“Clinton denied it to EyeWitness news, saying he never tried to get Sestak out of the race and has never been accused of it.”-WBRE-TV,
A and B are friends and mutual supporters. They become aware that D is considering a course of action that could have unfavorable consequences to them. They also happen to be in a position to assist D in a different matter in a way that D might consider to be favorable to himself.
A and B don't wish to approach D directly for what may be several reasons. They are aware that C, with whom they are also friendly, has been known in the past to serve as a go-between in various interpersonal relationships.
So they make C aware of the possible benefits that might accrue to D should his possible course of action be changed.
C goes to D and says, "I have heard that you are considering such-and-such course of action. I have also been made aware that there may be some benefit that could accrue to you should you decide to reconsider that course of action. Of course, it is entirely up to you and I have no wish to try and influence your decision in any way. But I wanted you to be aware of this possibility."
D decides to continue with his original course of action. Furthermore, he now goes to the media and says, "A and B and C tried to get me to change my mind by offering such-and-such."
A and B are outraged, and tell the media "Neither of us have ever even spoken to D about this matter and to suggest otherwise is a lie and a scurrilous attack on our character."
C tells the media "I never tried to persuade D to not do such-and-such and anyone who suggests that I did is lying."
A, B, C, and D are all convinced that they are telling the truth and they all retain their self-respect.
Meanwhile, all the talking heads on TV go all atwitter and fill gobs and gobs of airtime for all their fans, and rationale for their sponsors to stay on the air.
It's called politics, and it goes on all the time. |
