Which Party’s Presidents Are The Most Productive In Retirement?

After the glory of being the leader of the free world, what happens? Presidential retirement for most includes a brief recuperation period followed by a renewed sense of purpose.? Without the pressures of governing and with virtually no risk of “foot in mouth” syndrome (who cares?), most of these ex-presidents have put their generous taxpayer-funded retirement financial perks to good use:

What Democratic Presidents Do In Retirement

  • Jimmy Carter — After his crushing defeat by Ronald Reagan, Carter has had one of the most effective retirements of any president in modern times — a diplomatic powerhouse and home builder for the disadvantaged, this retired president has spent more time on the greater good than most. He is also the longest-lived post-presidential president in history.
  • ?George H.W. Bush — While hardly blinded by his Points Of Light non-profit volunteer initiative, zany socks and octogenarian sky-diving have endeared him to millions. Liberals give this “Mr. Nice Guy” a pass and so has Barbara as they are now the longest married presidential couple since John and Abigail Adams.
  • Bill Clinton — Retirement for Clinton is unique due to the complex relationship with his wife, former First Lady, U.S. Senator, Secretary of State and perpetual presidential candidate, Hillary Clinton. While keeping himself very busy with good deeds, his activity is still hamstrung by political considerations.

What Republican Presidents Do In Retireme

  • ?George H.W. Bush — While hardly blinded by his Points Of Light non-profit volunteer initiative, zany socks and octogenarian sky-diving have endeared him to millions. Liberals give this “Mr. Nice Guy” a pass and so has Barbara as they are now the longest married presidential couple since John and Abigail Adams.
  • George W. Bush — Painting rather badly, “PEPFAR”? – the President’s Emergency Plan for Aids Relief, and the inauguration of his oxymoronic presidential library are about the sum total of this lazy leader’s accomplishments. Sort of like his presidency, only a little less.

Regardless of their public retirement activities,? membership in the uber-exclusive club of former presidents is a consolation prize experienced by few.? Unlikely friendships ensue –? John Adams and Thomas Jefferson became best friends (they both died on the same July 4th in 1826) , as did Jimmy Carter and the late Gerald Ford. After all, pillow talk with Ros, Babs, Hil and Laureen is nice, but who else can a guy really talk to?? Especially these guys?

I had a successful career actively working with at-risk youth, people struggling with poverty and unemployment, and disadvantaged and oppressed populations. In 2011, I made the decision to pursue my dreams and become a full-time writer. Connect with me on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook.