Slowness in the face of chaos helps reclaim control
Legal commentator Benjamin Wittes advocated for measured responses to rapid political developments rather than immediate reactions to each controversy. He postponed analysis of former FBI Director James Comey’s dismissal motions and declined to address President Donald Trump’s demand for $230 million from the Justice Department until he had reviewed the complete facts.
Wittes argued that deliberate engagement prevents opponents from controlling public discourse through the overwhelming volume of events. He compared this approach to studying historical questions about slavery’s moral evolution rather than constantly responding to breaking news. The strategy allows for a deeper examination of issues rather than superficial commentary driven by artificial urgency.
The writer distinguished his method from avoidance by noting that he continued to cover significant topics at appropriate intervals. He emphasized selecting optimal timing for substantive analysis rather than following news cycles. This measured pace aimed to maximize analytical effectiveness while maintaining mental clarity amid relentless political turbulence.
