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 WASHINGTON (AP) - One hundred days into his second term, President Bush has lost much of the political muscle he boasted about after winning re-election. Gas prices are rising, his approval ratings are sagging and Americans are unhappy with his handling of the economy and Iraq.
Now he's trying to sell a Social Security plan that would cut future benefits for all but low-income retirees — giving opponents fresh ammunition. Even before Bush unveiled his new proposal — and despite a 60-day sales campaign — a majority of Americans thought he had mishandled Social Security, too.
Along with his other troubles, Bush has had to prop up two endangered Republicans: House Majority Leader Tom DeLay, accused of ethical lapses, and John Bolton, the president's choice for U.N. ambassador, criticized for his judgment and treatment of subordinates.
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