Rating The First Ladies: The Women Who Influenced the Presidency
by Robert P. Watson
Category: Political Science

In this book version of the official report presented to First Lady Laura Bush, the reader will find the same contents that were included in the actual report. This report marks the first-ever time that such an undertaking was performed for the nation's first lady. The report -- designed as a service to assist Mrs. Bush in meeting the demands of her new role -- contains advice for the first lady and her senior staff as well as information on the history, challenges, and duties associated with the Office of the First Lady. The contributors include the former first ladies, public officials, and leading historians of the first ladyship. The Office of the First Lady is arguably the most intriguing and demanding 'unpaid job' in the country. The president's wife is in the unique position to wield significant power and influence as she presides over White House social affairs and important social projects, while serving as the president's most trusted confidante and one of the country's most celebrated women.