June 18, 2009
Posted: June 18th, 2009 08:06 PM ET

From

The White House responded Thursday to recent comments by former President George W. Bush.
The White House responded Thursday to recent comments by former President George W. Bush.

WASHINGTON (CNN) – A day after former President George W. Bush seemed to criticize the Obama administration for departing from a number of his anti-terrorism policies, White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs fired back.

Asked about Bush's remarks during Thursday's press briefing Gibbs had a simple response. "We won," Gibbs told reporters.

In a vigorous defense of his own national security policies during a speech in Pennsylvania Wednesday, Bush appeared to take issue with the new administration's early decision to close the detention center in Guantanamo Bay and ban the use of aggressive interrogation techniques.

"I told you I'm not going to criticize my successor," Bush said, according to a report by the Washington Times. "I'll just tell you that there are people at Gitmo that will kill American people at a drop of a hat and I don't believe that persuasion isn't going to work. Therapy isn't going to cause terrorists to change their mind."

Gibbs said Thursday that the American people had made their own decision about battling terror.

"I think we've had a debate about individual policies. We had that debate in particular – we kept score last November and we won," Gibbs said.

Gibbs also responded Thursday to the former president's remarks that appeared to be directed at the Obama administration's unprecedented involvement in the private sector in the middle of the financial and economic crisis that began last fall at the end of Bush's tenure.

"President Obama believes that the free market is what governs our economic principles, and looks forward to getting out of the business of being involved in banks and in auto companies," Gibbs said.

–CNN Ticker Producer Alexander Mooney contributed to this report.

Filed under: Extra • Popular Posts • President Bush • President Obama


L Latchford   June 19th, 2009 1:11 am ET

Funny that this administration consistently persists in reducing this (and other issues) into a childish schoolyard boast of "we won". I can't think of a more childish and petty manner of "dissing"/ dismissing/ degrading the previous administration. "We won, we won, so we don't have to listen to you anymore!" To me, its just sad that we have to hear it from the lips the president and his representatives, come on can we grow up a little bit (or at the very least stay silent).

Nicole   June 19th, 2009 1:08 am ET

Yes, because looking at the nation's safety after 5 months of Obama's reign is akin to looking at Bush's 8 yrs. Give it time...Bush may have the last laugh in this matter. After all, after 9/11, under his policies there were no more terrorist attacks on American soil. Dems may have won an election, but I think it's FAR too early to claim victory on anything other than that.

I Am The Great And Powerful Rush Of Oz   June 19th, 2009 1:08 am ET

I would just like to thank President Bush for reminding everyone why the Party of No" was so severely trashed in the last election.
I hope that he keeps up regular appearances as a reminder to all Americans about his eight years of arrogance, corruption and incompetence.

Edward James   June 19th, 2009 1:07 am ET

"..We Won..", it was stupid, arrogant, inmature, & disrepectful when it was said the first time & it STILL IS....

Our countrys biigest fear is that the idiots we replaced last election have been replaced by idiots with the same mindset, idiots only pursuing Power at all costs...

Gus The Willie   June 19th, 2009 1:04 am ET

And Chicken Little said the sky was falling! Or was it the other Chicken Little?

Rob in New York   June 19th, 2009 1:04 am ET

If we're keeping score – unemployment was supposed to be under 8% since the bailout – Obama says now we'll hit 10%. Obama promised Gitmo would be closed – with no plan in place now or then, no politician in the US is stepping up to say "I'll take them in my state." Once people took a look at the check for universal health care, even Obama's biggest supporters are getting cold feet. We'll see who the scorekeepers are in 2010 and 2012. Funny how unemployment in Obama's home state is officially over 10% and Gitmo prisoners are living it up on the beach in Bermuda – "Change" has become a joke.

CJ Craig for WH Press Secretary   June 19th, 2009 1:03 am ET

Robert Gibbs is a DA and needs to go. He's cocky attitude is so annoying....one day he'll get his due. OBAMA needs to hire someone intelligent like CJ Craig to get his fictional agenda across to the American public in a intellectual manner.

Fed Up   June 19th, 2009 1:02 am ET

Newsflash to Gibbs : The debate is not over.

Jamey   June 19th, 2009 1:01 am ET

Funny, Obama beat Mcain... so did Bush.. whats your point.. get the facts right. Let the Bush Hating begin

Butch   June 19th, 2009 1:00 am ET

Gibb is an idiot. That sounds like the one I used to use in 3rd grade: "Oh yeah, my dad can beat up your dad!!"

