President George W. Bush presented his final State of the Union address Monday night. His speech clearly showed the president's diminishing political clout as he nears the end of his presidency.
The president's approval rating has dropped significantly, from his high of 84 percent in 2002 to the low 30s in recent months. His lack influence is reflected by current Republican presidential candidates, who avoid using his name.
Bush set forth a modest agenda to close out the final year of his second term. This is the correct strategy for a lame-duck president.
However, Congress should not just think it will walk over Bush. He remains a fighter and a man who can stay on message at all costs.
Bush worked with Congress last week to come to a quick $150 billion plan agreement to help with the economy -- a growing concern in America.
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The president also criticized Congress for the horrible earmark habit. These are earmarks attached to the omnibus spending bills, which add millions to government spending.
The legacy of Bush's presidency will be defined by Iraq. Currently, the war in Iraq remains extremely unpopular with many Americans. However, the surge has stabilized many areas in Iraq.
The future of Iraq will not be fully clear for months, if not years. It will take a remarkable recovery in Iraq to rehabilitate the legacy of the George W. Bush presidency.
