Reply #12: You're exactly right

[Leafy Geneva]

Reagan taught the Republicans that the limits of cynicism are near boundless; that it doesn't matter who occupies the office of the President - a President is only an actor who performs in order to gathers votes. However, Reagan (whatever his deficits) knew he was only playing a part. Bush, being a fool rather than being senile, really believes he's a President. And he belives that he deserves to be a President. It would be astounding to see him admit to having made a mistake (such as making a foolish appointment to an critical job). One is almost tempted to call this his tragic flaw. Except for the fact that one would feel sympathy for someone with a tragic flaw.