton mode. Fantastic. #benghazi
— Katie Pavlich (@KatiePavlich) May 8, 2013
Rep. Gowdy pretty much just took down every brick of lies the administration layed after the #Benghazi attack. Boom.
— Eye on Politics (@EyeOnPolitics) May 8, 2013
So disgusted with CNN right now.
This is probably the day I leave CNN. Anyone who loves journalism or transparency can’t sit silent through this purposeful blackout.
— Ali A. Akbar (@ali) May 8, 2013
Hicks claims crime scene was unsecured for 18 days.
“Why in the world would Susan Rice go on 5 Sunday talk shows and perpetuate a demonstrably false narrative?”- Rep. Gowdy asks Hicks
Gowdy: ” Did she [Rice] talk to you before she WENT ON FIVE TALKSHOWS?” Hicks: “No.” #Benghazi#TheRightQuestions
— Michelle Ray (@GaltsGirl) May 8, 2013
Referencing Susan Rice’s appearance on Sunday shows blaming YouTube video, Hicks says, “I was stunned, my jaw dropped, I was embarrassed.”
Hey .@washingtonpost! This JEWISH, FEMALE CHICK-FIL-A lover is ALSO tweeting about #Benghazi. #HaveYouNoShame? #4AmericansAbandonedToDeath
— Shoshana McCrimmon (@sdmccrimmon) May 8, 2013
“For my colleagues that trumpet bipartisanship, this is the time to prove it.” -Rep. Gowdy
“I was stunned..and embarassed.” -Hicks, re: WH talking points #Benghazi
— Guy Benson (@guypbenson) May 8, 2013
Gowdy: did Libyan pres mention spontaneous protest or a video? Hicks: No. #benghazi
— LL1885 (@LadyLiberty1885) May 8, 2013
Rep. Trey Gowdy (R-SC) now takes over questioning. #Benghazi
— TheBlaze (@theblaze) May 8, 2013
Rep. Trey Gowdy (R-SC), “There is no statute of limitations for finding out the truth.”
Hicks’ response: I was told by attache that it would be two to three hours. Can only testify on what I was told. #Benghazi
— TheBlaze (@theblaze) May 8, 2013
Hicks reiterates: Defense attache told me jets would not be in #Benghazi for 2-3 hrs, not the 24 hrs later claimed by Hilary&Panetta
— Kira Ayn Davis (@KiraAynDavis) May 8, 2013
Rep. Cummings asking Gregory Hicks if he questions the testimony of former CIA director Leon Panetta.
Rep. Cummings explaining the aircrafts that could assist were 12 hours away; Hicks claims they were 2-3 hours away.
Really Washington Post, REALLY??
Who’s tweeting about Benghazi? Rich, middle-aged men and Chick-fil-A lovers wapo.st/18YFgKP
— Washington Post (@washingtonpost) May 8, 2013
Overheard “The last time I wrote anything extensive about Benghazi was like, the day after it happened” -Reporter at the hearing #benghazi
— Katie Pavlich (@KatiePavlich) May 8, 2013
CNN versus Fox News… vine.co/v/b2TOV6idAXY
— Ali A. Akbar (@ali) May 8, 2013
If Jeff Zucker wonders why @cnn continues its slide into irrelevancy all he needs to do is look at what they’re doing today. #benghazi
— Tammy Bruce (@HeyTammyBruce) May 8, 2013
Greg Hicks on 3am call from Libyan PM: “I think it’s the saddest phone call I’ve ever had..He told me Amb Stevens had passed away” #Benghazi
— Toby Harnden (@tobyharnden) May 8, 2013
Texts of all three opening statements now available:
Mark Thompson http://apps.washingtonpost.com/g/page/politics/witness-opening-statements-at-may-8-hearing-on-benghazi-attacks/138/
Gregory Hicks: http://apps.washingtonpost.com/g/page/politics/witness-opening-statements-at-may-8-hearing-on-benghazi-attacks/138/#hicks
Eric Nordstrom: http://apps.washingtonpost.com/g/page/politics/witness-opening-statements-at-may-8-hearing-on-benghazi-attacks/138/#nordstrom
MSNBC, Fox Cover Hearing while CNN Anchor Stands In Ohio Street — breitbart.com/Big-Journalism… …
— John Nolte(@NolteNC) May 8, 2013
CNN cuts away from Benghazi hearing.
