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Somewhere yesterday (no time to look it up now, sorry) I read a quote that said no President has been called on to give the speech of his life more times than George W. Bush (paraphrased). And he's come through every time.

I agree; and if you find that quote (later), I'd be interested in a ping from ya. Thanks.

Somewhere yesterday (no time to look it up now, sorry) I read a quote that said no President has been called on to give the speech of his life more times than George W. Bush (paraphrased). And he's come through every time.

I think this was in Frum's book or possibly Woodward's or maybe it was Simon's. Anyway, the story is that before his Address to Congress and the Nation on September 20, 2001 he was hearing all the media and pundits talk about how "this has to be the speech of his life." His response to all this was that he's given the "speech of his life" so many times now that it doesn't mean anything. Even Tony Blair was a bit awestruck with how comfortable the President was during the hours leading up to the speech. Evidently, he suggested to Bush that he take some time for himself and practice or think about his speech. Bush just said, "no, I know what I want and have to say."

I think this was in Woodward's book.

Here ya go:

THE HOUSTON CHRONICLE: “Few presidents have had to give the speech of their life more often than George W. Bush. Tuesday night Bush had to rally the nation in time of war; persuade allies to support the use of military force in Iraq; and reassure Americans he is mindful of the struggling economy, unemployment and gaping holes in society’s safety net . . . . [Bush] is good at conveying confidence and strength, and certainly did last night.” (Editorial, The Houston Chronicle, January 29, 2003)

from this thread:

http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/news/833703/posts