Yes, I have noticed that Bush ad libs a lot less these days, which is a good thing. In general, I agree that he's still not much of a speaker, but I have to admit that his speech to Congress after the 9/11 attacks was outstanding -- exactly what the moment called for. I'm sure he had a lot of help on that one, but he was the man in the spotlight, and he delivered.

Reagan truly was a great public speaker. So was Clinton, who in fact could ad lib a lot better than Reagan, although he couldn't pull off the grandfatherly twinkle in the eye like Reagan could. I think that the ability to communicate effectively and eloquently is one of the most important qualities in a leader, and one that is often discounted by people who consider it only a cosmetic consideration rather than a substantive one. In the end, our greatest leaders (Lincoln, Churchill, or take your pick) don't really do much except talk, thereby convincing and inspiring others to act. If a leader can't speak, he or she can't lead.