re: Wait until he speeks
We'll see if it's convincing.
First thing: there are too many active astronauts.
The Shuttle will stop flying and this, long before any manned rocket bound for elswere above LEO will be flying.
And this will involve the next president who might not be motivated anymore.
Bush's plan could be the cleverest way to stop manned spaceflight altogether and not be blamed for it.
Raoul