Though Bush didn’t grant Libby a full pardon, his action nevertheless will have a major impact on the presidential election. By freeing Libby of having to serve time in prison, Bush has accomplished two major objectives: first, in noting that he agrees Libby was guilty, he has shown that the Republicans have respect for the law; second, by freeing Libby he has opened a floodgate of campaign funds for McCain or Guiliani or another of the Republicans as yet undeclared. Bush’s action on the Libby case was carefully crafted to swing votes and money to the Republican side. To redeem himself historically, Bush desperately wants a Republican of the McCain or Guiliani political view to win.

Regards,

Bob Hougland