Note to wife:
Former President George W. Bush gave a rare political speech this week in which he warned of the dangers to American democracy caused by the decay of civic engagement – characterized by “conspiracy theories and outright fabrication” and the rise of “nativism.”
“We’ve seen our discourse degraded by casual cruelty,” Bush said. “Bullying and prejudice in our public life sets a national tone and provides permission for cruelty and bigotry. . . Bigotry or white supremacy in any form is blasphemy against the American creed.”
Many thought Bush performed poorly as president – a view that seems almost quaint today. Given today’s acrimonious environment, he almost sounds wise.