Bush's Simpler New Life Has No Talk of 'L Word' (Legacy)

He moves firmly among the 33% who supported him

By Ambreen Ali, Newser User

Posted Apr 11, 2009 12:38 PM CDT

(Newser) – President Bush began his new life in an "insulated bubble" the day he left Washington toting a plane of teary-eyed friends watching a rosy video tribute on the Bush era. Low approval ratings? Bah. "He lives squarely in the remaining 33%" who supported him, writes Washington Post's Eli Saslow in a lengthy look at Bush's post-presidential world.

Weekends are spent at the ranch, where George's day begins with a long walk, chainsaw in hand. The former first couple spends most weekdays in their conservative Dallas neighborhood, with nary a sign of the political sniping about his record in DC. Neither Bush cooks, so they order takeout from a local market or rely on friends who know not to ask about what he calls his "L word"—his legacy.

[Images (3)]

[Quotes (2)]

Laura Bush makes a rare public appearance at the 2009 Texas Medal of Arts Awards at the Long Center for the Performing Arts in Austin last week. (AP Photo/ Roni Gendler, Texas Cultural Trust)

Former President George Bush throws the season opening first pitch before the baseball game between the Cleveland Indians and Texas Ranger in Arlington, Texas, last week. (AP Photo/LM Otero)

Bush speaks with the French foreign minister while in office. When Bush recalls his presidency, it's often to remember stories like one about a "magical" rainbow in Romania. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)

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The presidency that is remembered on Daria Place bears little resemblance to the one that most of the country continues to blame for its problems.
- Eli Saslow

There's a comfort that comes with knowing you probably won't be alive to see the real verdict on your presidency. - Kirbyjon Caldwell, Bush's friend

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Bush's Simpler New Life Has No Talk of 'L Word' (Legacy)