March 18, 2009
Posted: March 18th, 2009 05:46 PM ET

From
 Bush and Cheney have struck different tones since exiting the White House.
Bush and Cheney have struck different tones since exiting the White House.

(CNN) - Their public positions seemed largely in harmony for eight years, but George Bush and Dick Cheney are striking markedly different tones in their initial months away from the White House.

While the former vice president has been highly critical of the new administration - most recently in an interview with CNN's John King - the president has refrained from disparaging his successor, and is mostly ducking the national spotlight altogether.

Watch: Cheney tout Bush administration accomplishments

Tuesday night, in his first appearance of any kind in more than eight weeks, Bush told a friendly audience in Calgary, Alberta it would not be productive to criticize President Obama right now, saying the new commander-in-chief "deserves my silence."

"I'm not going to spend my time criticizing him. There are plenty of critics in the arena," the former president told the audience, according to the Associated Press.

The president also told the invitation-only crowd a policy of isolationism and anti-free trade is not the path out of the current economic turmoil.

"It's the risk-takers, not the government, that is going to pull us out of this recession," the former president said, according to the Calgary Herald. "My message to policy-makrs is don't substitute government for the marketplace. Don't become protectionist. I'm a free-trader to the core."

But overall, the president's demeanor in front of a friendly crowd was described as jovial.

"This is my maiden voyage," he said in his debut address on the speaking circuit. "I can't think of a better place to give it than Calgary, Canada."

Bush's first public appearance comes three days after his former No. 2 appeared on CNN's State of The Union, holding little back in sharply criticizing President Obama's national security polices and declaring the country has been made less safe.

Cheney, who still maintains an office in the outskirts of Washington, DC, has also publicly aired grievances with his former boss - specifically Bush's decision not to issue a pardon to former Cheney aide Scooter Libby.

"I believe firmly that Scooter was unjustly accused and prosecuted and deserved a pardon, and the president disagreed with that," he told CNN Sunday.

Filed under: President Bush • President Obama


Lisa   March 18th, 2009 2:38 pm ET

Does anyone else notice the vast difference in demeanor and overall appearance in this picture? While Bush looks like a man who has completed his duty to the country and is ready to happily and healthily settle into private life, Cheney looks like a bitter, weak old man who is angry at the world. He looks rather Ebeneezer Scrooge-ish if you ask me. In spite of my own disagreement with the former president and his policies and my elation about the winds of change that have entered the White House, I'm curious how things might have gone had Cheney not been the VP, at least in the 2nd term. Maybe history would be kinder to Bush if that had been the case.

Louis   March 18th, 2009 2:36 pm ET

Since Cheney was the puppet-master for the disasterous administration of the clueless Bush, it makes sense that Cheney is spouting idiotic rhetoric and Bush is mute.

JonDie   March 18th, 2009 2:34 pm ET

George W. Who?

tedious898   March 18th, 2009 2:33 pm ET

I don't understand this ploy by the Bushco cabal. Is this an effort to raise hatred against a young president for trying to fix the problems caused by the previous administration? In other words, "UNLESS YOU SCREWING IT UP AS BAD AS WE DID, YOU'RE NOT DOING A GOOD JOB"

Un Believable!

bill   March 18th, 2009 2:33 pm ET

Maybe, just maybe, Dick Cheney, Ann Coulter, Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity, Bill O'Reilly, and the rest of their crew will hear and head this message.

Nah! That's asking too much.

lefty loosy   March 18th, 2009 2:33 pm ET

George Bush takes the high road .
Can Jimmy Carter learn something from this ?

grammar man   March 18th, 2009 2:31 pm ET

One of your quotations read:

"It's the risk-takers, not the government, that is going to pull us out of this recession," the former president said, according to the Calgary Herald. "My message to policy-makrs is don't substitute government for the marketplace. Don't become protectionist. I'm a free-trader to the core."

Evelyn Shobin   March 18th, 2009 2:29 pm ET

Bush is a true Christian gentleman. God bless him and his family

John   March 18th, 2009 2:29 pm ET

Obama has been a great prez so far. He has got done more things in a month or so than Bush did in 8 years. The economy is back on track, and how long did it take Obama to fix it? Bush and McCain wouldn't even admit somthing was wrong with the economy.

Linda   March 18th, 2009 2:28 pm ET

President Bush is one of the best presidents this nation will ever see. Thank God he had the courage and wisdom to know what to do after 9/11. I commend him for not commenting on Obama; more proof that he's a man of integrity unlike the Marxist.

Al, California   March 18th, 2009 2:28 pm ET

Blind belief in god and free market. Lunatics.

New Day   March 18th, 2009 2:27 pm ET

Obama: 'The buck stops with me'

ummmmm... I'll take: "Stuff that Bush would've never said because he doesn't admit to making mistakes" for $1000, Alex!

kayla   March 18th, 2009 2:27 pm ET

stewart little said, he won't criticize president obama right now. can somebody remind this munchkin that he has us in this hell hole, and not president obama.

Cheney is right....   March 18th, 2009 2:27 pm ET

Obama is putting us in danger-–we've had no, zero, zip–terrorist attacks in almost 8 years thanks to Bush policies-but now we're going to treat terrorists with kid gloves and we will pay the price-

No longer will all the Ticker readers sit comfortably in their little computer rooms typing trash all day but will be out buying armored cars and flak jackets so they can get to and from the sports bars safely-

Joan   March 18th, 2009 2:26 pm ET

Palin and Cheney should BOTH learn a lesson from Bush when it comes to the public spotlight.

Go KU!   March 18th, 2009 2:26 pm ET

This is almost like watching a SNL skit. It is so absurd to think of the least academically inclined president we have had in several decades, who ran our economy and world wide reputation into the ground, giving one word of advice to one of the most articulate, academically gifted, and internationally respected presidents we have ever had. True to their White House personalities, Bush sounds like the laid back, ‘ah shucks-good ol cowboy’ idiot, while Cheney continues with his hateful, evil drivel. Both are so out of touch with the majority of Americans. I hope SNL does start a series on these two trying to give advice on how to get US out of the quagmire they put US in. At least they would be worth laughing at.

Christian Louden   March 18th, 2009 2:26 pm ET

It might be worth mentioning that Bush's speech was widely protested by local residents of Calgary. People were even launching shoes at effigies. I say this, because from the way this article was written, you'd think Bush had been welcomed with open arms here, and that certainly wasn't the case.

AlanBTR   March 18th, 2009 2:26 pm ET

President Obama deserves your silence? SO DO WE!

Frank   March 18th, 2009 2:24 pm ET

One needs credibility to have their criticism be considered valuable. Sorry dudes.

Oh No, It's Barry-O   March 18th, 2009 2:24 pm ET

At least Bush takes the high road, while Obama and Gibbs continue to think they are in a campaign and must disparage everyone else.

Beth   March 18th, 2009 2:23 pm ET

Hmmm...get the puppet (Bush) away from the master (Cheney) and he actually says something somewhat intelligent.

D. Sangiovanni   March 18th, 2009 2:22 pm ET

This guy deserves only silence.

Let me tell you a little story....   March 18th, 2009 2:21 pm ET

When JFK was President, he asked the steel execs not to raise prices as it would hurt the economy--but the execs went ahead and did it anyway--so JFK sent the FBI to each of their houses in the middle of the night and guess what?-prices were rolled back-

Were Obama not the woos he is, he too would have sent the FBI to the homes of the AIG execs and got those bonuses back--but this is not a strong leader and so Americans will suffer while the execs eat caviar-

bob j   March 18th, 2009 2:21 pm ET

former prez bush is right give prez obama and his new team time to right the ship vp cheney as a former publc servant should know this prez obama has been very respectful of the former administration it is time for all american to come together dems and repub alike and stand behind our prez

ken   March 18th, 2009 2:18 pm ET

Weasels

Brian Crooks   March 18th, 2009 2:17 pm ET

This is probably the first smart thing President Bush has done in about a decade. While Dick Cheney is busy trying to scare the public into paralysis and sweating his fat face off trying to spin the Bush Administration into a resounding success, George is slinking into the shadows, trying to make us all forget about him.

martin fishman   March 18th, 2009 2:16 pm ET

The only thing I want to hear from G.W. Bush is a vow to tell the whole truth and nothing but the truth at the International Criminal Court at The Hague in answer to crimes of aggression regarding the invasion of Iraq and crimes against humanity regarding the prison at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba and the various secret prisons around the world. This is not to say Saddam Hussein wasn't a villain and a poor excuse for a human being...he most certainly was both. However, the U.S. had no business unilaterally taking military action. He, too, should have been criminally charged and extradited to The Hague for a proper trial.

Palin fan...NOT   March 18th, 2009 2:15 pm ET

I wish Cheney would just go away. He thinks way to much of himself.

