This could also just be part of the continued efforts to make the process appear legitimate. Could be a dog and pony show to say, "hey, we explored the possibility, and then came to the conclusion it wasn't necessary."

I hope it indicates otherwise, but I'll believe that if and when I see it.

And pressure them as a group?

They want a headcount before they go further?

Hopefully, a few of them will maintain their right to independent thought?

I want to see Senate Republicans come out of this bloody.

History will not treat these ass clowns kindly, but we need that judgement to hit them in their asses this November.

Right, history will be too late...

to not have a vote about allowing witnesses?

The fix has to stay in, and any meetings Senate Republicans are having are just to figure out the most palatable excuse for public consumption. It has to be sort-of true, and not look too obviously like they're shirking their constitutional duty. It has to be just plausible enough to persuade the chucktodds that they're proceeding in semi-good faith.

And they need to keep it on the fast track for Donald.

And then everyone in the American public will be like, "John Bolton who?" and the whole thing fades away.

that would hurt Turnip.
The GOP is doing this trial to thumb their noses at the Democratic party, why would they allow a witness to ruin their fun?