Gibb doesn't have a logical policy response to Bush so he reverts to score keeping.

What an idiot...couldn't the Chosen One find a better mouthpiece?

rich   June 19th, 2009 12:59 am ET

"We won?" what garbage. acorn won the election for this fraudulent non citiizen. the polls are already showing BO is losing his rock star status.

toml   June 19th, 2009 12:57 am ET

"I think we've had a debate about individual policies. We had that debate in particular – we kept score last November and we won."

Someone kindly remind that dolt Gibbs that Obama didn't run against Bush. So in terms of "individual policies," (at least compared to Bush) "you" didn't win, Gibbs. In terms of whether the American people "won," only time will tell on that.

Barb   June 19th, 2009 12:56 am ET

Bush did not take aim at obama, he took aim at his policies. The Democrates won, but the American people lost.

ROC   June 19th, 2009 12:52 am ET

Gibbs came across as arrogant by saying "We won"

He should have said. - "Bush ignored millions of voices when he was in power. Let me return him the favor by not responding to his comments."

BAMMMM!!!!!!!!

IS IT 2012 YET ??   June 19th, 2009 12:52 am ET

Unfortunately for all of us, Gibbs is right – Obama won. The country is sobering up to that fact, as the unpleasant consequences of Obama's election are being felt.

Chris G   June 19th, 2009 12:45 am ET

Listening to Gibbs is like listening to a child. A commen theme with this administation thus far. Other than bankrupting the American people, what have they actually done? The excuse that they inherited this is silly. The Dems started this mess with Fanny and Freddy. As for terror, there were no attacks on America post 9/11. After less than 6 months in office, I think Mr Gibbs needs to be a little less smug.

kris   June 19th, 2009 12:45 am ET

I'm sad to hear such nasty comments regarding Bush. I wasn't a fan of Bush either in his decision making.
The last comment was by Peter writing in Republicans are "greedy, haters and ignorant." Mr. Peter doesn't know what is going on. My recommendation for Peter is to come over to the Middle East with me and maybe he will learn a few things. He will miss American freedoms.

Joe   June 19th, 2009 12:43 am ET

Let me understand this, because Obama won the election, further debate is foreclosed. That's the message the White House wants to send. Fantastic.

Sol   June 19th, 2009 12:43 am ET

"We won"...and my Dad can beat up your Dad. What a dork. Keep up the good work Gibbs. lol

Andrew James   June 19th, 2009 12:42 am ET

Bush had 8 years to talk. Now it is time for him to be silent because no one has to listen to him anymore.

Lisette Root   June 19th, 2009 12:40 am ET

It is beyond me to understand what actions from the Bush Cheny era can be defended. I also feel very irritated when I see how Mr. Bush slaughters the english language, and when I hear Mr. Cheyneys butchery of the truth.

maria   June 19th, 2009 12:40 am ET

Why waste the paper, who CARES what bush, cheney, their wives or anyone from that regime thinks.

Pat in IL`   June 19th, 2009 12:39 am ET

When are some of the republicans going to get it? Gibbs is right "we won", and the previous administration and their loyal groupies need to realize that "we won" for some very good reasons!

Michael   June 19th, 2009 12:38 am ET

So did Bush, twice, but no one respeced that administraions right to run the country as they saw fit. Gibbs is the least professional person to ever hold that job, he is a rude, punk bully that needs someone to step up and put him in his place.

NewWorldOrder   June 19th, 2009 12:37 am ET

"We won?" is the Press Secretary’s response to an important national topic concerning the terrorist prisoners whose goal is to destroy you !?! What an arrogant and typical response from this Administration! The dumb Americans have allowed the Totalitarianism regime lead by Obama the right to rule without accountability. Ha Ha!! Consider this: The “We One” statement is an ominous reminder to the Obama-Americans, Zig Heil’ (which means “Victory Hail” or “We Won”) was the common chant amongst the faithful to Adolf Hitler. You fool !!

JDB   June 19th, 2009 12:36 am ET

"I think we've had a debate about individual policies. We had that debate in particular – we kept score last November and we won," Gibbs said.

Gibbs is right.

Anon   June 19th, 2009 12:34 am ET

That's arrogance pure and simple, you could at least give a legitimate response. I thought the former President had some valid points.

