WASHINGTON (CNN) - CNN has learned that President-elect Barack Obama and President Bush have privately agreed to try and come together again in January for a second post-election meeting at the White House, but this time they're inviting the three living former presidents as well.
Two sources familiar with the plans tell CNN that at their first post-election meeting in the Oval Office on Nov. 10, Obama proposed that the two men get together again before the inaugural along with former presidents Jimmy Carter, George Herbert Walker Bush and Bill Clinton.
The sources said the current President quickly agreed it would be a good idea and all sides are trying to make it happen somewhere between Jan. 1 and the Jan. 20 inaugural, though coordinating the schedules of five onetime commanders-in-chief can be difficult.
The high-powered meeting is another sign of how closely the Obama and Bush teams have been working together to try and make sure the first post-9/11 transfer of power goes smoothly.
"It's been unbelievably cooperative," said one Democratic official who was not authorized to speak publicly about the private conversations between the President and President-elect.
Update, 6:36 p.m.: The White House has confirmed that the meeting will take place on January 7. "President Bush will host a lunch for President-elect Obama and former Presidents Carter, Clinton, and Bush," White House Press Secretary Dana Perino told CNN. Perino also said the White House would release additional details about the meeting as January 7 approaches.
From CNN Politics
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wow...talk about a photo op
Obama, throw a shoe while you're there.....(just kidding)
I'm glad the transition is going smoothly. Just keep your eyes and ears peeled....
AGAIN OBAMA PROVE ITS UNITE.... I LOVE U PRES-ELECT BARACK OBAMA
Good....can we ask them all to bring their original birth certificates please?
Everybody want to be a part of history. LOL
I remember my 1st. management position – I met with several previous people who filled that position in prior years.....because I didn't have a clue???
I think it's great to see them working together to make a smooth transition.
That is a very good move. it should build on the goodwill and support that the next president – Barack Obama, will need from all former presidents.
talk about wishing to be a fly on that wall, it'd be interesting to see.
Obama has some very unusualy qualities that I have not seen in politicans. He is able to bring people together for the good of the country, this is what you really call "Country First". He will do what ever it take and pull together people that can help to pull the country together.
WELL DONE PRESIDENT OBAMA!!!
Matt-
'wow…talk about a photo op'
Matt, get your head out the kool-aid! I see this meeting of future, present, and past presidents great. The transition will run smoothly. My only regret on this meeting is that they are not meeting to discuss issues like the environment and the economy.
~Lawrence in Denver
The transition always goes smoothly when it's a republican handing off to a democrat......not the case when it's a democrat handing off to a republican(see Clinton administration & Carter administration).
This will be a interesting meeting, would love to be a fly on the wall.
This is a good thing.......all the living people who've been there and done that, schooling the newby.
Excellent idea!!
Bush: Hey Buddy, Here's the keys .... I'm out of here.
trying to unite the country after deviding it so baddly.
GREAT IDEA:
GO BARACK AND JOE
interesting
Why the need to always put "living" in front of former presidents, the non-living ones weren't invited?
Give'em heck Bush!
He is The Man......
It sounds like and looks like Clinton would have the best information to suggest to Obama......Definitely not the republicans !!
Larry C.
Houston, Texas
Actually, there is more brains in a saturday barber shop than all these Washington clowns
What qualifications, other than inheiritance, does she have to be Senator? It's a little "Palinesque, " isn't it?
At least Palin had some public service and executive experience.
My Man Obama is a genius. I mean I dont care what your politically party is you have to admit to get past and presents Presidents together to iscuss a host of issues and brain storm is brilliant. now that's COUNTRY FIRST!
I believe that the former presidents should have brainstormed years ago.
if the past current and future president can come together it will show the world how a real democracy is suppose to work it will send a strong and powerful message three cheers to all of them if they pull this off usa usa usa
What a great idea! I'm glad to hear they're doing this. Although – I do hope security is tight with all these gentlemen together in one room.
Says something good about Obama's professionalism.
It will most likely go like this W. either do your job or leave now!
Aren't we tired of the Kennedy's yet? Joe Kennedy was a bootlegger who used the mafia to get JFK in office. Not to mention his sleeping with all the movies stars. Once in office, JFK slept with anyone in a skirt. Bobby Kennedy had John Kennedy's left overs. Jackie Kennedy was seeing a married man till she died. We should mention the biggest cover up in history Chappaquiddick. Remember good old Ted. These are the people our country glorifies?
This is actually a sick book if someone wrote it like it was lived without the cover ups and the lies.
Best of luck to the incoming and outgoing presidents! (Make sure all the reporters take their shoes off before the "pow wow"),
i pray that our country is finally coming together, both parties need each other, america first, it's time to stop all the name calling and get down to what is really imporant, THE AMERICAN PEOPLE.
...he is handling the transition with grace.
I don't like Bush, but he's making a good effort here, and I like it.
This is a brilliant example of a consultitive process and hopefully it reflects 'putting the country first'.
