Republicans staying away from TV news during Trump crisis

Late Tuesday, the New York Times reported that Trump pushed former FBI Director James Comey to drop his investigation of former national security adviser Mike Flynn. That followed a Washington Post report that said Trump shared classified intelligence with Russian officials last week.

The one-two punch against Trump left some news shows scrambling to find guests. CBS’ Charlie Rose said no Republicans agreed to join him Wednesday morning.

“We reached out to 20 Republican senators and representatives to appear on this broadcast. We also reported and requested that someone from the White House join us at any point during our two-hour broadcast to respond to the latest news,” Rose said.

“All declined our invitation,” he added.

Tuesday night, Fox News anchor Bret Baier said he tried to get Republican lawmakers on the set to talk about the crisis, but couldn’t get anyone to agree.

“We’ve tried tonight to get Republicans to come out and talk to us, and there are not Republicans willing to go on camera tonight, as of yet,” he said in a panel discussion about the story. “We’ll see if that changes.”

Some, however, ventured to talk. Rep. Adam Kinzinger, R-Ill., appeared on CNN Wednesday morning to say that if the reports are true, it would be “very concerning.” He also said a special prosecutor might be needed.

“I think it’s time that we look at the idea of, whether it’s an independent commission or a special prosecutor, I’m not sure of the best venue,” he said.

And Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., said he would be on Fox News later this morning.