Thread by @ryanjreilly

Michael Flynn’s sentencing hearing is now underway.

Judge Sullivan asks Flynn if he wished to challenge the circumstances by which he was interviewed by the FBI. "No, your honor."

Judge Sullivan is making sure it’s abundantly clear that Michael Flynn is pleading guilty because he’s guilty. That he lied to the FBI, that he knew it was wrong to lie to the FBI.

Does he want to postpone? No. Wanna chat with your lawyers in another room? No.

Judge Sullivan, question Flynn lawyer: How is raising those contentions about the circumstances under which Mr. Flynn lied consistent with acceptance of responsibility?

Judge Sullivan giving Flynn one final shot to withdraw his guilty plea. Judge asks if he wants to proceed.

FLYNN: “I would like to proceed.”

Because you’re guilty?

FLYNN: “Yes, your honor.”

Now proceeding.

Judge Sullivan: Is Mr. Flynn still cooperating?

Gov: It “remains a possibility” that he’s still cooperating.

Gov says the decision to proceed to sentencing is based on the totality of Flynn's assistance. Has already provided “vast majority” of his potential cooperation. Highlights indictment unsealed yesterday against Flynn’s business partner.

Judge Sullivan: So Flynn could’ve also been charged in that indictment unsealed in Virginia yesterday, right? Gov: Yes.

Judge Sullivan: “Exposure to Mr. Flynn would have been significant?” Gov: Yes.

Judge Sullivan:

“This crime is very serious.”

“In the White House! In the West Wing!”

“It’s a very serious offense.”

“You can’t minimize that.”

Judge Sullivan to Michael Flynn: “Arguably, you sold your country out."

Judge Sullivan: “I’m not hiding my disgust, my distain for this criminal offense.”

Says he can’t guarantee he’s going to avoid incarceration. Gives Flynn yet another opportunity to speak with his lawyers.

Judge Sullivan is now asking government if Flynn could have been charged under the Logan Act, or if there are any other charges that Flynn could have faced.

Judge Sullivan even asked the government whether Flynn could have been charged with treason for interfering in Russian sanctions imposed by Obama administration. Government didn’t want to go there.

They’re now taking a recess until 12:30, at Flynn’s request.

Michael Flynn and his lawyers are now back at the defense table, awaiting the judge.

Here’s what happened at this remarkable hearing so far: huffingtonpost.com/entry/michael-…

Judge Sullivan is now back at the bench. Stay tuned. 🍿

Judge Sullivan is now trying to walk back some of his rhetoric before the break. Says he was just asking about treason, not saying that Flynn committed it. “Don’t read too much into the questions I asked.” Sullivan says he couldn’t even tell you what the elements of treason are.

“This case is in a category by itself,” says Sullivan. He’s very interested in the notion that Flynn committed his crime on White House grounds.

You guys it’s such a shame this thing isn’t being broadcast.

FLYNN LAWYER NOW SEEKS TO DELAY SENTENCING.

This series was so entertaining they’re bringing it back in March. Leaving it on a cliffhanger for now.

“Thank you all, and happy holidays.” - Judge Sullivan

Caught up with @mflynnJR outside of court, and asked about judge’s comment on treason. “How would you react if your father was called treasonous? Or if that word was even used?”