Best wishes to the incoming and out going presidents! How about making the reporters remove their shoes before the "pow wow"?
Bush got no such treatment from the outgoing Clintons.
Wow I wonder what this is about, and why isn't Gov. Palin going to be there?
Bush has no choice than to be cooperative given the mess he's leaving for the next guy.
May the five can come up with something that will help the economy
Why do I feel the current President is in for a good tongue lashing?
I didn't vote for Obama or McCain for that matter, but it is nice to see Obama transitioning into a cooperative appearance at least. This is a good face to show the world, that we change power without violence.
The campaign period was very polarizing, thanks to the RNC and DNC (including Obama), and it is good to see this change.
Now if Obama's hate bloggers here can get the message too....
This was a wonderful idea. President Bush and the three former presidents may help give Obama more insight from a new angle, to help him in starting out his term.
This meeting might help demonstrate that "the whole is greater than the sum of its parts".
I'll read about it in all the newspapers!
I can't help but notice that one looks smart and the other well, seems confused as to what is Pres-elect Obama saying! HuH!
Well it appears the PE is making every effort to be inclusive of all involved and that includes past Presidents. It has the makings for a great start and one hell of a photo op.
The Illinois Senate seat is still as messed up, however. Today Blagojevich won a battle as the state Supreme Court refused to rule that he was unfit for office, so he keeps appointment powers.
talk about a President Obama that is always thinking outside the box?! – proposing bi-partisanship and strength in the times of our greatest needs!
It just shows you that Barack Obama is light years away and ahead of how George Dubya thinks; that's why he is well suited to be the president that will lead the United States into greatness in the 21st century!
a president that will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character!
yes we can!!!!!
Why is that peanut brained moron Jimmy Carter involved in this? This idiot manages to worm his way into high profile meetings all the time and all he has to offer is a watered down southern accent and a host of failures to his credit. Send him back to Plains, GA and keep him there!
When Obama takes the office, excuses will not get ther job done. It is imperative for everyone to be on the same page – unlike the usual sort of people that post on this webpage in a juvenile fashion (mainly democrats).
I think this is an excellent idea so long as it is "give and take" and all participants bring "good ideas" to the table and get our country's priorities right and fully understand the "PEOPLES ISSUES" and gear their primary efforts to that end. Politics aside. It's about time. Having said that – I DOUBT that it will happen.
Obama again shows diplomacy and leadership. I am so very proud of Obama.
OBAMA is a smooth Brother! This just goes to show that we have a totally different type of leadership this time around...HI HATERS!!
Democrats take note this is how a republic is suppose to work.
Bush is doing everything he can to try to keep from looking like the WORST PRESIDENT EVER. Too bad he's done such a stellar job of actually being the WORST PRESIDENT EVER.
I believe this says volumes about how PE Obama thinks and works.
This is something one would never have expected from the Bush Administration.
Cheney would have been forced to shoot someone in the face had it been suggested! Even now, I would bet money that he is snearing and snickering.
We have at last a brave intelligent and thoughtful man to run our country... we have not seen such a man since Lincoln, Kennedy, and yes, Carter or Clinton! This marks a milestone for the future. Especially after the horror of the past 8 years. And that is what it has been to me.
This just in:
Bush to give Obama pointers on how to dodge shoes – news at 11pm.
I'm happy the transition is going smoothly, but not surprised. While Bush has not been the best leader, he is not vindictive. I feel he truly cares.
I do know that his administration will not trash White House offices on the way out, the way the Clinton administration did.
I did not vote for Obama, but I will support him. I just hope he lives up to all of the hype. He has talked the talk. Now its time to walk the walk.
America, look: Obama is charting a new path. He does not demonize Republicans or his opponents on the left, either - even when they try to demonize him. He ran a campaign that he would have been proud of even if he had lost - but he won. His opponent ran a campaign that he should be ashamed of - and he lost. This is a huge difference from the Bush campaigns which were despicable and immoral, and yet successful. The shameful, and yet successful Bush campaigns told Americans and the world that American voters are either stupid or evil (or some mixture of the two). The Obama campaign told Americans and the world that Americans can be trusted to make the right choice. Obama has succeeded in bringing out the best in us, rather than the worst. Please open your minds America. Stop listening to racist, immoral hate-radio, the political equivalent of the Jerry Springer show, all circus and no ideas. Stop watching Fox News, Sean Hannity, and '24'. Stop visiting Drudge and the Politico. Stop buying cynicism and hate. Start thinking and feeling again and start making America what it should have been all along.
It sounds dangerous. I don't think this is a good idea.
So I guess the right wing nuts should be saying Obama is palling around with a war criminal now
. Where is Rush when you need him?
I'm also glad the transition is going smoothly so far. With the huge problems we face in the US, getting info from multiple former presidents is a great idea.
Look out come Jan 20 the USA will change to the United Socialist States of America,with this Berkley loving corrupt Chicago poltician is in office.
