McGrath, Apologies with egg on my face. I typed before I researched and relied on my memory. The dates are set by Congress and were originally designed to accommodate travel time. Congress can change them if when they want. From your post, I'd guess that while we also have a civil service, more of our upper management types are appointed than are in the UK so transition may be a little more difficult.

And we just wish Bugs had won.

Kat, Prosecution or not, they done wrong. Much as a pains me to agree with troll, the former Clinton staffer actions was reprehensible and, if nothing else, Clinton (Bill) should say same. Treating the "w" thing like a joke is one thing. Treating vandalism as such is (to me) wrong, illeagal and politically stupid as it confirms the red area folks belief about the liberal press. I can hear the conversation now. "Yeah, they jumped all over Bush for a little drinking 20 years ago, but liberals trashin' the White House is a big joke." As a parent, how do I explain to my son (11 with a no-shades-of-gray view of things) why no one seems to care, either that they did vandalize the White House or that they aren't going to be punished. This is being turned into a liberal/conservative issue when it should be about a bunch of people most of us (red or blue area) wouldn't want as neighbors.

I think Bush decided not to prosecute not because of fear of laughter but because he'd look like he was kicking them after they were down. Not the sort of thing his type does. Not in public, anyway. I've sent an email to the Democratic Chair of the State asking that the Executive Committee ask the National to at least make a statement deploring the actions.

And it has to be Al in '04 cause Hilary promised she serve her full term in NY. Can't have a future president telling lies. Besides, we might need her vote in Congress.

Regards, John