Washington: In a presidential race not lacking for pundits, at least one person is trying to keep his mouth shut: the president himself.
President George W. Bush's silent approach toward the 2008 campaign - with some notable lapses - reflects the kind of message discipline that his administration cherishes. Yet it goes against political instinct for this White House, which was built around setting a big agenda and defending itself aggressively.
No doubt, Bush is deeply interested in the race. Beyond the obvious consequences for the country and for his own policies, there is Bush's political underpinning to consider. He admits missing the crowds and the noise and the competition of the campaign. No quarterback likes to be on the sidelines.
So what does Bush have to say about the intrigue of Iowa, or the looming votes in New Hampshire? No comment.
That is his policy, to stay in effect until the Republican Party settles on a nominee. And even then, when Bush gets behind the new face of his party, he might end up serving an important but background role as a fundraiser.
The White House says it would be inappropriate for Bush to weigh in now.
The election is about the future, said Bush counsellor Ed Gillespie, a veteran politico in his own right. It is up for voters to decide for themselves, without Bush's input.
He even suggested that all the media coverage focusing on the race - and disappearing from Bush - could help.
"We understand it's going to distract attention, but in some ways that may allow us to continue to pursue policies and do important things," he said.
Outside political experts buy that to a degree. They say the White House's explanation for staying above the fray is fair and reasonable, but incomplete.
Bush is right to avoid influencing the nomination process, said Bruce Buchanan, a University of Texas political scientist. It is up to the electorate, not the elected party leader, to decide who should lead the nation next.
Yet the Republican nominees are not exactly asking for the unpopular president's endorsement, either. "It's potentially toxic," Buchanan said.
The Republican contenders rarely say Bush's name.
