The difference is that if Bush begins debating with Obama, the issue becomes Bush, rather than the issues that actually matter.
Note that, just by being silent, Bush has been forcefully vindicated by Obama himself on several issues -- be it course reversals, or by Obama's approach being demonstrably stupid.
So they make Cheney the center of attention?
When Cheney speaks, the issues themselves tend to take center stage.
LOL. Using your rationale, just substitute Cheney for Bush. In many ways the Left has painted Cheney as the villian and Bush the incompetent puppet. It is up to Bush to make national security the issue, just like Cheney is doing.
Note that, just by being silent, Bush has been forcefully vindicated by Obama himself on several issues -- be it course reversals, or by Obama's approach being demonstrably stupid.
The reason why Obama is changing his position on things like fighting to keep the additional photos from being released is because of pressure from the likes of his own military leaders and Cheney. He can't close Gitmo because the other countries don't want the detainees nor do members of Congree want them in the US. The only reason that Bush is being vindicated is because Cheney is defending those policies and bringing the defense of them to the country. Something they wouldn't get from listening to the speeches or press conferences of Obama. Remember the clamor from the MSM, the Dems, and some Reps that Cheney should shut up. And a number of FReepers agreed with it.
When Cheney speaks, the issues themselves tend to take center stage.
No, the Dems and MSM will try to make Cheney the issue and not the issue of national security. The spin is going on at this very minute. That is the way the Left operates. Obama's speech today was a direct attack on the Bush administration and "the mess" they left for Obama to clean up from the economy to Gitmo. If Bush had any balls, he would speak up instead of allowing Obama to defame him and his administration. And the very real possibility exists for a "Truth Commission" and prosecutions.