Crazy

John Dean, former White House Counsel to Richard Nixon, speaks like a man who knows crazy.

Bush has never understood what presidential scholar Richard Neustadt discovered many years ago: In a democracy, the only real power the presidency commands is the power to persuade. Presidents have their bully pulpit, and the full attention of the news media, 24/7. In addition, they are given the benefit of the doubt when they go to the American people to ask for their support. But as effective as this power can be, it can be equally devastating when it languishes unused - or when a president pretends not to need to use it, as Bush has done.

Apparently, Bush does not realize that to lead he must continually renew his approval with the public. He is not, as he thinks, the decider. The public is the decider.

And why should we be scared of crazy? Well, when crazy has its back against the wall -- as Bush does facing the possibility of a subpoena-wielding Democratic congress -- crazy is, as crazy does.

But more likely, Bush may mount a unilateral attack on Iran's nuclear facilities - hoping to rev up his popularity. (It's a risky strategy: A unilateral hit on Iran may both trigger devastating Iran-sponsored terrorist attacks in Iraq, with high death tolls, and increase international dislike of Bush for his bypass of the U.N. But as an active/negative President, Bush hardly shies away from risk.)

Let's also remember that this is John Dean speaking here, not some looney-liberal blogger. I do expect an October surprise out of these guys. Paranoia and secrecy have a price, and this bunch will do anything not to have to pay it.

Read more, this is not extra credit, and yes, it will be on the final exam.