In 2005, President George W. Bush dealt with some very difficult issues: the ongoing war in Iraq, a deadly hurricane season in the United States and a scandal that involved a White House staff member. The President faced tough criticism and low approval ratings, but continued his focus on fighting terrorism and keeping Americans safe.

In the end of August, Hurricane Katrina slammed the Gulf Coast. It was one of the worst natural disasters ever to hit the U.S. In the days after Katrina, the federal government was slow to respond to survivors' needs. Many blamed President Bush and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). FEMA is in charge of helping people in need after a disaster such as Katrina. The criticism led FEMA's director, Michael Brown, to step down. President Bush accepted responsibility for the federal government's sluggish response. On September 16, Bush spoke before the nation, outlining a specific plan to rebuild areas and help survivors devastated by Katrina.

In October, the investigation of the leaking of an undercover Central Intelligence Agency's (CIA) agent's identity caused trouble for the White House. The complex investigation led Vice President Dick Cheney's chief of staff, I. Lewis "Scooter" Libby, to resign after he was charged with lying under oath. The President's top adviser, Karl Rove, is still being investigated. President Bush dealt with criticism for the White House's possible role in the leak.

Despite problems at home, the President kept his focus on the continuing war in Iraq. Progress was made in developing a new government in Iraq. On January 30, facing danger and threats of violence, millions of Iraqis voted in their first free election in 50 years. Turnout was estimated at more than 60% of eligible voters.

In September, Afghanistan held democratic elections. Afghan voters also faced threats of violence at the polls. In Iraq, More progress was made in October, when Iraqis voted on a new Constitution.

Still, violence and unrest in Iraq grew in 2005. So far, the Iraq war has killed about 2,100 Americans. Many in the U.S. want troops to come home. The President has not set a timetable for removing the more than 160,000 troops from Iraq. But he did say day-to-day operations in the country will soon change.

For his efforts to lead the nation during difficult times, President George W. Bush is a nominee for TFK Person of the Year.