'According to rumors racing across the Internet this week, the rectangular bulge visible between Mr. Bush's shoulder blades was a radio receiver, transmitting answers from an offstage counselor into a hidden presidential earpiece. The prime suspect was Karl Rove, Mr. Bush's powerful political adviser.
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When the online magazine Salon published an article about the rumors on Friday - the day of the second presidential debate, in St. Louis - the speculation reached such a pitch that White House and campaign officials found themselves inundated with calls.
First they said that pictures showing the bulge might have been doctored. But then, when the bulge turned out to be clearly visible in the television footage of the evening, they offered a different explanation.
"There was nothing under his suit jacket," said Nicolle Devenish, the Bush campaign's communications director.
"It was most likely a rumpling of that portion of his suit jacket, or a wrinkle in the fabric."
Campaign and White House officials said the bulge was definitely not a receiver. '
It's the bullet-proof vest GW has worn since 9/11.