Mike Allen has some good follow-up on the president and his decision to bring on a personal lawyer in the Plame matter. Allen quotes the president as saying, “This is a criminal matter. It’s a serious matter. I met with an attorney to determine whether or not I need his advice, and if I deem I need his advice I’ll probably hire him.”
This follows the White House line from last night. The president ‘consulted’ Jim Sharp to advise him on whether or not he needs Sharp’s advice. And based on that advice, if the president decides he does need Sharp’s advice, he’ll probably retain him so he can get the advice.