This will be one of the very few times W. will not be the centre of attraction and hopefully he can learn how to be a gracious former President like his father has been.
But he shouldn't kid him self, he MUST be brought up on WAR CRIMES.
This is the right message the country needs...
You are H O T
Obama will most likely be a fine president – Bill Clinton was by far the best president of my lifetime and Bush and his son were amongst the worst EVER.
And Carter was the reason democrats could not win the White House for 15 years.
Excellent ideal!
Wonder if he will just serve coffee?
That's the picture the world need to see. I can only but imagine the historical significance of such a meeting. Good job guys. Way to go!
ITS GOOD FOR THE COUNTRY TO SEE ALL ISSUES PUT ASIDE AND MAKE AMERICA GREAT ONE ONCE AGAIN. I COMMEND ALL THE PRESIDENTS FOR THIS EFFORT.
Five onetime commanders-in-chief?
Considering Obama has never been a President, shouldn't it be 4 onetime commanders?
Just sayin.
Dude, give the President a break. True, he's not been our greatest leader, but he is a decent man. His insuring a good transition shows it, unlike his predecessor!
Good, we rise together or we fall together.
That would be a good thing for America.
From telling the Governors that he needs their help, to creating new advisory positions, to asking that the other Presidents attend the meeting...is he starting to realize that he's a Post Turtle*?
*A turtle found on top of a fence post that: 1) has no earthly reason to be there, 2) definitely didn't get there by itself, and 3) has no clue what to do now that it's up there.
I only hope the other 4 can duck quickly enough when W gets another shoe thrown at him during the photo op.
See, this is proof that Bush isn't quite the bozo some people have made him out to be. He realizes the state of this nation in a way none of us will ever be able to comprehend. I didn't vote for him either time, but come on. The man and the office deserve more respect than this nation has given them.
Obama's idea, and a good one I might add. Get ready folks...this is going to be the best we have seen and experienced in years.....
Nah for real...throw a shoe.
Well..what can I say other than Obama is putting the best interest of the country ahead in doing this. With all of them putting their heads together, including that one who shares are lion share for the mess we are currently in, it can't hurt. America has to be turned around, and I'm confident under Barack's leadership it will. He is making all the right move by reaching out to the brightest and the best.
Barrack:
Please watch out for this people, keep your ears and eye's open I know you smart, we can depend on you.
God bless
That would be interesting. Hopefully it produces something useful for the country.
Now that Obama is starting to fully understand what he is faced with as president, he now realizes how correct all of Bush's policies have been and needs to ask Bush for guidance.
This is how government is suppose to work. It is not about your side against my side, it is about coming together for the greater good and coming up with a workable plan.
Obama is a smart man. Keep your friends close and your ememies closer. America is wise to have elected him President. And all the people who still cannot accept an African American, there's a bus leaving for Europe, don't miss it. Or maybe you can just take a plane now.
this can be helpful for a president to have ideas and experience like this
Obama really is a community organizer. People we may just make it after all.
Would somebody please tell me what could be accomplished by having the three former Presidents present during this meeting.Sure
the optics appear to portray a gathering of minds getting together to
tackle the various problems of a smooth transition,but I'm more inclined to think that it will be a knee-slapping session of stories told
about each ones time in office.One problem though,somebody will
have to decipher it all for W.
Lol. This dude is gonna be great if we support him and not try to cut his knees out from under him at every chance...
Good Job Obama...Realizing that in order to run this country the right way takes thought, ideas and opinions from not only both sides of the party but past Historic Presidents as well....
So happy with the job President Elect Obama is doing. I know there will be bumps in the road along the way, but I trust him to always to what is best for the people. I Trust Him!
There will only be 4 one-time commanders in chief there. Obama won't be one until January 20th.
All the better if Obama gets some knowledge out of it.
I think I finally figured out what's wrong with Bush: they failed to find the foot in his brain when he was born.
Pres-Elect Obama – I know you are tyring to bring the nation together but please stop telling us all these Republicans love thier country and are as patriotic as the rest of us. The evidence – economic collpase, death, destruction, insecurity abroad and disarray in our military – suggest otherwise. Republicans in Washington DC represent the interests of a narrow and moneyed elite that has shown little interest in life, liberty and the purisuit of happiness for all Americans.
When will this lovefest crash? Does anyone recall how uncooperative the Clintons were during their outbound transition? The "W" keys ripped off all the keyboards, Bill stonewalling and Hillary snubbing Laura? When will the necessary and obvious contrast in character be highlighted?
Its refreshing to know that Bush is treating the Obama transition team with respect by providing access and availability. Too bad Bush's predecessor (Clinton) declined to afford him the same courtesy.
Obama is a really smart guy. No one else did that... but of course, it makes perfect sense. What a good idea.
W quickly agrees because the more poeple involved the less has to speak. When it's his turn he will say " WHAT DO YOU THINK DADDY?
