Topic: Senator Flake

The FBI's seventh background investigation into Brett Kavanaugh is described as an investigative tool rather than a criminal inquiry, meaning polygraph results will not be used as formal evidence. Attorney Deborah Katz, representing Dr. Ford, pushes for an investigation with no artificial limits on time or scope, opposing the one-week deadline. This procedural delay is viewed as a strategy to influence the upcoming midterm elections while deepening national divisions.

Senator Jeff Flake delivered a speech on the Senate floor comparing President Trump's rhetoric regarding the "enemy of the people" to language used by Joseph Stalin. The hosts criticize Flake's frequent media appearances and the lack of legislative substance behind his "blaze of glory" retirement.

A specific instance of "whipsaw" reporting on CBS News involves correspondent Nancy Cordes claiming that Senate Chaplain Barry Black "hailed" Jeff Flake's courage. Upon review of the actual clip, the chaplain’s prayer for "patriots who will stand for right" is found to contain no specific mention or endorsement of Senator Flake, despite the reporter's framing.

The hosts review a clip of Senator Chuck Grassley chairing a committee meeting to determine if he sounds intoxicated. They analyze his speech patterns and interactions with Senator Coons and Senator Flake. While one host suggests he sounds "slathered," the other concludes he is simply tired during the roll call vote.