The rhetoric of the American left during Bush 43’s term was hateful, devoid of connectivity to actual events. It degraded our politics as much as anything Trump tweets today.

The George W. Bush speaking to us last week in New York was consistent in disposition, policy and politics. He wants a United States engaged in the world, compassionate to those who seek her sanctuary and vigilant against foreign actors who wish us harm. Same old 43.

This newfound Bush nostalgia smacks not of legitimate respect but of political opportunism, the latest harbinger of the rising tribalism plaguing American politics. How shallow must your political beliefs be if you are willing to tout the words of a man you used to think was a stupid racist war criminal who should be in jail?