CNN Political Ticker
1126 days ago

Bush gives prescription to GOP

Bush said Monday Republicans must broaden their appeal.
Bush said Monday Republicans must broaden their appeal.

(CNN) - Reflecting on a brutal election cycle that saw his party lose the White House and several seats in Congress, President Bush warned the GOP to avoid instituting an ideological “litmus test.”

"I am concerned that in the wake of the defeat, that the temptation will be to look inward, and to say, 'Well, here is a litmus test you must adhere to," Bush said in his last press conference as president. "This party will come back. But the party's message has got to be that different points of view are included in the party."

The president specifically cited the at-times heated debate over illegal immigration, and said Republicans appeared as if they "don't like immigrants."

"If the image is we don't like immigrants, then there is probably somebody else out there saying, 'Well, if they don't like immigrants, they probably don't like me as well,'" Bush said. "Our party has got to be compassionate and broad-minded."


Filed under: President Bush
soundoff (186 Responses)
  1. NiceGirl

    Finally.... the end of an ERROR!

    January 12, 2009 10:12 am at 10:12 am |
  2. Maggie

    The worst president ever to sit in the Oval Office is giving advice about how to change the GOP?

    Is this one of those 'pot, meet kettle' moments that the late night tv hosts will have fun with?

    January 12, 2009 10:12 am at 10:12 am |
  3. Joe the Troll

    Yeah, pretend to change what you stand for, that'll help you "sell the brand" next time around. Whenever parties talk about changing what they stand for, it proves that they stand for nothing but public relations.

    January 12, 2009 10:15 am at 10:15 am |
  4. Scott Tucson

    Don't worry George...after four years of Obama and his democratic majority failed policies and tax hikes, the nation would be ready to toss them out.

    January 12, 2009 10:15 am at 10:15 am |
  5. GOP losers!

    The GOP will be divided between Sarah Palin, Joe the "plumber" and the ilkes of Rush and Hannity. Absolutely no intelligence!

    January 12, 2009 10:17 am at 10:17 am |
  6. BB

    Ha – a loser giving advice to losers.

    January 12, 2009 10:17 am at 10:17 am |
  7. Rob

    First smart thing you have said Bush. The repubs must be more inclusive and broaden the message without loosing your core principles.

    January 12, 2009 10:19 am at 10:19 am |
  8. Mike D

    correction, if you look like an immigrant, they DEFINITELY don't like you.

    January 12, 2009 10:20 am at 10:20 am |
  9. Chuck

    Go hide quietly Mr. Bush, and hope that a good patriot who lost his home because of your anti-worker policies doesn't find you.

    January 12, 2009 10:20 am at 10:20 am |
  10. Kat

    Nope, sorry... you do have to actually have Republican beliefs to fit into the GOP. Otherwise, hypocritical big government pro-war socialists like Mr. Bush here will take over. And they already have, sorry to say... there was only one real conservative running in 2008, and he was Ron Paul.

    January 12, 2009 10:21 am at 10:21 am |
  11. JP

    Broadminded? Do you even know what that means, Mr. Prez?

    January 12, 2009 10:21 am at 10:21 am |
  12. Fenarkleman

    Thanks for the advice, Dubya. Hmm, wonder where we would be now with President Gore? Hmmm.

    January 12, 2009 10:21 am at 10:21 am |
  13. CHANGE.COM

    Bush is right on the message of inclusion. Unfortunately, he ran the most partisan administration in recent memory, as if only the right wing loves this country. Good riddance, GWB. And the GOP too!

    January 12, 2009 10:21 am at 10:21 am |
  14. Mike

    After all he said this is what CNN reports?

    Those suffering from Bush Rerangement Syndrome post vile excremental comments in 3....2....1....

    January 12, 2009 10:22 am at 10:22 am |
  15. Old white lady in Birmingham, AL

    Oh I guess he did learn something while he was in office. Too little too late.

    January 12, 2009 10:23 am at 10:23 am |
  16. JohnBoy

    Thanks President Bush, Job well done. Thanks for keeping the USA safe. We will see if Obama does.

    You are a great American.

    January 12, 2009 10:23 am at 10:23 am |
  17. Bob in Kansas City

    The only litmus test the GOP will ever adhere to is look out for the rich and the Corporate Robber Barons as they have always done. Do we really think the 700 billion dollars bailout went anywhere else but the Corporate Robber Barons bank accounts?

    January 12, 2009 10:23 am at 10:23 am |
  18. CanIcallyouJoe

    Once again, Bush proving himself largely useless and clueless.

    GOP has worked hard to maintain the ideology of "Corporations First, People Second (as long as those are white people, of course)". They have worked very very hard to earn that stigma.

    GOP: If you want to be a viable choice for any level-headed modern American, change... well.. pretty much everything about your party. No more war profiteering. No more racial suppression. No more policies that screw over the average person. No more Theocrats. The only Republican left in the Republican party is Ron Paul.

    ($5 says Bush doesn't know what a "litmus test" is – any takers?)

    January 12, 2009 10:24 am at 10:24 am |
  19. Neal

    Bush is insane, he is the most anti-opposing viewpoints president of the modern era!

    January 12, 2009 10:25 am at 10:25 am |
  20. Tom

    Final words from the WORST PRESIDENT EVER.

    What a relief, don't let the door hit you in the back Bush.

    January 12, 2009 10:27 am at 10:27 am |
  21. dave

    Or the Republicans could just wait until the stench of W. leaves town, then they'll be doing a lot better. Priceless to hear the man lecturing others on being more "broad minded." Just an ounce of self realization and the Republicans will be effective again some day.

    January 12, 2009 10:29 am at 10:29 am |
  22. Ken in Dallas

    Bush's recommendations for the future are the exact opposite of his behavior as President. Could it be that even he realizes his administration has been one of the great debacles of American history?

    January 12, 2009 10:29 am at 10:29 am |
  23. Ted

    Wow well he waited long enough to say something worth wild.. I think he is dead on bullseye with this one. but i wonder if he has enough gaul left for those to listen.

    January 12, 2009 10:30 am at 10:30 am |
  24. jaye

    The republican party is like Disney World – it's too white. Racism is very obvious and wealth is a requirement.

    Anyway, I watched the press conference. Good to see him open up.

    CNN should promote Suzanne Malveau – she deserves her own show. She is a pleasure to watch, and an excellent news reporter.

    January 12, 2009 10:32 am at 10:32 am |
  25. Susan

    In order to survive, the RNC must stop the divisive, hate-filled, spiteful, and threatening maneuvers and language. The American people will no longer accept such!

    January 12, 2009 10:32 am at 10:32 am |
  26. Tony Bickert

    Why is it that when Bush finally says something smart he's no longer in charge to make it matter? – Tony in Alaska

    January 12, 2009 10:34 am at 10:34 am |
  27. 18 year old voter from Jersey

    Says the failure himself.

    We've got this under control President... The last thing we need you to do is try helping. In fact, whatever you say to do... we'll do the opposite.

    January 12, 2009 10:36 am at 10:36 am |
  28. JohnBoy

    The Obama haters will be stronger than the Bush haters by 10 times. Good luck on your 4 year term Obama. It will be all you get.

    January 12, 2009 10:36 am at 10:36 am |
  29. katiec

    Bush giving advice to the republicans when his philosophy has been my way or the highway? Until the republicans stop putting party, ego first, they will not have respect of the American people. Until they are sincere about trying to resolve the diasterous decisions they have made these last eight years, they will have no credibility. Until they unify to save our once great country we will continue to be in a world of hurt.

    January 12, 2009 10:39 am at 10:39 am |
  30. Clinton Voter

    Who is this guy? Never seen him before in my life.

    January 12, 2009 10:39 am at 10:39 am |
  31. Proud American

    lolololol this one is funny, the completly blind leading the blind. 8 more days and your out of there.

    January 12, 2009 10:41 am at 10:41 am |
  32. S Callahan

    I understand alot of Repubs think the loss is over immigration...but truthfully...it's much more than that..the economy, the mistake of 'using religion' as a party ideology instead of respecting an individuals relationship in faith, not 'really' fighting for what is right and just for our citizens (ie: justice that inclusive 'for all') ....the list goes on and on...
    Yes, someday the Repubs will recover but when that day comes it needs to make sure it has all of this countries citizens in consideration of it's agenda. and a postiive agenda at that.

    I agree 'new views' need to be listen too...I would call it 'ideas'...

