Chapter 25 Summary and Analysis

After winning reelection as the governor of Texas, George W. Bush trains his eyes on the presidency. He feels that he has been called by God to run for national office. In anticipation of his campaign, his family and powerful friends work to cover up some of the unsavory facts of his past. This includes making sure that his academic records are sealed and cleaning up his arrest record. One of the issues that worries his staff is his previous alcohol problem. It is important for the Bush campaign to present an image of family - values and respectability in order to contrast with the outgoing Clinton administration.

Tied in with Bush's former alcoholism is the strain on his marriage with Laura Bush. During their marriage, many friends and staffers remember close calls in the areas of spousal abuse, though no...