When even a former president like George W. Bush is quietly telling you to be humble, it means there’s a real issue.
In a Presidents’ Day message that clearly had a lot of side-eye, the 43rd president used Substack to praise George Washington’s character, self-control, and decision to step down from power — and he didn’t need to mention Donald Trump at all.
He didn’t have to.
Bush reminded people that Washington could have stayed in power forever, but he chose to leave twice.
He talked about Washington’s humility, his refusal to use power for his own gain, and the fact that the first president showed what it means to put the country’s needs above his own interests and personal ambitions.
Self-interest and selfish ambition — that sounds familiar, doesn’t it?
Bush said the presidency matters more than the person holding it and warned against letting the office gain almost mythical powers.
That’s not just a history lesson — it’s a very clear warning aimed directly at Trump’s personality-driven politics and his constant attempts to expand his power.
He also pointed out that Washington was trusted because “everyone knew he wouldn’t abuse power.”
In today’s America — where Trump openly talks about revenge, pushes for more executive control, and treats democracy like a personal challenge — those words hit very hard.
Bush painted Washington as a unifying figure, someone who came back into the public eye because of his character and values — not because he forced loyalty or threatened people.
The message was clear: true leadership is about humility, honesty, and serving the country.
It’s not about ego, complaints, or staying in power as if it’s something you’re born with.
For a former Republican president to speak publicly about restraint, self-discipline, and respect for democratic values — while Trump’s second term is causing a lot of chaos — is almost like a political warning shot from the Bush side of the GOP.
Even in the subtlest way, the contrast couldn’t be clearer.
Washington gave up power. Trump can’t stop trying to take more of it.
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