Micah, I think Ford did well under extreme pressure, and the Democrats were obviously sensitive to the stress she must be feeling. I agree with the assessment that the Republicans on the committee are biding their time until they can chime in without being accused of sexism, and we should expect a more lively session when Kavanaugh is up.
In discussion with reporters now in the break, the GOP members are letting loose a little, and being critical of Ford’s testimony. Lindsey Graham, for example, was just on TV asking “who paid for the polygraph?” — despite the clear answer from Ford’s lawyers during questioning.