Bush was intelligent too. He was an obnoxious smug dude too.
We can disagree with him on policy, but he UNDERSTOOD the issues.
I think there have been people in power in history without this understanding. When asked if she supported capping emissions, palin said "I do. I do." Did she understand what that meant? Probably not, as it certainly webt against GOP positions she has now. Same with bailout - she said it was 'necessary' when most economists couldn't define it.
There are plenty of examples of both parties delivering dumbasses who appeal to masses, will be easily manpulated, and look pretty for the camera. John edwards, fred thompson, and quayle also come to mind here.