— Michelle Fields (@MichelleFields) May 8, 2013
The First Administration Spin on the Benghazi Hearings Crumbles nationalreview.com/campaign-spot/…
— jimgeraghty (@jimgeraghty) May 8, 2013
Lt. Colonel Gibson told they did not have authority to go.
Defense attache in Tripoli had persuaded Libyan government to allow jet to fly assistance to Benghazi.
Hicks: We suspected we were being baited into a trap/ambush to retrieve Amb. Stevens from hospital #Benghazi #tcot
— Accuracy In Media (@AccuracyInMedia) May 8, 2013
RT @mediaite: Benghazi Whistleblower Breaks Down While Describing His Lost Friends During Testimony bit.ly/18tSAJC (VIDEO)
— Stephen Hayes (@stephenfhayes) May 8, 2013
Hicks’ group arrived at annex at dawn.
“Mountains of strength” - Hicks on courageous consular staff. #Benghazi
— Michelle Malkin (@michellemalkin) May 8, 2013
If you can watch and listen to Hicks’ testimony and not feel anything other than partisanship, you are a disgusting piece of crap. #Benghazi
— Tim Wells (@RightWingNerd) May 8, 2013
#Hicks, “… received the saddest phone call that night, telling me the Ambassador of Libya was dead.” #Benghazi
— Regis Giles (@RegisGiles) May 8, 2013
RT @soopermexican video of Hillary Clinton laughing heartily during her testimony at #Benghazi hearing: bit.ly/145u5QT
— Tari (@verytari) May 8, 2013
Hicks: 55 people between the 2 annexes. #Benghazi
— Dagny Taggart (@Indepgirlism) May 8, 2013
RT @toddstarnes: Only Fox is carrying the Benghazi hearing.
— WhiteHousePressCorps (@whpresscorps) May 8, 2013
Hicks getting emotional as he describes response of his team.
Dana Bash and Wolf Blitzer say the motivation of this testimony is the Susan Rice memos. The memos that AREN’T PART OF WITNESS TESTIMONY.
— Ali A. Akbar (@ali) May 8, 2013
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton called Hicks at 2 AM and received brief. Most of conversation involved finding Stevens and evacuation of the rest of the diplomatic team.
“We had to save the ambassador who was in a hospital which as far as we knew was under enemy control” -Hicks #benghazi
— Katie Pavlich (@KatiePavlich) May 8, 2013
.@cnn is being absolutely criminal right now. Just criminal. This is purposeful, petty, and disgustingly UnAmerican. #Benghazi
— Ali A. Akbar (@ali) May 8, 2013
Hicks notes officials asked for help from Libyan govt for hostage rescue team for Ambassador Stevens at Ansar al-Sharia-controlled hospital
— Michelle Malkin (@michellemalkin) May 8, 2013
60 attackers in the compound but that video maker is in jail so it’s all OK. #Benghazi
— Dana Loesch (@DLoesch) May 8, 2013
Hicks references Twitter feeds as a source of information regarding who initiated the attack.
Fuck CNN. They’re refusing to show testimony, instead cutting to all kinds of news bits.
“We found out that Chris was taken to hospital controlled by those who claimed credit for attack.”-Gregory Hicks #Benghazi
— Karen Jones (@SnakebiteJones) May 8, 2013
Received news that Stevens was brought to Sharia-controlled hospital as Tripoli team arrives at airport. That same Sharia group was the one identified as leading the attack.
Charles Woods, Tyrone Woods father, is seated almost directly behind Gregory Hicks in the public viewing area of the hearing.
Phase 3 begins with news that the ambassador’s body was recovered.
Hicks was told nearest help was 2-3 hours away.
During 2nd phase, teams in the annex suffer hour of probe attacks.
2nd phase: Teams evacuated as second wave of attackers approached
Hicks now outlining 1st phase: initial attack on consulate
Attention @cnn producers: Tell @wolfblitzer to shut the hell up and let us watch the #Benghazi hearings. Thanks. Signed — America
— Robert Stacy McCain (@rsmccain) May 8, 2013
“The night unfolded in four phases.” -Gregory Hicks
Rep. Griffin (R-AR-2) tweets:
#ar2 RT @cbstopnews: Diplomat: U.S. military told “you can’t go” amid #Benghazi attacks cbsn.ws/16NqGc5
— Rep. Tim Griffin (@RepTimGriffin) May 8, 2013
Hicks: “We agreed to provide reinforcements”#StandDown #Benghazi
— EJ Haust (@erinhaust) May 8, 2013
Hicks spoke with annex chief about assembling a Tripoli response team.
Next made calls to several different organizations requesting military assistance, including Libyan military.
Hicks: I asked the USO officer what was going on, at least 20 hostiles armed in compound #Benghazi #tcot
— Accuracy In Media (@AccuracyInMedia) May 8, 2013
Hicks claims he called State Department to report attack at 10 PM Libya time.
Ambassador Stevens to Gregory Hicks the night of the attack: “Greg, we’re under attack!” (yells)
Hicks now giving blow-by-blow of events on Sept. 11th, 2012.
Rep. Massie tweets
My view at the #benghazi hearing. We need to get to the bottom of this. twitter.com/RepThomasMassi…
— Thomas Massie (@RepThomasMassie) May 8, 2013
First time we are hearing from someone who was in Libya. #Benghazi
— Bill Murphy (@billmurphy) May 8, 2013
Rep. Issa says Hicks will be first witness from the scene in Libya to give any testimony.
First question goes to Gregory Hicks.
What a shocker…#benghazi only on Fox News…@nbcnews @cbsnews @abc wake up, stop covering, do your job
— Tom Arno (@onairwithdrtom) May 8, 2013
Witness Eric Nordstrom gets emotional, as he talks about how much this “matters”.
Nordstrom choking back tears as he gives statement.
Witness Eric Nordstrom giving his opening statement now.
Gregory Hicks stresses he’s a career public servant.
“I became known as the Ambassador’s bulldog, because of my decisive management style.” - Gregory Hicks
“Until the aftermath of #Benghazi, I loved every day of my job.” Whistle blower Gregory Hicks
— Amy Lutz (@amylutz4) May 8, 2013
“In Bahrain, my Shia opposition contacts gave us warning of impending attacks on US embassies.” -Gregory Hicks
Fox News showing split-screen footage of Benghazi attack aftermath. Probably too much.
“I am a career public servant.” -Gregory Hicks
Witness Gregory Hicks giving opening statement now.
From CSPAN3 feed it looks like Rep. Bachmann (R-MN) is in the general audience for the #Benghazi hearing taking notes.
— Luke Russert (@LukeRussert) May 8, 2013
CNN finally streaming Benghazi hearing…
Twitter cares about #Benghazi
“Thanks for this opportunity to tell a story”- Mark Thompson, #Benghazi witness begins opening statement
— Laurie Ure (@LaurieUreCNN) May 8, 2013
Mark Thompson giving his opening statement now.
Witnesses are allowed five minutes for opening statements.
MSNBC and CNN both refusing to show Benghazi hearing right now. CNN on commercial, MSNBC showing the front yard of Amanda Berry who has already issued a statement. Fox News and C-SPAN 1 on Benghazi hearing.
Rep .@darrellissa says he met Greg Hicks, dep chief of mission in Tripoli, in Libya and Syria
— Toby Harnden (@tobyharnden) May 8, 2013
Witnesses taking oath now.