David S. Robins   June 19th, 2009 12:32 am ET

Robert Gibbs was right on the mark. That's all the Obama administration needs to say to GWBush, the worst president in American history and to his utterly corrupt and thuggish deputy, Cheney. Let both of them choke on it if they don't like what the Obama administration is doing to repair the damage these two did to our nation during their eight years of criminality in office.

Dianne   June 19th, 2009 12:31 am ET

Of course Bush thinks he was right about things. But Americans did not believe that! His approval rating when left office was 27%. I hope he knows he was the one who started the down fall of our economy.

mike   June 19th, 2009 12:28 am ET

This is the most pathetic, arrogant administration I have ever seen. I am disgusted.

Save Ferris   June 19th, 2009 12:27 am ET

Are we back in elementary school?

A Veteran Who Fought Terror   June 19th, 2009 12:26 am ET

Article says: "Gibbs said Thursday that the American people had made their own decision about battling terror."

Gibbs is a moron if he is going to allow the American people – most who have never had to see the Bogeyman or any of his descendants – decide how to battle terror.

Earl   June 19th, 2009 12:25 am ET

So Bush comes crawling out of his cave to say something, whoa! I have one thing to say and one thing only for Bush and his cronies. Go back to your cave so we can clean up this disaster that was laid at our feet. The only thing that Cheney and Bush can say "Boy, we sure know how to torture people really good". The Bush administration should be ashamed of themselves. Iraq war (wrong), KBR (wrong), Contractors in Iraq (wrong), torture (wrong), energy policy (wrong), deregulation of financial industry (wrong), wire-tapping (wrong), heath care (dead wrong), tax cuts (wrong), oversea shipment of American labor (wrong). So what good do they do? They left! They just need to come back for the stragglers. OH yeh, thanks for nothing!

renea   June 19th, 2009 12:17 am ET

To tell the truth Mr. Bush there are people in the US walking the streets day to day that will kill americans too at the drop of a dime. Republicans just need to let this president be who he is the president of the united states.Stop being so jealous, afraid that he is suceeding because when the president of the united states suceeds america suceeds Stop criticizing this president so much then your party can get things done.

Mario In Miramar   June 19th, 2009 12:14 am ET

That is a really childish remark by Gibbs. It is also a very good way to avoid answering the question. I have seen him do this several times before and it's getting old. When something bad does happen, this kind of joking on these serious issues is going to back-fire.

bob   June 19th, 2009 12:13 am ET

How arrogant are these people. They do not care about any of those that voted against his highness. They cannot stand one ounce of dissent. These people think they are royalty that can trounce good manners and common sense. They need to realize they are just temporary and they wont last forever. They sound like little kids going neaner neaner. Shameful and disrespectful.

Ashley.   June 19th, 2009 12:11 am ET

Yeah, Democrats won but it doesnt mean the people in American are happy.Obama's approval rating is dropping and people are starting to see that Obama and his admin. may not be up to the job.
I think both sides need to start acting like adults and work together instead of this "I won". Wow, Gibbs/Obama admin. lets leave that talk back in elementary on the play ground please.

Garrett   June 19th, 2009 12:11 am ET

Gibbs' maturity always impresses me. Here is a guy who somehow ascended as high as he has, but he still acts like the punk kid across the street who nobody likes. I think it is appropriate the he is one of the faces of this administration.

Gibbs, you may have "won" but nobody wins if indeed these people turn around and harm Americans. I'm not saying it will happen, but the risk of it happening is real and one that you should approach with a little more humility and respect.

Jeremiah   June 19th, 2009 12:08 am ET

oh, and ur policies are great so far....rising jobless rate, stock market is not going anywhere. and u are increasing the deficit....great job idiot.....time to stop blaming everything on bush, who was worthless too, and start taking some accountability. I love how this administration is so defensive about negative publicity or comments. What a bunch of insecure losers. Bush was a horrible president, but at least he didn't have a fit everytime somebody bashed his policies. These guys while like babies, even Obama.

Kyle   June 19th, 2009 12:06 am ET

Clever..."We won." I wonder if we'll win the war that Carter...I mean Obama's weakness will get us in with N. Korea, or Iran...? Why don't they love us yet? Haven't they heard about his Muslim roots?

