Ken Herman threw the president an entertaining softball at today’s White House press conference:

Q Mr. President, for Republicans seeking election next year are you an asset or a liability?

THE PRESIDENT: Strong asset. (Laughter) ...Look, candidates who go out and say that the United States is vulnerable to attack and we’re going to make sure our professionals have the tools necessary to protect us are going to do well. Candidates who go out and say that helping these Iraqis realize the benefits of democracy are going to do well. Candidates who go out and say that it’s very important for the United States to have clear principles when it comes to foreign policy, they’ll do well. Candidates who say we’re not going to raise your taxes will do well.

So, as far as Bush is concerned, Republicans should not only embrace him as a “strong asset” on the campaign trail, but should also emulate the beliefs and agenda that have made him the successful and popular leader he is today.

I’d hope that Republicans embrace Bush’s advice, but I don’t think Dems are that lucky.