Matt writes:
Part of the effort to pull the wagon of conservatism out of the ditch into which Bush piloted the country is going to be an effort to deny that George W. Bush was a real conservative. In reality, Bushism should be understood as the highest form of conservatism. In particular, the High Bushist years of 2001-2006 represent the only time that the post-war conservative movement has had total control over the federal government. If the practical consequences of pre-Bush conservatism were less disastrous, that’s largely because conservative political power was more constrained in those earlier eras.And don't forget there are those who still deem Bush a great president, but a great president whose greatness hasn't been realized yet, like Truman. Even at 22-25 percent approval, two devastating elections, the worst economic situation since 1932, nationalization of business and industry, the largest debt in history and two on-going, endless wars, the remaining remnants of the GOP still believe Bush will be redeemed by history. The comparison falls flat, however.
Meanwhile, it’s worth recalling that at the peak of his political power, when Bush was making his most disastrous decisions, conservatives not only thought he was a good president, but a great one. There was practically a line around the block to write paens to his genius.
Truman did not leave Ike the worst economic situation in two generations. And neither did Truman leave his successor the largest deficit in American history with two on-going, endless wars. Truman left Ike with a strong economy and a unpopular war but a war with extreme international support. Nothing of that sort is happening today.
In all fairness, it's worth noting those who think history will redeem George Bush also don't want his name or presidency ever mentioned again. By writing this post I am only showing my anger and hatred for his tenure, a tenure whose greatness I have yet to realize.
