George W. Bush became president under some of the most unusual circumstances in U.S. history, with the very legitimacy of his claim to victory a matter of strong public debate. In spite of the highly contested election that brought him to power, Bush came into office with assertiveness and resolve, surprising many of his critics with a successful early push for tax reduction and other domestic initiatives. However, the shattering events of September 11, 2001 forced the Bush administration to refocus its agenda. Since that day, the power of the presidency--as well as its limitations--have been...
George W. Bush became president under some of the most unusual circumstances in U.S. history, with the very legitimacy of his claim to victory a matte...