Many Republican presidential hopefuls are distancing themselves from President Bush and made point of it Tuesday night at the Republican debate.

At the same stage where the Democratic candidates squared off Sunday several GOP candidates violated former president, Ronald Reagan’s, cardinal rule of not speaking ill of another Republican.

Former Wisconsin Governor Tommy Thompson criticized Bush's diplomatic skills, saying he wouldn't send Bush to the United Nations to represent the U.S.

Arizona Senator John McCain criticized the administration for its handling of the Iraq war though McCain did defend the immigration reform compromise.

The attacks make clear the presidential hopefuls believe distancing themselves from the president could help their chances in 2008.