Though obviously not a

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Though obviously not a great supporter of the president, what President Bush seems poised to announce tonight sounds like a promising move in the right direction. It’s only part of the solution. But it’s a very important part.

But let’s step back and consider an obvious but all-too-important point.

Would this be happening without the political heat being generated because of the embarrassing intelligence failure revelations? Of course not.

And how willingly did the administration leap forward to get these investigations underway? Enough said on that count.

The point is clear. Do politicians try to reap political gain through aggressive investigations? Of course, they do. Get used to it.

But they also help the nation. In Smithian fashion, impure motives nonetheless create a public good. Especially when a recalcitrant administration puts secrecy — which is too often the hand-maiden of &$@-covering — above all else.

One other quick point in passing: Tom Ridge really, really, really shouldn’t get this job. It’s important. And even worth fighting over. He’s damaged goods and has no relevant experience for the task. No special perks for being the president’s friend.

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