One thing that I have been interested in watching as the national dialog about Karlgate develops is the notable silence from Dick Cheney's office.
Where is VPOTUS? Isnt about time for him to speak up in defense of Rove or rather, on the offense AGAINST Wilson/ Democrats.
Since the President's poll numbers began to go down, I have been watching for Cheney to suddenly develop health problems that would preclude him from continuing in his capacity as VP.
There continues to be some pretty solid evidence that Cheney will not seek the Republican nomination for President in 08. This is something unique - because usually the incumbent VP is the "obvious" choice to run on a party ticket in the next election cycle.
However, I believe that part of the reason there seems to be a disconnect between the Bush administration and the American public is because they dont really have a reason to try and be seen as popular. There isn't a VP that has to worry about his upcoming campaign to help an administration moderate itself.
There is no positioning going on for the VP - he doesnt really have to worry about trying to hit the campaign trail with a tarnished PR image. Especially since there wont be a campaign. Dick Cheney is either off to join the ranks of the Carlisle group or back to Halliburton.
So what does all this have to do with Rove? Well nothing, unless it turns out that Karl's source for the Plame information is a member of the VP's staff. Whether Cheney was involved or not he is still responsible for his staff.
What happens if for health reasons or the famous "personal" reasons Cheney resigns???
Who would be appointed to fill his shoes?? Who would be the Republican's prodigal son? Who would swoop in to save the day to bring "honesty and integrity" back to the Bush White House? Or rather who would be a hearty/ healthy replacement for an allegedly ailing VP?
My vote and money is on John McCain. Why else would he have hit the campaign trail so hard for Bush in 04? Why else would he have been one of the "gang of 14" in the Senate? Isnt it a common political tactic to create a crisis in order to position yourself as a savior?? Though, I am split between cynicism here and a hope that perhaps McCain truly was motivated to save the filibuster for future generations.
Yes - indeed I am very interested in the VP's silence this week.
Yes, by the addition of John McCain to the Bush Admin - the polls would rise, and the campaign for 08 would be on in ernest. Of course, perhaps I am jumping the gun here and they are simply waiting until January 06 or January 07.
I think Karl Rove is smiling because things are panning out as he has planned. I believe he would "sacrifice" himself to keep his agenda. Even if he left the white house in shame or under a cloud -- does anyone really believe he wouldnt still have influence with the RNC or the Bush WH?