JC   June 19th, 2009 12:05 am ET

Childish Antics..."We Won"...Naneee Nanee boo-boo. Gibbs is a scrub.

Jay Clarke   June 19th, 2009 12:04 am ET

I'm sick and tired of Gibbs and the Obama-maniacs responding with "We Won" when they're criticized for their actions. Just because you won an election does not mean that you're immune to criticism. It does not mean that you can do whatever you want and then tell your critics to shut up because "We Won". "We Won" is apparently supposed to be some sort of reasoned answer that everyone should understand. Of course! "We Won, so we can bankrupt the nation if we want to. We Won, which means that we can turn America into a Socialist Utopia. We Won, so we're not accountable to you or anyone else. We Won, which gives us the right to confiscate your hard earned money in order to 'spread the wealth' to those who really deserve it. We Won–so shut the hell up–you can't do anything about it anyway". Freedom is in jeopardy my fellow Americans. It is time to rise up.

Akoh Ochai   June 19th, 2009 12:04 am ET

I think someone should let the Republicans know that their party is over 4real. Bush et al should expect a change in approach with a the new man in charge. They (GOP) knew what was best and they couldn't deliver in 8 years. What a shame!

Darron   June 19th, 2009 12:02 am ET

Gibbs must have a wet noodle for a brain. "We won"? The last time I checked the 08 election was Obama vs. McCain not Obama vs. Bush. Check all of the polls, 7 out of 10 people want Gitmo to stay open and the terrorists to stay there.

k   June 19th, 2009 12:02 am ET

Am I the only one who sees Robert Gibbs as a nasty, useless, smarmy dolt? He is totally classless and I'm embarrassed that he speaks for our president!

paksa   June 19th, 2009 12:01 am ET

The American people voted for many things that the President said but we are now seeing that much of it was campaign rhetoric. How disappointing for many of us who had really hoped for something better. Tto keep up the playground chant of 'we won' is beginning to seem foolish and irresponsible as well as sorely lacking in maturity and leadership. How strange that Gibbs would say Pres. O believes that the free market is what governs our economic principles and yet all recent major decisions belie this and each day seems to bring more government takeover and involvement – from appointing numerous czars, bailouts, takeovers, and now attempting to nationalize health care. How foolish Gibbs' statement is when compared to reality. Sorry, but Bush is no longer the problem- this administration has definitely already 'won' ownership of an escalating debacle and needs a reality check.

Jeremiah   June 19th, 2009 12:00 am ET

Gibbs you are worthless. You, your worthless president and Bush all share the same level of incompetency.

R M M   June 18th, 2009 11:56 pm ET

They may have won but it will be a short lived victory. This administration and its policies are a house of cards that are soon to collapse. The stimulus isnt working ,the deficit is out of control ,unemployment is still rising , their foreign policy is non existant and once the facts come out on their healthcare plan the tide will turn. All those who voted for Obama are starting to realize hes not going to deliver on all his promises to them . Its just a matter of time .

Grrr-awful-o   June 18th, 2009 11:56 pm ET

Actually, you didn't run against George Bush. And right about now I'm not so sure you'd even beat him in a new election. Maybe don't gloat too much until you've actually solved more problems than you've created.

B. DUN   June 18th, 2009 11:56 pm ET

As for OB'sbelief in the fee market, it reminds me of another person in history the was quoted as saying,"the bigger the lie, the better they will believe it" And then we had World War 2

God Help America

Jami   June 18th, 2009 11:56 pm ET

you won? thats it?

Francisco Cardenas   June 18th, 2009 11:55 pm ET

Gibbs' remark was foolish. Polls show that most Americans do not want to close Guantanamo Bay Prison and most don't really care about what was done after 9/11 to get information to protect this country. I support Obama, but I am not with him on releasing prisoners from Guantanamo Bay.

Jason   June 18th, 2009 11:54 pm ET

So, Obama won, so we conservatives and republicans should just keep our mouth shut and stand idly by while Obama and his ilk ruin our country? HELL NO! I don't recall anyone from the Bush administration saying anything like this when liberals and democrats criticized his policies when he was first starting out. Liberals and democrats never ceased to criticize Bush and his administration since the day he won the election in 2000, so why the hell aren't we allowed to do the same against Obama?

Yet another example of leftist hypocrisy gone crazy.

