In addition to his role as attack dog (which both vice presidential candidates share) Edwards now seems to have the role of Explainer. At the second debate when Kerry stated he was going to lower taxes on the middle class and at the same time implement some wonderful programs. Most people I have heard talk about it agree that the money from "taxing the rich" just won't pay for all the programs. The other day Edwards was interviewed saying that if the revenues weren't there then they would cut back on the programs (it wasn't said which ones). Point is, the campaign advisors are having Edwards make this statement and not Kerry. Anybody seen any other examples. To be fair, I think Bush's secretary of war fulfills some of the same function with his recent troop level in Iraq comments that Bush's campaign people don't want him to be the one to say.
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Well, this may sound overly partisan and it is, but I think that the Bush team works well precisely because each of its members speaks his mind. This has caused Bush trouble politically; it certainly gives the impression of dissent in the ranks and it gives talking point and ad fodder to the Democrats. Top level Liberals are basically leftists and they do like dissent among their own ranks. They are, though, very good at being able to claim consistency while saying two opposing things. That way it is not dissent.
Let me say it another way. It is difficult to imagine Cheney or Rumsfeld being told what to say -- I mean, would you want to be the one to approach Rummy and tell him what he is supposed to think? Edwards, though, is a professional at that. So, yes that is what Edwards was doing. Yes, it is carefully controlled from the campaign. And yes, Rummy and Cheney often end up doing something very similar, but from a different process. Not top down directed, but more like collaboration and a "reasonable men can differ" approach.
One problem with Bush is that he is a leader more than a politician. Maybe you like that, maybe yuou don't, but I think he has set up his cabinet accordingly. He sets the goals, marshalls the troops, and leads us into battle. He lets his generals and colonels do their work as they see fit.
As I said, I think this costs him votes sometimes. You are probably right that Rove does not want Bush saying certain things, but I bet Rumsfeld and Cheney and Powell don't take direction so well.
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