The Patriot Post® · Flynn Takes One for the Team

Last night, after several days of growing controversy over a pre-inauguration conversation with the Russian ambassador, National Security Advisor Michael Flynn handed in his letter of resignation, which Donald Trump accepted. Keith Kellogg will assume the duties of interim national security advisor while Trump seeks a permanent replacement. Flynn stated in his resignation letter, “Unfortunately, because of the fast pace of events, I inadvertently briefed the vice president-elect and others with incomplete information regarding my phone calls with the Russian ambassador. I have sincerely apologized to the president and the vice president, and they have accepted my apology.”

And thus ends the strangely scandalous non-scandal. As Charles Krauthammer opined, “What strikes me is how bizarre the whole story is. This is a cover-up without a crime. The idea that it was illegal is preposterous. When I hear Nancy Pelosi get all upset about this and how in the grip of the Russians this shows us to be, this is an absurdity. But then you ask yourself, ‘Well then why did he lie about it?’ Even internally in talking to the vice president. And that shows a tremendous lapse of judgment. And a sort of a lack of trustworthiness.”

It would be easy to assume that Democrat and mainstream media pressure fueled this decision, but when has Trump ever kowtowed to them? In all likelihood this decision came about as a result of the rumored brewing internal conflict within the White House. Flynn may have reasoned that falling on his sword was best for the administration, recognizing that his publicly perceived compromised status would be exploited ad nauseam by the Democrats and Leftmedia no matter the issue. Whatever the main reason may have been, there is no question this whole episode is a setback for Trump.