Bonnie   June 18th, 2009 11:53 pm ET

What an arrogant fool. Voters are experiencing buyer's remorse over this administration. Gibbs is only one example of the low quality of people we now have in the White House. His words have no meaning. It is all just white noise. There is a reason the White House now has flies – the place stinks.

Scott L   June 18th, 2009 11:53 pm ET

Gibbs has no respect for the American people.

John G   June 18th, 2009 11:52 pm ET

Look, it's easy to hate Bush for speaking out (in his defense, at a private event), but I'm getting so TIRED of Gibbs's flippant attitude in his press conferences. Where is the cool-headed professionalism these press secretaries are supposed to be known for? It would have been far classier to simply have said, "Well that's his opinion, but we're confident that the decisions we're making represent the best approach for this administration." I wish Gibbs would project a little more class as a de-facto representative of the government in power, instead of resorting to lifting his leg on the podium and yelling, "mine!" Ugh.

Trudy   June 18th, 2009 11:50 pm ET

Then someone should tell obama that he won because he talks like he's still campaigning.

lattdaddy   June 18th, 2009 11:48 pm ET

I meant Gibbs.

Janie   June 18th, 2009 11:46 pm ET

Bush was doing just fine not saying anything. He was keeping his respect. Now he is starting to act like Cheney. His day is OVER!!! All the Republicans do now is criticize and the American people are getting fed up with it! Bush, please go back in retirement. Your day is OVER thank goodness. Too many mothers have lost their sons and children lost their fathers because of your brainy ideas. We are sick of all the negativity! Lets wish our new President well. His hands are certainly full and lets pull for him instead of critcizing everything he does and says!!! President Obama is a wonderful man and lets pray for him.

tim   June 18th, 2009 11:45 pm ET

I agree with President Bush. Barry and his gang of yahoos have zero experience in foreign affairs, are passive at best and fail to acknowledge and recognize terrorism...islamic, facist, etc.

I would love to debate Obama on how a balance sheet, income statement and p&l work...albeit without use of any telepromters.

He speaks of change, integrity, doing what's right for America...rightttt....he is a marketing sham at best whose cabinet lacks integrity (at least financial....can't pay taxes, etc.) and lack proper experience to take the good 'ol USA into another era of prosperity.

LA Craig   June 18th, 2009 11:44 pm ET

As a true SoCal democrat, I must admit, the "smugness" perpetually emanating from the Press Secretary Gibbs' mouth is becoming a bit much. While I dont agree with the policies of the Bush administration, he simply stated his belief that some detainess would be after the citizens of our country. A true statement from Bush's perspective as well as a seemingly true fact. But Gibbs says "we won"?!?!?

One has nothing to do with the other.

TFG   June 18th, 2009 11:40 pm ET

Welcome to elementary school folks! Robert Gibbs has the intellectual capacity of wet Dorito.

New Yorker   June 18th, 2009 11:39 pm ET

We won. Lame.

Anonymous   June 18th, 2009 11:38 pm ET

Here we go again just "bushing it"

Chris   June 18th, 2009 11:38 pm ET

Wow, we won? That's it? Sounds very elementary school to me...

Concerned   June 18th, 2009 11:38 pm ET

I guess we get childlike comments when we elect a child to the office of presidency...

Fred May Sr. Spanaway WA.   June 18th, 2009 11:37 pm ET

I think GWB ought to go back to Texas and craw into a hole and shut up. He and his paty put this country into the mess it is in. He had 8 years to straighten out things and all he did is make things worse. From a $ 300 billion surplus into a trillion $ deficite in 18 months has got to be a record.
Hang it up you has been. We don't need your comments.

Bob Cooper   June 18th, 2009 11:35 pm ET

Bob Gibbs is out of his league. How in the world did that guy get to be in the position he is in. B.O. and Rahmbo have him on a short leash.
B.Cooper

Grizzly   June 18th, 2009 11:33 pm ET

"We won??" That refrain is getting old. Any time that anyone criticizes any part of any Obama plan, they trot out the "We won, so shut up" comment. Just because you won doesn't mean that you have free reign to do whatever without comment.

NoTelePrompTer   June 18th, 2009 11:32 pm ET

They may have won this time, but you can't fool all of the people all of the time. There are a lot of people out here with Voters Remorse.
I don't believe that last statement Gibbs made one bit. He is not for the free market and before long the government will control everything.
Wake up America.

