January 6, 2009
Posted: 02:26 PM ET

From
Jimmy Carter, George H. W. Bush, and Bill Clinton will meet with Barack Obama and President Bush for a private gathering in the Oval Office.
Jimmy Carter, George H. W. Bush, and Bill Clinton will meet with Barack Obama and President Bush for a private gathering in the Oval Office.

(CNN) –- Talk about a power lunch. President Bush, President-elect Barack Obama and three living former presidents will meet in the Oval Office for a private gathering on Wednesday afternoon.

Former presidents Jimmy Carter, George Herbert Walker Bush and Bill Clinton will join Obama and Bush at the White House for lunch. Obama initially came up with the idea that all of the men get together after meeting with President Bush last month.

White House Spokeswoman Dana Perino said the current and former leaders will gather for a photo op in the Rose Garden, but that their conversation and meal will be private. She said she doesn’t know what they will talk about, but she said she’d love to be able to hear it.

“I'm sure all of us would love to be flies on the wall and listening to that conversation,” Perino said during Tuesday’s daily press briefing. “These are leaders who only understand what it's like to be in each others shoes and none of us can put ourselves in those shoes.”

Perino speculated that they will discuss what it’s like to raise children in the White House and how to protect them. She praised the Obamas for doing a good job with that so far and said they got their daughters to their first day of school on Monday “in good fashion.”

Perino said the last time all of the living presidents got together was in 1981, and called Wednesday’s meeting a “historic moment.”

Filed under: Barack Obama • Bill Clinton • Dana Perino • Popular Posts • President Bush


richard rohde   January 6th, 2009 4:29 pm ET

Proud American is such a jerk, isn't there some sort of George Soros sponsored board he can go to. Oh wait this is it.

CThompson   January 6th, 2009 4:28 pm ET

There is not much that I would not give to be at that luncheon

Meh   January 6th, 2009 4:28 pm ET

Well, I HOPE they're living presidents! Which other ones would they invite?! haha Oh, CNN…

S Callahan> No thanks. Church and State are supposed to be separate.

People who can't see that Obama is already a leader must be blind. The very fact that he wanted to bring all these men together, despite the fact that he may not agree w. their politics, is a tribute to his leadership skills.

Not sure why people are bashing Carter, either. He seems like a stand-up guy. Perhaps not the best pres (I don't remember…before my time), but still…not a bad guy. At least give him props for his diplomacy skills?

father j   January 6th, 2009 4:27 pm ET

obama obama obama obama obama obama!!!

arc, Lugano CH   January 6th, 2009 4:27 pm ET

TCM January 6th, 2009 2:58 pm ET
…and experience at running……..what? A newspaper? I heard he only ran the Harvard paper because no one else wanted the job;
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
'Harvard Paper'… I think you mean the Harvard Law Review.

TCM, you’re a bloody riot! That's rich! Rich I tell you! Rich like Creme Anglaise!

Mmmmmmmmm.

Mari   January 6th, 2009 4:25 pm ET

@ MESSIAH WATCH……….. PLEASE STOP WITH THE 'MESSIAH' REFERENCES! YOU INSULT CHRISTIANS. SINCE YOU ARE A FAR-RIGHT-NUT……. YOU ARE LIKELY 'CHRISTIAN' ……. SO STOP USING GOD'S SON NAME IN VAIN!

PRESIDENT-ELECT OBAMA IS A BRILLIANT MAN, WHOSE MESSAGE RESONATED WITH THE MAJORITY OF AMERICAN PEOPLE!

HOPE WON! HOPE TRUMPS FEAR, HATE, LIES & DIVISION!!

Independant from NY   January 6th, 2009 4:21 pm ET

Chuck @ 3:42 pm

At any cost? Perhaps you should tally up the costs in civilian lives and you may think differently. You act as though concepts such as terrorism/fundamentalism are finite resources that disappears as soon as the last soldier is dead. They aren't. All Israel is doing is creating a new generation of militants with a bigger chip on their shoulder. I'm a Jew but the Israeli government deserves whatever consequence arrives from this detestable act of war. This will only get deeper. You think the billions we give to Israel in military aid is a wise investment given our economy?

shucks   January 6th, 2009 4:21 pm ET

3 presidents, 1 president elect, and one war crimes criminal.

deonterryo thompson im a blackman!   January 6th, 2009 4:20 pm ET

and the said a black man will never be president

Anonymous   January 6th, 2009 4:19 pm ET

Good for you Rodger. We should all stop the name calling and poking fun of… we need to be in alignment with one another.

I voted for Obama, and feel he's making some good choices so far – specifically, trying to understand the conflicting viewpoints of others, then making an educated decision with all the information being taken into consideration. This is what this meeting is all about.

On the flip side, I'm very concerned about the views of many I'm seeing posting here. Obama supporters need to be VERY careful. Obama is not the silver bullet that will set the world right. Once he takes office, the world will not suddenly be a bright, shiny, happy place like many supporters seem to expect. He is just a man with a seemingly unending list of daunting tasks ahead of him. He can only do so much. I caution you – do not look to him as a Messiah, or you will be very disappointed, and might even grow to resent him in the end.

All we can do is hope the leaders of this country can come together and be more in alignment with one another than we have been historically.

Tabula Rasa   January 6th, 2009 4:16 pm ET

Holy Smokes! A leader who talks to others with experience? A president who seeks the counsel of his predecessors? I love how the hate-filled sore loser conservatives are trying to spin this with infantile jokes and aspersions. Good for Obama – this shows the kind of maturity, self confidence, leadership, and willingness to listen that has not been seen in the White House for 8 years.

Matt   January 6th, 2009 4:14 pm ET

@ fogressive

On the contrary. The two parties have both changed dramatically. History is an overlooked subject. Today's Dems are closer to Lincoln's Reps than today's Reps are, and have changed from the party that was arguably more racist into the party that clearly supports diversity more. Today's Reps ascribed to the "neocon" label, which loosely translated means "we'll talk about family values and play up the bible-belt and southern racist one-issue-voter issues to divy up the voters along domestic lines all while acting in the most fiscally non-conservative manner, promoting war and borrowing our country into oblivion so we can make our rich oil baron friends more money via the war machine economy."

Odious   January 6th, 2009 4:14 pm ET

But where is Obam's illegal immigrant aunt?.. January 6th, 2009 3:15 pm ET
SOMEONE IS HIDING HER ILLEGALLY—SHE WAS DEPORTED 4 YEARS AGO AND HAS MANAGED TO LIVE IN PUBLIC HOUSING AT TAXPAYER EXPENSE—-
WHO'S HIDING HER ILLEGALLY? TELL US CNN–WON'T YOU?

You can find her name and address on the internet…. go see her for yourself if you are so concerned. I have the address of a few million other people and their children you may want to pay a visit to as well.
Get a job you bum.

Odious   January 6th, 2009 4:11 pm ET

TX4Obama January 6th, 2009 3:08 pm ET
I am very offended to be called "the blind" as I voted for President Obama, and I will vote again for him in 2012.
Happy days are here again.

