Friend, this logic minimizes the power of the national office and political position GWB holds. GWB, and only GWB, has the bully pulpit to shape the national debate and "out" the liberals.
GWB, and only GWB, is the head of the Republican Party. --- He has the power to rein in party members in Congress. GWB, and only GWB, had the power to rally his troops around clear ideas.
I do not blame Bush for not picking a fight in which there was a good chance he might lose...with disastrous results for his presidency and the party.
Ah, but what if choosing NOT to fight, even if the battle is lost, brings disastrous defeat for the political war both GWB's Presidency and his Party face?
I love this President, but rage against the place his "higher ground" philosophy and continued aversion to a political fight may have put the Republican party going into the 2006 elections.
Choosing not to fight now may cost us more in 2006 than the majority in Congress. It could well give political momentum for 2008 to the opposition.
Personally, I want to see some domestic "shock and awe" from our President. -- Before it is too late.
Most of the Senators were there when he got there and will be there long after he leaves.
They are the power... not the President.
Take McCain... why is he defiant, because of Arizona. It doesn't matter what the RNC thinks or the President... as long as Arizona will vote him back into office, his power is secure.
Same with Ted Kennedy...
I think it is a loosing game to think that the President has the power that you think he has.