MYTimes -- Shift of Power to White House Reshapes Political Landscape

The perception that Mr. Bush and his chief political counsel, Karl Rove, orchestrated a coup in the Senate — notwithstanding the official White House denials that it had anything to do with Senator Trent Lott's decision on Friday to give up his leadership post — has only enhanced what veteran political strategists say is the political potency of the White House.

This may be a new feature of history, the President of the United States as de facto Emperor of the World. The consolidation of internal political power may go along with that. However, this administration likes and seeks power, secrecy and no dissent. Other administrations could be different.