Hmmm, ya think it might have been deliberately set up that way?
Do I think it's some kind of deliberate hit on BP? No. They seem to be doing a fine job, all by themselves. If you were to write a book on PR disasters, BP's handling of this would be chapter #1.
Even if was intentional, it still is what it is - which is politically stupid to be seen defending them. Republicans have to be smarter than this if they want to take back either chamber this fall.