    President Bush, in all fairness, I can't imagine the burden you had to stand in front of .....and I really don't think 'you' had ill intent (though i have many concerns about your influeneces and believe you may have even been duped along the way). Somewhere in your heart I think you also welcome some change. Good luck in your retirement.

    January 12, 2009 10:44 am at 10:44 am |
  33. John McCain

    Now you tell us.

    January 12, 2009 10:45 am at 10:45 am |
  34. Joanna

    Where was all of this over the last 8 yrs?

    January 12, 2009 10:47 am at 10:47 am |
  35. grahame

    Want a prescription? Drop Sarah Palin.

    January 12, 2009 10:48 am at 10:48 am |
  36. badger

    Do as I say not as I do. This was Bush and Cheney's credo from the start of his adminastration. Always stay on scrip right or wrong never admit to making a mistake. Look what that got him and our country. Cheney is still in denial but George is starting to feel that his legecy won't be very nice to him. I give him credit for saying he was a uniter not a divider, because he took us all down with him.

    January 12, 2009 10:50 am at 10:50 am |
  37. Mari

    All Bush & the rest of the Republicans need to know is that their VILE politics of ....... lies...... hate....... fear ........and division cost them the elections!

    They need to rid themselves of their mouthpieces, Bill-O-the-Clown, Hannity-the-hater, Limbaugh-the-comedian...... and FAUX News! As long as these haters are speaking on behalf of the Republicans the American people will continue to reject them!

    HOPE WON........... HOPE WON............ HOPE WON.......... HOPE WON!

    January 12, 2009 10:54 am at 10:54 am |
  38. GOPloser

    I have been saying this for many years GOP is a white Party, this party does not like anybody who is not white. It is about time this party is going down.

    January 12, 2009 10:56 am at 10:56 am |
  39. JohnCynic

    Keep giving your advice to the GOP Bush, the democrats can bank on an implosion by a confused, and unhealthy political party.

    January 12, 2009 11:02 am at 11:02 am |
  40. Ray Fisher

    During Georgie's administration the GOP developed an allergy to the word "Legal". For some reason they preferred not to use the term.Today, for example he doesn't seem to realize that Americans love "Legal" immigrants as most of us are only dislike open borders to "Illegal" immigrants. Just as the Supreme Court decided to condemn private property a direct violation of our Constitution our basis of "Legal" in favor of private corporations. The list of issues abusing or ignoring the term "Legal" by this administration is staggering yet we haven't the time, money nor resources to broach the subject while America is failing. Those issues will wait till another day.

    January 12, 2009 11:05 am at 11:05 am |
  41. Michael

    It seems only fitting that he'd give the GOP a prescription, since he's the man who led the ill-fated party.

    January 12, 2009 11:06 am at 11:06 am |
  42. james

    Suggestion,-- get out and listen to the public, not just to the lobbiests and your "buddies". -- Times are changing-–

    January 12, 2009 11:06 am at 11:06 am |
  43. Al in Alabama

    GB II is unqualified to lecture or lead the party. He failed to lead his own congress, failed the American public on ILLEGAL immigration, failed the American public on the WALL ST bailout, spent mony as though it sprang from a well.

    January 12, 2009 11:06 am at 11:06 am |
  44. TomD

    Do Republicans like immigrants? I think the majority of them would close the doors. Fact is, we're all son & daughters of immigrants.
    Let the rants begin.

    January 12, 2009 11:06 am at 11:06 am |
  45. Vence wilmington CA

    Bush and GOP had eight years to change this kind of politic against immigrants. They did nothing, so they deserved all this hate they spread against hard working people. He should tell them that hate, fear, and evil cames back. Radio hosts and right media are next to dissapear. Their only hope is Mr powell who recognized his error a little too late. It's funny "now" how many Republicans wants forgiveness for all the sins they caused to this hard working people. again too little too late. Let's see if Barack Obama can give freedom to this people and with this ensure reelection, otherwise we won't see a black president for at least a century. That is one of the few qualities of hispanics "loyalty."

    January 12, 2009 11:09 am at 11:09 am |
  46. Adam

    As a conservative, W has damaged the republican party. He has abandoned the ways of fiscal responsibility. As far as immigration, We conservatives are against the illegal invasion of tens of millions of unskilled, uneducated, illiterate, dirt poor people with dieseases. This open border policy of this president is sickening

    January 12, 2009 11:11 am at 11:11 am |
  47. Michael

    If you think about it, we haven't seen such a bad election result for the party of a two-term president since Harry Truman. Technically, Truman wasn't a two-term president, but for the purposes of argument, I'll consider it a two-term presidency.

    January 12, 2009 11:11 am at 11:11 am |
  48. Aaron from Ohio

    Bush gives a prescription to the GOP. Good. They need some chill pills.

    January 12, 2009 11:17 am at 11:17 am |
  49. Jackson, Seattle

    Of course the GOP needs to be pro-immigration. Americans have stopped voting Republican, so they have to import new votes!!

    January 12, 2009 11:19 am at 11:19 am |
  50. Nick of Charleston

    Having grown up in a Republican family, it is kind of sad to see the party in the sorry state it's in. Probably one of Bush's more insightful statements to be honest. It needs to change quickly, lose the super-evangelical fundie nutjobs clogging it with social issues and ignoring the economic side (both McCain and Palin admitted that they knew squat about economics, and were focused more on military and social issues).

    January 12, 2009 11:22 am at 11:22 am |
  51. Alex

    If only he took his own advice 8 years ago.

    January 12, 2009 11:22 am at 11:22 am |
  52. a REAL American

    Hey GOPloser.... your statement proves that stereotypes are alive and well in this country. There are plenty of "non-whites" in the GOP, such as Michael Steele, Condoleeza Rice, and Bobby Jindal. Maybe you should use a few of those dwindling brain cells before they're gone!

    January 12, 2009 11:24 am at 11:24 am |
  53. SOUTHERN HOTTIE

    G O P = K K K

    January 12, 2009 11:26 am at 11:26 am |
  54. esther

    I am a christian and i feel so sad when the party GOP THAT CLAIMS they are christians spew so much hate to fellow human , cannot tolerate anyone different from them/ the BIBLE SAYs love your neighbor as yourself. Love those that hate you

    January 12, 2009 11:27 am at 11:27 am |
  55. Ken in NC

    President Bush gives the GOP some good advice on Immigrants. Good advice but a few years to late. I hope they listen to him. If they do not listen they will be stuck with Gov. Palin again in 2012. Please do not misunderstand me. I would love to see her on the ticket in 4 years. It would give the Democrats a cake walk in 2012.

    January 12, 2009 11:27 am at 11:27 am |
  56. Matt

    Yeah, the GOP needs a nice juicey injection of political Haldol.

    January 12, 2009 11:30 am at 11:30 am |
  57. Emit R Detsaw

    Arrogant and Delusional to the end!

    I think he meant Illegal Immigrants, but someone in the White House removed the word Illegal from their vocabulary over the past administration. ;o)

    January 12, 2009 11:32 am at 11:32 am |
  58. ga.

    i don't know if the republican party can recover, they have too many racists on board.

    January 12, 2009 11:33 am at 11:33 am |
  59. Mickie

    I'm sure his party will take all of his great advice from his wonderful experience! LOL, LOL, LOL, LOL!!!

    January 12, 2009 11:33 am at 11:33 am |
  60. Shawn - GA

    I think it is sad how so many people come on these blogs and comment as if they have any idea what they are talking about. We civilians have no idea what goes on fully, I am sure history will paint the truth. Be is a positive or negative one, however making such hateful comments while having little information just goes to show how ignorant people are. You believe 1 person made everything bad happen? Really? Talk about a scape goat.

    I am very concerned for PE Obama. He is human, he is just a man and he has to work within the same system. He can not possibly change as much as people are thinking he will, it is not possible. I pray that the warm fuzzy feelings do continue so he can get things done, I just see that people in that system are already turning on him and he has not even moved in yet.

