Members of the Senate Judiciary Committee noted that they have hired outside counsel to question Christine Blasey Ford Thursday as she testifies about her accusation against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. It is a female lawyer reportedly with expertise in sex crimes prosecution. But, the committee is not revealing her name to protect her safety, Judiciary Chairman Chuck Grassley told Politico Tuesday.
The development has added another wrinkle to the proceedings.
NEW: Sen. Feinstein, D-Ca, just told me "I have no way of knowing" if Dr. Ford is actually going to show up to Kavanaugh hearing Thursday - if outside counsel is asking the questions
— Peter Doocy (@pdoocy) September 25, 2018
On Monday night, Ford's lawyers told the committee that their client did not want outside counsel in the hearing room.
In new letter from Dr Ford’s Attorney to the Judiciary Committee, they again object to having outside counsel ask the questions for republicans at Thursday’s hearing, and ask for the name and resume of who that person will be.
— Frank Thorp V (@frankthorp) September 25, 2018
This does not appear to be a done deal. pic.twitter.com/MwggIeBGbs
On Tuesday, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said both parties deserve to be heard and they will respectfully listen.
Kavanaugh did not wait for Thursday's hearing to plead his innocence. He defended his honor on Fox News Tuesday night, denying all allegations.
"I've never sexually assaulted anyone - not in high school, not ever," he said. "I've always treated women with dignity and respect."