He's doing penance for holding views many years ago that were immoral. I have never had to do public penance for the sins that I have committed and they are many. I had a misspent youth.
I think it take's character to do what he is doing. I urged him to do it the first day. Better late than never.
President Bush is the leader of the Republican Party. He will set the agenda.
Actually, your misspent youth would get you boatloads of votes if you ran for office. It would soften your image. :)