    January 12, 2009 11:34 am at 11:34 am |
  61. NEL E BELL ;-)

    I WILL BE TRUELY INSULTED IF WE ALLOW ANY NEW SHIP IN OUR FLEETS NOW OR IN THE FUTURE BE NAMED AFTER THE MOST UNUNITING PRESIDENT I HAVE SEEN IN MY 60YRS. HOW COULD WE BE SUPRISED THAT GW WOULD PUSH FOR HIS FATHERS NAME TOBE PUT ON A SHIP OF STATE. IN MY OPINION, THE BUSH FAMILY ARE THE WORST CASE EXAMPLE OF WEALTH GONE WILD. HIS FATHERS LETTERS SHOWED NOTHING BUT CONTEMPT FOR ENLISTED CREW MEMBERS OF HIS SHIP AND HIS SON, DIDN'T EVEN GO THROUGH BASIC TRAINING AND THERE IS STILL THE DOUBT THAT HE EVEN FLEW A PLANE IN THE TEXAS AIR GUARD.PLEASE JUST TURN THE PAGE ON THESE WHITE COLLAR CRIMINALS AND LETS MOVE ON, GOOD BYE GEORGE YOUR ONLY USE NOW IS FOR YOUR PICTURE TOBE PUT ON TARGETS SO SPORTS MEN AND WOMAN CAN REALLY SHOW YOU HOW WE CAN HIT THE BULLS EYE.

    January 12, 2009 11:38 am at 11:38 am |
  62. Angie-OHIO

    HE & CRAZY cheney are IDIOTS, LIARS, WAR MONGERS,LIARS, WAR CRIMINALS, LOSERS, LIARS. GOOD RIDDANCE TO BAD RUBBISH. AND AS FAR AS THE GOP GOES THEY ARE A BUNCH OF POINTY HOOD WEARING HATERS.

    January 12, 2009 11:38 am at 11:38 am |
  63. Brian From Fort Mill, SC

    @Shawn – GA:

    You've given one of the most balanced viewpoints I've seen in months. We need more posts like yours.

    January 12, 2009 11:38 am at 11:38 am |
  64. Steve

    SOUTHERN HOTTIE January 12th, 2009 11:26 am ET

    G O P = K K K

    Really?? You do realize that Sen Robert Byrd (DEM-WV) was ACTUALLY in the in Klan, don't you?

    January 12, 2009 11:40 am at 11:40 am |
  65. Ariana

    I'm actually impressed with Bush's insight. He's learned something, too bad its all too late.

    January 12, 2009 11:40 am at 11:40 am |
  66. Reality Check Richmond Virginia

    well, I don't agree with him on much.......but on this I do.

    January 12, 2009 11:44 am at 11:44 am |
  67. REG in AZ

    These quotes seem to accurately point out how stupid, how fixated on his own self-serving views, how just apathetic to others concerns Bush can be. He sounds better when others write his speeches but it doesn't really matter as the focus and mentality has always been the same. Some real sound advise for the Republicans could be, to get in touch with all of the people, with more than just trying to manipulate using different biases, dump your dependence and fixation on the limited few, become more centrist with concern for everyone and reject the dishonest and cocky arrogance of the Bush-Cheney-Rove-Rice-etal era.

    January 12, 2009 11:46 am at 11:46 am |
  68. Michael, Houston Texas

    GOPloser, that is not fair to say that the GOP is a "white" party and yes I am African American. The problem with the GOP is that they are still stuck in 1950. The world has changed. The idea of conservatism is a thing of the past. For so long the GOP has centered thier ideas around nationalism and with the diversity of America and the racial deminsions shifting from European Americans to African American and Latin Americans, the GOP has to rethink it's approach. I see why you say GOPloser what you say, even though I think it's unfair. The GOP party will have to start paying attention to the needs and the wants of African Americans as well as Latino Americans, which make up the majority now in our political landscape. What we have been seeing is AA and Latinos more engaged in the political process and when you give the appearance that you don't care about what our issues are, how we feel or what we want as well as other Americans, of course we will gravitate to those who at the very least, act like the care. But for so long the GOP as placed it's politcal captiol in those who they felt had a voice which is why people GOPloser feel the way they do. But their are good GOP people out there, but the old guard has overshadowed those in the GOP who want diversity.

    January 12, 2009 11:46 am at 11:46 am |
  69. Laverne

    In other words, learn to fake it, lie, grin and steal, just so long as others think you can tolerate them, everybody will be happy and we will be back in charge. Give me a break!

    January 12, 2009 11:49 am at 11:49 am |
  70. chuck

    THIS IS THE ONLY THANKS I COULD GIVE TO GEORGE BUSH---------HE POLUTED THE REPUBLICAN PARTY LIKE THE AIDS VIROUS ----–I HOPE THEY WILL NEVER RECOVER TO WIN ANOTHER ELECTION. THIS IS THE REAL"MISSION ACCOMPLISH" BY GEORGE BUSH. GEORGE THANKS FOR SCREWING THE REPUBLICAN PARY UP --THIS WAS THE MUSHROOM CLOUD BOMB YOU LANDED ON YOUR PARTY.

    January 12, 2009 11:54 am at 11:54 am |
  71. J. Dean

    THIS IDIOT, NAMED GEORGE BUSH, SHOULD DISSAPEAR FROM WASHINGTON THE SOONER THE BETTER.
    THE PARENTS OF ALL THOSE U.S. MELITARY PERSONNEL WHO WERE SACRIFICED IN IRAQ FOR THE STUPID DECISION OF GEORGE BUSH ARE STILL WAITING TO HEAR THAT, THE GREATEST MISTAKE THAT THIS IDIOT, NAMED GEORGE BUSH, CIMMITTED WAS TO TAKE OUR YOUNG BOYS, OUR HEROES, TO IRAQ. THAT IS GEORGE BUSH'S GREATEST MISTAKE, AND HE, ONLY GEORGE BUSH, IS THE DIREST CAUSE FOR THE DEATH OF OUR YOUNG BOYS. OVER 4220 MEN AND WOMEN WERE SACRIFICED BECAUSE GEORGE BUSH COMMITTED AND CREATED THE DARKEST PAGES OF OUR HISTORY.
    WHAT AN IDIOT WHO IS STILL TALKING. THOSE PARENTS, FATHERS AND MOTHERS, HUSBANDS AND WIFES, SONS AND DAUGHTERS AND THE INTIRE NATION IS STILL WAITING TO HEAR FROM THIS IDIOT, NAMED GEORGE BUSH, THAT HIS GREATEST MISTAKE WAR HIS DECISION TO GO TO WAR IN IRAQ. THAT HE IS THE ONLY CAUSE FOR THE LOSS OF OVER 4220 AMERICAN HEROES WHO WERE SACRIFICED BECAUSE OF GEORGE BUSH'S MISGUIDED DECISION.
    NOTHING WILL REPLACE THE LOSS OF OUR OVER 4220 YOUNG MAN AND WOMEN WHO DIED AND WHOSE JOYFUL LIVES ENDED BECAUSE OF THIS IDIOT WHO STILL HAS THE COURAGE TO TALK WITHOUT ACCEPTING HIS GREATEST MISTAKE. A MISTAKE THAT WILL GO DOWN IN OUR HISTORY AS THE DARKEST DAYS OF THIS GREAT NATION OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

    January 12, 2009 11:55 am at 11:55 am |
  72. Objective thinking

    Though as a Ron Paul supporter I think Bush has been wrong on so many important things, I also think that a lot of America and a lot of people who comment on these CNN articles would react to Bush saying "2 + 2 = 4" by saying, "Well if Bush thinks 2 + 2 = 4, then I guess 2 + 2 does NOT equal 4." People are willing to go that far to say Bush is wrong.

    But this is one case where he's right. Now as far as taking his own advice, which a couple people mentioned, I think it's fair to point out that Bush called for legislation that allows illegal immigrants to become legal with relative ease, thus inciting more criticism from his own party than from Democrats. On all the issues that Democrats call him out on, illegal immigration wasn't one of them (unless they were uninformed/ignorant).

    Now again, Bush is a big screw-up, but don't let that stop you from objectively seeing that he's right: the rest of the Republicans should push the message that they are perfectly fine with immigrants.

    Not that this one issue by itself will get them votes. John McCain had more support of immigrants becoming legal than Barack Obama did, yet minority groups including Latinos continued to vote Obama anyway. It's possible, though, that America just never educated themselves to be AWARE that McCain had more of a record of supporting immigration.

    January 12, 2009 11:55 am at 11:55 am |
  73. Patrick - Indianapolis

    Bush prescribing what is wrong with you is like asking the guy at gas station to treat your cancer.

    January 12, 2009 11:57 am at 11:57 am |
  74. Don in Albuquerque

    If Obama lets this guy and his cronies slide for torture, illegal wire taps, outing CIA agents..................The list goes on and on. He deserves to serve only four years. AMERICANS want justice!!!! The graves or American and Iraqui dead scream out for justice!

