If the testimony as set forth in the GJ was accurate, Libby could either admit that he disseminated classified information to reporters, or lie and hope he didn't get caught. Looks like he stupidly chose the latter course of action.
If you haven't read the indictment, it is quite plain to anyone with a little common sense that Libby knew the information was classified. And that information comes from other WH witnesses, not reporters. The obvious answer to your question is THAT'S why he lied about it. He knew he did wrong (I'm not saying here he violated IIPA - but revealing classified info to reporters for political reasons is WRONG. If you want to take issue with that assertion, have at it. I hope you do.), so he tried to cover it up. Like a 5 year old.
Ok. Do we agree she was not OUTED by Libby?
Let me make this point, it maybe the case that he made a mistake and named her, but he is not charged with releasing classified info, he is charged with lying about it...So regarless, if he would have told the truth Fitz wouldn't have indicted him even for relaying "classified" info.
Fitz went fishing.
Chapter and verse from the indictment, please.
He knew he did wrong (I'm not saying here he violated IIPA - but revealing classified info to reporters for political reasons is WRONG.
Are you Ronnie Earle? Ronnie Earle puts people in jail not because they did anything illegal but because he believed what they did was WRONG.