[Recovering_Democrat]

Look, the whole political thing was lost when the Republicans lost control in the '06 elections. President Bush, whatever else he is, has been a "realist" for the most part.

He will continue to fight the WoT, but he also has to deal w/political realities. That is why Rumsfeld was booted, and that is why Pace is out.

Damn shame, if you ask me.

OTOH, before the '06 elections his political tea leaf reading was good, too: that is also why Harriet Miers wasn't pushed....so that was a good thing in the end: Alito (a known conservative) was put on the bench.

[conservativecorner]

You mistake and confuse realism with elitism. He’s Dad’s chip off the block.