Elizabeth Warren won’t shake Betsy DeVos’ hand

I wrote below about Betsy DeVos’ confirmation hearing which took place last evening. The hearing was contentious at times, but never truly nasty. Democratic members were frustrated, but to the extent they were upset it seemed mostly to be with Chairman Alexander’s limitation on their questioning time.

After the hearing, the nominee made her way to the dais to shake hands with committee members. Among those who shook her hand was Al Franken, probably her most aggressive questioner. The garrulous Minnesotan bent her ear for a while, but seemed cordial.

Following the encounter with Franken, DeVos shook more hands on the Democratic side — e.g., Senators Murray and Baldwin.

When Elizabeth Warren walked by, DeVos sought to shake her hand. Warren had taken the time to chat with others after the hearing ended. She didn’t seem to be in a hurry to leave. However, Warren wasn’t interested in giving the nominee the courtesy of a handshake. She blew off DeVos with a perfunctory wave.

Maybe there’s an innocent explanation, but this looks very much like a case of rudeness unbefitting of a U.S. Senator.

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