Bush vs. Obama: It's Just the Start

When the president set off a political firestorm today by essentially likening Barack Obama to those who appeased the Nazis, he likely presaged a common theme in the general election, writes Massimo Calabresi in Time. Bush is trying to stay relevant—no better way than to inject himself in the campaign. And the speed with which Obama responded signaled that he's quite happy to take on the president.

Both, however, run risks. Bush may end up looking foolish if he tries to campaign for John McCain even as McCain tries to distance himself from the president. And this particular issue—Israeli security—is tough for Obama because it gives opponents more opportunity to note that he's been endorsed by Hamas. Still, don't be surprised if we haven't heard the last of the "Bush-Obama smackfest," Calabresi notes. (More George W. Bush stories.)