Bush Not Planning Any Political Appearances, Fundraising Before Election

President George W. Bush has no plans to participate in Republican fundraisers or political appearances between now and the presidential election, CBS News White House Correspondent Mark Knoller reports.

Spokesman Scott Stanzel tied the scheduling decision to the financial crisis.

"The President remains focused on addressing the needs of our economy and we don't expect to schedule any more fund-raisers and don't anticipate political rallies over the next 18 days," Stanzel said in response to questions from CBS News.

So far this year, Knoller reports, Mr. Bush has done 45 money events for the GOP or its candidates, raising more than $75 million dollars. All but four of the fund-raisers have been closed to press coverage.

He has not appeared at any campaign rallies this year.