One of George W. Bush’s latest, of many, clichs in reference to John Kerry is “he can run but he can’t hide,” a slogan used by aggressive Joe Frazier about elusive Muhammed Ali during their memorable fights.

We need to change the phrase to give it more applicability. Its alteration would have more pertinence if it’s directed right back at Bush.

The new version should go like this: he can – and does – hide and it’s too bad he’s running.

His hiding shows up in many ways: extended vacationing in Texas; having Condoleeza Rice disproportionately be the spokesperson for the White House; repeatedly uttering trite, meaningless phrases when TV cameras can find him; and holding the least number of press conferences of any modern president.

It is too bad and sad someone this inept has been president and is again running for the world’s loftiest political position.

If – if – Bush’s presidential record was something Americans and he could be proud of, you bet he would be seen much more in the media. Yes, he is an obvious evader but Kerry is finally, thanks in good part to the debates, piercing the shell of this armadillo-like figure.

Norm Gellatly, Auburn