For a time Woodward’s book was at the top of the must read list at GW’s official campaign site.
I think it can be generally agreed that Plan of Attack is not complimentary of the Bush administration. In fact it was so critical, that some Republicans cried foul. But no such objections came from the top.
So, here’s my question: Why do you suppose this book was featured at the Bush website?
I haven’t read the book. But from the excerpts I’ve seen, Woodward’s portrayal has that fawning tone to it when it comes to Bush himself, even if the facts don’t always jibe with the tone.
I’m thinking Rove believes most readers will pick up on the overall Bush-is-great tone, and not pay that much attention to the facts that don’t back up the Bushworld view of the war.
Woodward’s been all over the networks, so I can’t recall where I saw this bit, but the host [Chris Matthews(?)], asked Woodward how it is that his book is recommended by Bush and Kerry, and all Woodward could do was kind of shrug, with a look of incredulity. No words came forth.
I suspect Bush gave this book his imprimatur because it would include his messianic mission. Bush tels us (through Woodward), that the right of freedom comes from the Almighty, and God chose Dubya to be President at this time, to free oppressed people throughout the world.
Oh you mean like our silver tongued leader who said…
"I want to reinerate what I said the other day. Our policy is to deny sanctuary to terrorists any place in the world, and we will be very actively doing that."
George Bush, March 13, 2002, White House press conference
Or…
"I condemn it in the most strongest of words."
George W. Bush, March 27, 2002, Referring to a suicide bombing having taken place in Netanya, Israel
And even better… "I know full well that bin Laden and his cronies would like to harm America again; bin Laden and his cronies would like to harm our allies. How do I know that? I receive intelligence reports on a daily basis that um, that um, that indicates that that’s his desires."
George W. Bush December 28, 2001, Speaking at a press conference in Crawford, Texas