Jimmy,
Hate to tell you, but Economic Collapse came after 2 years of a Dem. Congress.
Jimmy, whether you love or hate Republicans, nothing can be gained in these times by impugning the patriotism or motives of Republicans. Obama is facing an uphill battle and doesn't need to place any more political boulders in his path than are already there.
I really hope Muntadhar al-Zaidi gets invited as a special guest!
Obama has some pretty big shoes – maybe he can be taught to hit Bush at 4 yards!
No, but seriously – I'm not sure what your definition of "unbelievably cooperative" is, but I am sure that it's not issuing bill after bill to prevent Obama to undo Bush's destruction. Bush and Cheney belong in prison.
All party affiliations aside........This will be a great showing of unity to the american people. I applaud each of the presidents, past, present and future that are coming to the aid of america in these times of dire need. In a time when we need hope, these are the four men we most need to see and hear tell us....."It will be ok".
God Bless!
A historic meeting - wishing you the best PE Obama.
I just wish Bush would stop fudging things up before he leaves.
Obama-mama
He can't help keeping those ears peeled... LOL
He can hear me typing right now!
Jimmy, politicians in general represent the interests of a narrow and moneyed elite, and the Republicans aren't responsible for everything going wrong, though they've become the group we love to hate nowadays. Obama has the right idea. He should be listening to anyone that has had experience leading our country, which by the way, has got to be the hardest job in the world
Will they all be required to leave their shoes at the door?
Jimmy Carter doesn't really like Clinton, Clinton doesn't like Obama, and the Bushes don't like Carter, Clinton and Obama...
would love to be a fly on the wall in that meeting...lol
You know, I found Bush's presidency offensive, but I'll be the first to give him a few points for his efforts to cooperate through the transition.
Oh geez... I can only imagine what their poor schedulers will have to go through in order to get all these men together in one place.
obama-mama: wouldn't it be great if everyone showed up on 1/20/2009 with a shoe in hand to wave buh-bye to Bush?
I wish Bush would just go away.
Super Friends Unite!! This should be interesting...
I hope everyone keeps their shoes on
Jimmy: Do you honestly, *really* believe that? I'm an independent with friends and family that run the entire political gamut: All the way from the most Liberal Democrats to the most Conservative Republicans, and the bottom line is, they all love their country, and want what's best for their people. Yes, even most of the ones in Washington. The fundamental disagreements are over semantics and methodology. I'm certainly glad that Obama has a more enlightened and inclusive outlook than you do.
Obama is pragmatic. To some extent, I would like to see him signaling a more liberal administration that he has so far. But at the same time, I think he recognizes that pulling the country together is the most important thing right now. We have got to start talking rather than screaming at each other.
President-elect Barrack Obama is handling himself like no other! I love his truly "presidential" ways! Surely this country can get back on a decent track with Obama in the lead.
I think that it would be nice for the two to meet I certainly would like to me President George W. Bush in person. I like bush he reminds me of myself I don't care what knowone say's about me either as for Obama I think he'll do find the country is depending on him to pull us through this economic mess.
"The sources said the current President quickly agreed "
So this idea came from Obama's camp? Reaching across the aisle and listening to other's? That's a CHANGE
This may sound like good news from the transition teams but it signals something much worse. To involve every living president speaks of the desperation our government is having and will have over its attempts to salvage the economy. The January meeting looks more like preparation for the funeral of a nation.
How fascinating and as it should be. We are Americans first and need to work together on OUR issues. This is one of the changes the American people want and need. Left, Right, Media, whatever. Cut the crap, not interested in sideshows however interesting to the Media. Let's get down to taking care of some very serious issues. We are interested in every Cabinet pick even if the Media is not....
I'm glad that it was clarified "three living former presidents". It wouldn't be appropriate to invite any of those who are not living.
If GW is going to be present, be sure to have everyone take off their shoes before they get to attend the meeting...
HOW CAN A PRESIDENT WITH ZERO CREDITABILITY GIVE ANY DIRECTION. OBAMA WILL TREAT THIS LIKE A COFFEE BREAK.GEORGE BUSH SHOULD CONCENTRATE ON THE WHITE HOUSE DOORS NOT HITTING HIM ON HIS EXIT.
Not much is going to be agreed upon in that room; all of those men have very different ideologies. And that's not a bad thing, however, that meeting will just be more politial schmoozing. I highly doubt they will talk policies. Also, could this be a very inexperienced President Elect wanting to inform himself? Well, good for him if those are his intentions, however, if he thinks he is going to bring "peace" between these men and their ideologies-FAT CHANCE.
...they should include their living spouses!!!
Sounds like an intervention to me. Maybe a bit late, but it's about time someone knocks some sense into Bush Jr.
Hmmm ... And why hasn't Bush been this cooperative in the last eight years?
This sounds epic
Obama needs all the training he can get. He will steal all of the good ideas and call them his.