No worries… when he said blind he meant color blind.
You're ok.

reggie   January 6th, 2009 4:09 pm ET

way too much partisanship…

Odious   January 6th, 2009 4:08 pm ET

Chicago January 6th, 2009 2:55 pm ET
Canary- I think you meant Bush when you talk about leading the blind.

No, Bush led the DUMB … twice.

Mike, Syracuse NY   January 6th, 2009 4:08 pm ET

Humored in Texas January 6th, 2009 3:41 pm ET
AKA – The Bushes get taken to school!!!
And in typical Bush fashion, they will learn nothing!!!
———————————————————————–
Hey, pinhead. They aren't the ones who need to learn something. Between them the ex and current President have 24 years experience in the toughest job on Earth. Barry has zero time on the job. The smartest thing Barry can do is shut his mouth and open his ears. Good advice for you too by the way.

Proud American   January 6th, 2009 4:06 pm ET

Patrick H – Wow every since you were promoted to Walmat Greeter all you do is put other people down. One day I'm going to own a double wide to you just watch and see.

Janak Doshi   January 6th, 2009 4:05 pm ET

This will make us united besides Republican/Democratic party. The world will see USA WITH GREAT RESPECT. Currently, we have high-level corruption, unethical leader/corporate Executive, unreal Executive bonuses and bankrupt corporation like lehman broth-AIG, Fannie mae, Fannie Mac, dishonest Leader, unreal lobbing HEALTH CARE system-out rageous charges. Thease all needs to be resolve with kind heart. Can any one you do that????
May god bless you all.

Doshi

Odious   January 6th, 2009 4:05 pm ET

curious January 6th, 2009 2:36 pm ET
why the limo which Obama will be using is different than the previous presidents used? He is so much wanted and loved, so why is this paranoid fear?…….just curious

Same reason they killed Jesus…

Charlie in Maine   January 6th, 2009 4:04 pm ET

Great, When I comapare Obama to past presidents I am delighted be the way he combines the great qualities of past Presidents. The ideals of JFK, the political cunning of LBJ,the drive of Nixon,the courage of Ford,the honestey of Carter, the communicative ability of Regan, the honor of Bush Sr.,the compassion of Clinton and in two weeks the office of George W. Bush

MikeH   January 6th, 2009 4:04 pm ET

What's another way to spell Phoney Idiot Troll?

Answer: TCM

BC in NC   January 6th, 2009 4:01 pm ET

Good move. No matter whose idea it was.

Mix   January 6th, 2009 4:00 pm ET

If sum of ewe wood channul your hatread into lerning how ta spel, your comentz might maik cents

By the way, anybody know if Barry picked out that puppy yet? The suspense is killing me

A Canuck   January 6th, 2009 3:58 pm ET

So many of you guys just won't accept the fact that Obama has a brilliant mind and will be the most productive President the USA HAS EVER HAD.

Neotards Abound   January 6th, 2009 3:57 pm ET

TCM-why don't you go back to duct taping your doors and windows? Or better yet, get back to your Walmart greeter job so that you can afford the meds you so desperately need. It is precisely your kind of hateful drivel that voters rejected in this past election. Get a clue AND a grip

obama-mama   January 6th, 2009 3:57 pm ET

George Sr. should put jr. on punishment for life.

What Next...   January 6th, 2009 3:55 pm ET

The only concern that I have is that there was an article yesterday or toady that was pointing out that with all of the additional tax breaks or bail outs if you will, our national deficit will be close to $7 trillion….

Enough already.

Obama won, said and down (frown). Hopefully we will prove us wrong, but I doubt it. Does anyone remember when he was talking about a civilian security force that will match the military…..can anyone remember the Brown shirts in Germany…..

Ed in Atlanta   January 6th, 2009 3:54 pm ET

Will Dick Cheney be there to speak for "W"?

PA Law   January 6th, 2009 3:53 pm ET

Very fitting. Despite all the differences, we have to stick together to get through this time. And, we can disagree without being disagreeable. Whatever we may think about the various men that have held this position, there is a certain respect due them all.

Problem solved   January 6th, 2009 3:52 pm ET

When will the world community reject terror?

Proud American   January 6th, 2009 3:52 pm ET

Bush has to make himself look presidental show how. This is nothing more than a photo opt for the little Idiot. Move On.

Amber   January 6th, 2009 3:51 pm ET

Proud American,

I sit on the same "side" as you, and from me and everyone else on the left who is fed up with this repeating garbage…

SHUT UP!

Just SHUT UP already!! We won! Who cares? There's nothing more annoying than a sore winner, and if you want to "get revenge" for Bush's atrocities, then go out and VOLUNTEER or something. Put solar panels on your house. ANYTHING. But just SHUT UP already because you're not helping anyone.

YOU are the problem, YOU are creating the rift, and Obama would shake his head at you if he were reading your bilious commentary.

Blayze Kohime   January 6th, 2009 3:50 pm ET

They're having dinner together. Its just dinner. Anyone that turns this into a bashing contest needs to see about getting help for their obsession. Especially you, Messiah Watch, you seem to have a comment on every page of political commentary I skim. I really hope you get the help you need.

Peace Out!!   January 6th, 2009 3:49 pm ET

@But where is Obam's illegal immigrant aunt?.. January 6th, 2009 3:15 pm ETSOMEONE IS HIDING HER ILLEGALLY—SHE WAS DEPORTED 4 YEARS AGO AND HAS MANAGED TO LIVE IN PUBLIC HOUSING AT TAXPAYER EXPENSE—-WHO'S HIDING HER ILLEGALLY? TELL US CNN–WON'T YOU?****Where is Yo MAMA Shut The H_LL Up go take A SH_T Cuz You are Full of it ****This is an Historic Moment …….Enjoy your Lunch PREZ!!!!

Virginia   January 6th, 2009 3:49 pm ET

For those of you who continue bashing the Bushes, please remember that this meeting was OBAMA's idea, and I would think that all the dems out there would be proud of their man. For goodness sake, it is just lunch!

Janak Doshi   January 6th, 2009 3:48 pm ET

see comment just submitted

Janak Doshi   January 6th, 2009 3:47 pm ET

After a long time some got a sense of Humar. It's great and honor to have a living presidents meeting. This will exmplify the world about UNITED AMERICA is for the people, by the people and with the people. This will help to resolve health care, economic and housing crisis. These crisis are under water of corruption, unethical, power hunger, unreal executive bonuses, corporate failure with dishonesty, lobbyest and un-real price increase of Oil and Gas.
America needs A REAL-HERO PRESIDENT who would heatly faithful like Mahatma Gandhi and get us out under water crisis.
May God bless all living president.
Doshi

Adele, Brooklyn   January 6th, 2009 3:44 pm ET

I think this was a great thing to share experiences both successful and unsuccessful. We should all do this in our lives with our parents, friends and children.

God Bless and it times the haters on this blog move on and try to be Proud Americas and Help our country!!!

SENATUS POPOLUSQUE ROMANUS   January 6th, 2009 3:44 pm ET

How exciting!!!

No Incumbents 2010   January 6th, 2009 3:44 pm ET

@ Texas4Obama

Apparently you are blind. You have already decided to vote for him in 2012, without seeing anything. Vowing to vote for him even if he fails?
Oh, what am I thinking the blind wouldn't see it if he failed and the media would spin it to a success.

