There is a fine line between the two and often aspects of both are present.
But if Paul says he wants to check the man’s writings, I feel confident that he is in fact putting in the time to do just that-examine the man’s writings. As long as he’s doing the work, he has every right, and obligation even, to say he is going to withhold his support until after he’s had a chance to complete the process. I’m especially sensitive about surveillance issues myself so I’m happy to see Rand doing some watchdog duty on the issue.
If Rand simply withheld his comments until after he had checked the guy out, I would have a lot more respect for him.
He walks out to a microphone and makes a big splash, when he doesn’t need to make any statement at all.
It’s for effect, and I don’t care for it.
I don’t see 52 Senators making that kind of play, just him.