I think the American people (along with the rest of the world) are going to see alot of historical moments during the next 4 to 8 years. Welcome to the 21st century! I'm glad we are able to have a President in waiting that is going to be awesome!
The Bushies are digging the hole so deep for Obama just so they can say we told you so come 2012, when they pull another Bushie out of their hat,our dear friend Jeb.This was all planned.
I simply can not believe that no matter what President-Elect Obama does, a certain segment will find a gloom and doom scenario.
This collection of Presidents will not let personal disagreements taint an historic meeting. This is a very exclusive "club" and their unique experiences will be shared Only the foolish think that Obama will not pick up some insight ... or that this gathering is a terrible idea.
This sets the stage for people to start behaving as Americans and not like the RNC who has not recognized that the election is over.
gary
I think it has less to do with agreeing with bushes idiotic policies and more to find out what they ARE since most of them were done behind closed doors! I believe this is the change Obama spoke about, getting input from ANYONE who has knowledge of a situation and then taking the best and putting it into action. This is why I crossed party lines and it shows that, so far, not only am I right, I was correct! Now if only we can get the hate mongers and the hype spewers (Limbaugh etc) to stop for a minute and actually discuss the things going on instead of vilifying those who do not agree with thier, limited, point of view we would have a chance of moving forward as a nation united instead of parties divided!
All president's should throw their shoes at Bush!!!
Obama is scared!!
Yes, Obama is being presidential: aligning himself photographically with four other people who can help establish his appearance and authority as Chief Executive. Nothing wrong with this – it's politics – however, we shouldn't expect much substantive dialogue out of it.
Inviting all former presidents to the White House isn't historic, just rare. But it will help keep the lines of communication open – and late-night conversations between the Oval and the former presidents' homes is what will yield some good advice for Obama.
CAN YOU PLEASE TELL BARACK THAT I LOVE HIM TO DEATH, BUT PLEASE DO NOT DYE HIS HAIR AGAIN. IT LOOKS FAKE HE LOOKS TOO YOUNG AND I LOVE HIS GRAY HAIR!!!! THIS IS IMPORTANT!
Oh Yes! This move by President-elect Barack Obama to bring together former presidents together is a move towards the right direction to bring the ailing American Nation together. This Great Nation must come together with its past and presence. This is a wise initiative that is bipartisan. May God Himself bless Obama and the work in his hands afterall the American Nation trusts in God!
The new prez continues to amaze me.
Obama shows his UNIFYING AMERICA PLAN. This kind of approach to buildup American name again overseas. Jimmy Carter is there to advise Obama on FOREIGN POLITICS. I always happy to see Carter anywhere because he is a real HUMAN to understand the worth of PEACE. He is not a JINGOIST but a practical person.
Bush and his cow boys destroyed USA but Carter and his team try to buildup the pride of USA Obama will listen to Carter to know the heart beat of the nation as well as the world!
"Prominent liberal groups and gay rights proponents criticized President-elect Barack Obama Wednesday for choosing evangelical pastor Rick Warren to deliver the invocation at the presidential inauguration next month."
Okay...so who did they wanted to deliver the invocation, Rev. Wright or Louis Farrakhan?
Frank, the only one who mentioned race on this blog was you. When are you guys going to accept that anyone who criticizes Obama isn't a racist?
Scott, you praise Obama for not demonizing Republicans and then do exactly that. Hey, your picture is in the dictionary under 'hypocrasy'.
Would all you Bush-bashers rather that Bush were uncooperative? If so, please check your American citizenship at the door. America and Obama needs all the help they can get.
Scott Zimmerle good post I see you are actually thinking, nice to see thought for a change on these post instead of flames. thank You
dan just reverse what I said to Scott for your post. A suggestion: maybe if you stopped spouting nonsense and dropped your prejudice against anyone who doesn't subscribe to your philosophies you might see that only by supporting each other, even in disagreement, can we grow as a country.
gary and others who say that his "inexperiance and fear made him call this meeting" really need to try and look at things through a slightly different perspective. Maybe oyu can see that he is trying to be INCLUSIVE, get input from all sides, and therefore is doing what he can to ensure he hits the ground running and that the country begins the recovery process as soon as possible. he is NOt a God, and no one expects him to wave a majic wand and solve all the problems but he is a man who is trying to ensure he makes the best moves for this country and try to bring out the best in each of us, to get us to lookbeyound party, race, sex whatever to see America for what it can be.
Prominent liberal groups and gay rights proponents criticized President-elect Barack Obama Wednesday for choosing evangelical pastor Rick Warren to deliver the invocation at the presidential inauguration next month."
Okay...so who did they wanted to deliver the invocation, Rev. Wright or Louis Farrakhan?
I disagree with some of Bush's policys, and I voted for Obama. That being said, I disagree with anyone who would think it was good to have some reporter throw a shoe at our president. Of all the American Troops that died over there for those people and they throw a shoe at our president. I bet they would have never done that with their previous leader(who I'm sure they are glad to be rid of)! The one we got rid of for them, because they couldn't do it.
