Joseph McCarthy and Robert Stevens at 1954 press conference prior to McCarthy hearings on the US Army in Washington, DC

The transcript describes a deceptive interaction between Senator Joseph McCarthy and Secretary of the Army Robert Stevens, who are about to engage in a significant conflict. This battle is expected to have far-reaching consequences, affecting respected institutions across the nation.

In what ways were the smiles and handshakes described in the text misleading?

What does the phrase 'pseudo friendly fashion' imply about the opponents?