Clinton handbook 101:
When you are caught with your hand in the cookie jar and you have no justification for your behavior (e.g. spying on Trump) start a rumor that you were caught doing much worse things, and let your enemies spread it around. Once the false rumor reaches a fever pitch, show that it is groundless and claim vindication.
Conservatives have been falling for this simple trick for 25 years now.
So-called conservatives are paid to fall for it:
Washington Generals: Controlled Opposition.
The few that aren’t on board are hated, like Trump.