    January 12, 2009 11:59 am at 11:59 am |
  75. Moody

    Immigration was the only thing Bush was right on. The only moderate view he has. It was everthing else he was so far right on, that destroyed the republican party.

    And now they are going to make it even farther right by electing Sarah Palin as their Queen. Democrats will rule for a very long time.

    William Buckley must be rolling over in is grave to know that the crazies he worked so hard to keep out of the republican party have taken over.

    January 12, 2009 12:00 pm at 12:00 pm |
  76. Tom in S.A.

    Angie in Ohio,
    Bring facts, not hatred ignorant comments you've been reading on blogs for years, you show your true colors.

    January 12, 2009 12:03 pm at 12:03 pm |
  77. Mick in Mesa

    The GOP is dying because most repuglicons are living in the 50's. As they die off maybe – just maybe – the party will survive. Doubtful though – to many political evangelicals in the US and they in turn will keep the GOP alive but always in the minority...

    January 12, 2009 12:03 pm at 12:03 pm |
  78. Steve

    Republican Party will never recover. There will be a rush to retire in 2010 just like there was in 2008.
    People are already in the process of form ing a completely new party to replace the Republican Party which Bush has destroyed.

    January 12, 2009 12:04 pm at 12:04 pm |
  79. lovable liberal

    Bush telling anyone to be broad-minded is like the Abu Ghraib abusers telling their relief to respect the prisoners.

    January 12, 2009 12:04 pm at 12:04 pm |
  80. Bea

    Finally Bush admits what i have thought all along. The G.O.P is the rich white people click. but i guess they didn't realize that AMerica belongs to every race, colot, creed...you name it, it is America. Thank you democratic party for making it possible for everyone to get a chance. Clinton and Obama would not have made it as far as they did if they were in the current G.O.P

    January 12, 2009 12:05 pm at 12:05 pm |
  81. Lisa M

    Here is my suggestion to the GOP.

    Ditch the Bible thumpers.
    Get some real conservatives.
    Get back to basics

    January 12, 2009 12:06 pm at 12:06 pm |
  82. john

    isnt it ironic how many poeple dont realize that if it hadnt been for the GOP the south would still be in the slave trade buissness. However, the civil war would have never happened either, so I guess it depends on your knowlege of History.

    January 12, 2009 12:09 pm at 12:09 pm |
  83. Jordan in San Marcos, TX

    ...like a psychologist performing heart surgery...

    January 12, 2009 12:09 pm at 12:09 pm |
  84. Dave

    Sorry, but this party will come back only when the neo-cons are run out of it. They have taken over and turned into something that no longer resembles conservatism.

    January 12, 2009 12:10 pm at 12:10 pm |
  85. William, from Cali!

    The Republicans will be heard from again...No doubt! It's just the democRATS......will be in the "HOT SEAT", now! 1/20/2009, is gaining on you It's your turn......What are you going to do???????? We shall see, sooner than later! Good luck for all our sake!

    January 12, 2009 12:14 pm at 12:14 pm |
  86. Lori

    For once, Bush makes sense. The problem is... if the Republicans now pretend to 'like' people of color it will be disingenuous.and everyone will know that they are just doing it for votes (which will be the case). People don't like being patronized- if the GOP dislikes Mexicans, Blacks, homosexuals, etc. they like a leopard cannot change their spots, and the rest of us will see through it. The GOP is a 'Whites only' party and I for one do not want to be a part of that racism.

    January 12, 2009 12:14 pm at 12:14 pm |
  87. Whats left in your wallet?

    This is like have successful cancer surgery,it feels great to know hes leaving.

    January 12, 2009 12:14 pm at 12:14 pm |
  88. Franky

    I just wanna say that if the GOP betrayed our president during the campaign, you think they are gonna listen to him?? The GOP only care about themselves, they don't know nothing about feelings and emotion, they gotta work on that. And in my opinion, they gotta work on some character issues. This is the same party that praised Senator McCain because he selected Gov Palin, and now they don't give him the recognition for it. They are slow, they don't realize that they contradict themselves. One minute they are praising one another and another minute they are criticizing one another. One minute Gov Palin tells her story after the election, another minute she's blaming the system that elected our beloved President 8 years ago. Another minute she tells her side and another minute she wants to tell her story. Like I said a long time ago...

    You have a major identity crisis. Something is terrible wrong with you guys. You don't care, why?? Because if we don't care, then you don't...GOP, we've been in this game A LONG TIME! We were once a Red State in case you don't remember...think GOP, think!!

    January 12, 2009 12:16 pm at 12:16 pm |
  89. Ron in Missouri

    I wanted to be more active in politics but I found out that to be in the GOP you must be two of the following if not all three: White, Christian and make over 100k a year. I have never been in a room with so much hate as when I went to a county GOP meeting. Its sad we need two parties in our system for checks and balances. RIP GOP

    January 12, 2009 12:17 pm at 12:17 pm |
  90. IndiePA

    As usual, the words out of his mouth are BS. If he and any of the other members of Congress of either party were listening, the message is NOT "we don't like immigrants". The message IS that ILLEGAL immigrants are showing no respect for the laws of the U.S. and SHOULD NOT be granted amnesty!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Enforce the laws as they exist. Any employer using ILLEGALS should be given an immense fine. Begin to backcharge the U.S. financial aid to Mexico with the billions of dollars of costs incurred by the American taxpaying citizens for healthcare, education and incarceration of the ILLEGALS. Go back to Texas, Dubya. We've had more than enough!

    January 12, 2009 12:18 pm at 12:18 pm |
  91. Tony

    Advice from BUSH????????????????????

    What a joke!

    January 12, 2009 12:21 pm at 12:21 pm |
  92. mb

    I was kinda proud of President Bush today. How he stood up to the msm and everyone. It was like a weight off his shoulders, and although I haven't read it, he also admitted to have stopped drinking. I really think he has grown up in the last eight years and I can appreciate the praises, support and happiness for PE Obama and his family.

    I really wish he (Pres. Bush) and his family well.
    May God bless them and may God Bless America.

    January 12, 2009 12:21 pm at 12:21 pm |
  93. Dawn

    Go away quietly, do not deregulate or you have over a billion people on you a@#. Do not drill on lands that is our Natural parks or you will have over a billion people on your a@#, and you need to tell the American People that Global Warming is indeed man made, and last but not least, study the laws, they do pertain to you.

    January 12, 2009 12:22 pm at 12:22 pm |
  94. chuck

    GEORGE BUSH IS A PATHOLOGICAL LIAR.LET ME BREAK THIS DOWN SO THAT EVERYONE UNDERSTANDS THIS CLAIM BY ME---–GEORGE BUSH BELIEVES WHAT HE DID WAS 100% RIGHT AND IF HE HAD ANOTHER CHANCE HE WOULD DO IT EXACTLTY IN THE SAME MANNER. I CALL ON GEORGE BUSH TO CHECK HIMSELF IN A MENTAL INSTITUTION IMMEDIATELY AND DO SOME DRUG REHAB ALSO. THIS IS SAD TO SAY BUT THIS MAN IS NFG.

    January 12, 2009 12:23 pm at 12:23 pm |
  95. I'm Not Missing The Old Mule & Winky Half-baked Alaska

    George Bush, our own misunderestimated "illegal" immignorant.

    January 12, 2009 12:23 pm at 12:23 pm |
  96. coming together

    We need to move on as a nation from party polotics and see what we can do as individuals to change our country. After 9/11 we all came together. Will it take another tragedy for that to happen again? We need to come together as communities. We have schools that can't by toilet paper much less educate our kids. We have homes and churches in foreclosure. We have families being separated as dad leaves to find work while mom and the kids move in with family. If we don't come together, volunteer, US & Municipal savings bonds to finance governments instead of foriegn money, we will never make it to the America we were or could be.

    January 12, 2009 12:25 pm at 12:25 pm |
  97. Eric

    Well at least he knows part of the reason that his ratings are in the crapper, mainstream Republicans can't stand his position on ILLEGAL immigration.

    January 12, 2009 12:25 pm at 12:25 pm |
  98. WELCOME TO THE OBAMA SHOW!!!!!!!!!!!!

    PRESIDENT BUSH,

    PLEASE SAY A PRAYER FOR OUR COUNTRY!!!!!!!!

    ALLOT OF AMERICANS (OBAMA SUPPORTERS) BLAME PRESIDENT BUSH FOR EVERYTHING THAT IS WRONG WITH THIS COUNTRY AND WILL CONTINUE TO BLAME PRESIDENT BUSH FOR YEARS TO COME.

