Morning Meeting Episode 257: Why George W. Bush Is Gen Z's New Obsession
Aug 16, 2025
Greg Easley, a technologist and adjunct professor, dives into the political conflicts surrounding the University of Virginia, revealing how it became a battleground under Trump. Meanwhile, Linda Wells, founding editor of Allure, shares insights on beauty trends, from the renaissance of good carbs to health-boosting foods and the alarming return of tanning cultures. Also, discover how Gen Z is nostalgically embracing George W. Bush as a charming grandfather figure, thanks to viral moments and a unique TikTok-driven trend dubbed 'Bushcore'.
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Bushcore Is Driven By Viral Nostalgia
- Gen Z is recasting George W. Bush with nostalgia centered on his gaffes and persona rather than policies.
- This revival surged after Trump's return to the public stage and viral video clips of Bush resurfaced.
Persona Overshadows Policy In Online Memory
- Gen Z comments on Bush videos are largely positive and frame him as a likable, old-school Republican rather than a wartime president.
- That framing often overlooks or separates his policy record from his online persona.
Youthful Distance Blurs Historical Accountability
- Many Gen Zers lack lived memory of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, which makes it easier to romanticize Bush.
- Historians say youth distance from the era reduces nuance in collective online memory.