I had the opportunity to meet with and interview George W. Bush last week at the 2017 NAHREP National Convention & Latin Music Festival in Dallas. As expected, he was relaxed, charming and engaging. I was also hoping for a discussion that would connect with our audience in a positive and less partisan manner and in that regard, Mr. Bush was a great choice. Former Presidents tend to be less partisan and sometimes feel freer to express unfiltered views. President Bush has always had an affinity for the Hispanic community especially given his extended family. He was eager to express his support for DACA and Hispanic homeownership, and impressed the crowd with a few Spanish phrases and colloquialisms. He was also willing to get serious about issues affecting the economy and national security. While Mr. Bush did not directly criticize the current Administration, and explained his reasons why, he did make it clear he believed Presidents need to understand that criticism is part of the job and that he was not a supporter of isolationism. He expressed some additional perspectives with me and 2017 NAHREP President, Leo Pareja privately, but it wouldn’t be cool to write them here. However, if you read Chapter One of Hillary Clinton’s book “What Happened” you’ll have a pretty good idea.
Almost everyone, including Democrats, were expecting last Tuesday’s midterm election results to heavily favor Republicans. Many predicted a “red wave” where they would pick up 50-60 seats in the House and 3-4 in the Senate. Joe Rogan said the red wave that is coming will be like the elevator doors opening in the horror film The Shining.