Former president George W. Bush has remained relatively out of the spotlight since he left the Oval Office nine months ago, but on Monday, October 26, he spoke to a crowd of nearly 15,000 in Texas as part of a motivational course from Get Motivated.
Writes The Washington Post:
The well-publicized event appears to mark the beginning of a higher profile for Bush.
Just last week he gave three speeches in Canada, and he has joined the Washington Speakers Bureau. He is scheduled to give another motivational speech next month in San Antonio. Former presidential adviser Karen Hughes said he has "quite a few speeches planned" during the fall.
Some suggest that the speaking tour Bush has embarked on is part of his advisers' strategy to ensure his legacy. From The Times:
Some analysts believe that the speaking engagements are part of Mr Bush's ongoing drive, quietly overseen by Karl Rove, his former chief adviser, to shape his legacy.
Mr Bush is planning a book on his presidency, in addition to building a presidential library. Appearing on stage with winners and success stories is “an introduction to the George W Bush legacy project,” says Wayne Slater, a veteran Texan journalist who has written about Mr Bush since he was the state's governor.
Get Motivated point out that every president since Ronald Reagan has appeared at their events.
Former first lady Laura Bush is also slated to be part of upcoming Get Motivated seminars.