It might be a while, then. Because what likely happens now is that Lerner's attorney cuts a deal, trading testimony for immunity. She's stuck between the rock of testifying and the hard place of a Contempt of Congress charge and jail.
Lerner's testimony will likely be taken in camera via deposition -- there's no need to advertise her testimony to her conspirators.
Then, on the basis of where her testimony leads, more subpoenas will be sent out...and more depositions taken.
Thus, the noose will be drawn tighter...
As with most Congressional investigations, there will be a lot more action in the background than at televised hearings -- which will be reserved for maximum revelation value.
“As with most Congressional investigations, there will be a lot more action in the background than at televised hearings . . .”
I think you are right here.
I guess most of us here have a craving to watch a two-hour “Mr. Perry Mason Goes to Washington” show, complete with courtroom drama, surprising testimony, and a satisfying verdict ending in the guilty being lead out of the courtroom by police. We sometimes even joke about getting the popcorn ready.
This is not a made for C-Span movie. It is not a courtroom. And the end is not a jury verdict. That does not mean possible crime referrals should not happen when appropriate, and anyone guilty of crimes should not be given justice, but this is a congressional hearing.
I do think there is a lot going on “behind the scenes.” The line of questioning, the uncharacteristic behavior of some of the democrats, and the squirrely reactions of Lerner and Shulman would suggest that all sides in this “drama” know more than they are saying.