    THE FACTS ARE THE ECONOMY GOES UP AND DOWN IN CYCLES AND MOST AMERICANS LIVE OVER THERE BUDGET!!!

    FRAUD IS ANOTHER PROBLEM WHICH NEEDS TO BE HANDLED!!
    UNTIL THE CROOKS ARE PUT IN PRISON IN THIS COUNTRY CRIME WILL PAY VERY WELL!!!!!!

    THE HUISSAIN OBAMA SUPPORTERS WILL BLAME BUSH FOR EVERYTHING NO MATTER WHAT OBAMA DOES WRONG AND THATS REALLY A SHAME.

    THANK YOU PRESIDENT BUSH FOR KEEPING OUR COUNTRY SAFE AND ENJOY YOUR RETIREMENT YOU DESERVE IT!!!!!

    January 12, 2009 12:26 pm at 12:26 pm |
  99. Justin

    @shawn ga

    Like you know whats going on. History will look unfavorably on this Bush neocon error. The GOP is the party for the ignorant. Shawn did you get your copy of the song Barrack the Magic Negro? Please. I hope the grand OLD party is dumped onto the ash heap of history along with Whig and Fedaralist party.

    January 12, 2009 12:27 pm at 12:27 pm |
  100. coming together

    John
    on your slavery comment.....................Lincoln was a Republican. Blacks started voting democrat this century and southern democrats became southern republicans. Let us leave all that behind and work together though. Together we stand/ divided we fall. we can disagree without falling out surely. find common ground and work from there

    January 12, 2009 12:29 pm at 12:29 pm |
  101. GT

    Bush needs to just disappear into the same abyss that Nixon did when he was sent packing, The more he talks the more reminds us just how ignorant he really is.

    January 12, 2009 12:29 pm at 12:29 pm |
  102. Bararck Obama, still just B.O.

    I grew up a democrat but am now a republican. It doesn't mean I have to believe extreme ideals, I just believe that the republican party's ideals are what made this country great in the first place. I find it infuriating that the democrats believe that if you work hard and sacrifice and become rich, you should take a large part of that money and give it to those that didn't make the same choices as you or chose not to work hard or sacrifice. This doesn't mean I want to keep everything I make, I just want freedom of choice to give where I want to give and how much I want to give. Why should I trust the government to make that choice for me. The democrats scream about freedom of choice for a life when all I want is freedom of choice for a lifestyle.

    Vote Republican! Vote for freedom for your life!

    January 12, 2009 12:30 pm at 12:30 pm |
  103. tee

    IF THEY STOP BEING THE REPUBLIKLAN PARTY AND RETURN TO THE REPUBLICAN PARTY, THEY MIGHT HAVE A CHANCE IN THIS MORE DIVERSED COUNTRY.

    January 12, 2009 12:30 pm at 12:30 pm |
  104. rob

    it will only come back when the right wing religious groups and bigoted old white men are well gone from the GOP . in other words never

    January 12, 2009 12:31 pm at 12:31 pm |
  105. Maggie from Virginia

    A Real American – You named 3 "non-whites" and consider that plenty? You're not helping your case here.

    January 12, 2009 12:32 pm at 12:32 pm |
  106. Cathy

    Why did you not tell Senator McCain these or even the cow calle Plain Palin Sarah?

    January 12, 2009 12:32 pm at 12:32 pm |
  107. shucks

    They don't like any minorities. Period. This is a fact that was front and center during the whole presidential race. All you had to do was listen to the rhetoric coming from people waiting in line to see Gramps and Chippy. The best part is neither one of them denounced it unless it was shown on national TV. Having a token black, latino, or gay person does not make you tolerant, it just makes you deceiving.

    January 12, 2009 12:33 pm at 12:33 pm |
  108. Mike, Wash. State

    I agree with Bea. The Republican Party is the party of rich, white people. Unfortunately, they already know the damage Bush caused to their party. They know that the "my way or the highway" mentality that the Bush/Cheney Admn. brought to Wash. backfired on them.

    They'll sit back, regroup and wait for the next "conservative mandate" from the people. It will come. The pendulum always swings back around. For now all we can do is to hope that Pres. Obama will undo as much damage that Bush did as he can in the time he's been given.

    January 12, 2009 12:34 pm at 12:34 pm |
  109. JP from GA

    well said Shawn from Georgia. a thoughtful post.

    I, too, am concerned about the expectations have for PE Obama. If he can get us moving in a different direction, one that heals the electorate, and that heals our connections with other countries, and that does something about the economy, I think he will have had a good first term. Health care, environment, maybe the second term.

    January 12, 2009 12:35 pm at 12:35 pm |
  110. Ex-Republican

    It's going to take quite a bit to take care of every single mess Bush and his republican cronies have caused. Between record setting vetoes by Bush and a habitual philibuster republican congress, we have been wrecked into oblivion. The republicans have become a party infiltrated by do nothing lazers, who's only accomplishments are the escalating crime they themselves commit. Ripping off american citizens and murdering/torturing the people of the world!

    I do hope Obama can begin to turn this tide, but it is with out a doubt a monumental task to rectify the absolute devestation that Bush and his domestic terrorist administration have caused.

    January 12, 2009 12:36 pm at 12:36 pm |
  111. MurphyMorseJohnson

    A view of a Yuma Arizona vidoe as waves of thousands of illegal immigrants flood the U.S. border shows at least three things. Our government does not just love immigration–it loves illegal immigration. Our government has failed to define the significance of its borders. Third, this would never happen in China!

    January 12, 2009 12:36 pm at 12:36 pm |
  112. Jan

    Good Luck, President Bush–I agree with all of what you said in you Press Conference And the fact that you were able to answer real questions–not manufactured answers from known questions! Give the American people a couple years of democrats and they will be begging repubs to come back and protect us.

    January 12, 2009 12:36 pm at 12:36 pm |
  113. Luke Brown

    How wise.

    January 12, 2009 12:37 pm at 12:37 pm |
  114. Obama supporter

    The Repubs really need to get their representatives in check. When they have people like Palin, Limbaugh, Colter, Hannity, etc. speaking for them they come off as hate-filled racists.

    I watched a program about the Neo-Nazis on National Geographic last night. The Neo-Nazi rhetoric sounded just like Sarah Palin during the campaign. The Neo-Nazis say things like "this is our country", "we are the true Americans". They are anti-immigration, they want to burn books that have opposing views, etc ... sound familiar, Sarah?

    If the Repubs want to gain a following, they need to have people like Colin Powell representing them. They need to realize that the "face" of America is changing and, like it or not, they are going to have to go along with it.

    January 12, 2009 12:38 pm at 12:38 pm |
  115. Walt from Canada

    I have a visual picture for Bush and Cheney as their legacy. They are standing on an aircraft carrier which is setting on water/houses of New Orleans from Katrina. Behind them is the Mission Accomplished sign with sailors being tortured and behind that are towering flames from the Mideast wars (3 of them) and in the background is a very large mountain at the base of which is a sign (debt). This is what they leave behind.

    January 12, 2009 12:39 pm at 12:39 pm |
  116. Maggie from Virginia

    John – The GOP wasn't formed until after the civil war. Also, the majority of blacks were republicans before they joined the democratic party. The republican party is not what it once was.

    January 12, 2009 12:39 pm at 12:39 pm |
  117. Michael G -Ventura ca

    Yeah repugs-listen to this man...the way you have been for 8 LONG years- Dr Bush with his miracle perscriptions---Please.

    January 12, 2009 12:40 pm at 12:40 pm |
  118. S. Boatman

    I think Bush did the best job he could have done. unfortunately his best was not good enough for most of us and his decision making was poor. hopefully the next president will do better. its hard to imagine he will do worse.

    January 12, 2009 12:40 pm at 12:40 pm |
  119. tcaudilllg

    So he says these things now... why not eight years ago? Why didn't he do these things when he had time to do something about them? Why didn't he believe in himself instead of bashing people whose ideas he felt uncomfortable with?

    January 12, 2009 12:40 pm at 12:40 pm |
  120. James in Nebraska

    @Shawn – GA

    Whoa, whoa...whoa...
    We don't need your common sense and intelligent posts here. These blogs are for the neolibs, neocons, trolls, and those who grab a bag of popcorn and watch the show.

    Seriously though, we do need more posts like this. The kids on here are getting pretty bad. It's pretty sad there are so many one sided people.