TonyR   June 18th, 2009 11:32 pm ET

So in other words "Screw you"!

Thanks for making politics so wonderful and making people feel part of the process.

Proud to be an American   June 18th, 2009 11:32 pm ET

President Bush seems to have forgotten that the 9/11 terrorist act happened on his watch! He and Cheney can only talk about how they made America safe...after the fact. First and foremost, they need to explain how foolishly invading Iraq served a useful purpose in securiing the safety of America. Then, and only then, will he or anyone else in his administration will be worth listening to. He sent our men and women to die in a needless war and I will never forgive him for that. May he and the rest of the Bushies never have a moment of peace or restful sleep.

Dave   June 18th, 2009 11:30 pm ET

That seems to be their answer to everything...."We Won." I would like to see a rebuttal on some of these arguments, not the reply of a spoiled kid.

Kerry   June 18th, 2009 11:28 pm ET

"we won" attitude is going to make you lose in the future. the dems need to quit being so snobby and try for true nonpartisan ways of doing things like they told the world they were going to do. they are so full of steer manure.

Danny J   June 18th, 2009 11:27 pm ET

"we won?" Are you serious? That is both arrogant and childish. That's a really unhealthy attitude to take. There is going to be a huge political fallout with a lot of these policies. It doesn't take a Bush to recognize that.

none   June 18th, 2009 11:26 pm ET

This is another in a string of shallow, base-less comments from an arrogant administration.

Geesh   June 18th, 2009 11:25 pm ET

Real mature...."We won"....Grow up!

Perry   June 18th, 2009 11:23 pm ET

First, you didn't run against GW Bush, but it doesn't surprise me that the Obama admininstration doesn't know that. As it has proved aptly in less than 6 months, it doesn't know much of anything. The only person that can possibly be happy with Obama is Jimmy Carter because in less than 6 months, Obama has replaced him as the worst President in modern history. Someone should remind the Obama minons, just because you were able to win an election through fraud, doesn't mean you have the right to destroy the country.

Anonymous   June 18th, 2009 11:22 pm ET

Darn right Gibbs! When are Republicans going to get it through their thick skulls that the American people soundly rejected them and more importantly their ideologies the last two election cycles? In fact it's been over twenty years now since a Republican has ever won the White House by more than a razor thin margin.

Craig Simpson   June 18th, 2009 11:21 pm ET

Bush and Cheney should be in jail for war crimes, lying to America and the needless death of > 5,000 Americans.

You've got 30 minutes to leave the country Georgie otherwise we're coming to get you.

Dickie my boy, you are all mine.

It is an insult to America that these morons are still walking the street.

Louisiana Man   June 18th, 2009 11:21 pm ET

I am hoping the Obama Administration's decisions about terrorism, interrogation, and the closing of GITMO ... does not cause "the chickens to come home to roost".

indy29   June 18th, 2009 11:21 pm ET

I am an Independent and I voted for Obama, but I don't want to hear his administration say this again. It sounds arrogant and it turns people off.

ATR6000@aol.com   June 18th, 2009 11:19 pm ET

what's up with barak

TJ   June 18th, 2009 11:19 pm ET

What a stupid and petty thing for Gibbs to say. Bush didn't lose to Obama. He finished his second term and left office quite gentlemanly in terms of his treatment of the Obama team.

As for "winning", Gibbs can't claim any victory, since Bush's comments had to do with the Obama administration's flailing policies on the economy, foreign affiars and everywhere else. No victories that I've seen. That is unless you count ramming legislation through that no one is allowed to read before a vote. They're quite good at that.

DF   June 18th, 2009 11:19 pm ET

He's absolutely right, too. Bush and his like lost, so they need to just rally with the rest of us, and stop being naysayers.

SS   June 18th, 2009 11:19 pm ET

We did win! Here here!

George   June 18th, 2009 11:19 pm ET

I don't think the world, or the majority in America, mourns the passing of the Bush presidency.

Hopeful Optimist   June 18th, 2009 11:18 pm ET

I love the way Gibbs responds - very matter-of-factly, to the point and cordially. He tries to avoid any acrimony whatsoever, something the Repubs thrive on.

Along those lines, something I've noticed in a crowd (for example a crowded elevator) is that if anyone is going to state their political bias its always a conservative. Its almost as if they cannot just let it rest for even a very few moments. They've got to ferret out who is withem and who is againem.

