Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton famously uttered that phrase while testifying in front of Congress on the Benghazi attack. It has been a rallying cry for conservative, Republicans any anyone who fear another Clinton presidency. It is possible that the gaffe will upend or end a Clinton run early. For the moment, "What difference does it make."
In recent weeks a casual observer would believe the Obama administration has some good news. It secured the release of a Marine who was a "prisoner" of the Taliban. Normally, a release of this kind would bring an administration good will and praise. This did not happen for the Obama administration. Why?
Like so many other things in the Obama administration this was handled badly. There are real questions about Bowe Bergdahl's capture. Did he desert? Did he collaborate? The Obama administration has no answers. The Army, however, is still investigating.
The real problem with this episode is the release of fine high level, high value terrorists for a single Marine with only political value to the administration. As is the case with so many things in the Obama administration, rules and laws may not have been followed and what could have been a win for the administration has become another failure and questionable activity. So, what difference does it make.
The Obama administration could have had a political win with the capture of a high value asset in Libya. This asset, according to reports, was responsible for leading the attack on the Benghazi compound resulting in the death of four patriots including Ambassador Chris Stephens. This terrorist was not in hiding. Several western journalists had open interviews with this terrorist in the 20 months since the attack. He made no secret of his location. Yet, US intelligence were unable to walk up to him during one of his interviews and capture him. The Obama administration, again, loses an opportunity for a political win. As usual, questions about the operation outweigh the significance of the result. So, what difference does it make.
The Obama administration has lied, made false promises, covered-up and demonstrated its inability to lead and govern so many times. There is no more credibility. The American people and even some journalists are beginning to doubt the administration. A recent poll was interpreted as saying the people believe Obama's presidency is over. During the Watergate scandal and the Cinton impeachment, there was never a poll like that. Nixon did the rights thibg for the country and, yes, the Senate did the rights thing by not convicting Bill Clinton.
Yet, the House is fearful of starting impeachment proceedings for two reasons. First, Boehner and company are afraid of being called racist. Second, they all know an election is coming soon. Perhaps winning the Senate will give Congress a little more courage. Perhaps not. Then again, What Difference Does it Make."
