A Virginia congressman's attempt to duck a question about Social Security has gone viral, after Republican Rob Wittman faked a 90-second phone call outside the US Capitol on Tuesday, 9 June, rather than explain House Speaker Mike Johnson's plan to 'adjust and fix' the programme.
Footage posted by MeidasTouch shows the 67-year-old grabbing his phone, saying 'Hey, how're you doing?' and holding a one-sided conversation as he walked away. Half the screen stayed visible throughout, and it never displayed an active call. His cheek kept tapping the display, which cycled through apps as he pressed it against his face.
