Republicans seem to be questioning George W. Bush at every turn. This weekend several moderate Republican Senators questioned Bush’s Iraq policy. I’m sure that didn’t go over well at the Bush / Cheney campaign HQ.

Now comes word that U.S. Sen. Lincoln Chafee (R-RI) may not even vote for Bush in November. Chafee is a moderate who has clashed with the White House on several important issues. Reuters reports:

Asked if he might not vote for the president, Chafee said: "That's accurate." His office said this has been his position for months, though it has gotten little, if any, attention in Washington.

"There is no secret that on some very important issues I have difference with the current administration," Chafee said, listing abortion rights, the environment and war in Iraq (news - web sites).

"Like all Americans we are looking for some answers to key questions in the weeks ahead," Chafee said. "You wait until November 2 and make your choices."

Chafee has long been one of my favorite Republicans. He has the same strength of character that Mark Hatfield (the only R I’ve ever voted for) showed during his years in the Senate. If Chafee was at the top of a national ticket - regardless of party - I might vote for it.

I hope that Republicans listen to his concerns and come to their senses. If not, I bet the Democrats would bring out the welcome wagon.