    January 12, 2009 12:41 pm at 12:41 pm |
  121. Charles L. Shaw, Liverpool, NY

    The GOP will only recover if Ron Paul is allowed to participate. Freedom and Liberty are the foundation of the conservative ideology.

    January 12, 2009 12:42 pm at 12:42 pm |
  122. beachgirl

    Hey Mr. Bush, don't you think it's a little bit too late to admit you WERE WRONG????? this morning you sounded so defiant on TV, so arrogant and so phony (as usual) You said..............the country was in trouble when I took office...... WRONG!! Bill Clinton handed you a wonderful country will money, respect and prosperous, you brought us down sir! you put us the position we are right now! You as you did with your beisball team, did everything wrong for the country, so don't tell us you inhereted problems, YOU ARE WRONG TO THE END!!!

    January 12, 2009 12:42 pm at 12:42 pm |
  123. Billy

    I think Shrubs about 8 years late on his "don't hate immigrants" because then you look like you hate everybody speech – that horse has already left the barn. The last election proved it.

    January 12, 2009 12:43 pm at 12:43 pm |
  124. Griff

    Whenever this guy is Talking I aways watch and Liten...

    When Obama opens his face to Talk, I either switch off Compleatly, or turn down the Sound...... Why.... The Guy is Genuine....
    Obama is nothing but a Preacher. (Empty)...

    January 12, 2009 12:45 pm at 12:45 pm |
  125. Mav in Midwest

    Kick out the neocons, then you might have a chance in a decade or two.

    January 12, 2009 12:45 pm at 12:45 pm |
  126. Baze

    Here's my prescription to the G.O.P. Just keep quiet and let the Dems ruin themselves. It's inevitable that every party wears out its welcome.

    January 12, 2009 12:46 pm at 12:46 pm |
  127. Jim in Bisbee

    The GOP has to change to get back in power, but having co-opted the Radical Religious Right as their mascot, they can't possibly change because their religious ideologies are immutable. They're stuck, and I'm glad for it on one side – they probably won't come back as strong as they were; and sorry for it on another side – if they do somehow come back, they'll be stronger and more virulent than ever.

    January 12, 2009 12:46 pm at 12:46 pm |
  128. boered1

    he is right (but not far enough for some in his party) the fact is that the republicans MUST understand they do not live in the mythic 50s of their minds or the (vaim)glorious 80s (the "me" generation) of reagan, the world has moved on and it is time that we as a country move on. I respect the republican ideals of gun rights and a fiscally responsible government. I even find myself agreeing with them on some of the individual rights ideals I do find my self differing with them on the idea that smaller government is better government and that if we just let the market run without controls everything will be fine. I believe government needs to protect the people, not just from foreign invaders and internal terrorist but also from corporations that care more for the bottom line than the individuals at the bottom. i feel that a government, that wants to protect its people, will ensure that its people have the minimum required to sustain life, some financial security, social security and some self respect that without these things people get angry, they resent the government and they cause more problems. Therefore, in my mind, welfare, social security, medicare, education and alot of our social programs are PART of our security and must be maintained. I deeply disagree with the republicans attempt to tie religion to politics and to say that if I do not vote republican than I am somehow not a christian or "American" enough (never mind my 21 years in the service!). I do not think I am alone in these thoughts and if the republican party were to understand that they could return stronger if they continue to follow the radical religious rightwing they will find themselves alone with their memories of when they had power....

    January 12, 2009 12:47 pm at 12:47 pm |
  129. BW

    Here you go Liberals...time to get it all out of your system...flaunt your hate and sub-human intellect...Bush is almost gone. Guess what? Your Messiah is almost here and everything will be perfect. Let's see how "honest' your comments are then. Obama isn't even in office yet, and he's flip-flopping on his "change for America" plan already. Funny part is, some of you liberals have even mentioned it here on CNN. Prepare...it's your turn now!

    January 12, 2009 12:47 pm at 12:47 pm |
  130. david Armendale, SF, CA

    Hearing Bush admit a mistake is like a listening to a guy apologize for not calling 911 fast enough after shooting somebody in the head. And oh, also, it was not his fault that he shot some guy in the head. It was bad intel.

    January 12, 2009 12:49 pm at 12:49 pm |
  131. dennis-ohio

    Angie-Ohio:

    Feel better now ? Nice to see our state represented by such a fine example as you. Idiot.

    January 12, 2009 12:49 pm at 12:49 pm |
  132. Anne Prevost

    If I were a Republican, I would NOT be taking dubya's advice but telling him to drag his a-s back to Texas, never to be seen again!

    January 12, 2009 12:52 pm at 12:52 pm |
  133. Blue is my favourite colour

    Bush's advice to the republican party will likely fall on deaf ears. They still would have lost. George W. destroyed the party, and John McCain did nothing to change its direction either–another opportunity lost. The illness in the GOP will likely linger for many more years–and they will still continue to not learn from their mistakes, which makes the Dems look pretty good–even with Pelosi and Reid.

    January 12, 2009 12:52 pm at 12:52 pm |
  134. Jay

    This is coming from someone who was one of the most ideological presidents in our history. If President Lincoln were around to see his party today he would be shocked. What the Republican's need to do is find a way to reach the independents like myself. People who believe in a strong military used only in defense, Helping our neighbors and allies, Diplomacy first and the useage of force second. Helping the poor, the lame, and the lost, and most importantly balancing our budget. These are the people that win elections

    January 12, 2009 12:52 pm at 12:52 pm |
  135. david Armendale, SF, CA

    Bush pointed out that Republicans regained power in 1964.
    That's right!
    After LBJ admittedly conceded the South to the bigots by signing into law the Civil Rights Act.
    YEA inclusionary politics!

    January 12, 2009 12:54 pm at 12:54 pm |
  136. WELCOME TO THE OBAMA SHOW!!!!!!!!!!!!

    PRESIDENT BUSH,

    PLEASE SAY A PRAYER FOR OUR COUNTRY!!!!!!!!

    ALLOT OF AMERICANS (OBAMA SUPPORTERS) BLAME PRESIDENT BUSH FOR EVERYTHING THAT IS WRONG WITH THIS COUNTRY AND WILL CONTINUE TO BLAME PRESIDENT BUSH FOR YEARS TO COME.

    THE FACTS ARE THE ECONOMY GOES UP AND DOWN IN CYCLES AND MOST AMERICANS LIVE OVER THERE BUDGET!!!

    FRAUD IS ANOTHER PROBLEM WHICH NEEDS TO BE HANDLED!!
    UNTIL THE CROOKS ARE PUT IN PRISON IN THIS COUNTRY CRIME WILL PAY VERY WELL!!!!!!

    THE HUISSAIN OBAMA SUPPORTERS WILL BLAME BUSH FOR EVERYTHING NO MATTER WHAT OBAMA DOES WRONG AND THATS REALLY A SHAME.

    THANK YOU PRESIDENT BUSH FOR KEEPING OUR COUNTRY SAFE AND ENJOY YOUR RETIREMENT YOU DESERVE IT!!

    January 12, 2009 12:57 pm at 12:57 pm |
  137. Former Republican

    Just go away quietly.

    January 12, 2009 12:59 pm at 12:59 pm |
  138. Larry

    President Bush,

    You are looking better,and better,daily-–So far the Democrats have achieved to do nothing but INCREASE the problems that you may have started,I have never been thrilled by your SPENDING,but now it looks like the Democrats are going to completely destroy the economy with their outrageous approach to fixing the problems with the economy.If the government had not gotten involved in the first place,we wouldn't be having this situation.

    People ,anybody that will listen to some common since:We can not borrow are way out of debt.(or just print money,either)

    January 12, 2009 01:00 pm at 1:00 pm |
  139. Post Closer

    We dont want illegal immigrants you moron.That means NO line jumpers.People have been waiting for years in line.I dont like when someone tries to jump in line anywhere,does anyone else agree?

    January 12, 2009 01:02 pm at 1:02 pm |
  140. Terry

    John wrote: "isnt it ironic how many poeple dont realize that if it hadnt been for the GOP the south would still be in the slave trade buissness. However, the civil war would have never happened either, so I guess it depends on your knowlege of History."

    John speaks with forked tongue. It is true that Lincoln was a Republican and that supporters of slavery were Southern Democrats. HOWEVER, after Lyndon Johnson rammed the Civil Rights act of 1964 and a variety of other progressive reforms that we now take for granted (equal opportunity, equal pay, minority voting rights, etc.), the Republican Party became the party of segregation and states' rights. Richard Nixon invented the "Southern Strategy." He spoke to the South in code: "states' rights" meant "segregation," etc. Reagan copied the Nixon strategy. Segregationists allied themselves with corporatists and libertarian-dingbats to form a majority.

