[EternalVigilance]

Part of Mr. Rove's job is to deflect criticism from the President. That he is obviously doing quite well.

It is wrong to discount the power and the influence of those around a President. The job is so overwhemingly huge that his power naturally transfers itself to those in his employ. Their agendas, no matter how divergent from the Chief Executive, find very large expression. Happens in every administration.

Rove is a convenient whipping boy for many, including conservatives. While we know in our hearts that the buck stops at that nice desk in the Oval Office, we rather like having someone to beat on for the President's policies that isn't the President himself. Like I said, it's convenient.

Having said all of that, let me add: I disagree with Karl often.

[ohioWfan]

Sorry to be so long in getting back to you, EV.........meeting at church.

No doubt the advisors around the President have power and influence (probably Laura more than anyone else).

But putting all the power and blame on Rove is just the leftist drivel that the President is too stupid to make his own decisions, and merely a puppet.

Anyone who says Rove has the last say hasn't read anything about President Bush's leadership style, or the comments of those who have had regular meetings with him.

He is very decisive, and makes decisions quickly and firmly..........even when Mr. Rove is nowhere to be found.