Poll Axing Dubya's Vacation

Last year Cindy Sheehan and then Hurricane Katrina forced President Bush to cut short his usual month-long vacation at his Texas ranch. This year his poor poll ratings will be a factor.

The Houston Chronicle reports that:

The White House is concerned enough about President Bush's job rating and its possible effect on Republican chances in the November elections that word of reduction in vacation time at Crawford next month is being put about.

During his first five summers as president, Bush has always traveled the country while based in Crawford. There has usually been an emphasis on hitting to politically iffy states. Hence, plenty of repeats.

. . . This year the White House just plans to be more conscientiously showy about Bush's absences from Crawford and to see to it that there are fewer day trips.