George H. W. Bush Comments

George Herbert Walker Bush (born June 12, 1924) served as
the 41st President of the United States from 1989 to 1993.
Bush held a variety of political positions prior to his
presidency, including Vice President of the United States in
the administration of Ronald Reagan (1981–1989) and
Director of Central Intelligence (DCI) under Gerald R. Ford.

"Read my lips: no new taxes" is a now-famous
phrase spoken by then presidential candidate George H. W.
Bush at the 1988 Republican National Convention as he
accepted the nomination on August 18. Written by
speechwriter Peggy Noonan, the line was one of the most
prominent soundbites from the speech. The pledge not to tax
the American people further had been a consistent part of
Bush's 1988 election platform, but its prominent inclusion
in his speech cemented it in the public consciousness. The
impact of the election promise was considerable, and many
believe it helped Bush win the 1988 presidential
election. Once he became president, however, Bush raised
taxes as a way to reduce the national budget deficit. Bush
refused many times but was making no progress with a Senate
and House that was controlled by Democrats.