Ugh! It seems that once people have convinced themselves to allow or do something that goes against their best interests, especially when it results in some sort of immediate public praise (often given by the original agenda pushers), they refuse to acknowledge that it was made under duress, and was a poor decision.

Even when massive evidence presents that refutes the soundness of that decision, instead of changing direction, they double down.

The ego is a fragile thing. Most don't like to admit they were wrong, even when it is to their own detriment to continue with the lie.

Reminds me of the meme of the little dog sitting at a table while his house has flames of fire burning it down and he says, "Everything is fine!".