Evan   March 18th, 2009 2:15 pm ET

Yes, be silent, George. We heard enough of your lies and dictatorial directives for 8 years. Now we have a president who's trying to undo YOUR mess.

Besides, you know why it'd be better for you to be silent? It'd prove the old adage that it's better to be thought a fool than to open your mouth and remove all doubt. You proved for 8 years you had no clue what you were doing every time you opened your mouth.

Learn from the past, even though I know you like to pretend that history didn't happen.

Scott   March 18th, 2009 2:15 pm ET

I have been watching the Senate Oversight Hearings this morning, while AIG Liddy described who the contracts have been for regarding giving out (Bonus Money) = Retention Bonuses to.

It disturbes me greatly that he had mentioned Executives Oil Contracts who have been given these bonuses at that time of their departure. This to me is clearly and have been the undermining plans of the last Administration of Oil Executives.

I also would like to know if those who received any of these bonuses worked in or for the White House Administration? I think that my best fears would be answered with a (Yes) answer.

Scott

walleye   March 18th, 2009 2:14 pm ET

Of course Bush is silent. Thats the way it was for the last 8 years with Cheney running the show. Bush was just his puppet.

KATHLEEN   March 18th, 2009 2:13 pm ET

Are they "both" in a wheelchair?

What other country, besides Canada would ever pay $400 for
one of their speeches?

Just Shut Up!   March 18th, 2009 2:12 pm ET

People will somehow find a way to turn this against Bush.

So you think Bush was an idiot, fine. But the man at least has decency. Something Obama and his junior high school spokesman Robert Gibbs don't.

Obama will only start truly leading the country (not just his followers) once he stops campaigning. Of course, that will never happen.

Jeanne H.   March 18th, 2009 2:12 pm ET

Even with demonstrators who asked for him to be tried as a war criminal, and who asked people to bring shoes to throw at him? He's brave!

America   March 18th, 2009 2:11 pm ET

Do not get the American people started on what George Bush deserves from us and vice versa.

Steve   March 18th, 2009 2:10 pm ET

It's not going to work, George. You cannot rewrite history by giving speeches. The audience at Calgary was, as is usual for you, hand-picked, so that no one would challenge you. The press was not allowed to film or record your speech. Only hand-written notes were allowed. Outside the arena, there were hundreds of people protesting your very presence in Canada. Canada's legislature was trying to decide whether to ban you from the country all together.

Obama deserves your silence. So does the rest of the world. The best thing you can do now is what any good lawyer would advise anyone who is teetering on indictment. Keep your mouth shut, keep out of sight, and stay in the United States. Travel outside the country opens you up to being arrested for war crimes by the country you are in.

Good luck, George. History will remember you as the most pathetic, disasterous president in modern times. You cannot change that with speeches or with your characteristic smirk. Good bye.

Jo   March 18th, 2009 2:09 pm ET

Remember Bush, no one cares what you think or say or don't say. You got us into this mess so please don't ever start to criticize or lay blame. You have your lap dog Chenny do that for you.

Greg   March 18th, 2009 2:08 pm ET

i'm glad former president bush is keeping his away from president obama and not criticizing him like other republicans are doing but it never said in the article that if he agrees with the stimulus bill or the war in Iraq and Afghanistan the one former president started but all n all it was a very Ok'd comments by the former president i wish all the best in the near future the life after the presidency.

wally   March 18th, 2009 2:08 pm ET

Bush is a very respectful person...
...I wish more would give him the respect he not only deserves, but the respect he has earned. For God's sake, he was the "president" of our great country...

Sniffit   March 18th, 2009 2:08 pm ET

Not suprising from the Scarecrow and Tinman. Bush had a heart, but he just had no brain. Cheney has a brain, but he has no heart.

Shermani   March 18th, 2009 2:07 pm ET

I used to work for President Bush, and I will tell you right here and now, that he is saying plenty about the Messiah away from the microphones, and out of the interviews. George W. Bush may not be the most popular president in U.S. history, but he is a man of his word. He will not stoop to the level of our friends across the aisle and take pop shots at the current occupant of 1600 Pennsylvania Ave.

My prediction is that 43 is sitting back at his new home in Dallas, watching the horrific events taking place and saying to himself.......... the American public wanted change, and now they have it. Enjoy!

Cdog   March 18th, 2009 2:07 pm ET

"It's the risk-takers, not the government, that is going to pull us out of this recession," the former president said, according to the Calgary Herald. "My message to policy-makrs is don't substitute government for the marketplace. Don't become protectionist. I'm a free-trader to the core."

The Great Depression followed a almost three decade streak of GOP presidential control, culminating with Hoover, whom held the attitude that George W Bush describes so well above. The only exception to this control, was Woodrow Wilson.

Now we find ourselves at the end of an almost three decade GOP presidential control (1980-2008), with the only exception being Bill Clinton. Funny we happen to find ourselves in the worst economic crises since the Great Depression!

I wonder if George W. Bush's "free market" ideology is fundamentally flawed.

SHIRLEY "60"   March 18th, 2009 2:07 pm ET

And Bush and Cheney's free-wheeling, free-trading foolish ways are mainly responsible for this mess the majority of us find ourselves in the middle of. If those two idiots can still say that government intervention is necessary when things are as bad as they are, then heaven help us. Thank God we don't have longer term limits on our presidents and vice presidents and their administrations. We should limit them to 4 years, and impose 10 year terms limits on congress with no pensions being allowed. There are too many relics serving in both houses. Afterall, they are supposed to be doing a service for the American people, and if they want to be elected they should only be paid a salary which increases with cost of living like the rest of us. I believe that would keep fresh ideas and changes being put forth by the congress and cut down on the hateful behaviour that is now so ingrained in them, particularly the republicans.

Watchful Cowboy   March 18th, 2009 2:05 pm ET

Seems the President of the USA would say the best place for his maiden voyage is good ole USA.......strange?

Briana the college student   March 18th, 2009 2:05 pm ET

George W.H. Bush is being wise this time.

Michael from Texas   March 18th, 2009 2:05 pm ET

The Former President at least can give The sitting President respect, unlike his ignorant Ex VP. I applaud the effort Mr. G.W. I think Mr. Bush should just live in quietness and meekness as he is doing. All former Bush employees should do the same, starting with Mr. "Brokeback" Cheney.

pauldia   March 18th, 2009 2:05 pm ET

Bush may not and probably does not respect the current occupier of the oval office. However he has nothing but respect for the office itself. Juxtapose his behavior with that of the current sad sack of a press secretary. The current group of kinder kids will make many feel nostalgic for the adults of the previous administration. Bush, while politically pillaried as "dumb", never needed to have a security blanket for every speaking occasion. What you saw is what you got. Obama makes every effort to choreograph his appearances and mask his true incompetence. Well, the abscess in the boil is beginning to show through the makeup

. "And I will always be honored to carry a title that means more to me than any other: citizen of the United States of America."

George Bush Farewell Adresss

JA/TN   March 18th, 2009 2:04 pm ET

Cheney is probably a bit senile, as to why he is running his mouth

nann   March 18th, 2009 2:03 pm ET

All I ever want out of George Bush is silence

maf   March 18th, 2009 2:03 pm ET

Former President Bush spoke to 400 of Calgary's "republican" establishment, who were berated by protesters in the lineup to get in.
Bush was not welcome the last time he visited Canada and didn't appear to be welcome this time.

Not surprising, Bush picked the Canadian Texas to make his first public speaking engagement. Don't know how much he made from the event, but there would be no reason for him to bite the hand that feeds him now. As for Cheney, no amount of time in front of an audience or camera will help him atone for his life in and around the white house.

John   March 18th, 2009 2:03 pm ET

Bush knows if he started talking, people will remember his eight years, and Obama's approval ratings wil skyrocket as people compare the difference.

Dan, TX   March 18th, 2009 2:02 pm ET

"It's the risk-takers, not the government, that is going to pull us out of this recession," the former president said, according to the Calgary Herald.

AIG is the best at taking risks, we should de-regulate and let them fix the economy!

richard j   March 18th, 2009 2:02 pm ET

i'm sure some libs will find SOME way to bash Bush for his comments but it just goes to show, Bush at the core is a good man who believes in the success of the United States

chris   March 18th, 2009 2:01 pm ET

"My message to policy-makrs is don't substitute government for the marketplace. Don't become protectionist. I'm a free-trader to the core."

makrs... liberal media, still trying to make bush look bad, but this time, via crappy editing.

Audie Strickland   March 18th, 2009 2:01 pm ET

It is the risk takers(self serving ,greedy ,trickle down, @#$%^&*$)he is so proud of that got us in this mess.

Zac   March 18th, 2009 2:00 pm ET

Can't believe Bush actually called Obamas foreign policy "isolationist." They are exactly the same.

BusyMom   March 18th, 2009 2:00 pm ET

I have always thought former president Bush seemed like a nice person (one you would want to have a beer with!), although I have also always disagreed with his policies. I believe that he was mostly controlled by those around him (like Cheney) who easily manipulated him into following their agenda. I admire former president Bush's grace at this time. Of course, evil Cheney is out there spewing his scare tactics as usual. If Cheney thinks that President Obama is on the wrong course, it solidifies my opinon that we are on the right course now!

S.M.R.   March 18th, 2009 2:00 pm ET

One Clown, One Devil

ines   March 18th, 2009 2:00 pm ET

Cheney and Bush look nothing less than villains in that photo.

Christopher   March 18th, 2009 2:00 pm ET

WOW

Karen S Crow   March 18th, 2009 2:00 pm ET

Former Pres. Bush is doing what Presidents should do .... keep their opinions about the current POTUS to themselves.

I just wish someone would have told former Presidents Clinton & Carter that during Pres. Bush's time in office. It seemed as though it became a weekly thing for one or the other to bash Bush on one decision or another during his 8 yrs in office. Clinton & Carter are entitled to their opinions ... but they should have kept them to themselves.

But as with most Dems/Liberals .... it's do as I say, NOT as I do.

eugene taylor   March 18th, 2009 2:00 pm ET

Regardless of "W" being one of the worst social and economical president, I will like to say this on his behalf, America needed a president with the kind of thick skin tha Mr. Bush showed. We may disagree with the human rights violations that his adm. took part in....America was not sitting around awaiting another Sept. 11. To that end I would love to thank President Bush for being a stand up guy. Just reading his approach to the new administration and the fact that he is not involving his self with the name calling and useless criticism of the new president...he chooses to be stand up and withhold criticisms. Man, he is really a stand up guy! Thank you "W" for the thick skin.....may god bless you!!

Zee   March 18th, 2009 1:59 pm ET

Even though he talked so much smack about you and your administration during his campaign?

Beth   March 18th, 2009 1:59 pm ET

He seems to be doing much better as a regular citizen. Although I am very glad he is out of office, I wish him the best.

Shucks   March 18th, 2009 1:59 pm ET

It just shows that Cheney was the real president and Bush the puppet. How sad that Cheney hasn't shot himself yet while hunting. But there is always next time.

Mark   March 18th, 2009 1:58 pm ET

Bush doesnt need to worry. The liberal media isnt going to hold Bama responsible for anything he does or the campaign promises he doesnt do.

Eric   March 18th, 2009 1:58 pm ET

History will judge George W. Bush as a better president than recognized in his time.

Freed_From_W   March 18th, 2009 1:58 pm ET

CANADA – Obama won't get this guy, WHY WAS HE NOT ARRESTED FOR IS WAR CRIMES!?

It was a perfect opportunity...

Ray Fisher   March 18th, 2009 1:58 pm ET

Georgie knows very well that his butt is in the President's hands particularly as he visits other nations which could hold and prosecute him for war crimes, thus the President is his savior at present and he dares not antagonize his saviour. Georgie knows very well that he is on thin ice around the world since they will do more than simply throw shoes!!!

Carol Heinick   March 18th, 2009 1:58 pm ET

Interesting!

Matt in Minneapolis, MN   March 18th, 2009 1:57 pm ET

If anyone complains about what Bush said they're a moron who doesn't think rationally. But I guarantee that there will be the traditional Bush bashers out there.

Richard   March 18th, 2009 1:57 pm ET

WOOAAAHHH GEORGIEEE, shouldnt you be clearing brush on your ranch?? Although you have made history mr bush, your words dont mean jack to me!

Shari, NY   March 18th, 2009 1:55 pm ET

This is the most sensible utterance coming from Bush. Cheney needs to be quiet unless he is offering constructive criticism. If the nation is more at risk of terrorism it must be because he has free time to go hunting and missing his mark.

Laverne   March 18th, 2009 1:55 pm ET

After the mess you have left this country in, of course he would say President Obama deserves his silence. And besides what else can he say when he is hoping and praying that his administration does not pursue prosecuting the last administration for war crimes among many other things. This is a no brainer!

reggie   March 18th, 2009 1:53 pm ET

Nice job, Pres Bush. Unfortunately, Pres Obama often feels the need to criticize and blame you. I wish Pres Obama would spend more time working and less time talking.

john   March 18th, 2009 1:51 pm ET

Bush should be relieved someone is cleaning up his mess. If I were him id go far far away

Vietnam vet   March 18th, 2009 1:51 pm ET

Kudos to dubya.

Olumadunwa   March 18th, 2009 1:51 pm ET

Who does this man think he is fooling? As if he even knows what he is talking about in the first place.

miss b   March 18th, 2009 1:51 pm ET

this comment is for if President Obama has "taken on too much". He absolutely has, and you know why? He is letting people's expectations get to him; instead of him just doing his job the way he knows how. People think they are God or something. It is not your right to say who is supposed to be President or not. We have lost sight that it is God's will that ALL things be done, everything that happens in life is relevant. Also, I am sick of people talking about Blacks and welfare. It is not just blacks that are on welfare! You are all hypocrits, because if you lose your job today you will turn to the government for help. YOur tax dollars contributed to that, you deserve a little help, you paid for it! White people just dont like the fact that they opposed it so much now they have to reap it! So what get over yourself, if its being handed out why not take it.

Brian   March 18th, 2009 1:50 pm ET

Yea, if the risk takers got us into the mess, why can't they get us out? Bush said Obama deserves his silence, so do the rest of us. Can we please put this ugly chapter of our nation's history behind us and not ever hear about George W. Bush again? Please?

Clay   March 18th, 2009 1:49 pm ET

Obama deserves Bush's silence and Bush deserves to go to jail, along with his henchman Cheney. That's the next thing I want to read on CNN.

spring   March 18th, 2009 1:48 pm ET

maybe if you had used your own judgement more and less of cheney, we might be better off today.

Robin in SC   March 18th, 2009 1:48 pm ET

This may be the only thing GWB has said or done that I respect him for...too little too late...but appreciated.

demwit   March 18th, 2009 1:48 pm ET

How ingnorantly arogant of him!!!

GWB2012   March 18th, 2009 1:47 pm ET

ISN'T THIS SOMETHING? OUR FORMER PRESIDENT OF EIGHT YEARS IS STILL TALKING ABOUT HOW TO MAKE OUR COUNTRY GREAT AND THE GOOFBALL IN CHARGE NOW IS PICKING HIS NCAA TEAMS. PRETTY MUCH SAYS IT ALL!

VIVA BUSH!

Barry in Maryland   March 18th, 2009 1:47 pm ET

I agree with Bush. He should keep his opinions to himself. He ans his administration have done enough damage to last for generations.

Stream Of Consciousness   March 18th, 2009 1:46 pm ET

Wow...I can't believe I'm saying this as much as I despise that man but kudos on him for keeping his mouth shut. I am guessing some of that has to do with his culpability in much of this mess we're in.

For quite possibly only the 2nd to 3rd time in history...G'Dub and I agree. Stop the presses!!

eric in texas   March 18th, 2009 1:46 pm ET

A 500 post Bush bashing thread begins in 3, 2, 1...

Sammy   March 18th, 2009 1:45 pm ET

This shows what we have known all along. President Bush is at core a good decent person while Cheney is pure evil.

Chipster   March 18th, 2009 1:45 pm ET

Good riddance to Darth Cheney! I believe he was the driving force for the Bush Administration's abuse of power and exploitation of the 9/11 attacks. Libby probably did take the fall for Cheney and Rove. What a shame the real traitors were never brought to justice for exposing a patriot; a covert CIA operative; for what appears to be purely political payback!

We will never know how much money or how many lives were lost because of this betrayal. And Bush thinks history will be kind to his Administration?!

Doe anyone really believe that Armitage kept quiet for nearly two years, watching Libby's conviction, and never spoke out until he wrote his book? Armitage was never charged for exposing a CIA agent. Gee, maybe the prosecutors didn't believe it either.

Mississippi Mike   March 18th, 2009 1:44 pm ET

No big surprise. Cheney is opinionated and free-thinking so it's understandable that he didn't always agree with Bush and that he absolutely disagrees with Obama. To me, a good number 2 is someone who has dissenting opinions from time to time and can bring fresh perspectives to the table. That's why Joe Biden is such a worthless puppet.

david Armendale, SF, CA   March 18th, 2009 1:43 pm ET

the old "good cop, bad cop" approach, eh?

Firstly, saying Obama deserves his silence is NOT being silent. It's pure political posturing. Bush is so despised and distrusted here in the US and in Canada, that his criticism of Obama especially coming off the recent images of Bush and Obama cordial encounters would be seen as hypocritical and be met with even more anger and derision than his so-called silence. For Bush to speak out against Obama would only increase Obama's stock value, and lower that of the gutter sniping REpubs.

meh   March 18th, 2009 1:43 pm ET

What exactly would he criticize, anyway, after his eight years of total FAIL? At least he's smart enough not to open his mouth. I'll give him that, anyway.

