From the MeToo movement, to security clearances, to the management of the White House, many of this era’s top stories have converged in the latest Trump administration scandal. At issue: the end of Rob Porter’s tenure as White House staff secretary. Porter was removed from his position after stories (with photos) emerged about his history of domestic abuse against two former wives. On Friday, President Trump chimed in on the topic. He didn’t express sympathy for the women. But he did wish Porter well, saying, “it’s obviously a very tough time for him” and that “it is very sad, and he is very sad” and “he says he innocent and I think you have to remember that.” This situation is really pretty simple. If Rob Porter is innocent (he’s not), then keep him in the job. If he’s not innocent, then shut the hell up with the sympathy for him and show some for his victims.

+ Here’s a good overview from Vox: The Rob Porter scandal keeps getting worse for Trump’s White House.

+ Meanwhile, John Kelly’s remarks on the matter have stretched credulity both among outside observers, and inside the White House. From WaPo: During a staff meeting, “‘He told the staff he took immediate and direct action,’ one of the officials said, adding that people after the meeting expressed disbelief with one another and felt his latest account was not true.” (This story follows another familiar theme. The private meeting happened on Friday morning. The leaked story was making headlines Friday afternoon.)

+ Another familiar storyline: White House turnover. Insiders are already naming names when it comes to Kelly’s potential replacement.

+ Dahlia Lithwick: Rob Porter’s History of Domestic Abuse Wasn’t a Secret. It’s Just That No One Cared.