Jim T   June 18th, 2009 11:17 pm ET

We won is all they can say? That's laughable.

Attention everyone: Under Bush the dems had control of congress. The Dems have a direct link to the housing collapse. Um hello?

Wake up! Stop swallowing the junk and spin from both sides.

We all need to hold all our elected leaders accountable.

Obama has done nothing more than become a reality star. He needs to get something done!

nicu   June 18th, 2009 11:15 pm ET

What a stupid response. I can't belived! An answer like a stupid person.

Arrogans of Audacity   June 18th, 2009 11:14 pm ET

Typical of the Obamanots. In your face psychosis. They are all a bunch of narcissists out to prove they are smarter than the collective wisdom of the world. Look at me "I won", "we won". OK so they won, and "we" lost, our future, our liberty, and our financial security in the world. Obama and his klan are spending us into debt. I for one don't like having nothing left but change.

A concerned veteran   June 18th, 2009 11:14 pm ET

Good answer Gibbs. When you can't give a real answer, just say, "We won." That will make Americans feel better about Obama's plan to bring these terrorist in to the United States. After 9/11, there was not another attack on American soil. Why would you want to listen to the President that was in charge during that time? If this last election had been strictly on the protection of our country from terrorist, I think the end result would have been different. The American people want to know that the current administration has our best interest at heart. Closing Gitmo is a dangerous plan.
Finally, the election was not a landslide. Remember, there is a huge poplulation that didn't support the current administration. Saying, "We won" is a great way to get those people fired up, and ready for the next elections.

RUTY   June 18th, 2009 11:12 pm ET

Keep digging republicans–the hole gets deeper. Pretty soon there will be no republican party. Mr. Bush you had your chance and screwed up royally. You left this country in the biggest mess anyone has ever seen. SO shut up and stay in Texas.

Daniel   June 18th, 2009 11:10 pm ET

Robert Gibbs,
You, Sir, are a complete and utter moron. You have the attitude of a two year old child. What a disgrace to the USA you are.

PoqVaUSA   June 18th, 2009 11:06 pm ET

I honestly don't understand the vehemence of the posted comments against Bush's statements in the previous article. The attacks are generally personal, and arguments are mere declarations of "this is how it ought to be" or "that's just the way it is". I voted for Bush last election, but find that Obama is very good at articulating his position in world affairs. He has also not been as extreme in some of his views as are some of his supporters. Why the polarization in terms of the comments? Where is the mutual respect? Where is the sense that, now that the election is settled lets pull together and support the current office holders where we can, and provide constructive criticism where we feel it's needed? All in an atmosphere of being considerate of each other's views. Obama won the election, and Bush will be judged by history in due time. Now is not the time. Certainly not in this forum.

Ren from Baltimore   June 18th, 2009 11:05 pm ET

W, didn't your mother tell you to stay from miscreants? That, in your particular case, certainly starts with Dick Cheney.

Do not call any dark forces on your successor; bad form.

Rob   June 18th, 2009 11:05 pm ET

Amen.

MLH   June 18th, 2009 11:04 pm ET

Former President Bush, some might say that you were willing to kill Americans at the drop of a hat – you sent them into Iraq on what amounted to a snipe hunt after lying to us all about those weapons of mass destruction. You are responsible for the deaths of Iraqis, as well.

Mattison Brooks   June 18th, 2009 11:04 pm ET

We won eh? Sorry Mr President, but where is that bi-partisan atmosphere you wanted to create? Pathetic.

Where is your promise to reduce government spending? Or your promise to keep the government accountable? Or better yet, your promise to change the way Washington does business?

Obama is a chameleon: he goes with whatever will get him elected and give him power. He is a liar and will hopefully be a 1 term President.

Barry   June 18th, 2009 11:04 pm ET

No better response than "We Won"? Why does is seem more and more apparent each and every day that we elected someone to the White House way past their experience and capability level.
Each day we watch this new Administration ignore threats to the U.S., place us further and further in debt, grab up private companies like Russia's Communist Party on overdrive, waste our money flying around site seeing, Allowing Iran to work on their Nuclear Weapons plans, thumbing their nose a Isareal, and turning terrorists loose and trying to make new ones Americans by reading them our Miranda rights. "We Won"...you would think that at least they could respond better than that.