Well I'm all for this meeting, but the only advice that President Obama is going to get from Bush and Bush Sr. is "what not to do" advice. Clinton will still be mad at Obama for not letting him have his 3rd term and he will also be mad because Obama will steal Clinton's title of "best president in recent memory".
This is a photo op, but a very, very important photo op for the nation at such difficult times. The symbolism of seeing 5 members of that exclusive club together is very powerful because it reminds us that we're all in this together.
I see by most of these comments that the left has finally got religion.
Which of these two men should already be in prison for war crimes?
To Texas Teacher – I am suprised by your comment. With your past comments, you blast anything and everything Republican no matter how good the idea might be. Yet, you actually called Lincoln a greate president. Guess what? He was a Republican. Sorry to burst your bubble.
Some of you nut jobs just don't get it! (Although I will admit, that was funny Anonymous).
This man is actually living out what he said. He said that he did not care where he got input from, but that he would get it for the benefit of the country. Not for his legacy, not for his ego, not for his own glorification, but for this great country of ours.
You have to respect that, unless you are of the belief that he has to do it all by his lonesome to get some kind of recognition. I don't think he wants to steal ideas, he wants to put good ideas into practice. I don't think he wants to schmooze, he wants to learn about the victories and defeats of those who came before him.
I began as a McCain supporter, but this guy is IMPRESSIVE. Black, white, green, yellow, fuchsia, it does not matter what is the color of his skin if he is able to right this ship. Let's agree on that......
yesterday and today I get hung up in moderation, i thought I was pretty mild.
I think this is great! I am not a fan of his, but enough of the partisanship in this country!! Liberals want the anti Bush, but all that will accomplish is dividing the country even more. Inclusive is the way to go, and it appears Obama is trying to make that happen.
I liked your post, Alice Newman Center, until you ended it by trying to make the RNC look bad. Both Democrats and Republicans have been showing post-election partisanship. Just read the comments on this board and see how hateful Democrats can be as well as Republicans.
Obama has some pretty decent ideas, doesn't he? I think this meeting is going to mark the beginning of truly bi-partisan talks, considering that change occurs from the top down as well as from the bottom up. too bad Ronald Reagan isn't still alive. It would have been interesting to see what an effect his presence in such a meeting would have among those who worship his legacy.
Scott Zimmerle:
In your response you say,
"Stop listening to racist, immoral hate-radio, the political equivalent of the Jerry Springer show, all circus and no ideas. Stop watching Fox News, Sean Hannity, and '24′. Stop visiting Drudge and the Politico. Stop buying cynicism and hate. Start thinking and feeling again and start making America what it should have been all along."
There is FAR more hate coming from this blog that I have EVER experienced from Hannity or any of the others you mention. If you (Liberals) are going to preach against hate (i.e. Republicans), you all better think twice before submitting what I read on EVERY SINGLE blog and practice what you preach. Otherwise, you're simply a hypocrite.
Have you noticed that Obama stopped criticizing Bush after his first intelligence briefing. After that, he announced that Gates would stay on and many security policies will continue as is. Obviously, he heard something that changed his mind. Maybe you rabid Bush haters should actually open your hate-filled mind and maybe someday you might change yours. This is asking a lot considering the childish, idiotic, comments on these bloggs.
With their powers combined they are Captain Planet!!
OOOHHH. Bill is going. I bet Hillary is gonne sit home that night upset that she doesn't get to go to the secret white-house meetings too.
>>"It's been unbelievably cooperative," said one Democratic official who was not authorized to speak publicly about the private conversations between the President and President-elect."
Shows you how crazy the Dems are, they expected Bush to not be cooperative? He has never been slimey. Not so smart perhaps, too dependent on his staff, and overreacted on Iraq. Americans were all hiding under our covers during the antrax attacks and most people were for the war. Democrats voted for it – even under Clinton they enacted the law for change in the Iraq regime.
Recall it was Clinton's people that ransacked the White House on his way out (and Rubin ruined our banking laws to get his job at Citibank). If I were Bush, I'd take a few W's from the keyboards on my way out!
Having a bigot pig like Rick Warren is the salt on my wounds. This religious pig voted my right to marry away. I hate him, and his sexless flock that supported prop 8!
Don't you get it ???? Obama is keeping his enemies INSIDE the tent !!!!
Oh, to be a fly on the wall....
While it doesn't sound as pithy, it would be more correct to say that the schedules being coordinated belong to three former, one current, and one future commanders-in-chief.
This is a smart move for someone who wants to appear powerful and appear to be a listener. But it is all just appearances. In with the new boss, same as the old boss – but slicker at handling cameras and political influence peddling.
Expect nothing to come of this. It means nothing and no decisions will come from it.
I wonder if the shoe-throwing guy ever tried doing that to Saddam. He can thank Bush for freedom of the the press.
I bet Bill Clinton will find a way out of this one. He doesn't want obama to be in that presidential picture because it will add to his stature, and further diminish him from being the last great president. Hey Bill ! Obama's gonna be on mount rushmore and a dollar bill one day, so what do you think about that.
Flex: Warren didn't do away with your "right" to marry people like you did! Because you and your ilk tend to brand everyone who disagrees with you as the Spawn of Satan quite frankly you turn off even those of us who support your efforts to gain inclusion. Chill out. You may have lost a battle but the war is far from over.
Flex: Warren didn't do away with your "right" to marry, people like you with your sour attitude towards anyone who disagrees with you did that! Quit branding everyone who disagrees with you as the Spawn of Satan. You may have lost a battle but the war is far from over.
Flex: Ya know what? Even those of us who support your efforts to gain inclusion are getting tired of you and your ilk branding everyone who disagrees with you as the Spawn of Satan. The gay community would be better served if you checked your emotions at the door. You're not going to win over everyone...and eventually I believe society will see things your way. But the longer you carry on irrational diatribes against those who oppose you, the longer it will take for you to reach your goals.
TO FLEX: I could say mean and hateful things to you and your beliefs but I will not do so. The only thing I will say is wrong is wrong! Please take it any way you see fit. Now as far as all the Pres. meeting I think it is a good idea maybe they can give Obama advice on what NOT TO DO in office...like cheating on is wife, destroying America's economic status and creating false wars just to name a few things!
i am a very big supporter of both clintion and obama. its sad to see american talking that way. The clintion has done so much for this country, in for someone to say something bad about the clinton or obama its sad. I feel that obama is doing a good job and i hope he make it all the way, especially the education system because i am a college student , working two jobs, trying to pay my way to school.
Meh. Sounds like a big circle jerk to me. Still, credit to Obama for suggesting the idea and hearing out a lot of different points of view.
And just when you thought Barak Obama couldn't get any smarter....
Obama, dont louse your confidence man ,kee your faith however the chalenge is bigger...
Phil – You hope security is tight??? It's the White House for gawd's sake. I believe it was last attacked in 1812.
Of course it's been "unbelievably cooperative"; Bush is a gentleman and true patriot. he will continue to do whatever is best for this country.
GARY ,YOU MUST HAVE FORGOT TO TAKE YOUR MEDS AGAIN DUDE, BECAUSE YOU ARE OUT OF IT PAL LOL !!!
good job, O...a very diplomatic move
Way to go Barack
americans seem to be at their best...when things are at their worst...
i'm waiting to witness ANYthing constructive coming out of american GOVT....when things are at their worst...
thx 4 all the good times, bush...now the get the H*LL out of town..
scott
Maybe its just me, but as a foreigner, a close neighbour but a foreigner nonetheless, I see this meetng totally different than most Americans posting here. I don't think this is intented so much for American domestic consumption, as it is for world consumption. To me, it shows America's solidarity and common purpose to the whole world. A pride builder for Americans and a lesson in democracy world-wide.
Flex, Warren's "sexless flock"? – are you kidding? isn't that the pot calling the kettle black – as for prop 8, I heard the Netherlands is nice this time of year...
ya know.... I for one am glad to see the President and Obama getting along so well. Id love to chat with Obama now and see how he feels about President Bush. Id be willing to bet Obama see's things differently on this side of the election.
Prolly got a big wake up call once he starting being briefed daily on national security...
If I were President Bush, I'd refuse to be anywhere near Carter as he's said and done things publicly that a former President should never say. And to think he used to be one of the former Presidents I admired most for his kindness. He doesn't deserve to stand with President Clinton, President-elect Obama or both Presidents Bush.
teach something to that idiot Obama
I am officially impressed by PE Obama!
Oh to be a fly on that wall! There is strength in unity!
I am so sick of gays and the liberals. I did not realize how much Bit***ing they do. Majority of Americans are in the middle. I voted for a Obama. Give the man a break. He did speak up for gays. What else do you want??? I now be an independent no longer a Democrat. I can deal with civil unions, but marriage needs to be between a man and a woman. Shut up and please quit complaining. Also, please quit comparing black people to gays. Maybe some people but many people cross over. It is a fad. If not why is do some people leave the gay lifestyle. I was born black. Oh yeah that's right you were born gay. Unless I bleach my skin like Michael Jackson, I will remain black. Many kids are turning gay because of the media.
I am not a bigot, but I am tired of being forced to accept your life style. This is America and we should all be able to live together, but enough is enough! I am starting to hate liberals! If Republicans get rid of the bigots I will definitely cross over. I do not want to hate anyone, but I do want a party with more family values.
Dems or Repubs, both parties (including the third parties) all want the SAME thing: A better country. Sure each has a different viewpoint on how to make America better, but we must UNITE and stop our childish behavior in a GLOBAL economic crisis (Dems and Reps. should clean up the old, and fish in the new). Obama's selection of a pastor with an opposition to gay marriage shows that he wants EVERYONE's opinions. Not every Democrat favors gay marriage, not every republican wants it banned. I'm not trying to sound rude but, our economy and the war are much more important. We'll handle the marriage thing later.
