impression.
The agents went to interview Flynn because I said I want Flynn interviewed, I want him interviewed as soon as possible.
Mr. Gowdy. I'd be shocked if you handpicked the agents, Director Comey. My point was you sent them.
You knew that there was a different protocol with the Bush and the Obama administrations. You had the option of calling Don McGahn, but you decided not to do so. Either Flynn asked whether he should have a lawyer present or Andy McCabe told him it would slow him down, one or the other. And he was not advised of the consequences of making a false statement before he was interviewed.
Is all of that accurate?
Mr. Comey. No, your question's not accurate.
Mr. Gowdy. What part is inaccurate?
Mr. Comey. Well, probably a bunch, but I'll take one.
Implicit in your question was your assertion that there were two states of the world: either Flynn asked for a lawyer and was told something or was told something else. Neither of those is consistent with my recollection.
My recollection is the Deputy Director said, "If you wish to have someone there from White House Counsel, you're welcome to." I don't remember that he added "it'll slow down the process" or anything like that.
Mr. Gowdy. Well, are you familiar with Andy McCabe's memo?