    There is NO relationship between the Republican Party of 1865 and the Republican Party of 2008.

    John either doesn't know his history or he's conning us.

    January 12, 2009 01:07 pm at 1:07 pm |
  141. Stacy from Leesburg VA

    I think this country would benefit greatly by throwing out the entrenched partisans on both sides of the aisle. The GOP got lost during the Bush years because it believed that hyper-divisive policy would ensure political success and that true fiscal conservatism was something they could talk about but exercise. Now with the Democrats back in charge, I warn them that hyper-divisive policies and pork-laden spending (non-stimulus spending) will be their downfall. No earmarks on Obama’s plan will be a fantastic first start and if Reid and Pelosi don’t like that, too darn bad!

    January 12, 2009 01:08 pm at 1:08 pm |
  142. Leonard Thibeau

    Enough said .lets hold hands and let Obama have an honest opportunity to lead us back on a straight course.

    January 12, 2009 01:09 pm at 1:09 pm |
  143. Henry Miller, Cary, NC

    Avoid ideological “litmus tests?” Let's see...

    Directly from the RNC platform:

    "We support a human life amendment to the Constitution,..."

    "We support the appointment of judges who respect traditional family values..."

    "...we call for a constitutional amendment that fully protects marriage as a union of a man and a woman..."

    "We affirm every citizen’s right to apply religious values to public policy..."

    And on and on. Looks to me like a long list of litmus tests–the bigoted bible-thumpers are still very much in charge of the GOP.

    January 12, 2009 01:11 pm at 1:11 pm |
  144. SE NM

    "protect us?" Jefferson said "those who choose security over freedom deserve neither". Words that are not important to the current administraion or Jan.

    January 12, 2009 01:13 pm at 1:13 pm |
  145. Lyndon from CA

    Mr. Bush is a hypocrit who should be prosecuted for war crimes. He was the leader of the GOP for eight years and the buck never ever stopped at his desk during that time......and you know what, it still hasn't.

    January 12, 2009 01:18 pm at 1:18 pm |
  146. Lyndon from CA

    Mr. Bush is a hypocrit who should be prosecuted for war crimes. He was the leader of the GOP for eight years and the buck never ever stopped at his desk during that time......and you know what, it still hasn't.

    January 12, 2009 01:20 pm at 1:20 pm |
  147. Brian From Fort Mill, SC

    I'm a Democrat, but I don't want the GOP to go away. We need to have an opposing side.

    Let's face it. The Democrats aren't always right, and the Republicans aren't always wrong. We need both parties so we can pick and choose the best from both. That's how we solve real problems.

    Besides: Do you really want a one-party democracy?

    January 12, 2009 01:21 pm at 1:21 pm |
  148. Katie in Pennsylvania

    Maggie from Virginia-Lincoln was the first GOP President. The party was founded in 1854, from the remains of the Free Soil Party.

    January 12, 2009 01:23 pm at 1:23 pm |
  149. Steve

    Maggie from Virginia January 12th, 2009 12:39 pm ET

    John – The GOP wasn't formed until after the civil war. Also, the majority of blacks were republicans before they joined the democratic party. The republican party is not what it once was.

    MAGGIE
    LINCOLN RAN TWICE UNDER THE GOP.

    January 12, 2009 01:24 pm at 1:24 pm |
  150. Objective thinking

    Maggie from Virginia: If you think the GOP wasn't formed until after the Civil War, then please tell us what party you think Abraham Lincoln belonged to?

    January 12, 2009 01:25 pm at 1:25 pm |
  151. Gary of El Centro, Ca

    To see Bush blaming the tone in Washington on others was enough to make me gag. His "my way or the highway" approach to everything, combined with his "if you don't support my war, you are against the troops and are un-American" stances brought the negative tone in Washington to a fever pitch. He has done nothing but divide Americans in order to achieve his own political means. The tone in Washington is directly related to the tone set from the top.

    January 12, 2009 01:27 pm at 1:27 pm |
  152. Mary

    Follow me as I destroy the party, that is what the advice show have been. I want to see some reporting on when Bush got elected he was going to be the uniter and not the divider. He united the rich people and divided the races and poor people. When will the healing begin.

    January 12, 2009 01:30 pm at 1:30 pm |
  153. It sounds good

    Maggie is one of those revisionist historians.

    January 12, 2009 01:31 pm at 1:31 pm |
  154. WELCOME TO THE OBAMA SHOW!!!!!!!!!!!!

    PRESIDENT BUSH,

    PLEASE SAY A PRAYER FOR OUR COUNTRY!!!!!!!!

    ALLOT OF AMERICANS (OBAMA SUPPORTERS) BLAME PRESIDENT BUSH FOR EVERYTHING THAT IS WRONG WITH THIS COUNTRY AND WILL CONTINUE TO BLAME PRESIDENT BUSH FOR YEARS TO COME.

    THE FACTS ARE THE ECONOMY GOES UP AND DOWN IN CYCLES AND MOST AMERICANS LIVE OVER THERE BUDGET!!!

    FRAUD IS ANOTHER PROBLEM WHICH NEEDS TO BE HANDLED!!
    UNTIL THE CROOKS ARE PUT IN PRISON IN THIS COUNTRY CRIME WILL PAY VERY WELL!!!!!!

    THE HUISSAIN OBAMA SUPPORTERS WILL BLAME BUSH FOR EVERYTHING NO MATTER WHAT OBAMA DOES WRONG AND THATS REALLY A SHAME.

    THANK YOU PRESIDENT BUSH FOR KEEPING OUR COUNTRY SAFE AND ENJOY YOUR RETIREMENT YOU DESERVE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    January 12, 2009 01:32 pm at 1:32 pm |
  155. Maggie from Virginia

    Objective Thinking – Lincoln belonged to the republican party. GOP is a nickname derived after the civil war. Anymore questions?

    January 12, 2009 01:33 pm at 1:33 pm |
  156. CanIcallyouJoe

    Shawn-GA @ 11:34
    "I think it is sad how so many people come on these blogs and comment as if they have any idea what they are talking about. We civilians have no idea what goes on fully, I am sure history will paint the truth. Be is a positive or negative one, however making such hateful comments while having little information just goes to show how ignorant people are. You believe 1 person made everything bad happen? Really? Talk about a scape goat."

    Perhaps you don't understand that they work for us? We, the people (who provide their salaries), have a right to know that they are doing the right and legal thing to solve the problems we have hired them to solve. If they do not do this, and we find out, we get angry – very very angry – and rightfully so.

    History is written, sure, and then it is rewritten. We are angry and want Bush to be seen as he is when the time comes to write and rewrite that history. We want it to be correct in showing that Bush was the most dismal of any failure we've ever had in the White House. (and without even being elected, no less!)

    January 12, 2009 01:34 pm at 1:34 pm |
  157. flybyshoeing

    For you information, the Republican Party was formed in 1854 in Kansas. The GOP which actually stands for "Gallant Old Party" was created in the 1870's.

    January 12, 2009 01:36 pm at 1:36 pm |
  158. Louis

    ADVICE TO THE GOP–DON'T NOMINATE MORONS FOR PRESIDENT.

    January 12, 2009 01:39 pm at 1:39 pm |
  159. Ernie in LA

    Obama is now saying that he is not going to be able to do everything that he promised in his campaign. He lied to win and the majority fell for it. Obama probably knew some of this as time was going by but would never change his promises of such great things. He knew what Bush was leaving for him a long time ago. He just thinks he smokes cigarettes now. Wait until the pressures really start. A real great example for his kids.

    January 12, 2009 01:39 pm at 1:39 pm |
  160. mike

    Boy, this Bush guy was a genius. Think about, got away with torture, got away with cherry-picking intelligence to start the Iraq war, got away with stealing an election ...the list goes on. Honestly, could you have got away with all that?

    January 12, 2009 01:40 pm at 1:40 pm |
  161. AnaB

    James in Nebraska

    @Shawn – GA

    Whoa, whoa…whoa…
    We don't need your common sense and intelligent posts here. These blogs are for the neolibs, neocons, trolls, and those who grab a bag of popcorn and watch the show.

    Seriously though, we do need more posts like this. The kids on here are getting pretty bad. It's pretty sad there are so many one sided people.

