Bush was a participant in the 2006 midterm elections , beginning her campaigning in April . Though her poll numbers had decreased from an 80 % approval rating , they still superseded that of President Bush , whose approval rating was only praised by a third of Americans . Ed Henry of CNN noted Bush 's popularity , writing , " The first lady is treated like a rock star on the campaign trail – with local Republicans lining up for photographs and autographs – as she criss-crosses the country to help candidates . " Bush relied on a strategy of praising the Republican candidate for their achievements and attending events alongside them . In September 2008 , Bush spoke during the first night of the 2008 Republican National Convention , her joint appearance with Cindy McCain geared toward raising hurricane relief funds for victims of Hurricane Gustav
2008 Republican National Convention
2008 Republican National Convention
Laura Bush