But part of the strategic calculation must be that Bush is not in real good position to ask for or expect blind trust from the base at this point. In fact, since Katrina, the base has been looking to send Bush a message, and by making such a highly personal 'trust me' pick, pick Dubya has effectively taped a 'kick-me' sign on his pants. Just when many of his scorned supporters have been shining up the boot toe. Bad strategery there.
Oh come on. The line of conservatives lining up to give Dubya a kick in the pants well in advance of any particular reason to do so rivals the opening of new Star Wars movie.
I'm not happy with a lot of things this President has done regarding the budget and domestic spending, but I have had precious little to complain about regarding his judicial appointments. At least in that case, he has won the right to some benefit of the doubt.