It depends on what the definition of "know" is

You know what's troubling about Bush claiming not to know Jack Abramoff, when he obviously did?

It's not just a lie - it's a stupid unnecessary lie.

I have a very low opinion of George W. Bush (perhaps you've noticed) but, God knows, I don't think that simply knowing Jack Abramoff makes you look guilty.

But denying that you know Jack Abramoff sure as hell makes you look guilty.

So why did Bush deny it?

Did he instinctively react like a guilty person because he is a guilty person?

Or is the lying just compulsive?

Seriously, those are the only two explanations I have for it.