How many times did we hear that from sanctimonious Republicans discussing Bill Clinton, and other Democrats, usually with a tsk-tsk in their voice, telling us how these outsiders, these usurpers were going to lead our country to ruin. Remember? It was not so long ago that it was on the lips of every Republican I know.
But they were just mouthing inane, meaningless nonsense. We can all see Bill's character because for all his dissembling, he is an open book. Not perfect, to be sure, but not an aggressively wrongheaded person. Now we see the true meaning of this sentence. The President's popularity is as solid as a candy bar left in the sun. Sure the form is there, but give it a push and there is nothing there. This is entirely the result of his character. If you look at his life, his real life, not the one concocted for him by Rove, etc. but the life he has lead, this presidency is all of a piece with it. He starts with flash and then slowly the air seeps out until he is left with nothing but a cry for Daddy. Funny, though, this time Daddy can't come. Truman said the "Presidency will make a man out of any boy", but not this boy. He hasn't learned, because he never does. He is quite simply the child who never had to grow up.
So, I believe it. Character IS destiny. And it will be interesting to see where Bush's destiny leads him. I am just sorry that we have to bear the brunt of it. And my 2 year old's grandkids will have to pay for it.