Bush Backpedaling

On the campaign trail President Bush proclaimed his intention to "uphold the honor and dignity of the White House,” but the reality of his administration has been far less noble. The Rove controversy is a prime example of the president's credibility problem. His backpedaling from saying that he had "made it very clear to people in his administration that he expects them to adhere to the highest standards of conduct. If anyone in this administration was involved in it, they would no longer be in this administration,” to stating that "If someone committed a crime, they will no longer work in my administration,” brings his credibility to new lows.

The sad part is that Bush doesn't seem to understand how damaging the situation is becoming for him. This president hasn't learned the lesson of Watergate or any of the subsequent "gates" that have rocked administrations. The American public clings steadfastly to the idea that wrongdoers should be brought to justice. We simply do not forgive Presidents who try to protect subordinates from the consequences of their actions. For the White House, the damage is not the result of the leak, but the cover-up. For the president, the consequences of trying to protect members of his administration is likely to be even more damaging because he has built his reputation on being a straight shooter. His conduct this week leaves him with a dilemma. When the honor and dignity of the White house is at stake will he stand for truth and justice or will he continue to backpedal to protect his friends?