The George W. Bush I Knew: An exclusive excerpt from Texas Monthly's new book, Lone Stars Rising, reevaluates the legacy of the former governor and president.

The article focuses on a profile of former Texas governor and U.S. president George W. Bush, featured in the book *Lone Stars Rising: The Fifty People Who Turned Texas Into the Fastest-Growing, Most Exciting, and, Sometimes, Most Exasperating State in the Country*. It recounts Bush's early political career, highlighting his ambitious but ultimately unsuccessful tax reform efforts as governor, and examines how his personality traits—such as confidence and a preference for bold initiatives—shaped both his governorship and presidency. The profile discusses key aspects of his presidency, including the Iraq War, Medicare Part D, and his management style, noting both his strengths and significant policy failures. It also reflects on Bush's personal faith, leadership style, and the mixed legacy he leaves within American politics.