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its a stupid political move, just how much political capital does he think he has to spend that he can continue to have the support of conservatives? it wasnt moderates or liberals that got him into the goddamned white house.

I found an interesting comment in an article from the Washington ComPost (not that I'm surprised they uncovered a quote that sounded like this):

From Bush, Some Flexibility on Campaign Promises

"When staffers showed up for work at the White House last year, they were given a booklet of "campaign commitments" that would dominate the year. Now, with Bush enjoying lofty poll numbers and the nation on a war footing, GOP strategists believe the president can afford to violate a pledge or two as long as he stays true to his basic principles of strong defense, tax cuts, gun ownership and opposition to abortion. "The Bush people figured out a long time ago there are only a few cardinal points you can't change if you're a Republican," said GOP strategist Tom Cole, a former chief of staff at the Republican National Committee. Otherwise, he said, "you have tremendous leeway."

Looks like Bush is counting on the support of the average Republican and the fickle swing voters currently on his side through thick and thin.

The thing is, those four are the big four for a lot of the Republicans. The first two, he's accomplished, he's also been very good with regards to the pro-life issues (or have you ignored the howling form NARAL and others?). Second Amendment is the one unknown, but the people he's surrounded himself with are very pro-Second Amendment.

He's doing well, considering the tough hand he's been dealt. Anyoen complaining ought to get more conservatives elected, IMHO, and then see what he does.

Looks like Bush is counting on the support of the average Republican and the fickle swing voters currently on his side through thick and thin.

You are likely correct. The number of people who will swing to supporting Bush due to his handling of the war effort far outweighs the number of hardcore conservatives who will reject his RINO domestic agenda.

Of course this does give the likes of me the luxury to support a minor party candidate (and based on Bush's performance to date, I would) without fearing that I will elect a Democrat president by doing so.