We’ve seen various cases of outrageous behavior in the Republican Senate. To mention only a few examples: Ron Johnson (what a mind!) is trying to find a place for himself on the conspiracy bandwagon. Rand Paul gave an exemplary demonstration of what it is to be a brute, bigot, and idiosyncratic show-boater. And Old Mitch has shown yet again that he can almost literally talk out of both sides of his mouth at once. We’re seeing a lot of rightwing acting-out at the CPAC gala. Ted Cruz has taken a well-deserved early lead in the sycophant sweepstakes and we are, of course, looking forward breathlessly to the re-emergence as to the center of attention of the Father of lies Mr. Trump.

We can view these instances as, at best, a national embarrassment, at worst, as a sign of how close to ruin the United States has come. But let’s look on the bright side. There’s no need for eavesdropping or for leaked confessions. These Republicans are confessing their perverted ambition, abuse of position, devotion to manipulation, misanthropy, and irrationality out loud and in the light of day. But no need for penance, they are by no means ashamed of themselves, and are quite ready to congratulate themselves even if no one else will.