Kathy_in_Indiana   January 6th, 2009 3:44 pm ET

I wish Clinton would look at Bush and say – "I left this country in the best shape it ever was and you took it down the tubes in 8 years. You are a corrupt thug who has taken this country to the lowest of lows. The American people are glad to see you leave. "

Of course there are always the 22% who still think Bush was a great President. They are quite possibly the same people who think that pigs fly.

chuck   January 6th, 2009 3:42 pm ET

THE BUSHES HELPED PLACE ISRAEL IN THIS POSITION. THEY ACCEPTED HAMAS AS LEADERS LIKE THEMSELVES, GO FIGURE. TERRORISTS. NOW ISRAEL MUST CORRECT GEORGE BUSH'S MISTAKES AND BEEFSTAKES. HAMAS MUST BE ERADICATED NOW OR NEVER REGARDLESS OF THE COST. THE WORLD WILL BE A HAPPY PLACE WITHOUT THE BUSHES.

frank Honolulu HI   January 6th, 2009 3:41 pm ET

The republican folks on this blog are really smarting. These are the same folks that said "watch and see, McCain will win". Well they were wrong. Now they are acting like babies without a bottle.

You had your chance and you supported driving the United States into a mess. I hope you Republicans are happy because you won't see another President for 20 years!

I think you're Anti American and Unpatriotic for not supporting our new President.

Rodger   January 6th, 2009 3:41 pm ET

I did Not vote for Obama, but I will give him my support. What is giid for my country is good for all of us!!!!!

Humored in Texas   January 6th, 2009 3:41 pm ET

AKA – The Bushes get taken to school!!!

And in typical Bush fashion, they will learn nothing!!!

Leah DiMarco, Texas   January 6th, 2009 3:41 pm ET

I doubt that with two wars going on, the state of the economy, and the conflict in Gaza, tetc., that the presidents are going to sit around and talk about raising kids in the WH. That was a silly statement from Perino!

Dylan from MN   January 6th, 2009 3:38 pm ET

Nothing is perminent, everything is ever-changing, we usually just don't notice it since our lives our so short. I, along with millions of others, will end war in this generation.

January 6th, 2009 2:54 pm ET

Paul January 6th, 2009 2:04 pm ET

They should be also stopping the killing in the middle east. We are all human beings and no one says nothing… what a shame
____________________

Paul: I will now break my silence with this. I beg to differ. A lot has been said but who's listening? Realistically speaking some things will never change because the little children who are now experiencing the bloody violence will forever have this etched in their minds and VOILA – a new crew of warmongers is born (vicious cycle). Let's keep this region in prayer.

Rodger   January 6th, 2009 3:37 pm ET

Will PRESIDENT Clinton tell us what happen to his dog Buddy? or has he gone back to ,well you know; Hillary is very busy these days.

RDS   January 6th, 2009 3:36 pm ET

US PRESIDENT TRANSITIONS

Reagan >> Bush Sr. >> Clinton >> Bush Jr. >> Obama >> Bush ???

See the Pattern… Clinton was far superior and Obama has yet to prove.

ONLY IN AMERICA DUMBS BE ELECTED BY DUMMIES.

karen-phoenix   January 6th, 2009 3:36 pm ET

The hate that is spuede on these pages is disgusting! For 40 years I was a die hard republican, even an election judge, BUT no more and this attitude, Hannity and Limbaugh and that skinny blond have partly been responsible for this hatred and my leaving the republican party!!! I've study Obama, the democrates and realize majority of America wants PEACE, jobs and health care!!! Can Not BE done with republican hatred. I donated to and pray for Obama!!!

Independant from NY   January 6th, 2009 3:36 pm ET

George W is going to be so out of the loop. Obama is going to make him look like a fool in front of the Elders.

Charlie in Maine   January 6th, 2009 3:36 pm ET

Obama combines the best qualities of all the Presidents of my life-time. He has the ideals of JFK , the political cunning of LBJ, the drive of Nixon, the courage of Gerald Ford, the honesty of Jimmy Carter, the honor of George Bush Sr, the compassion of Bill Clinton and in 13 days 20 hours 24 minutes and 12 seconds he will have the office of George W Bush.
Even more importantly he has the vision of Barack Obama and the self- discipline to get things done. I can't wait.

Proud American   January 6th, 2009 3:33 pm ET

Please be on the lookout, I was just informed a few Idiots left their village today unsupervised. Clifford, TCM just to name a few. Both are considered dangerous, due to a lack of brain.

Will, NJ   January 6th, 2009 3:33 pm ET

5 presidents are meeting together and the most intelligent comments on these forums consist of "*blank* is an idiot!" If only you people could get paid to be angry.

MJK   January 6th, 2009 3:30 pm ET

All former presidents attended the Nixon, Reagan and Ford funerals but she meant this is the first time all presidents will gather together while they are still living. With regard to Coretta Scott King's funeral, President Ford did not attend due to his ill health; the other presidents were there, however,

I believe the last time they were all gathered together (non-funeral) was for the dedication of the Reagan library in 1991 (not 1981) so I believe that is the error. President GHW Bush, and former presidents Reagan, Carter, Ford and Nixon were all there with their spouses as well as Lady Bird Johnson. Only Jackie Kennedy did not attend.

What's with all the wrong information?   January 6th, 2009 3:30 pm ET

All of the living Presidents (GW Bush, Bill Clinton, GHW Bush, and Jimmy Carter) were all at President Ford's Memorial Service at the National Cathederal in January 2007.

Also, all four of these Presidents, along with Gerald Ford, were together for President Reagan's Memorial Service at the National Cathederal in June 2004.

Proud American   January 6th, 2009 3:30 pm ET

Wow Clifford is out today too? Did all the Idiots get a pass today to leave the Village? Good Lord I'm going home to lock my windows.

fogressive   January 6th, 2009 3:30 pm ET

When did "progressive" get coined as a term to describe Liberals? I must have missed something. I guess that it's a re-branding so that Liberals seem more "in touch" and "forward moving".
I would argue that the term is inappropriately applied.

This is the same with "conservative". W certainly wasn't conservative, and neither has any republican recently in office.

Why does the American public keep falling for the name-calling or the self-applied names? The two parties haven't changed. We need a political party that can represent the MAJORITY of Americans, not the Left Wackos or Right Wingnuts.

Ian Minneapolis, MN   January 6th, 2009 3:29 pm ET

Wow…really people? are you that childish? Why are you wasting your time ripping on people that you will never know or meet? Instead of bashing each other, why not go out and do some good things for the people, like volunteer. All these nasty comments say more about the writer than the intended….

kayla   January 6th, 2009 3:29 pm ET

tTO ALL YOU OBAMA HATERS, NOBODY IS MORE STUPID THAN YOU AND STEWART LITTLE GEORGE BUSH. LOOK AT YOUR ECONOMY IDIOTS. YOU HAD HIM FOR EIGHT YEARS, AND THIS IS THE OUTCOME. YOU SOULD BE THE LAST PEOPLE ON EARTH TO CRITICISE THIS NEW PRESIDENT. GET USE TO IT , OBAMA WILL BE PRESIDENT FOR 8 PRODUCTIVE YEARS, NOT WASTED YEARS LIKE WE HAD WITH BUSH. END OF STORY.

