Recall the expression:

"Don't waste a crisis!"

So ... what did it seem was eagerly being promoted for several weeks even, 

until it was no longer credible to put that 'spin' on that crisis?

http://m.weeklystandard.com/blogs/petraeus-throws-obama-under-bus_657896.html

But ...

Recall the POTUS at the time knew this was a terror attack right away ... (he said so, to Romney, in the 2nd debate, and seconded by the moderator!)

http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2012/10/26/cia-operators-were-denied-request-for-help-during-benghazi-attack-sources-say/