George W. Bush’s departure from the presidency marked the end of an era, leaving many to reflect on his time in office. When he concluded his second term, George W. Bush was 62 years old. This transition saw him exit the White House with a 33 percent public approval rating. Adding to this sentiment, a significant 60 percent of Americans anticipated his presidential legacy would be viewed as below average in historical assessments. In a moment of characteristic wit when faced with these figures, Bush quipped, “I was also the most popular president,” alluding to the surge in approval following the September 11, 2001 attacks.
Upon leaving office in January 2009, Bush returned to Texas, embracing a quieter life away from the political spotlight. He re-established his roots in Midland, Texas, and soon after settled into his Prairie Chapel Ranch in Crawford, Texas. Unlike many politicians who remain deeply entwined in the political world, Bush appeared to relish the tranquility and respite from the pressures of power.
During his final year in office, Bush immersed himself in biographies of George Washington, the first U.S. President. This reading informed his perspective on historical judgment, suggesting that if Washington was still being analyzed centuries later, definitive assessments of his own presidency would remain elusive for a long time. Karl Rove, a key political advisor, noted that despite potential second thoughts, Bush possessed “an inner confidence…that what he did was right.” True to his desire for a lower profile, Bush largely avoided political commentary after leaving office, notably refraining from criticizing his successor, Barack Obama.
George and Laura Bush also acquired a home in an exclusive Dallas neighborhood, close to Southern Methodist University (SMU). The former president quickly integrated into Dallas community life, participating in local events and hosting gatherings at his residence. To supplement his income, Bush engaged in paid speaking engagements and dedicated considerable energy to the George W. Bush Institute, established at SMU. His leisure time was filled with activities such as biking, attending Texas Rangers baseball games, reading American history, and playing golf. Inspired by Winston Churchill’s painting hobby, Bush also took up painting, focusing on portraits of pets and world leaders he had encountered during his presidency. His artwork garnered national attention and was showcased at his presidential library, adding an unexpected dimension to his post-presidency persona.
Bush dedicated himself to shaping his legacy through the George W. Bush Presidential Center at SMU in Dallas. This center encompasses the Bush Presidential Library and Museum, alongside the Bush Institute. The Institute’s mission is to foster discussions and advance policies concerning economic growth, human freedom, education reform, global health initiatives, and women’s rights. Further solidifying his narrative, Bush released his memoir, Decision Points, in 2010. The book offered personal insights into his presidential decisions and experiences. His philanthropic endeavors included significant fundraising for wounded veterans, exemplified by an annual 100-kilometer mountain bike ride and the Warrior Open Golf Tournament. He also undertook trips to Africa to promote cervical cancer awareness and became a vocal advocate for veterans dealing with post-traumatic stress. In 2014, Bush revealed a secret biographical project on his father, George H.W. Bush. 41, a tribute to his father’s life and military service, was released on Veteran’s Day.
Reflecting on his life after the presidency, Bush remarked, “I think part of having a fulfilling life is to be challenged. I’m challenged on the golf course, I’m challenged to stay fit, and I’m challenged by my paintings…I am happy.” This statement encapsulates his post-presidency journey: a blend of personal pursuits, legacy building, and continued engagement with causes he cared about, all undertaken after reaching the age of 62 when leaving the highest office in the United States.