Should have been Hillary
DP – You do know that the Republican party of Lincoln basically became today's Democratic party?
SMOOTH MOVE OBAMA
This is an attempt by President-Elect Obama to build consensus at the highest level of national leadership. It is a smart move.
Obama don't want to repeat the mistakes of past leaders, so he keeps the previous Presidents close by and query them for opinions on critical issues, and also get their insight in avoiding political landmines. This guy is really sharp.
President Bush is the best, so much better than Obama. Bush is making the transition easier for obama, but Bush is a true gentleman.
I'm just sorry he is leaving the White House. And I'm sorry obama is coming to the white house.
Its hard to understand the job of president if you havnt been president – whatever side of the isle you may live on. Getting that pool of knowledge together in one room (regardless of what you may think about certain participants) is a remarkably good idea. I think they will find they have much more in common by the experience of their office than they will ideological differences.
I dont know what will come of it, but perhaps Obama just wants to kind of have a meet-n-greet, and perhaps call on these men and their experience in the future. I think its an ace move both politically and practically.
This is leadership... the stuff we need from our government. President-Elect Obama show great understanding of what knowledges and ideas can be part of a decision making process.
Ed,
It's not "try AND come together...", it's "try TO come together". Either try to do it, or actually do it.
This is a good image for our Country and for the foreign dignitaries who are watching this partiuclar transition closely. We are the "United States of America!" In spite of many differences, our former presidents, sitting president, and president-elect should have a display a cordial relationship.
That's awesome. GObama for a brilliant idea! We need all the help we can get to clean up after W.
Having recently moved into a position of significant leadership myself, my first goal was getting all of the existing leadership (and any former leadership) together so that I could get a better idea of the challenges they faced, who is doing what, how well do they do it, and how things currently work before I step in and start messing with it. I think he is doing the right thing and it has little to do with inexperience. It is actually the most efficient way to learn. The best leaders will surround themselves with people as smart or smarter and more experienced than themselves in the areas they may be weak. Inexperienced leaders step in and try to control everything they do not understand without first getting the lay of the land. I did not vote for Obama, but I am starting to think that so far, he is making wise decisions in his approach. I can only hope it will continue. The future of -our- Country depends on it whether you are Republican or Democrat or Indifferent.
everyday i feel even prouder
Obama gives me hope!!!!!
God Bless America again!!!!
i wonder if hillary is coming with bill... she can start making plans for 2012 and 2016
Awesome.
Hahaha, Fernando wins this comment thread, without question! Captain Planet... Heh.
Freedom for all to tell their opinions. But some posts are motivated through HATE philosophies. Anyway time will heal the American bad thinking!
CHANGE HAS COME TO THE USA – PEOPLE WORKING TOGETHER!
Bravo, Mr. President!
His recent actions are causing me to recall why I voted for him in 2000 – for the past several years, I tried to rationalize it away as temporary insanity.
He deserves enormous credit for the manner in which he's handling this transition, particularly during these extraordinarily challenging times.
Wait a minute. I just voted in the cnn. story of the year and I see in the results that the war in Iraq is not in the top 10. My son is in Iraq as I type and the 45,000 voters don't think that Iraq rates in the top 10 news stories. Now this is Bush's failure. What a disgrace. That pompous moron struts around the White House and my son is risking his life in Iraq for NOTHING!!!!!!!
Hey Mesa.......The reason the Dems got so many elected in 2006, is beause the voters could see what was happening to our great country. They just didn't have enough Dems to get their work done. So now, with more Dems and PE Obama, we all have hope that CHANGE will happen. Get real, Mesa.
I think Obama is giving the media some catnip while we all wait for W to leave.
I also want to comment on Obama picking Warren to deliver the prayer – Obama is no fool. I personally distrust Warren after the "cone of silence" debacle, but Obama realizes that Warren, for better or worse, is the upcoming leader of the Evangelical movement, and after the extremists and hypocrites they had in the past Warren is actually a breath of fresh air on most issues. Obama realizes that one day when he needs help with things like fighting global warming, guys like Rick Warren will come in very handy.
This also makes it a lot harder for windbags like Rush Limbaugh to spread their hate to the Evangelicals, who are a large part of the 30% who still like Bush. If Obama can split the Evangelicals from the Republican party he will have achieved a HUGE Democratic victory for the future. All you lefties who don't trust Obama need to start thinking a few steps ahead – politics is chess, sometimes his moves are not obvious, but one day you'll say "ah haaa".
If something can document a low IQ, is the gloating and mentioning the shoe issue using any excuse to do so, There seem to be a lot of people on this blog proud of their lack of intelligence !
Of course, they are doing exactly what the SADRist or AL QAEDAs intended when sending this patheic Iraqi to the Press conference