An article in the NY Daily News has generated buzz for claiming that Rove confessed to Bush in 2003 that he was the leak in the Valerie Plame scandal. The article claims Bush rebuked Rove. "He made his displeasure known to Karl," a presidential counselor told The News. "He made his life miserable about this."

The new information is seen as an attempt by Bush to distance himself from the scandal. Afterall, if he scolded Rove, it proves he is composed of strong moral fiber, even as everything surrounding him rots and decays. But instead of clearing Bush's name, the new comments may backfire, when the public takes a look back at the public statements Bush has made knowing that Rove was responsible.

Bush - September 30, 2003: "I don't know of anybody in my administration who leaked classified information. If somebody did leak classified information, I'd like to know it, and we'll take the appropriate action." [26]

McClellan - October 7, 2003: "Let me answer what the President has said. I speak for the President and I'll talk to you about what he wants." and "If someone leaked classified information, the President wants to know. If someone in this administration leaked classified information, they will no longer be a part of this administration, because that's not the way this White House operates, that's not the way this President expects people in his administration to conduct their business." [27]

Bush - June 10, 2004: Responded to media question referring to "anybody who leaked the agent's [Valerie Plame's] name" and then asked the President "do you stand by your pledge to fire anyone found to have done so," to which the President responded "Yes. And that's up to the U.S. Attorney to find the facts." [28]

Bush - July 18, 2005: "If someone committed crime, they will no longer work in my administration."

Via Atrios.