Ex-Republican   March 18th, 2009 1:43 pm ET

Bush and Cheney, if allowed, would have sowed upon the population of this world a genocide worse then that of Hitler. Their goal and beliefs were that nobody stood above them, and suspicion and/or insecurity was reason enough to eradicate any and all forms of life.

Ray   March 18th, 2009 1:42 pm ET

Bush is a dunderhead. Taking the high road is all well and good, but when Obama needs to be criticized Bush should stand up and yell. That time is NOW.

Maggie   March 18th, 2009 1:42 pm ET

If only George hadn't been so easygoing and concilitory when he was the President. I'm glad that he recognizes that his opinion is clearly unneccessary now that he's not CiC, I appreciate that he's unwilling to be critical... but he's a sideshow and always has been.
The aptly-named Dick Cheney, however, can shut up and shack up with Rush Limbaugh until Lucifer comes to collect. He'll have a toasty seat next to Jerry Faldwell in Hell.

Pat F   March 18th, 2009 1:41 pm ET

Bush was always courteous and collegial. Cheney never was.

Di   March 18th, 2009 1:40 pm ET

Bush is showing how a President acts!!!

sick n tired of being a victim of Nazi CNN moderators   March 18th, 2009 1:40 pm ET

I beleive free trade is good. I just don't think George Bush's version of free trade is.

Saad from NJ   March 18th, 2009 1:40 pm ET

I think President Bush is a good person at heart... as for screwing up our country, I don't blame him. I blame the people who elected him, especially the 2nd time.

As for Cheney, this guy is what you call an evil in a man's body.

Ed, Santa Fe, NM   March 18th, 2009 1:40 pm ET

war criminals should be strung up in public

Chut Pata   March 18th, 2009 1:39 pm ET

Well we always knew Bush was a puppet of Cheney. Now that chain is broken, the gentleman face of real Bush who got my vote in 2000 has emerged. Also, the evil face of real Cheney, who committed crimes hiding behind Bush, is finally emerging.

Republican comedy   March 18th, 2009 1:39 pm ET

That is the smartest thing Bush has actually said. Well done.

John Anthony   March 18th, 2009 1:38 pm ET

The entire world deserves permanent silence from Bush and Cheney. On ALL topics except their guilt in unconstitutional practices and war crimes.

Chris   March 18th, 2009 1:37 pm ET

You got a type there. "policy-makrs." Just thought you'd like to know. k thx bai

Really?   March 18th, 2009 1:36 pm ET

This is the smartest thing Bush has ever said in regard to the presidency!

VPDesign   March 18th, 2009 1:36 pm ET

Yes W's good at ...ducking the spotlight, accountability and any thrown shoes! LOL

norma wilkinson   March 18th, 2009 1:36 pm ET

Considering his performance as president,I ˆfind it audacious that George Bush would presume to give advice to President Obama.I think it's time for both he and Cheney to just disappear into the woodwork.It seems that they are both working at leaving a legacy of some sort, but their legacies have already been written and they are anything but flattering.

Shadysider   March 18th, 2009 1:36 pm ET

Bush = Vader
Cheney = The Emperor

Vader was remoreseful in the end. He knew he did wrong. The emperor just wanted to turn everyone to the dark side.

Eileen   March 18th, 2009 1:35 pm ET

Well Dick, that's why he was president and you weren't...although in your mind you were. You caused enough trouble when you were in office, nobody could do anything right except you. Well that train has left the station and it's time for you to bid farewell. We all know we're better off without you.

Kudos to Mr. Bush.....he knows how long it takes to get things together and running.

Fitz in Texas   March 18th, 2009 1:35 pm ET

Oh, the posting on this story should be good. Hmmmmmmm,wonder if all the Bush haters will have something somewhat nice to say.

fred   March 18th, 2009 1:35 pm ET

Bush is a good guy......like him or not as a president, he's a good guy at heart.

Claudia   March 18th, 2009 1:35 pm ET

Sure he's a fre trader.....with other peoples money! He'd sell the Brooklyn Bridge and call it free trading. He's the same mindset as the creeps who brought us all these woes. He sees the world as a "sucker born every minute". Sadly, we're te suckers.

Tino (Madison, WI)   March 18th, 2009 1:33 pm ET

"...saying the new commander-in-chief "deserves my silence.""

Wow... that's the first time I've EVER agreed with Dubya!

TerryT   March 18th, 2009 1:33 pm ET

Who cares what they think now?

