President keeping quiet about 2008 race

(AP) - There are plenty of pundits willing to talk about the presidential race, but at least one person is trying to keep his mouth shut: the president himself.

What does President Bush have to say about the intrigue of Iowa, or the looming votes in New Hampshire? No comment.

That's his policy, to stay in effect until the Republican Party settles on a nominee. And even then, when Bush gets behind the new face of his party, he might end up serving an important but background role as a fundraiser.

The White House says it would be inappropriate for Bush to weigh in now.

University of Texas political scientist Bruce Buchanan says Bush is right to avoid influencing the nomination process.

Another political scientist, Cal Jillson at Southern Methodist University, says even if Bush appeared willing to offer an endorsement to one of the Republican candidates now, "no one would dive on it."

For the first time in 56 years, there is no incumbent president or vice president on the ballot on either side.