Bush's Last Press Conference

When George W. Bush took office (finally) January 2001, he was on top of the world. He probably felt ‘it can’t get better than this.’ In that he was right. That is not to bash Bush. It is quite likely that the same will apply to Barack Obama when he is sworn in January 20th.

The presidency is likely the most onerous job on earth. Almost every incumbent ages far more than four years during his presidential term. Even though he was in his fourth term, FDR was only 63 when he died in office. In his biography of Harry Truman, Robert Dallek quotes FDR’s successor as saying “Nobody but a damn fool would have the job in the first place.” Truman was unprepared for office, but a man who grew into it. He went on to say “But I’ve got it, damn fool or no and I have to do it as best I can.”

It is well documented that Jackie Kennedy was not happy in the White House while Lady Bird Johnson wrote in 1967 "I do not know whether we can endure another four-year term in the Presidency.” Her husband LBJ is probably the President who suffered the most passionate antipathy from the US voter in recent times. He suffered dreadfully as he heard protestors shout “Hey, hey LBJ, how many kids did you kill today.” Johnson was one of the most vibrant characters to walk the Washington stage but the White House broke this larger than life workaholic, bullying taskmaster. Thus, on March 31st 1968, he announced to a surprised American public, "I shall not seek, and I will not accept the nomination of my party for another term as your President.”

Paradoxically, LBJ’s successor almost broke the presidency as a result of Watergate.

The two Presidents who genuinely reveled in the White House are Reagan and Clinton. The presidency for Reagan was the ‘Role of a Lifetime’ according to biographer Lou Cannon while Clinton in general (scandals aside) genuinely enjoyed the role.

There are few who would suggest that Bush has enjoyed the role. The outgoing President is one of the most likeable personalities to inhabit 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, but likeability does not a great president make. Watching Bush this morning in his final press conference, I have to admit I felt a little twinge of sympathy for him which is probably one of the more kind emotions directed to the man.

Even out of office, at least for some time, Bush will feel little good will. He likes to compare himself with Harry Truman who left office under a cloud.

Maybe he might take more comfort from Nixon who eventually did regain a level of respect and also Bill Clinton – much reviled by many during his term in office – who is now an enormously popular figure.