Bush and the GDP?

For most of Bush (43)'s term, the GDP has risen steadily, as it did in the Clinton years. My question: is the rise in GDP during the past 7 years merely window dressing compared to the Clinton era when you consider the record trade debt, budget deficits and devaluation of the dollar during that period? I'm asking this from a non-bias viewpoint and I would appreciate non-biased answers from people who know the answer. Thanks.