    *************************************************

    I agree with you both. The hate on these blogs from all sides is sad.

    January 12, 2009 01:43 pm at 1:43 pm |
  162. Ken

    Well, that's a nice fairytale Mr. soon-to-be-x-preseident. If only you had run your administration that way. And, as the leader of your lame party, if only you had instructed the congress and others in your party to behave that way. But you didn't. You ruled in a hyper-partisan vacuum, and the mindless neo-lemmings that followed you were trained like Pavlov's dog to continue on in your hyper-partisan footsteps.

    Many pundits are saying we need to all come together now - I'm all for that, except I will not let down my guard against the mindless few that don't have the brains to see what harm they've done to the country, those who want to continue down the failed path of the last 8 years, and who cheer on these CNN blogs for Mr. Obama's and America's future failure. I have no taste for a reconciliation with this kind of rightwing ilk, and my foot will be on their throats at every turn.

    January 12, 2009 01:52 pm at 1:52 pm |
  163. California Gold

    This is a particularly poignant quote of President Bush: "I'll be long gone before some smart person ever figures out what happened inside this Oval Office." –George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., May 12, 2008

    So applicable.

    January 12, 2009 01:53 pm at 1:53 pm |
  164. Ula Nejad Sacramento, Ca

    GOP had a better plan for immigrants. Why I chose the republican candidate. They seem to understand economic issues holistically better than democrats. They just did not do a good job of selling it in the campaign. Democrats had no idea really. The still don't have a detail plan as reported. Just hoping adjectives like 'bold, swift etc.' work in sale speech for their stimulus plan .

    January 12, 2009 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  165. Farrell, Houston, Tx

    In order to institute change, some things must die and the GOP is dying because they can't fight change and they aren't willing to embrace change.

    January 12, 2009 02:18 pm at 2:18 pm |
  166. RealityKing

    No worries.. Obama and his 111th band of liberal spenders are clearly reminding America why free spending democrats are worse than even free spending republicans.

    January 12, 2009 02:18 pm at 2:18 pm |
  167. Dieter Zerressen, Denver, CO

    Immigration wasn't the biggest issue. The fact that Bush said that shows what an idiot he truly is. The Bush Wars, letting 9-11 happen, tax cuts for the rich, the religious bigotry, the taxcut-and-overspend budgets, getting rid of oversight, THAT'S what lost it for you clowns and you're too stupid to see it. Great, keep doing what your doing and there will be 70 Democratic senators soon.

    January 12, 2009 02:19 pm at 2:19 pm |
  168. DJ in TX

    President is right.........(I must need my head examined). Pople, he's not stating the GOP IS a party for only whites, but the perception is just that. As a Democrat, I don't want the the GOP to "give up" on their conservative principals, but they do need to not be so idealogical. The GOP likes to believe that everyone is on an even playing field. Unfortunately that's not entirely true yet. Think about this. Slavery was abolished in 1865, right? But it took another 100 years (1965 Civil Rights Act) before ALL laws were abolished that prevented Afircan Americans from voting – 100 years. That's only 43 years ago (I was born that year). Do we REALLY think America can completely change that fast?

    Anyway, GOP, this is one time you probably should listen to President Bush. Don't abandon your principles, but stop being so idealogical and learn to listen to other ideas.

    Tax cuts are NOT the answer to everything:-).

    January 12, 2009 02:27 pm at 2:27 pm |
  169. Maggie from Virginia

    it sounds good – I'm no historian, but I do know that the republican party did not adopt the name "GOP" until after the civil war. Before and during the war, it was just plain old republican.

    January 12, 2009 02:28 pm at 2:28 pm |
  170. Bea

    @Realityking....please get a reality check....the G.O.P has always done a good job at messing up what the democrats have built up.....please live up to your name.

    January 12, 2009 02:34 pm at 2:34 pm |
  171. Extremists are funny

    My popcorn's getting stale.

    January 12, 2009 02:35 pm at 2:35 pm |
  172. Katie in Pennsylvania

    Maggie from Virginia-Okay, but you made it sound like the party itself wasn't founded until after the war.

    January 12, 2009 02:35 pm at 2:35 pm |
  173. RMGofCO

    Thank you Shawn from GA ~ I am an Obama supporter but we have all got to get a grip as you stated. Let's move on ~ stop with the hatefulness and support our next president and his admiistration. We should also question him and the administration when appropriate.

    I hope the Republican party will regroup but until they do...let's just look to the future.

    January 12, 2009 02:35 pm at 2:35 pm |
  174. Paul in FL

    This is the genius that engineered the multiple disasters facing the country and he is now trying to list the mistakes he made. Sorry...we don't have that much paper.

    January 12, 2009 02:39 pm at 2:39 pm |
  175. Humored in Texas

    Taking advice from Bush is like getting a facial from a leper!!!!

    January 12, 2009 02:39 pm at 2:39 pm |
  176. bob

    I hate you. Please go away!!

    January 12, 2009 02:43 pm at 2:43 pm |
  177. Humored in Texas

    HISTORY LESSON ON THE GOP:

    Originally called the Whig Party and created to combat Jacksonian (Andrew) Democracy.

    1856 presidential election, Buchanan is the first modern Republican candidate as the party changed its name from the Whigs to the Republicans.

    GOP term created after the Civil War.

    On the subject of immigrants, Republicans like immigrants, as long as they are "white, like me!"

    January 12, 2009 02:44 pm at 2:44 pm |
  178. Matt S

    @RealityKing: Remind me how many Democratic Presidents over the last 40 years or so have spent us into a multi-trillion dollar deficit? Oh yeah, that's right..... zero. How many Republican Presidents have? All of them.

    January 12, 2009 02:47 pm at 2:47 pm |
  179. Paul

    to TomD.
    Careful with your generalities. We are not all sons and daughters of immigrants. I am a native born American and I am not the son or daughter of an immigrant.

    January 12, 2009 02:47 pm at 2:47 pm |
  180. Revising revision

    I'm sure that's what you meant Maggie.

    January 12, 2009 02:51 pm at 2:51 pm |
  181. bsmith171

    bush giving advice. i have some for congress DEPORT bush.

    January 12, 2009 02:54 pm at 2:54 pm |
  182. CG

    If you live in the South this would not come as a surprise to anyone. All the comments and emails that put down anyone not like thenselves is very alive and well.Since I am white and Christian this has come with much sadness that I have friends and neighbors who feel it is okay to put down anyone not white and not republican leaning . They use the word liberal as if it is a slur and evokes horror and someone well beneath themselves. If you ask them directly about blacks they would see themselves as inclusive of all people but then continue to put down "the Mexicans" , the "non Christains" and worse of all those 'liberals" who want to give our country to people who do not belong here. Most grew up singing the childrens song , God loves the little children , all the chrildren of the world , red and yellow , black and white they are precious in his sight , but somehow it does not mean if they are here in the USA. . I have become an outcast with many of my fellow southerners after I supported Obama,
    Yes the Republican party needsa to change but what I see it has become more judgmental and more white . Unless they become more inclusive and realize that regardless of your color , your back ground and even if you are liberal in your views , you still have values , you still are patriotic and love your country and God still answers your prayers. I know mine were answered with our new President elect!

    January 12, 2009 02:57 pm at 2:57 pm |
  183. Jon A

    Bush supporters say that "in fifty years we'll be thankful for what he did in the Middle East."...ok, tell you what: If I manage to live to see the day that the end result of the Middle East fiasco is positive, I'll throw a post-humous "I'm Sorry, You Were Right, And I Was Wrong" party for him. In the meantime, the reality of a wrecked economy, a tarnished world view of our country, and countless other blunders is the reality I have to live with NOW. So for NOW, Bush is a terrible bumbling idiot of a "president" until proven otherwise.

    January 12, 2009 02:57 pm at 2:57 pm |
  184. Troyman

    Why does the Right always call the Dems tax and spend? Go back and look at the record Bill balanced the budget. Reagan used voodoo economics and the first Bush ran up the deficit. Bush #2 ran up the deficit. Realityking, you do not know your history. That tax and spend in what Conservs use to when elections. Did not work this time. HA

    January 12, 2009 02:58 pm at 2:58 pm |
  185. April fools day early?

    Joe the Plunger is getting more posts than this loser?

    January 12, 2009 02:59 pm at 2:59 pm |
  186. HouseDiva

    LOL chuck

    it's funny because it's true.

    January 12, 2009 03:12 pm at 3:12 pm |

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