Analysis: GOP chose base, not Bush in housing vote

President Bush pulled the rug out from under Republicans this week when he abruptly dropped his opposition to a massive housing rescue.

Their reaction? Good riddance.

Three-quarters of House Republicans defied Bush and voted against the package, designed to help 400,000 homeowners stave off foreclosure and inject a dose of stability into jittery housing and financial markets.

The split reflected an every-man-for-himself mentality that has taken hold in GOP circles in a challenging political environment in which Bush, with record-low approval ratings, is seen as an albatross around the necks of vulnerable Republicans.