If the Carter Conference is like a reunion for former federal officials, journalists and academics, then Leo Ribuffo is the unpopular kid sulking in the corner.

The George Washington University professor, who participated in a roundtable discussion on Carter's legacy Friday, strayed from the party line about how wonderful and historic the conference is, comparing it to a high school reunion.

"We're going to hear two days of fond memories, which is understandable, but as scholars, I think we should look at things with a certain level of detachment," he said.

The self-described "unreconstructed McGovernite" returned to the theme after former Vice President Walter Mondale attacked Vice President Dick Cheney for giving President Bush false information and bad advice after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

"I remind you that there will be a conference like this one day about Bush, and indeed a positive one about Cheney," Ribuffo said.