Don’t think so? Just google Bush abstinence-only education policies failure and see what you come up with. I am still trying to pry myself off the floor over the kids that took part in the abstinence-only education (you know the ones that only lasted for 18-month that signed “Bush’s” virgin’s agreement) who didn’t know “that sex feels good”!

Bush is an ignorant man entirely lacking in character and intellect. He was an impotent President. However, in his ignorance he managed to create an atmosphere that encouraged discrimination, that embraced hatred, that made bigotry socially acceptable. And while he may not have done much directly to cause lasting harm to the gay community, he was surrounded by people who have done more than their fair share of damage.

There are only two things I can say about Bush that are even remotely positive. In the aftermath of September 11th he gave a number of rousing speeches that offered some reassurance to the American people and to the world. Of course, credit for those really goes to his speechwriters, and he demonstrated little follow-through there as well. The other area where he could be praised is in his record in Africa, where he did do a lot to help fight both AIDS and poverty, but frankly his actions there were far from exceptional. Rather, it was the least the leader of the most powerful nation on Earth could do to help some of the poorest countries.

In the end, the world is a better place now Bush is gone. His legacy, particularly with regards to the gay community, will live on for many, many years, however.

I also find it fitting that Bush’s presidency began the way it did.

However, as a Michigan native whose primary vote was given to a person who took his name off of our primary ballot, it is my firm belief that the Obama presidency is similar in that regard.

Farewell, Bush. We won’t mourn you.