Bush had originally outlined an ambitious domestic agenda , but his priorities were significantly altered following the September 11 attacks . Wars were waged in Afghanistan and Iraq , and there were significant domestic debates regarding immigration , healthcare , Social Security , economic policy , and treatment of terrorist detainees . Over an eight-year period , Bush 's once-high approval ratings steadily declined , while his disapproval numbers increased significantly . In 2007 , the United States entered the longest post-World War II recession
September 11 attacks
September 11 attacks
George W. Bush