Story highlights Pence was applauded as a consensus choice for VP

Flynn resigned Monday night

Washington (CNN) Much of the focus in the wake of Michael Flynn's resignation as national security adviser has been on President Donald Trump -- what did he know about Flynn's freelancing with Russian contacts and when did he know it?

But for those in Vice President Mike Pence's world, the question is, why didn't he know anything?

Flynn was forced out when public reports surfaced that he had misled Pence about his conversations with Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak. In fact, Trump was warned about Flynn's activities by a concerned Justice Department on January 26 -- more than two weeks ago. Pence did not find out he had been misled until February 9, according to two administration officials.

Those who support Pence want to know why he was lied to, and what it suggests about Pence's ties to Trump's inner circle.

Pence was applauded as a consensus choice when he was selected as Trump's running mate -- a Republican governor and former congressman with strong ties to Congress and a conservative record on social issues. He served his mission well, putting the Republican base at ease and offering a steady presence alongside the more unpredictable Trump.

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