I didn't care what Clintion or Carter thought of the last pres I don't care what this former pres thinks of this president.

I do think the respect President Bush is showing President Obama is in start contrast to the tone taken by President Obama.

President Bush is treating President Obama with the respect a former president should show.

I wish President Obama could find it in his heart to return the favor but the fact that President Obama take every opportunity to blame President Bush for every problem that exists in this world I will be waiting a long long time.

The Broker.   March 18th, 2009 1:32 pm ET

Immigration Building on Fire in London England. Don't you wish your was. All them lost Records.

big suprise Cheney is an @ss   March 18th, 2009 1:32 pm ET

and 'W' took too many drugs

Kyle W   March 18th, 2009 1:31 pm ET

What? I don't see any comments yet of Dems bashing Bush who all jumped on this "The last 8 Years" band wagon?

sensi johnson   March 18th, 2009 1:30 pm ET

Let Bush stay in the "Bush".

Darlene   March 18th, 2009 1:29 pm ET

This shows what kind of true statesman that President Bush is!

Edna, PA   March 18th, 2009 1:29 pm ET

Once again he has to have an invitation only crowd because the Secret Service has to know in advance who is coming to see him. Why? He is the 7th worst president in our history for torturing people and butchering the Constitution.

He did not listen to his father when George Bush told him not to run for the presidency. He won, and the country lost–big time. We will have to deal with years of the dismantleling of our country because of this man. He was inept and incompetent and stupid, now we will have to pay for that.

Chris from NY   March 18th, 2009 1:28 pm ET

And he went to the highest oil producing city in Canada to do this. Go figure.

Staunch Democrat   March 18th, 2009 1:28 pm ET

How can former President Bush make criticisms of the current President in good faith, knowingly allowing Cheney's policies and the audacity to call for Scooter Libby's pardon has caused his legacy such harm.

Yes. Silence is golden.

Norm   March 18th, 2009 1:28 pm ET

Too bad the Teleprompter in Chief doesn't show the same respect towards Mr. Bush.

gbrown2   March 18th, 2009 1:26 pm ET

Bush's comment about not making any comments about Pres. Obama was the SMARTEST thing he has done in 8 years!!! Dick Cheney, you are a CRIMINAL who she be in jail right now!!! Dumb and Dumber!!!! It's because of people like BUSH/cheney that we are in this horrific state right now!!!!

Conan   March 18th, 2009 1:26 pm ET

Bill could learn a thing or two from Bush senior and junior on this matter.....

Jackie in Dallas   March 18th, 2009 1:26 pm ET

Wow. A position of former President Bush I can AGREE with! Without Cheney as an albatross around his neck, we may be getting to see the Bush we knew as Governor in Texas - one that wasn't too smart, and not too responsible, but not one that was just downright evil! For all that I voted against him in both national elections (as well as the election for Governor), I just didn't understand the good-ole boy condoning torture and the erosion of our Bill of Rights. But after Cheney's interview, and Bush's restrained response in Canada, I think we can clearly see who was really making the decisions!

Dutch/Bad Newz, VA   March 18th, 2009 1:25 pm ET

They're both dillusional if they think their legacy is a good one. The Bush Administration will go down as the Bush Dictatorship.

EVIL Man   March 18th, 2009 1:25 pm ET

I've long thought that George Bush was just not the sharpest tack in the box.

However Dick Cheney is simply EVIL.

One is worse than the other.

Jason   March 18th, 2009 1:24 pm ET

The only "Tone" I want to hear from them is
" I swear to tell the truth
the whole truth
and nothing but the truth
So help me God"
In a court of law

Todd   March 18th, 2009 1:24 pm ET

Good for you, Mr. President.

Bush understands what Obammy is going through – and it will only get worse for Barrack before it's all said and done. Obammy spent time bashing Bush in his speeches, etc, to get elected. Now that he's there, I bet he wishes that he had not completely burned down that bridge!

obama-mama   March 18th, 2009 1:23 pm ET

All I can say is George Bush is 100% more of a professional than Dick Change Me.Cheyney..See how that bat was stuck on the space shuttle. That should have been Cheyney....

Sue   March 18th, 2009 1:21 pm ET

I can't think of a better place for you than cowboy Calgary either. Had you tried to sneak into Canada anywhere else, you'd have probably been arrested on suspicion of war crimes. Keep joking all the way to court, sir.

Baze   March 18th, 2009 1:21 pm ET

I don't care about either one of these guys. They're done, that's it, MOVE ON!

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