The Scooter Commuter

Well, I have to say I'm slightly surprised: Bush didn't pardon Libby, but he did commute his jail term.

Now, we can't get too mad, right? After all, as our Commuter in Chief said "My decision to commute his prison sentence leaves in place a harsh punishment for Mr. Libby ... The consequences of his felony conviction on his former life as a lawyer, public servant and private citizen will be long-lasting."

And this is true. He's got two years probation and a hellacious fine to pay. And I don't think we'll ever see him practicing law or being a public servant ever again.

However, I have no doubt his buddies will cough up the dough if he can't. And I suspect that, after a period of laying low, we will see a memoir, a round of talk show appearances, and a gig on FOX News as an analyst of some stripe. Maybe even a job - look what they've done for Geraldo!

So no, his life isn't over. It's just gonna change, and there are plenty of people out there who will be more than happy to help him do it. Just watch.

At any rate, I hope the next question a reporter serves our Commuter in Chief is the following: "Sir, you said that you found Scooter Libby's 2 1/2 year jail term, quote, 'excessive.' What do you consider a proper jail term for lying to authorities and obstructing a Federal investigation."

And don't let him off the hook until he gives us a number.