Catch the sweet friendship between the Obamas and Bushes that's warming hearts across the globe!

Given their contrasting political standpoints, it could be thought that ex-presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama would not have the opportunity to forge a close bond.

Nevertheless, former presidents have shown that their friendship transcends political parties.

To illustrate, consider their exchange during the inauguration of President Donald Trump on January 20. Before the swearing-in ceremony, Washington Post reporter Emily Davies documented an informal encounter inside the Capitol Rotunda. In this interaction, a staff member inquired if Bush was planning to be well-behaved, to which Obama promptly responded, “No.

In a sequential arrangement, presidents 43 and 44 found themselves seated together during the gathering. Bush was accompanied by his wife, Laura Bush, while Obama attended solo, without Michelle Obama.

And although Bush made some expressive faces (the online community is still undecided whether these expressions outdid his infamous poncho incident at Trump’s 2017 inauguration), Obama later told Davies that Bush acted “just barely” during the event.

However, Jenna Bush Hager isn’t holding her father solely responsible for the meme-able moment.

In a light-hearted manner, she said during the January 21st episode of Today that it’s not fair to solely point fingers at him since it seems her father too was influenced by someone questionable. She also mentioned that Bush and Obama have developed an unexpected friendship.

Viewers got another peek at their friendship when Bush tapped Obama on the stomach during the funeral of former president Jimmy Carter just a fortnight ago.

At one point, it appeared as though they couldn’t get along. During his initial bid for the White House as the Democratic candidate, Obama openly criticized the policy decisions made by his Republican predecessor. However, when Obama was elected President in 2008, instead of patting each other on the belly, Bush and Obama opted to extend an olive branch across the aisle for a smooth transition of power.

In simpler terms, Bush assured his successor that he could expect “full collaboration” from his team. When Obama started his presidency in 2009, the former governor of Texas reinforced his backing.

In part of his farewell message, he expressed that not many share the burden of responsibility you now carry, nor experience the thrill and trials ahead. He mentioned there will be difficult times, detractors will attack, and some who claim friendship may let you down. Yet, you’ll have an Almighty God to support you, a family who cherishes you, and a nation that stands behind you – me included, he added. Obama acknowledged Bush’s words of encouragement.

Despite our distinct political beliefs, George W. Bush is truly a wonderful person and has always been kind towards me. The same goes for Laura; she’s been equally gracious to Michelle,” he remarked during an interview on Face the Nation towards the end of his second term in office. “The entire family has been exceptional.

However, it was Bush and Mrs. Obama who really became pals.

In an interview with People/Entertainment Weekly Network back in 2017, he said, “I think she has a soft spot for my sense of humor, if you will.” He added, “Anyone who appreciates my humor, I find appealing. I occasionally tease her. When I’m around, I tend to be quite playful. They’re usually surrounded by serious people, and we just clicked.

And they credit their seating arrangements for bringing them together.

Back in 2018, I shared a unique bond with President Bush, seating alongside him at all official functions due to protocol. This made us partners in crime, especially during major events where former presidents convene. We’ve spent quite a bit of time together, and I must say, I adore him deeply. He’s an exceptional man, filled with humor and warmth.

For several years now, Americans have witnessed numerous tender moments between them. Such as when they hugged during the inauguration of the National Museum of African American History and Culture in 2016, an embrace that was labeled “the globally acclaimed squeeze” by The New York Times. Or the time they made headlines after he handed her a cough drop at the funeral for Senator John McCain in 2018.

Bush remarked on Today in 2021 that it highlights how sour we’ve grown. He recalled an incident following McCain’s funeral when he offered Michelle Obama a candy. His daughter, Jenna, commented, “Hey, dad! You’re popular now,” and he replied, “I’m not sure what that means.” It was a moment of friendliness between him and Michelle Obama.

However, Michelle believes there’s a reason their friendship resonates so much with people.

Back in 2018, during an interview with The Dallas Morning News, I shared a sentiment that resonates deep within me as an ardent supporter. I believe that beneath our political affiliations and racial differences, there’s a profound unity among Americans that deserves recognition. It’s heartening to envision such a harmonious nation, and I can’t help but express my hope that we truly embody this ideal. However, it’s crucial to step out of our comfort zones to witness and experience this shared identity firsthand.

As the author of “Becoming” stated, if you solely interact with those who always agree with you and share your likeness, you’re stuck in the belief that ‘we are right, and they are wrong.’ However, when you challenge yourself to engage with different people, explore various communities, and embrace our diverse qualities, it’s then that you truly uncover the beauty of our differences.

Although her husband might not share the same closeness with Laura, there’s a straightforward reason behind that. As Bush once explained on Jimmy Kimmel’s show, “He doesn’t sit beside her at funerals.

Over time, the previous first ladies have formed a close relationship as well. At the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit in 2014, the author of “The Light We Carry” referred to her predecessor not just as a role model but also as a friend during a joint panel. Moreover, Laura Bush has discussed the sisterhood that first ladies can experience.

In 2013, she shared with the BBC that there seems to be a particular group or circle composed of former first ladies. These women share experiences and topics for discussion that are not easily understood by others due to their unique perspectives.

In the end, Michelle feels that the American public is yearning for more instances of bipartisanship.

She went on in her 2018 interview with Today, saying, “They crave what we all understand – that gathering doesn’t divide us based on factors like race, gender, or such. What sets us apart are our actions and the messages we convey. If we, as adults and role models, fail to demonstrate decency in public, we cannot demand our children to follow suit. This is always at the forefront of my mind when I consider gestures, symbols, and the significance of our words: I think about the future generation – every single time.

2025-01-25 14:19

Catch the sweet friendship between the Obamas and Bushes that’s warming hearts across the globe!

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