Reagan had an approach where he would ask for a lot, give a little and get most of his way. Based on what I read of Fineman's observations it appears that Bush is applying the same strategy. As much as I respect Bush Sr. for his strengths I think Bush Jr. could do very well by himself to emulate many of the political and social tactics of President Reagan.
"As much as I respect Bush Sr. for his strengths I think Bush Jr. could do very well by himself to emulate many of the political and social tactics of President Reagan." That's what those of us in Texas kept saying during the primaries: he's not so much his father's son as he is Reagan's heir.
If one followed him closely during the preparation and the conduct of the primaries, one would recognize that a.) he learned from his father's mistakes and b.) he admired Reagan and learned from his successes.
Ideologically, Bush 43 is far closer to Reagan than to Bush 41. He's a son of Texas, not Connecticut...