U.S. Sen. Jon Kyl in Kavanaugh nomination drama?

Supreme Courtroom nominee Brett Kavanaugh was at times weepy and angry during his lengthy

U.S. Sen. Jon Kyl in Kavanaugh nomination drama?

opening statement on his sexual assault allegations before the Senate Judiciary Committee. He testified shortly after his accuser Christine Ford. USA TODAY

S. Senate,

Kyl was always presumed to be a sure vote for Kavanaugh, saying earlier in the month he looked forward to voting for Kavanaugh.



In the face of the accusations against Kavanaugh, Kyl has given no indication if Ford's allegations, and testimony, have given him pause on Kavanaugh.

" USA TODAY

Like millions of Americans, Kyl watched Thursday's hearing in its entirety, his spokeswoman, Rachael Dean Wilson, said.

“I’m not making any comments on that until after Thursday, " Kyl said Tuesday when asked about his vote.

Here's what we know — and don't — about what Kyl's thinking.

Q. Why hasn't Kyl said anything about the allegations?

A. Kyl, an attorney, is typically reserved and understated, which can stand in stark contrast to the fighting words and fiery tones that often punctuate the halls of government on Capitol Hill. 

Kyl served on the Senate Judiciary Committee for all of the 18 years he previously served in the Senate. He is not currently on the judicial committee. 

Q. When will Kyl break his silence? 

A. Reporters might snag him in the hallways of the Russell Senate Office Building or the U.S. Capitol and persuade him to give his take.

Otherwise, he would make his thoughts known during debate on the Senate floor, if that comes. 

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Q. Why can't I reach anyone in his office, or leave a message? 

A. The office just got up and running. Staff members in Washington, D.C., are answering phones from 5 a.m. Arizona time (8 a.m. Eastern) to 3 p.m. Arizona time (6 p.m. Eastern).

Q. How might Kyl be wielding his influence behind the scenes?

A. As the former "sherpa" for Kavanaugh, it was Kyl's job to help keep the Republican majority intact. 

As a former Judiciary Committee member with a relationship with Kavanaugh, Kyl could be an influence as GOP lawmakers weigh their options on how to move forward, or abandon Kavanaugh's nomination.

Kyl's retiring Arizona colleague, Sen. Jeff Flake, and fellow Republican Sens. Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska are widely seen as possible defectors.

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