So I want to begin by focusing on the "corruptly persuade" element of witness tampering.

CNN: Transcript: White House Deputy Counsel Mills' statement

Thus "corruptly persuade" for career prosecutors requires some element of threat or intimidation or pressure.

CNN: Transcript: White House Deputy Counsel Mills' statement

We do know it means more than harassing, which is described as badgering or pestering conduct, since 1512 makes intentional harassment a misdemeanor -- a lesser offense of corruptly persuade, which is a felony.

CNN: Transcript: White House Deputy Counsel Mills' statement