The justification for Michael Flynn's dismissal shifted from concerns about his interactions with Russia to allegations that he had misled Vice President Pence regarding those contacts. This reasoning presented a constructed hierarchy within the administration, suggesting that Pence had authority over Flynn, despite Flynn’s position likely granting him greater power.

This narrative paints a complicated picture of the dynamics in the Trump White House, where the relationships and power structures were not as clear-cut as might have been perceived. Flynn's dismissal reportedly stemmed from issues of trust and accountability, rather than direct reporting lines, highlighting the complexities within the administration.