[kabar]

No, he doesn't. He has to carefully consider what is best for our country and our national security. In his specific case, the best interests of our country are served by him laying low.

Why? Does that apply to Cheney as well? If not, what's the difference?

This attacking and blaming is making Obama look like the lightweight that he is. Only the immature feel the need respond to every criticism directed at them. Democrats are hoping and praying that Pres. Bush responds so that they can make him the center of attention instead of Obama.

So they make Cheney the center of attention? Look, this is not about partisan politics and political calculation, it is about national security. Bush's national security policies are being attacked by Obama and being changed. Why can't he defend them? By not doing so, he is giving credence to those attacks. Thank God we have Cheney who has spine instead of former President Sad Sack who allows people to kick him around.

[r9etb]

Why? Does that apply to Cheney as well? If not, what's the difference?

The difference is that if Bush begins debating with Obama, the issue becomes Bush, rather than the issues that actually matter.

Note that, just by being silent, Bush has been forcefully vindicated by Obama himself on several issues -- be it course reversals, or by Obama's approach being demonstrably stupid.

So they make Cheney the center of attention?

When Cheney speaks, the issues themselves tend to take center stage.