President Bush on War, Economics, and "liking" America

[sailaway21]

While I disagree with any number of policies of the Bush presidency, I am continually struck by the effectiveness of the President's plain speaking on issues of concern. The man says what he believes and believes what he says. Below is the transcript, and you can access the video, of today's White House speech. It is always interesting to listen to the actual speech, instead of what the media tells us was in it. This one was a very good one, leaving little doubt as to the principles that animate the President's policies.

It would be desirable that respondants to this post actually comment on the transcript or video and not fly off far afield from there.

http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/relea...0071220-1.html

[camaraderie]

I've always felt that he was a good man, a great defender of our nation and made a lot of stupid decisions. I found his comments on what the NEXT president should bring to office and the questions the candidates should be asked very interesting. You know...his transcripts are more impressive than the live performances over time and that has been one of the great problems of his presidency...an inability to effectively motivate the general public from his bully pulpit.

As to the remarks on legislation...clearly the dems caved on a lot and he caved on a little and I guess that is how you make progress in DC. I remain disappointed on his global warming stance and his willingness to sign off on all the earmarks (jawboning noted). I am encouraged by his strong support for nuclear power as a solution to our energy needs.

[teshannon]

I watched him today and his sincerity and resolve to protect the US came through loud and strong. You can disagree with his decisions, and I disagree with many of them, but he still impresses me as the right man for the job given the times we're in. Being an ex nuke utility guy I'm also pleased with his support of nukes as part of the long term answer to our energy crisis.

[xort]

What was with his remark about joining putin at a 'man of the year' party? funny, sarcastic or disapointment? or all three

[sailaway21]

xort,
"Ironic" I'd say.

Cam,
I thought this speech was actually better on the video than the written transcript. GWB has to be one of the least pretentious public figures I've heard speak and he came across as a genuinely humble man, even though he could be touting the amazing fecklessness of the Democratic Congress. Mark my words; when GW Bush leaves office, you'll find no other living ex-president who exhibits more graciousness and class with the possible exception of his father. You'll see none of the "morality" or legacy-shaping of a Carter or a Clinton. When asked questions on current affairs, you'll see a GW Bush with no public opinion other than support for the office of the presidency.

I only agree with him about 50% of the time, but I do admire him greatly as a man.

[teshannon]

Sailaway,
Well put.

[Rockter]

Clinton?
The ever-present half smile, the lying under oath.

[Giulietta]

It's funny when you typed "Liking America", I read "Killing America"..but I'm dyslexic....and know crap....

[tommyt]

Alex,

You must have mis understood the rules last week. We agreed to only pick on our own courntries OR PORTUGAL! We did not allow the Portuguese to have free reign in reverse.

If your countrymen had not allowed the Spainish (King Phillip I think) to screw with your Navy, Portugal would still rule the world. Then we would all be picking on you. Oh, we already do anyway!

Merry Christmas Friend. Hug the family for me.

[camaraderie]

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