George W. Bush's Presidential Project and Its Prospects

Abstract

Professor Schier argues that the central aim of the Bush presidency is to complete the project of political reconstruction begun by Reagan, namely to dislodge liberal conceptions about the proper role of government and implant a conservative regime of military hawkishness, supply-side economics, and enhanced executive power at the expense of Congress. From a political perspective, the Bush team has done an admirable job reviving Reagan era initiatives by using political tactics that appeal to swing voters even as policies reflect the preferences of the conservative GOP base. Bush has successfully challenged “institutional thickening” that impedes genuine political change. Long term, however, Schier predicts a rift in the Republican Party over growing deficits, which threatens the presidential project to redefine government.

Recommended Citation

Schier, Steven E. (2003) "George W. Bush's Presidential Project and Its Prospects," The Forum: Vol. 1 : Iss. 4, Article 2.
DOI: 10.2202/1540-8884.1020
Available at: http://www.bepress.com/forum/vol1/iss4/art2