Yep... it's called Controlling the Agenda.
Clinton was a vile president, but a master propagandist. He had a message of the day, every single day, and a theme for the week. It was easier for him, since he had a willing accomplice in the press, but the bully pulpit is still there for those who can use it.
Bush 41 and 43 both act as though they want to see how much attack they can take from the press without responding and still survive. Bush 41 didn't. Bush 43 squeaked through, but only because of the war, and then, only because of what he did in the war in the 6 months after 9/11. The goodwill was bound to run out with some of the electorate, I was just hoping that there was enough left to get through this election.