Did Rove et al think there would be no fallout for their actions?

[Arugula Latte]

I don't get it. I know BushCo knows that they've got the media cowed and kept on a short choke-chain leash, but, really. Blowing a CIA agent's cover? Were they just so arrogant to think that nobody would call them on it? Did they think they'd get some trouble but not much? Did they not think beyond getting revenge on Wilson?

I'd be interested in any thoughts speculating on their line of thinking/justifications/strategy.

[nadinbrzezinski]

1. This is what Tyrants high on power do

it has no logic, for they have such power they are above the law...

[benburch]

2. They didn't think they would get caught.

They thought they controlled the justice department to the extent that any investigation would be a whitewash.

[DBoon]

7. Fujimori in Peru was brought down over a videotaped bribe payment

See:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/americas/1794129.stm

Hubris tends to strike would-be dictators. The more power they have, the more corrupt they become, and the more they believe they can get away with it.

[emulatorloo]

3. Smear on Wilson continue -- Rove was just helping a reporter!!!!!

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=132x1922839

[Karmageddon]

4. They've always gotten away with it before. Why should they think this...

...time would be any different?
I'm (unfortunately) not sure they are wrong. We've been disappointed so many times that I'm almost afraid to be optimistic.
They should all hang, but will they? Or will they snake their way out of it yet again?
Either way, it's fun to watch.

[Malocchio]

6. I'm with you...

I don't see this going anywhere....every time there's bad news for this admin they just point to something else, "Hey, look over there!" and the majority of the press and public are distracted from the real issues while they cover their asses.

I'm not holding my breath.....hope I'm wrong tho'

[The_Casual_Observer]

5. According to the rw pundits, Plame was a meaningless office worker

If Rove were molesting children they would find justification for it.

[bunny planet]

8. In a word, yes.

[warrens]

9. They thought they could stonewall long enough

That the grand jury would dissolve. They almost made it, too.

[startingnow]

10. Stupid

I honestly do not believe that they are that smart.

[thinkingwoman]

11. yep...they always overreach

and get away with it. They thought they would this time too. They truly believe they are invincible.

At least that's the way I see it.