This testimony indicates that Obama was virtually completely disengaged from what was happening in Bengahzi. After a brief initial discussion, the president left operational details, including knowledge of what resources were available to help the Americans under siege, "up to us." So how does this shocking testimony fit in with Obama's assertion here:
"If people don't think that we did everything we can to make sure that we save the lives of folks who I sent there, and who are carrying out missions on behalf of the United States, then you don't know how our Defense Department thinks or our State Department things or our CIA thinks. Their number one priority is obviously to protect American lives. That's what our job is. I can tell you that immediately upon finding out that our folks were in danger, that my orders to my national security team were, do whatever we need to do to make sure they're safe. And that's the same order I would give any time that I see Americans are in danger, whether they are civilian or military."UPDATE: Most presidents would at least give the appearance that they were in the loop during these events.
He said Thursday on Fox News that "thus far the White House has delayed, denied, deceived and stonewalled and this has to come to an end. He has to account for his leadership."
During the hearing, Graham questioned why there weren't subsequent follow-up conversations with the president.
"It lasted almost eight hours ... did the president show any curiosity?" Graham asked.
Panetta said there was "no question" Obama "was concerned about American lives."
"With all due respect," Graham responded, "I don't believe that's a credible statement if he never called and asked you, 'are we helping these people?'" . . .
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