White House Press Secretary Jay Carney acknowledged that Solyndra seems to have been discussed during a visit to the White House by investor and President Obama fundraiser George Kaiser, but he noted the meeting took place after the loan was granted and attacked Republicans for continuing with their investigation.

Carney denied that political influence contributed to Solyndra receiving a Department of Energy (DOE) loan guarantee. “In fact, the meeting that they’re referring to, as I’m sure you’re aware, took place almost a year after the loan was approved — okay?” he told reporters at yesterday’s press briefing. He also noted that the emails revealing that Kaiser did discuss the company with White House officials were not sent by White House staff. He reiterated that point moments later: