What's next for Bush's political high command? Karl Rove, whom president Bush describes as his political architect, will remain at the White House as counselor with a broadened portfolio. Bush is grateful to Rove for guiding him to a solid victory Tuesday and Rove wants to remain at Bush's side to establish a legacy for his boss that includes social security reform, more tax cuts, and a Republican party that reaches permanent majority status.
Matthew Dowd, chief strategist for the campaign and a Rove acolyte, has planned a different course. Dowd is packing up his belongings in Washington today and flying back to his home in Austin, Texas, where he will return to the private sector. Dowd, a pollster who may land work as a strategic consultant for businesses, was considered one of the brightest lights in the Bush campaign. Finally Ken Mehlman, Bush's campaign manager, wants to remain in Washington and help build the party. Mehlman is seen as one choice to succeed Ed Gillespie as national chairman of the Republican Party when Gillespie returns to the private sector, possibly next year. –Kenneth T. Walsh, U.S. News