Patrick H   January 6th, 2009 3:29 pm ET

Proud American?…maybe. Stupid American…for sure…

BUSH BEGONE, AND NOW 75% OF AMERICA AGREES, FINALLY!   January 6th, 2009 3:29 pm ET

I am so glad Perino approves of the way the Obama's raise their kids and got them in school, "in good fashion".dispite the fact the Blair House was booked thereby having Secret Service at the Hay-Adams at taxpayer expense. Such a condescending attitude from the shrub administration, but then I should not be suprised.

Might have been cheaper to taxpayers to move the "guest or dignitary" to a hotel since that would only cost taxpayers the one room instead of several.

Change - Yeah Left   January 6th, 2009 3:29 pm ET

I'm white – I'll admit that – I'm Irish American, but that's not something I'm allowed to be proud of. I'm also a…~gasp~…woman. So, ya know what, it's not only "angry white men" who agree with me that the Dems are intolerant.

Matt   January 6th, 2009 3:28 pm ET

@ But Where Is…?

I am. Come and get me.

Matt   January 6th, 2009 3:28 pm ET

@ TCM

Dumbest blog post from you yet. The Harvard Law review is one of the most prestigious law school publications in not only the country but the world. So yeah, it's quite the opposite…EVERYONE wanted the job of editor, but Obama got it.

You GOPers keep it up tho…I love how badly you seem to want to dig your hole deeper.

Charlie in Maine   January 6th, 2009 3:27 pm ET

Though every President that I can remember has brought some important qualities to the office I have never seen so many qualities in one President as I do with President Obama.
In Barack Obama we have the ideals of Kennedy, the cunning of LBJ, the drive of Nixon, the courage Gerald Ford, the honesty of Jimmy Carter, the communicative ability of Ronald Reagan, the honor of George Bush Sr, the compassion of Bill Clinton and in 20 days 4 hours 6 minutes and 7 seconds he will have the office of George W. Bush.

Even more importantly, Barack Obama will be bringing into office the vision of Barack Obama. He will also bring something that has been sorely missing for a long time. Barack Obama has the self-discipline to get things done.

Proud American   January 6th, 2009 3:27 pm ET

clifford = Good Lord all the Idiots are out in force today. Clifford, TCM Did all the Idiots get a pass to leave the Village today? I'm going home and lock my windows.

Charlie in Maine   January 6th, 2009 3:26 pm ET

There has not been a president like this in my life-time. I was born in 1963, so my memories of JFK come from news reports and movies. Though every President that I can remember has brought some important qualities to the office I have never seen so many qualities in one President as I do with President Obama.

In Barack Obama we have the ideals of Kennedy, the cunning of LBJ, the drive of Nixon, the courage Gerald Ford, the honesty of Jimmy Carter, the communicative ability of Ronald Reagan, the honor of George Bush Sr, the compassion of Bill Clinton and in 20 days 4 hours 6 minutes and 7 seconds he will have the office of George W. Bush.

Even more importantly, Barack Obama will be bringing into office the vision of Barack Obama. He will also bring something that has been sorely missing for a long time. Barack Obama has the self-discipline to get things done.

They're people too   January 6th, 2009 3:26 pm ET

What's wrong with white men and religious freaks?

Simpliticus   January 6th, 2009 3:25 pm ET

Makes one wonder what this is all about! More of this probably has to do with legitimacy matters as some might think Obama isn't president material. By having all still living presidents that have been in one room legitimizes Obama's position. This seems interesting in that all men will be accorded his opinion regarding future events. But Obama will perform accordingly as well, which still suggests that this is simply room-dressing but it is a nice social function!

fair and balanced   January 6th, 2009 3:25 pm ET

To democratic leaning bloggers and republican leaning bloggers,

Can we just agree that this is a good thing? Stop the name calling. I guess this is where you go to "vent", but its a new year take up a hobby.

I cannot see how all the living former presidents having a private meeting evolves into a debate. All of them of something to offer regardless of what we may think about their job performance.

I would love to be sit and listen them talk.

AndyL   January 6th, 2009 3:24 pm ET

Someone should drop "Proud American" in the middle of Gaza City and yell "look there's a Jew" and just watch the fun. People like him (democrat or republicans, there are small minded people on both sides) should just be ignored.

Proud American   January 6th, 2009 3:24 pm ET

TCM – I thought you were out trying to find your father? According to your mom it could be any trucker from California to the state of Maine. Good Luck little Idiot I wish I could help you.

Proud American   January 6th, 2009 3:22 pm ET

It's documented …Proud American called Obama an idiot!! = Idiot.

Rick   January 6th, 2009 3:20 pm ET

On January 6th, 2009 2:43 pm ET Proud American said:

This meeting is called "Great Mines and the Idiot"

C'mon now, I happen to agree with you but let's at least let Obama take office before we start calling him an idiot.

Ken   January 6th, 2009 3:18 pm ET

Finn VA

Hopefully someone will beat some sense into you!

Spike   January 6th, 2009 3:18 pm ET

Good for everybody. It does show the rest of the world that we are still the best nation to live in….even if our political leaders do not see eye to eye on issues. The fact that they can get together at all without coups or conflict is neat.

Personally I sincerely hope they offer President Elect Obama advice on what to expect while running the country, stuff like the personal issues that they will still have to deal with (humans after all)…trying to change policy and view points would be meaningless and a HUGE waste of time (IMO). Even if they just sit around and talk about college football that would be great (yes we need a playoff…Go Utes).

I just wish all of the political commentators on this bourd would just look at it with opeen minds and move on. Obama is going to bethe new leader, Bush is still in office…just deal with it.

Butch Dillon   January 6th, 2009 3:17 pm ET

Excluding Obama, the group has some very special needs. I really hope someone hired a person ready at the wipe for them, as this collection of droolers were probably in rare spittle form over lunch.

Unfairness Doctrine   January 6th, 2009 3:16 pm ET

I'm glad to see that President Bush has risen above the the partisan politics and invited the president elect and the former presidents to the White House. I can remember back in 2001 when the Clintons were defacing government property and stealing everything that wasnt nailed down on their way out the door.

Ken   January 6th, 2009 3:16 pm ET

Canary – Obama hasn't led? He lead us to victory last November. He's run the the best campaign in history. His appointments overall are excellent. And he's put forth a major stimulus package.

Looks like he's leading to me.

Why don't you go crawl back under that rock and come out again when the Wasilla Hillbillies are your standard bearers in 2012.

But where is Obam's illegal immigrant aunt?..   January 6th, 2009 3:15 pm ET

SOMEONE IS HIDING HER ILLEGALLY—SHE WAS DEPORTED 4 YEARS AGO AND HAS MANAGED TO LIVE IN PUBLIC HOUSING AT TAXPAYER EXPENSE—-

WHO'S HIDING HER ILLEGALLY? TELL US CNN–WON'T YOU?

walleye   January 6th, 2009 3:13 pm ET

Regarding the comment by Messiah Watch at 2:27. Time for you to stop dreaming about fairy tales and get into the real world. The Dems with their progressive ideas will be around for a long time to come.

Citizen from NY   January 6th, 2009 3:12 pm ET

I originally wanted Hillary to become President, but now that she has been picked for SOS and Obama is surrounding himself with Clintonistas, and now having lunch at the Oval with former presidents, including Bill, I believe this will be a Clinton(s) (third) presidency vicarously through Obama.

Ryan   January 6th, 2009 3:11 pm ET

Not all the living presidents were at Nixon's funeral…I don't think Reagen made it because of his health at the time.

Ken   January 6th, 2009 3:11 pm ET

Change – Yeah Left

Wingtards like you always whine about the intolerance of the left while turning a blind eye to that fact that the only people who seem to be on your side are angry white males and religious freaks.

Alan   January 6th, 2009 3:09 pm ET

Kim said "Obama is a real leader."

Geez, he has not led anything, except lead the blind in electing him.

OK, dolt. "Barack Obama is a BORN leader." Now shut your Republican pie hole.

It's documented ...Proud American called Obama an idiot!!   January 6th, 2009 3:08 pm ET

I knew you'd come around!!!!!!!1

wycky   January 6th, 2009 3:08 pm ET

i would like to be in that room, but there is a better place waiting for me, in my fathers mansions in the heavens.

TX4Obama   January 6th, 2009 3:08 pm ET

I am very offended to be called "the blind" as I voted for President Obama, and I will vote again for him in 2012.

Happy days are here again.

TCM   January 6th, 2009 3:07 pm ET

PROUD AMERICAN January 6th, 2009 2:43 pm ET

This meeting is called "Great Mines and the Idiot"

I thought you were an Obama lover? Why are you calling him an idiot? Besides, it would be MINDS not mines…..

The conversation   January 6th, 2009 3:07 pm ET

Carter: I used to keep Billy beer in the frig under my desk

Bush Sr: The greens at the Andrew's golf course all break towards the runways

Clinton: This dry-cleaner down the street can get any stain out of any type of dress

Bush Jr: That guy from Russia thinks he's tough….but I've got Sarah Palin keeping her eye on him

Obama: Can you believe I'm here??!!! Who would have thought such simple minded people would buy that "change" stuff I dished out …..Americans are dumber than I thought

As they all have a big laugh ……….politics in action!!!

Proud American   January 6th, 2009 3:07 pm ET

After lunch Obama should kick George out of HIS HOUSE TODAY. Or beat the crap out of him just for being stupid.

STEVE R   January 6th, 2009 3:05 pm ET

guys and girls,

obama won ok, let it go…enough with the Bush bashing, he is not running for president again…..let it go

obama will save us…dont worry

you cant blame Bush for anything after jan 20 so let it go…….
Obama won……

unit731   January 6th, 2009 3:05 pm ET

chuck norris was invited too..he's going to keep everybody in check..

Realistic   January 6th, 2009 3:03 pm ET

Correct me if I'm wrong but I thought that the last time these Presidents got together was for Coretta Scott King's funeral in Atlanta, GA @ New Birth Cathedral just a few years ago….

Diing   January 6th, 2009 3:03 pm ET

If I were Dana Perino, I would avoid mentioning the shoes. This just reminds people of the Baghdad incident.

Joshua   January 6th, 2009 3:02 pm ET

All of the living presidents were together at Nixon's funeral in 1994.

Island girl   January 6th, 2009 3:02 pm ET

Canary and Anonymous: Are you joined at the hip? Your ridiculous comments are a as exact as spittle.

clifford   January 6th, 2009 3:02 pm ET

Proud American: "idiot" I thought you were FOR Obama??

Mike, Syracuse NY   January 6th, 2009 3:02 pm ET

@Andy J, Upstate NY. Andy, you haven't broken the code yet. When we say things critical of Lord Obama and his Holy Democrats, we are haters. When they say bad things about Republicans they are 'Proud Americans'. I think they call it 'respecting diversity'.

KB Co.   January 6th, 2009 3:01 pm ET

I am impressed with Obama and yes even Bush on they way both have handled there transition setting up this meeting was wise.

Bush is slowly restoring his dignity by being so open and helpful proving he may be a lot of things but sore loser is not one of them.

Bev   January 6th, 2009 3:01 pm ET

What a terrific idea. Maybe all of you pitchfork bloggers out there could take an example from our presidents and realize that people can actually not agree on everything but still be civil. Though Obama will not have it easy when he takes office, he seems to be approaching his position with a great deal of measured forethought. He is setting a new standard of dialogue before dart throwing. It is, in every way, quite refreshing.

Finn VA   January 6th, 2009 2:59 pm ET

Maybe they will beat some sense into Obama

TCM   January 6th, 2009 2:58 pm ET

ANDY – January 6th, 2009 2:42 pm ET

So Obama is having lunch with the Four Stooges?

HAHA – ……and you base this on Obama's vast leadership and experience at running……..what? A newspaper? I heard he only ran the Harvard paper because no one else wanted the job; sort of like drawing the shortest straw…

Amber   January 6th, 2009 2:57 pm ET

S Callahan,

I REALLY hope they don't!! I hoe God stays FAR FAR away! And not because of any problem I have with God, He's not the issue here. It's the elected idiots who think they can channel His Will that I'm worried about.

Somewhere, God is shaking His head and rolling His eyes at our petty nonsense before He gets back to other issues in the 77 billion-light-years-across universe He created…

Chris F.   January 6th, 2009 2:57 pm ET

@Canary, You are one of those Rush and Hannity listeners who want Obama to fail. Maybe the Republican party can built a statue of Reagan and worship it. I think it is funny how some Republican talk about Obama being a messiah when they cannot even let go of Reagan and still talk about how great he is and probably sit back and have homo-erotic fantasy of Reagan. I think each president should be given a chance before judgement is past.

Mark   January 6th, 2009 2:56 pm ET

"Perino speculated that they will discuss what it’s like to raise children in the White House and how to protect them."

These are the words of the White House Spokesperson? How in the world can she think for one minute that will be the topic? Maybe some other topics will come up that Dana Perino knows nothing about – the economy, middle east violence, war – just to name a few.

So according to Dana the call's went something like this "Hey [George, George, Bill, Jimmy] It's Barack – why not come over for lunch Wednesday and talk about our kids"

Sharon Kitchen   January 6th, 2009 2:56 pm ET

I pray that all listen to each other.
Everyone needs to work together.
The U.S. needs solutions for it's problems.
Obama is doing what he said…..bringing everyone together.

BS not Maverick   January 6th, 2009 2:56 pm ET

Cool, Hope they can agree on what we need to do to fits it!

TCM   January 6th, 2009 2:56 pm ET

CNN reported that Obama will have to do the dishes, since he's the only one that's not really a president.

Chicago   January 6th, 2009 2:55 pm ET

Canary- I think you meant Bush when you talk about leading the blind.

G   January 6th, 2009 2:55 pm ET

He's 47 years and people act like he's12 years if our parents acted like this then we will never grow up lol.

BB   January 6th, 2009 2:55 pm ET

14 days to go

JUST FOURTEEN DAYS !!

TCM   January 6th, 2009 2:54 pm ET

Obama will be nauseated after he finds out he's the least qualified in the room to be in the White House….he'll learn quickly once the honeymoon's over and the media starts carving him up for his every wrong step….they're already starting…"Obama Drama…"

Oh well, maybe, just maybe, he can learn something that will do us all good….since he was handed the job and we'll be stuck with him for 4 yrs.

CANARY & ALL The PRESIDENTAL MEN – good humor!

Shari, NY   January 6th, 2009 2:54 pm ET

Paul January 6th, 2009 2:04 pm ET

They should be also stopping the killing in the middle east. We are all human beings and no one says nothing… what a shame
____________________

Paul: I will now break my silence with this. I beg to differ. A lot has been said but who's listening? Realistically speaking some things will never change because the little children who are now experiencing the bloody violence will forever have this etched in their minds and VOILA – a new crew of warmongers is born (vicious cycle). Let's keep this region in prayer.

obama-mama   January 6th, 2009 2:48 pm ET

Obama throw your shoes on the way out.

Chuck, Tennessee   January 6th, 2009 2:48 pm ET

I saw a clip of the Nixon funeral on You Tube. All the former preseidents then living were in attendance. Of course, the Ford funeral was the most recent of the former Presidents and all the then living former Presidents – Carter, Bush, and Clinton – were there. I don't think all of them have been together since then.

danel   January 6th, 2009 2:48 pm ET

This is a good chance for Mr. Obama to discuss the Middle East crisis with Pres. Carter to really do something constructive and unbias.

Barbara   January 6th, 2009 2:47 pm ET

14 days to go; can't wait to get rid of the Bushes and the Clintons from the White House. Too bad Obama can't give Carter the credit due to him.

Tom   January 6th, 2009 2:45 pm ET

Wriong – not 1981. The last time all presidents got together was Nixon's funeral in 1994: Clinton, Bush, Reagan, Carter, and Ford.

John Adams   January 6th, 2009 2:44 pm ET

At the table will W be in a high chair or will he be using a booster seat. During the discussion period they could give him "My Pet Goat" to read so that he does not disrupt the conversation.

Andy J, Upstate NY   January 6th, 2009 2:44 pm ET

You Bush haters sounds like morons.

JBS   January 6th, 2009 2:44 pm ET

Perhaps they'll discuss Obama's plan to take over the world and kill anyone who opposes his doing so.

Otis   January 6th, 2009 2:44 pm ET

How long will it be before Congress tries to subpoena these Presidents before a Congressional committee to find out what was discussed in this meeting?

DeLiRon   January 6th, 2009 2:43 pm ET

Oh to be a fly on the wall of this historic lunch. It would be fascinating!

Larry in Houston   January 6th, 2009 2:43 pm ET

It's amazing, someone like Obama came up with that idea…..The ones that were IN THERE before, would not, or could not come up with that idea ?

""Obama initially came up with the idea that all of the men get together after meeting with President Bush last month""

That shows you Obama's Inteligence…..The others weren't smart enough to do this, but Obama IS……

I honestly think PEBO is far more Intelligent than anyone will ever know…..Not to mention his Style / and being cool under pressure…As a matter of fact, truth be known, he's smarter than ANY of the living Presidents !

Larry C.
Houston, Texas

Proud American   January 6th, 2009 2:43 pm ET

This meeting is called "Great Mines and the Idiot"

JQQ   January 6th, 2009 2:42 pm ET

This sounds like a good idea. I hope the United States can be helped by this and many more meetings.
I don't understand the comments above me in the form of jokes.

The Untied States as we know it is gone. The website for California has a Money counter on our debt 54billion) and I need a job along with a lot of other people. God help us!

Canary   January 6th, 2009 2:42 pm ET

Kim said "Obama is a real leader."

Geez, he has not led anything, only the blind.

Change - Yeah Left   January 6th, 2009 2:42 pm ET

I find the liberal intolerance of other people's wisdom to be amazing. It doesn't matter if you liked either of the Bush presidents nor does it matter if you loved Carter and Clinton – ALL of them have been there. ALL of them have done a job that they were VOTED to do.

Obama needs to realize that he is the new kid on the block there, and he needs to listen to ALL of them. Because he's getting a world that's in a bigger mess than all of them put together.

And, no, you can't blame the Republican leadership – they had a nice Democratic congress who kept things even.

andy   January 6th, 2009 2:42 pm ET

So Obama is having lunch with the Four Stooges?

Messiah watch   January 6th, 2009 2:39 pm ET

RIck in WA – add Albright to the treason trial list. Carter, Clinton, Albright, Warren Christopher.

Anonymous   January 6th, 2009 2:39 pm ET

Kim said "Obama is a real leader."

Geez, he has not led anything, except lead the blind in electing him.

a new year   January 6th, 2009 2:39 pm ET

will they have a republican side of the table and the dems. on the other side, maybe they will need a referee.

Jan Illinois   January 6th, 2009 2:38 pm ET

Why??? Why would these men want to have lunch or anything else for that matter with George Bush. Many Americans want him tried for the things he has done to America. They have to realize this. What are they thinking sitting down with him?

Kenrick Simon   January 6th, 2009 2:37 pm ET

Will they finally stand up to the Jewish lobbyist and speak the truth about Isreal's aggresion in the Midlle East, about how they are committing human rights atrocities under the disguise of their security? As far as I am concerned they have all been dismal failures where that is concerned. I hope Obama listens seriously to President Carter and when they are having caviar they will see the dead children and women and children being deinied food and medical care in Gaza.

Messiah watch   January 6th, 2009 2:37 pm ET

Joe Biden should have been included. The growing storm of scandals will have The One back with his Chicago thugs by mid-summer and Biden will be sworn in as POTUS. BIden will nominate HIllary Clinton for ths replacement VP. Then he will defer to her in 2012.

curious   January 6th, 2009 2:36 pm ET

why the limo which Obama will be using is different than the previous presidents used? He is so much wanted and loved, so why is this paranoid fear?…….just curious

carlyle   January 6th, 2009 2:35 pm ET

Perino needs to correct herself. The presidents were all together at Nixon's funeral. At that time it was Clinton, Carter, George HW Bush, Reagan, and Ford. 5 of them…I have seen the photo. It is amazing that a White House press secretary could be wrong about this!!!

donna   January 6th, 2009 2:34 pm ET

I am sure there will be some deep discussion with Clinton, Carter and Obama in the room…the Bushes are just there out of courtesy…lol…I wouldn't be surprised to see/hear that Obama asks them to do something in his administration…they all have experience/knowledge in varying degrees/areas…

I know they won't just be sitting around shooting the breeze and drinking wine….

All the Presidential Men   January 6th, 2009 2:33 pm ET

Carter opens up and says " I regret trying to free the diplomats in Iran".

Bush Sr slaps Bush Jr and says "I told you not to invade Iraq without an exit strategy"

Bush Jr says Barack, can't you start the job two weeks early so I can get the he l l out of town"?

Clinton says "You can sneak in women and if you meet them in the small office over there, you won;t be seen on camera"

Barack says " How do you work this red phone" And then referring to the launch codes that follow the Prez everywhere he says "can we call it carrying the "basketball" instead of the "football"? " I am much better with a round ball"

Dawn   January 6th, 2009 2:32 pm ET

Let's hope that following his previous "private" meeting with President Bush that Obama has learned to keep his mouth about what's discussed in these type of private sessions.

Kevin B   January 6th, 2009 2:32 pm ET

GWB should be made to sit in a corner with a dunce cap on.

ANGIE   January 6th, 2009 2:31 pm ET

Maybe they can convince Bush and other Republicans to get out of the past and in with the new and embrace the changes we need to get this Economy,America and the world rolling again REPUBLICANS WAKE UP GET OUT OF THE OLD STYLE POLITICS WORK WITH PRESIDENT ELECT AND DEMOCRATS OR YOUR PARTY WILL STAY DEAD FOR A LONG TIME TO COME!

Scott NYC Independent   January 6th, 2009 2:31 pm ET

PE Obama has a nack for doing things that seem simple and should have been done before regardless of peace times or war times. This is just another indication that this country is going to experience something very new and different from any other time in recent history.

Penny   January 6th, 2009 2:30 pm ET

Having the current, former and future Presidents in the same room? Hmmmm…I wonder if we should have that new "Abrams Tank" of a Limo in front to protect them all

Terry   January 6th, 2009 2:30 pm ET

I hope they don't talk about football.

LM75   January 6th, 2009 2:29 pm ET

Can they tell Bush to just stay away. Please.

CanIcallyouJoe   January 6th, 2009 2:27 pm ET

Yes, let's all get nice and cozy together around some table and a fire within a nice mansion – there clearly isn't anything devastating going on around the world that needs attention or anything.

Beyond that, I just hope they serve pretzels at this lunch.

HouseDiva   January 6th, 2009 2:25 pm ET

I don't trust Clinton and the Bushes…Obama better bring a food taster with him.

Denise from Baltimore   January 6th, 2009 2:24 pm ET

If the health, well-being and security of our country is top priority, why wouldn't they meet? Each of these men have a different perspective to offer to the new administration. If at any time in history such a meeting should take place…this is it!

Soccer Nana   January 6th, 2009 2:23 pm ET

[Perino said the last time all of the living presidents got together was in 1981, and called Wednesday’s meeting a “historic moment.”]

The White House Spokeswoman meant the last time all lilving presidents got togeher for a MEETING; not to attend a former deceased president's funeral.

It is good that these gentlemen are reasoning together.

Rick in WA   January 6th, 2009 2:22 pm ET

Nimi from NY @1:23
Carter should be tried for treason.

Maggie SC   January 6th, 2009 2:19 pm ET

I hope and pray our next commander in chief will gain some good info nad insight into what he will need as our future leader form all the participants except Jimmy Carter. He cannot possible have anything pertinent to give anyone muschlees aour new comander in chief, Obama will face enouth challeges that he will not need to hear any foolishness from Carter.

Jeff in Illinois   January 6th, 2009 2:11 pm ET

They'll all be ready for conversation and looking for George, only to find him running in circles (well, ovals) in his cowboy costume saying, "hey guys, who wants to play cops n' Indians, YEEEEHAWWW!!!?!"

Paul   January 6th, 2009 2:04 pm ET

They should be also stopping the killing in the middle east. We are all human beings and no one says nothing… what a shame

JL   January 6th, 2009 2:00 pm ET

For what? Interesting all the responsibility to correct GW Bush's BS is on President Obama, so what could GW possible say in this "meeting" to help? Nothing………………………………………….I wished GW Bush would just GO AWAY and SHUT-UP!

Lisa P   January 6th, 2009 1:59 pm ET

“These are leaders who only understand what it's like to be in each others shoes and none of us can put ourselves in those shoes.”

Those would be size 10's, right? Tossed? ;-)

Shari, NY   January 6th, 2009 1:59 pm ET

God bless America! In some countries, the coming together of past and present leaders is unheard of. Why? I leave that to the imagination.

Ken   January 6th, 2009 1:54 pm ET

I hope Jr. let daddy Bush do all the talking at that lunch, otherwise there would have been three [D]s looking at each other in astonished disbelief.

And by the way Ms Perino, as you well know, any flies in the WH would not be found on the walls; they are attracted to other substances which is in abundance everyday in this [R] WH.

Virginia   January 6th, 2009 1:52 pm ET

Quite possibly Ms. Perino meant they were together for a meeting rather than a public setting like a funeral for a former President. Keep it real, folks. As for the meeting/luncheon, I am glad to see it. I would think that they had more important issues to discuss than how to raise children in the White House. After all, everyone who lives in the White House has an "aide" of some sort for everything, and that includes the newest family to come in. There are more pressing things to discuss like how to fix the economy, complete the war in Iraq, and help Israel in their struggle to gain their land back. Be about the nation's business Mister Presidents, and don't worry about anything else. Good luck to all of you!

S Callahan   January 6th, 2009 1:51 pm ET

I hope they remember to invite God.

Fred the moderate   January 6th, 2009 1:50 pm ET

Obama is a genious. To try to bring this country together in these times, he is willing to meet and speak with adversaries. A man totally comfortable with himself and without fear. If we could have found a better choice for this job in these times I don't know who that could have been.

He has made us proud and soon all Americans will feel this way if they want to admit it or not.

We, not just BO, have to reject the hatred and fear that has gripped this nation for a century. It has to start here and now.

Reject rush and hannaty for what they are and move with us into this new century of change and hope. The future awaits and it doesn't have hate as a tag line

Linda in Charleston, SC   January 6th, 2009 1:47 pm ET

Lunch at the white house whoa buddy.

Big and little Georges sitting at the table and little George says "I'm sorry daddy, I did my best for those bankers" Carter interupts "I built those houses out of brick, not straw, they are good for the country" Big George looks around and asks "Where's that Clinton" Little George says "Out back with that intern daddy"

S Callahan   January 6th, 2009 1:47 pm ET

I hope they don't forget to inivte God in.

Retired Army in San Antonio   January 6th, 2009 1:47 pm ET

Eric R. Brown January 6th, 2009 1:35 pm ET

Weren't all the (at the time) living President's together at Nixon's funeral?

Ford, Carter, Reagan, George HW Bush, and Clinton?

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Yes. But it wasn't a 'get-together'.

S Callahan   January 6th, 2009 1:46 pm ET

I hope the don't forget to invite God in.

Retired Army in San Antonio   January 6th, 2009 1:45 pm ET

Tim —- January 6th, 2009 1:22 pm ET

Wait a minute here, I was the president of my 5th grade debate club. No one asked me to attend.

————————————————————————————————————-

That's because you were the worst debate club president in history!!

bob j   January 6th, 2009 1:44 pm ET

this event will be the united states of america at it best,the whole world should see this three cheers to all our leaders and god bless the usa

Amber   January 6th, 2009 1:43 pm ET

Only if you can also see Russia from your house, Tim.

Turnabout is Fair Play   January 6th, 2009 1:42 pm ET

I hope Shrub Jr. and Shrub Sr. listen to those who know what is required to bring our country to greatness again and will actually do it, not talk about it and then fnck the country up like they both did.

