emptywheel

I understand the concern. But I feel it important that the public understand valid framing. This is false framing that plays directly into the Trump defense when the actual law is just as easy to report. Why not use the real terms of conspiracy and coordination?

It is not only legally accurate, it is just as easy to understand and broader based than the false and vaporous construct of "collusion".

I’m on team “this is pedantry.” Collusion is a fine term for a pattern of political misconduct that may have entailed crimes. Better off trying to give it concrete meaning, since it is in such wide use, than scolding everyone for using it.

Mueller will figure out what, if any laws were broken. “Collusion” is a valuable concept, because it is highly scandalous, even if they pulled it off without committing any crimes.

And also a ridiculously bad one bc Trump can and has spent his time disproving collusion as a way to distract from quid pro quo.

The actual legal truth is actually easier to convey, and, again, broader, than the false meme the Trumpies have posited. There is seriously no reason to further false framing.

The Trumpies didn’t foist the word collusion on anyone, but collusion will still do a good job describing the relationship even if Mueller brings zero conspiracy charges.

What job do you expect "collusion" to perform if Mueller brings no charges alleging it?