Cocky

Many Democrats say Mr. Bush and Mr. Rove have reached too far on Social Security and are headed for the first big defeat of their partnership. Republicans have yet to settle their own differences; Mr. Kemp, for one, continues to publicly support the approach Mr. Rove objected to, which is embodied in legislation sponsored by Representative Paul D. Ryan of Wisconsin and Senator John E. Sununu of New Hampshire.

And there is grumbling among some Republicans that Mr. Rove has mishandled the Social Security campaign. But Mr. Rove's allies and fans say that he anticipated the difficulties of moving the Social Security debate forward and that he and Mr. Bush remain convinced that they will win in the end.

"Anyone who thinks otherwise," said Charlie Black, a veteran Republican strategist, "they're underestimating Karl and they're underestimating the president."

Misunderstanding what?

Rove and Bush could careless about anyone or anything besides themselves and their narrow interests. Do not underestimate or misunderstand they are committed to a strategy of recklessness. Pushing Congress on unpopular SS reform is one example and interfering with Teri Shiavo is another. These guys will not stop. Don't misunderstand or underestimate them. Especially you in the GOP seeking reelection in 2006.