Several Other Staffers

Asks about the FBI basis for C.J.'s assertions and quips about Josh and Toby's absence, pressing for both factual grounding and human detail.

STEVE follows up with skeptical questions about the FBI's basis for statements and notes Josh and Toby's absence earlier; his asides add levity and skepticism to the crowded plane conversation.

Listed by C.J. in rehearsal as a named press participant; included in the roster that creates the rehearsal's rhythm.

Several other staffers exit with the principals and hold position during the press interaction, providing a muted show of organizational depth while remaining off-camera and silent.

Several other staffers exit the building with Sam, Will and Elsie and stand near reporters — their presence projects organizational strength while they listen and absorb the leadership change without …

Asks about a Democratic senator's warning that a failed vote will stall momentum, providing a channel for inside worry to enter the public briefing.

Steve asks a question invoking a Democratic senator's warning about momentum stalling, prompting C.J.'s terse dismissal and helping sharpen the stakes of the administration's public position.

Steve forces the moral-legal frame by citing the 1948 U.N. Convention on Genocide, pressing C.J. for whether the U.S. is compelled to act — driving the briefing into legal territory.

Steve raises the legal backbone (1948 U.N. Convention) during the briefing, framing the moral-legal stakes that make the later leak about Executive Orders dangerous.

Several other staffers are present when Scott enters; they comply with his request to leave the room, offering a quiet, immediate clearing that allows for the private exchange between Scott …