Michael Gerson

Gerson

Michael Gerson (May 15, 1964 – November 17, 2022) was an American opinion columnist and speechwriter. He served as a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations and was a syndicated columnist for The Washington Post. Gerson was best known for his work as a speechwriter for President George W. Bush, where he was credited with coining the phrase "axis of evil" and crafting many of the president's most memorable speeches.

Early Life and Education

Michael Gerson was born on May 15, 1964, in Belmar, New Jersey. He attended Georgetown University for a year before transferring to Wheaton College (Illinois), where he graduated in 1986 with a degree in theology.

Career

Early Career

Before joining the Bush administration, Gerson worked as a journalist for various publications, including U.S. News & World Report. He also served as a senior policy advisor with The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank.

White House Speechwriter

Gerson joined the Bush campaign in 1999 and became a key member of the president's speechwriting team after Bush's election in 2000. He was known for his eloquent and impactful writing style, which helped shape the administration's public messaging. Gerson played a significant role in crafting speeches that addressed major events such as the September 11 attacks, the War on Terror, and the Iraq War.

Post-White House Career

After leaving the White House in 2006, Gerson joined The Washington Post as an opinion columnist. His columns often focused on issues such as foreign policy, religion, and social justice. He was also a frequent commentator on television and radio programs.

Personal Life

Gerson was married to Dawn Gerson, and the couple had two sons. He was a devout Christian and often wrote about the intersection of faith and politics. Gerson passed away on November 17, 2022, after a battle with kidney cancer.

Legacy

Michael Gerson is remembered for his contributions to American political discourse and his ability to articulate complex ideas in a compelling manner. His work as a speechwriter and columnist has left a lasting impact on the fields of politics and journalism.

See Also

• George W. Bush
• The Washington Post
• Council on Foreign Relations
• The Heritage Foundation
• September 11 attacks
• War on Terror
• Iraq War