George Guadiane Austerlitz, NY   June 18th, 2009 11:03 pm ET

What is 43 gonna say?
Yes, I knew there were no WMD
YES, I approved water boarding, even though I KNEW that it was a violation of International law.
NO I DON'T care what's good for the Country, or that America is now held in higher regard than at any time in my presidency.
Keep it up GOP, Democrats don't NEED the help, but we don't mind, every time you shoot yourselves in the foot AGAIN!

Sick of Dirty Obama   June 18th, 2009 11:01 pm ET

The American people are against Obama on Gitmo.

Most Americans think it is OK to waterboard or use other harsh methods on THREE of the most hardened AQ terrorists that exist.

Gibbs is WORTHLESS, and he does a great job of REPRESENTING HIS BOSS

Paul from Kissimmee   June 18th, 2009 11:00 pm ET

Bush is right on this one. I'm sure that the soft handed liberals loves Obama's approach to combat, or should I say give up, terrorism. I can't wait to see what the liberals post on here.

Dale in Michigan   June 18th, 2009 11:00 pm ET

Yea you won but now we're sorry.

Southern by the Grace of God   June 18th, 2009 10:59 pm ET

Are you serious? That's the best line he could come up with? He very well could be the worst press secretary ever. No real answers, only excuses and mockery of any who disagrees with 0bama. Is this really what our country is about? Does he really think that the 47% that did not vote for him are really that naive? In Gibb's defense, I couldn't stand in front of America and lie with a straight face either.

andy   June 18th, 2009 10:59 pm ET

Gibbs is an idiot. He is nothing but a mouthpiece of the chosen one. One day Obama will be gone and Gibbs can go back to working the drive-thru at McDonalds.

SGJ   June 18th, 2009 10:58 pm ET

Look at you in that picture – even your overcoat is puffed up and 2 sizes too big to try stop the world realizing how small you truly are.

AlRam   June 18th, 2009 10:58 pm ET

President Barack Obama won the presidency last election. That is a fact and nobody can take that away from the American people. And President Obama is fixing the problem for the last 8 years and he is doing good. Thank goodness!!!!

SGJ   June 18th, 2009 10:58 pm ET

Look a you in that picture – even your overcoat is puffed up and 2 sizes too big to try stop the world realizing how small you truly are.

Jc of Ohio   June 18th, 2009 10:58 pm ET

"I'll just tell you that there are people at Gitmo that will kill American people at a drop of a hat and I don't believe that persuasion isn't going to work. Therapy isn't going to cause terrorists to change their mind."

Uh huh yeah ... right!
And there are plenty of people already in US prisons who would also kill Americans at the drop of a hat.
Or rape....
Actually most don't care if its Americans or not ...
So whats the big deal then?
You labeled them criminals/terrorist .... you can't or won't send them back where you got them....

So....."IF" convicted of a crime ... our prisons are just as good as anyone else's!

SGJ   June 18th, 2009 10:55 pm ET

How ould you know if persuasion is going to work? Did you ever try it? Did you ever truly listen to anyone but your puppet master Dick "The Lord Sith" Cheney?

Ralph   June 18th, 2009 10:53 pm ET

Man, that Robert Gibbs sure knows how to deliver a sharp retort-"We won."
What a bumbling dolt. He'll be history soon.

rebecca   June 18th, 2009 10:52 pm ET

Little timmy geithner sure does look and act like he's 10 years old!!!! What class he has...NOT!

Sara   June 18th, 2009 10:52 pm ET

Hey Bush – 9/11 happened on your watch, BECAUSE you were not paying attention to information that the FBI sent to you, over, and over, and over, in memo, after memo, after, memo!
Hey Bush- The economy crisis ALSO happened on your watch BECAUSE, you, and those in your administration were not paying attention, and allowed the banks to run wild, and allowed banks to sell fraudulent mortgage products to millions of Americans.
The two WORST things to happene to this country, happened on BUSH'S WATCH, including starting an illegal war in Iraq, in which OVER 4000 US soldiers have lost their lives! According to the Pentagon, The IRAQ WAR, started by Bush, has cost the US taxpayers over $900 BILLION DOLLARS !!

JoEllen   June 18th, 2009 10:52 pm ET

Bush, Cheney, and Rush–the axis of losers–can say whatever they feel like. What matters is that the US electorate has spoken loud and clear. If they didn't or won't hear the electorate then they're truly pathetic.

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