It was the faceoff we’ve been waiting for: the CEOs of some of America’s largest banks versus the outraged members of the House Financial Services Committee. Only there was just as much (accidental) humor as there were fireworks. Here are some of the best moments.
BEST VERBAL ATTACK
Does Rep. Michael Capuano have any questions? No. Does it matter? Not really. Imagine Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, only Mr. Smith is a very angry guy from Boston.
OFFER LEAST LIKELY TO BE ACCEPTED
Barney Frank makes the bankers an offer they can—and will—refuse.
LEAST ILLUMINATING EXCHANGE
Rep. Maxine Waters asks, “You paid yourself 21 million dollars in fees. Why do you do that?” You’ll love the answer.
MOST TELLING SILENCE
Rep. Charlie Wilson needs a bailout of his own—from Barney Frank, no less—after botching a question for the entire panel.
LEAST EFFECTIVE USE OF HAND-RAISING
Remember the moment those Enron guys all raised their hands at a Congressional hearing, and all the drama contained therein? For the opposite, behold the questioning by Rep. Al Green.
MOST GRATUITOUS LITERARY REFERENCE
Shipwreck? Survivors? Washington Irving? We’ve watched this clip several times and we’re still not sure where Frank was going with this.