by CKR
More of the same, most of the commentariat is saying, and I agree.
There is some speculation out there that Bush was trying to rally "his base" yet one more time. I would like to put forth alternative explanations for why his speeches and actions are so narrowly drawn.
Perhaps Bush doesn't realize that there are other viewpoints beyond "his base." Or perhaps he doesn't see them as valid and therefore to be addressed. Or perhaps he is so stuck in the viewpoint of "his base" that he can't get out of it.
This would have to include his advisors and speechwriters as well. They have seen what independent thought and questioning of the President has gotten, say, General Shinseki and have taken the message.
Perhaps President Bush is quite candid when he tells us he doesn't read the polls.