Given, But Then Earned
Respect is given to a new American President, I think. That's just because of the office itself. But after a time, continued respect must be earned. To be sure, external conditions can effect the respect that a President earns. But how he anticipates or reacts to conditions and situations are important factors in the framing of his reputation. If it is widely believed that a President was a factor in causing negative events and developments, he will suffer disfavor and disrespect. In George Bush's case, I think he is viewed as having contributed to many of the conditions that currently affect Americans. History will ultimately prove or disprove those beliefs. But until that happens, President Bush will suffer the indignities of popular opinion.
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