43rd President of the United States (2001-2009)
Bush’s first 100 days started rocky, dealing with issues of legitimacy when he came into office in 2001. His hard-fought presidential battle with Al Gore was decided by the Supreme Court but according to a Gallup poll 38% of voters maintained that the former Vice President should be seated in the Oval Office. As the first MBA president, Bush ran what he considered a business-like West Wing in which staffers wore suits at all times and he delegated decision-making to his inner circle, including Dick Cheney who became one of the most powerful vice presidents in history. Initially, the faith-focused president sought to assume the role of “uniter” seeking bipartisan resolutions with Democratic congressional leaders. After the former Texas governor soon found maneuvering in Washington much different than statehouse politics, he became more forceful in pushing for his tax program and other legislative initiatives. Through his first 100 days – and eight years of his administration – he has never reversed a decision nor admitted a mistake – regardless of the consequences.
Highlights from his first 100 days:
• Bush presents a $1.96 trillion budget to Congress which suggests cuts in government programs and the largest tax cuts since the Reagan Era. The budget wipes out the Clinton administration budget surpluses.
• He proposed the No Child Left Behind Act—comprehensive education legislation that was co-authored by Senate Democrats and Republicans.
• He announced an end to U.S. funding for international centers that offer family planning and perform abortions.
• Bush created an Office of Faith-based and Community Initiatives to help religious groups receive federal funding for community projects.