CNN on commercial right now. Just wow.
Chairman Issa now giving background on Gregory Hicks.
First up Mark Thompson: retired Marine , joined State Dept in 96 - advising leadership on counter terrorism and rapid response #Benghazi
— RachelWells (@GenRachel) May 8, 2013
CNN doesn’t even have a split screen or small preview window of the Benghazi hearing going on RIGHT NOW. Wow.
Fox News showing Benghazi hearing. CNN is doing off camera analysis on Amanda Berry going home. Whatever your view, tacky production choice at CNN.
Rep. Darrell Issa speaking again, describing first witness Mark Thompson’s background.
FoxNews.com homepage:
“Today’s hearing is not the full story.” -Rep. Cummings
Cummings: Don’t use accusations in the media to slam Obama as political toys #Benghazi #tcot
— Accuracy In Media (@AccuracyInMedia) May 8, 2013
Ranking Member Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-Md.) calls Chairman Issa’s suggestions that the White House reserved military power is reckless and “most troubling.”
“Let me be clear- I am not questioning the motives of the witnesses, I am questioning the motives of those who want to use their testimony for their own purposes.” -Rep. Cummings
Ranking Member Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-Md.) says military Commanders have testified that the military could not get to Benghazi in time to save victims. Says he believes them. Empathizes with the witnesses questions and worries.
RNC email sent out just now: “Eight Months Later, Still More Questions Than Answers From The Obama Administration On The Deadly Attack In Benghazi”
Ranking Member Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-Md.): “I’m glad the whistleblowers are here…”
“I will do every single thing in my power to protect the whistle-blowers.” -Rep. Cummings
Witnesses being introduced.
Maryland Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-Md.), Ranking Member, speaking now.
Chairman Darrell Issa giving a timeline of information requests by the committee.
Issa’s opening statement on White House non-cooperation is like a #fastandfurious redo.
— Katie Pavlich (@KatiePavlich) May 8, 2013
“The administration has not been cooperative.” -Rep. Darrell Issa
“Our goal in this investigation is to get answers.” -Rep. Darrell Issa
Hearing is beginning, Rep. Darrell Issa giving opening remarks on C-SPAN 3.
CNN.com’s homepage:
In addition to waiting to hear from Amanda Berry in #Cleveland we’re also awaiting start of #Benghazi hearing on Cap Hill. @cnnnewsroom
— Wolf Blitzer (@wolfblitzer) May 8, 2013
Scheduling conflict: Recently found kidnapping victim Amanda Berry is about to speak…
Ted Cruz on What we know and what still don’t know about #benghazi 8 months later. Question that must be answered. nationalreview.com/article/347683…
— National Review (@NROcorner) May 8, 2013
Katie Pavlich tweets photo of people lined up to get into #Benghazi hearing:
Long line to get into #benghazi hearing twitter.com/KatiePavlich/s…
— Katie Pavlich (@KatiePavlich) May 8, 2013
C-SPAN 3 is speaking with Julian Pecquet, Foreign Affairs Reporter for the Hill. Hearings have not begun yet.
The Daily Caller reports that a fourth witness was barred from testifying today:
http://dailycaller.com/2013/05/08/fourth-benghazi-witness-gagged-by-red-tape/
Heh. Fox News talking head just said “an hour away” from hearings — he meant a MINUTE away.
Overheard “The last time I wrote anything extensive about Benghazi was like, the day after it happened” -Reporter at the hearing #benghazi
— Katie Pavlich (@KatiePavlich) May 8, 2013
A source tells conservative site, Breitbart.com that “only the President could have made the “stand down” call during the Benghazi attack.
Image distributed by Chairman Darrell Issa
You can watch live on C-SPAN at this link: http://www.c-spanvideo.org/event/218346
Hearing in 15 minutes. Will be joined by Robert Stacy McCain, Sarah Westwood, and Jackie Wellfonder. Stay tuned!
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Job well done. Thank you.
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the coverage here is extremely good but I found the font/format hard to read and follow