Craeg fr Canada   January 6th, 2009 1:40 pm ET

These guys are the ultimate insiders. If they ever agreed to cooperate and use their influenceregarding things that go on way behind the scenes, then many things that we see might fo much more smoothly, ie tax and spending policies, foreign affairs strategies etc. Great idea to meet and chat.

obama-mama   January 6th, 2009 1:39 pm ET

Obama, don't eat the prunes or the stewed tomatoes and lookout for dentures in coffee mugs.

Kim   January 6th, 2009 1:38 pm ET

Obama is a real leader. I love the fact that he listens to everyone. Everyone has a voice rather you are black, white, yellow, red, Christian, catholic, Muslim, Buddhist, gay or straight. Can America handle a president like this? We are so controversial. I hope everyone realizes that there will never be one type of American.

Eric R. Brown   January 6th, 2009 1:35 pm ET

Weren't all the (at the time) living President's together at Nixon's funeral?

Ford, Carter, Reagan, George HW Bush, and Clinton?

Matt   January 6th, 2009 1:35 pm ET

Perino was incorrect. The last time all the living Presidents were together was at Ford's Funeral.

Joanna   January 6th, 2009 1:34 pm ET

I would like to be a fly on that wall….

FreeNLovIt   January 6th, 2009 1:34 pm ET

This is as good as it gets!!! We're truly a free country. Try sitting down other former world leaders… it will be a tough call..

arc, Lugano CH   January 6th, 2009 1:34 pm ET

Let's hope that they are looking for solutions together on behalf of working Americans who are facing hard times right now.

Andy J, Upstate NY   January 6th, 2009 1:33 pm ET

@ apples for sale

time to move on. let that hate go. come on, i thought you libs were about change? how about you change your attitude and nasty tones and start to bring people in, rather than push people away with your nasty and condescending tones.

As for the topic of this article, very cool. I would give just about anything to be in the room with all our living presidents. (despite the fact that i don't agree with a few of them on some major political issues).

I often talk politics with friends, but to be able to sit in on that conversation would be absolutely amazing. very cool.

arc, Lugano CH   January 6th, 2009 1:33 pm ET

Let's hope that they are looking for solutions together on behalf working Americans who are facing hard times right now.

proudliberal-independent   January 6th, 2009 1:29 pm ET

the bush's were all the GOP could come up with since reagan? that's sad. no wonder they are tanking.

Sara from Arizona   January 6th, 2009 1:28 pm ET

Why Clinton????????

Laverne   January 6th, 2009 1:26 pm ET

Of course it will be a historic moment. Obama is full of good ideas and I AM STILL SO GLAD I VOTED FOR HIM AND HE WILL BE THE NEXT POTUS!

Thomas   January 6th, 2009 1:24 pm ET

That would be one interesting conversation. Kudos for PE Obama for wanting to sit down with all four and chat with them.

Tim   January 6th, 2009 1:23 pm ET

I'm sorry, I meant did Carter det a seat at the grown-ups table. The book is still out on Obama.

Nimi from NY   January 6th, 2009 1:23 pm ET

I hope they talk about middle east and I hope the others listen to Jimmy Carter on the issue because he's got right from the beginning.

Tim   January 6th, 2009 1:22 pm ET

Wait a minute here, I was the president of my 5th grade debate club. No one asked me to attend.

unity   January 6th, 2009 1:22 pm ET

USA gearing up for it's rise again! God Bless USA!!!

Tim   January 6th, 2009 1:21 pm ET

Did Obama get a seat at the grown-ups table?

Venia   January 6th, 2009 1:20 pm ET

Too bad bush has to be there.

naqib   January 6th, 2009 1:18 pm ET

I imagine that will be pretty boring…

Imagine that   January 6th, 2009 1:16 pm ET

Democrats and Republicans sitting down to eat together…

JM   January 6th, 2009 1:16 pm ET

Help. I'm in over my head and I need advice from men with experience.

Mari   January 6th, 2009 1:13 pm ET

This is not only historic but……. once again BRILLIANT of the President-elect Barack Obama! A sign of wisdom is knowing that you do not have all the answers, and that you must seek out the advice of others, including those whom you may not agree with.

Hope the presidents will have a god lunch and a worthwhile discussion.
Lord, knows we are facing a financial, diplomatic and worldwide crisis. The new president will need all the advice, prayers and help he can get!

Bravo President-elect Obama!

Apples for sale   January 6th, 2009 1:11 pm ET

I wont miss seeing the little liar Perino.Her book will be priceless,NOT!

Nathan Brownback   January 6th, 2009 1:11 pm ET

I believe all of the living former presidents (and the president at the time) were present at the funeral of Richard Nixon in 1994, if it hasn't happened again since then.

Marc PDX   January 6th, 2009 1:10 pm ET

Bush is handling the transition with dignity and courtesy. Contrast that with the undignified manner carter displays when he publicly badmouths the sitting president while travelling abroad. Bush won't do that to Obama. Too bad carter is so insensitive and discourteous.

shoegazer   January 6th, 2009 1:09 pm ET

Is somebody there going to make sure Shrub eats all his veggies.
Make sure he has his bib on and maybe some toys to keep him occupied.

obama-mama   January 6th, 2009 1:09 pm ET

Obama, don't eat the prunes or the stewed tomatoes

tim in NH   January 6th, 2009 1:09 pm ET

weren't all the living presidents together at Nixon's funeral? Or was Reagan absent then?

chuck   January 6th, 2009 1:08 pm ET

ONE BUSH IS POISON BUT TWO BUSHES IN A MEETING WILL BE LIGHTS OUT IN THE ROSE GARDEN.

Anni   January 6th, 2009 1:08 pm ET

The chameleon says it believs in unity dts y its co-operates wth any colour it comes in contact with.

Empty people voted for an empty suit   January 6th, 2009 1:06 pm ET

No politics in my posting.

I hope it is a cordial and helpful meeting that wil assist Obama on how to lead this STILL GREAT NATION and STILL BEST IN THE WORLD bar NONE, in the next four years.

He is not my cup of tea and I certainly didn't vote for him, but WE NEED HIM TO DO WELL and make GOOD DECISIONS for the UNITED states.

ALL OF US, should feel that way.

He FAILS we ALL FAIL.

Gorbashov - Long Beach, Ca.   January 6th, 2009 1:05 pm ET

What a novel concept………….collegial bi-partisanship………something sorely lacking the last 8 years!

We need to unite behind our new leader for the good of the country during these most difficult times.

Larry   January 6th, 2009 1:05 pm ET

I don't know what they are eating for lunch today,but the Democrats will be eating crow for lunch in the near future.

Objective thinking   January 6th, 2009 1:03 pm ET

Cue anti-Republican remark from "Proud American" in 3… 2… 1…

dEMOBRAT   January 6th, 2009 1:00 pm ET

They should discuss how to keep the world's children safe.

Franky   January 6th, 2009 12:58 pm ET

You know, and I respect that a lot!! Everybody wants to keep brining up(Dems mostly) that my boy is changing everything because he was the "change" guy who critticized Bush and now, he's cool with him. Maybe if Democrats understand what character means and know, they wouldn't be Democrats at all…

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