http://www.newsweek.com/george-w-bush-america-donald-trump-688585
George W. Bush Says America Has Lost Its Identity in Trump Era
By John Haltiwanger On 10/19/17 at 12:24 PM
Former President George W. Bush warned about the rise of bigotry in the U.S. and the consequences of rejecting the outside world as he delivered a speech at the "Spirit of Liberty" forum in New York City on Thursday.
Though he never explicitly mentioned President Donald Trump, Bush's remarks represented a staunch rejection of the commander in chief's embrace of isolationism and hypernationalism.
"Our identity as a nation—unlike many other nations—is not determined by geography or ethnicity, by soil or blood. Being an American involves the embrace of high ideals and civic responsibility," Bush said.
Former President George W. Bush warned about the rise of bigotry in the U.S. and the consequences of rejecting the outside world as he delivered a speech at the "Spirit of Liberty" forum in New York City on Thursday.
Though he never explicitly mentioned President Donald Trump, Bush's remarks represented a staunch rejection of the commander in chief's embrace of isolationism and hypernationalism.
"Our identity as a nation—unlike many other nations—is not determined by geography or ethnicity, by soil or blood. Being an American involves the embrace of high ideals and civic responsibility," Bush said.
"Bullying and prejudice in our public life sets a national tone, provides permission for cruelty and bigotry," the former president said.
"Bigotry or white supremacy is blasphemy against the American creed," Bush added. This statement stands in stark contrast with Trump's controversial "many sides" remark about the violence that occurred in Charlottesville, Virginia, amid a neo-Nazi rally in August.
Bush recognized the challenges that have emerged due to increasing globalization, but warned against turning inward.
"Our governing class has often been paralyzed in the face of obvious and pressing needs. The American dream of upward mobility seems out of reach for some who feel left behind in a changing economy," Bush said.
At a time when Trump is actively seeking to reduce foreign influence on the U.S. in multiple respects, Bush sought to remind the audience that immigration has always brought a "dynamism" to America.
Much of his speech painted a bleak picture of the present state of the world, but the former president also said he's confident America will overcome the obstacles it is facing.
"The cause of freedom justifies all our faith and effort. It still inspires men and women in the darkest corners of the world, and it will inspire a rising generation," Bush said.
George W. Bush Says America Has Lost Its Identity in Trump Era
By John Haltiwanger On 10/19/17 at 12:24 PM
Former President George W. Bush warned about the rise of bigotry in the U.S. and the consequences of rejecting the outside world as he delivered a speech at the "Spirit of Liberty" forum in New York City on Thursday.
Though he never explicitly mentioned President Donald Trump, Bush's remarks represented a staunch rejection of the commander in chief's embrace of isolationism and hypernationalism.
"Our identity as a nation—unlike many other nations—is not determined by geography or ethnicity, by soil or blood. Being an American involves the embrace of high ideals and civic responsibility," Bush said.
Former President George W. Bush warned about the rise of bigotry in the U.S. and the consequences of rejecting the outside world as he delivered a speech at the "Spirit of Liberty" forum in New York City on Thursday.
Though he never explicitly mentioned President Donald Trump, Bush's remarks represented a staunch rejection of the commander in chief's embrace of isolationism and hypernationalism.
"Our identity as a nation—unlike many other nations—is not determined by geography or ethnicity, by soil or blood. Being an American involves the embrace of high ideals and civic responsibility," Bush said.
"Bullying and prejudice in our public life sets a national tone, provides permission for cruelty and bigotry," the former president said.
"Bigotry or white supremacy is blasphemy against the American creed," Bush added. This statement stands in stark contrast with Trump's controversial "many sides" remark about the violence that occurred in Charlottesville, Virginia, amid a neo-Nazi rally in August.
Bush recognized the challenges that have emerged due to increasing globalization, but warned against turning inward.
"Our governing class has often been paralyzed in the face of obvious and pressing needs. The American dream of upward mobility seems out of reach for some who feel left behind in a changing economy," Bush said.
At a time when Trump is actively seeking to reduce foreign influence on the U.S. in multiple respects, Bush sought to remind the audience that immigration has always brought a "dynamism" to America.
Much of his speech painted a bleak picture of the present state of the world, but the former president also said he's confident America will overcome the obstacles it is facing.
"The cause of freedom justifies all our faith and effort. It still inspires men and women in the darkest corners of the world, and it will inspire a rising generation," Bush said.
