George W. Bush Praises Washington's Humility in Presidents Day Message

The former president's essay appears to subtly criticize Trump's refusal to step down from office.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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In a Presidents Day essay published by the bipartisan alliance More Perfect, former President George W. Bush praised George Washington's humility, diplomacy, and self-control, drawing apparent contrasts with the current occupant of the White House. While Bush did not name President Donald Trump directly, his words seemed heavy with subtext, considering Trump's attempts to overturn his 2020 election loss and threats to run for a third, illegal presidential term.

Why it matters

Bush's essay is part of a new history project called 'In Pursuit' that aims to make history 'relevant' but not overly narrow. The project features contributions from other former presidents, including Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, as well as Republicans like Chief Supreme Court Justice John Roberts. Bush's piece highlights the importance of democratic norms and the peaceful transfer of power, which have come under threat in recent years.

The details

In the essay, Bush wrote that Washington's decision to relinquish control of the U.S. Army after the American Revolution and to step down from the presidency after two terms 'ensured America wouldn't become a monarchy, or worse.' Bush also praised Washington's cultivation of self-control, courteousness, modesty, and diplomacy, qualities he described as inspiring. The Times noted that despite participating in the 'In Pursuit' series, Bush is not giving interviews, and his essay speaks for itself.

  • George W. Bush's essay was published on Presidents Day, February 16, 2026.

The players

George W. Bush

The 43rd president of the United States, who served from 2001 to 2009.

George Washington

The first president of the United States, who served from 1789 to 1797.

Donald Trump

The 45th president of the United States, who served from 2017 to 2021.

More Perfect

A bipartisan alliance working to 'protect and renew' American democracy in the lead-up to the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

Colleen Shogan

The former National Archivist who was abruptly fired by Trump in February 2025 and is now overseeing the 'In Pursuit' project.

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What they’re saying

“Our first president could have remained all-powerful, but twice he chose not to. In doing so, he set a standard for all presidents to live up to.”

— George W. Bush (More Perfect)

“Few qualities have inspired me more than Washington's humility. Washington modeled what it means to put the good of the nation over self-interest and selfish ambition... he carried himself with dignity and self-restraint, honoring the office [of the president] without allowing to become invested with near-mythical powers.”

— George W. Bush (More Perfect)

The takeaway

Bush's essay serves as a reminder of the importance of democratic norms and the peaceful transfer of power, which have been tested in recent years. By praising Washington's humility and self-restraint, Bush appears to offer a subtle critique of the current political climate and the actions of some recent presidents who have sought to cling to power.