September 15, 2009
Posted: September 15th, 2009 06:01 PM ET

From
Bush on Obama: 'This guy has no clue'.
Bush on Obama: 'This guy has no clue'.

WASHINGTON (CNN) – Former President George W. Bush "seemed to feel considerable unease" with John McCain as the Republican presidential nominee, according to ex-speechwriter Matt Latimer in his tell-all memoir on his days in the White House.

In Latimer's new book, "Speech-less: Tales of a White House Survivor," set to hit bookstores on September 22, he reveals Bush's reactions to the economic collapse, the presidential campaign, and other memorable events. GQ published an excerpt from the memoir in its October issue.

Latimer said Bush liked Mitt Romney best and that he was "clearly not impressed with the McCain operation." Latimer said the former president wanted to appear with McCain at a campaign event in Phoenix, but after he was told the then-Republican nominee couldn't get enough people to show up, he called it a "cruel hoax."

"'He couldn't get 500 people? I could get that many people to turn out in Crawford.' He shook his head. 'This is a five-spiral crash, boys.'"

Bush presumed Hillary Clinton would be the Democratic nominee, according to Latimer, and was extremely critical of Barack Obama. Latimer said Bush was "ticked off" after one of Obama's speeches and he said the future president wasn't "remotely qualified" for the challenges of the job.

"(Bush) came in one day to rehearse a speech, fuming. 'This is a dangerous world,' he said for no apparent reason, 'and this cat isn't remotely qualified to handle it. This guy has no clue, I promise you,'" Latimer said.

Latimer also made the controversial assertion that after Sarah Palin was tapped as McCain's running mate, Bush reportedly asked whether she was "the governor of Guam" and said that she was "not even remotely prepared." A former Bush and Palin aide has challenged the accuracy of the charge.

Filed under: Extra • George W. Bush • Popular Posts • President Obama


JR   September 15th, 2009 4:13 pm ET

So Bush thought Obama to be not "remotely qualified", well if anyone knows about not being qualified, it would be the Shrub.

Jez   September 15th, 2009 4:13 pm ET

....and George W was qualified?? Talk about a cruel hoax for 8 years!

JB - NYC   September 15th, 2009 4:13 pm ET

On the nosey, Sir!

ed minn   September 15th, 2009 4:13 pm ET

Obama has no clue give
Me a break king george
Who ran the white house
Cardnail chenney

ken chicago   September 15th, 2009 4:12 pm ET

Well, Bush has been proven correct. Obama is clueless and lacks leadership skills. He is the great orator without executive expertise and executive decision making skills. The country has become more divided under this administration than under Bush. I didn't think that was possible, but Obama and the Congress have managed to do it. There could be a civil war in this country if this Congress continues down the path of partisan fracturing of every idea. Osama can go get 'em all! and we can start over.

center   September 15th, 2009 4:12 pm ET

You don't have to be on the left to agree that Bush is clueless and has no room to talk about anyone else being clueless!

Bug3t | Ruth, CA   September 15th, 2009 4:12 pm ET

This from a man who bankrupted EVERY SINGLE COMPANY his daddy ever bought him to run?

Priceless.

Brain Dead in Ohio   September 15th, 2009 4:12 pm ET

It seems to me only a former President truly has the experience...and if we were to pick one, living or dead, my guess is that Bush would be at the bottom of that list.

BTW, we voted for different qualifications this time. More brain, less lobbyists, and less pandering to the lowest common denominator of our society...or as they're easily identified: Republicans.

Craig in VA   September 15th, 2009 4:12 pm ET

McCain was no prize.

JV   September 15th, 2009 4:11 pm ET

Forget about George Bush and focus on the present.

LISA   September 15th, 2009 4:10 pm ET

Speaking of not qualified....

Florida Joe   September 15th, 2009 4:09 pm ET

The only "clue" that Obama didn't have was how HUGE of a MESS W and his gang left.............

Anne E.   September 15th, 2009 4:09 pm ET

Bush said the future president wasn't "remotely qualified" for the challenges of the job.
_______________

Neither were you, George.

Obama worst president EVER   September 15th, 2009 4:09 pm ET

Bush got that one right.

Frederick in SC   September 15th, 2009 4:07 pm ET

As if Bush would know a good leader when he saw one.

Getrealpeople   September 15th, 2009 4:07 pm ET

I'd rather have a "clueless" Obama than an evil Bush any day! Obama is far from clueless and is the only reason we are still holding together at all and haven't become a third world country after the damage Bush did to this country!

Hopeful Optimist   September 15th, 2009 4:06 pm ET

Bush probably doesn't believe in evolution either. Matter of fact, he's not so sure about gravity or relativity either.

I am past the point of blaming Bush. He's not intelligent enough to be held responsible. However, I do blame every voter who cast a vote for him in either election. How they sleep at night is beyond me.

Wise Latina   September 15th, 2009 4:06 pm ET

Once again, George was misunderestimated by the MSM. Turns out he was spot on about Obama's lack of qualification for the job - and we are now paying a dear price...

Teddy   September 15th, 2009 4:06 pm ET

I guess once a year, every year for the rest of our lives, we will have a memorial service and a moment of silence on Sept 11th, to remind us how much of a clue "W" really had......

Annirich   September 15th, 2009 4:05 pm ET

to Typical Republican: might I remind you that there was the bombing of the embassy and Clinton did nothing; then there was the 1st bombing of the WTC, Clinton did nothing; then the bombing attack on the USS Cole, Clinton did nothing; they knew the could waltz in and get us.

Charles   September 15th, 2009 4:05 pm ET

9/11 happened nine months into Bush's first term, a clear result of intelligence failures of the Clinton administration. You can't blame Bush for 9/11 happening (though you can blame him for how he handled the aftermath).

As far as Obama, at this point if you still have confidence in him, all I can say is it sucks to be you. Obama has been a total trainwreck. He's got supermajorities in Congress and he still can't get anything done? What the hell? The republicans don't have enough votes to do anything, and Obama still can't get legislation passed. He is weak and incompetent, and he needs to go, fast. As it is now, the republicans will probably slaughter the Democrats in 2010, and the sad thing is, they will deserve it.

Bo   September 15th, 2009 4:04 pm ET

No no Mr bush...you have no cred...!! I voted for your father "WH" when I served in the military, then I somehow voted for you, but after viewing your performance during Hurricane Katrina and the outright fabrications over the decision to invade Iraq (causing us trillions of dollars) you loss all respect. I seems to me that your party does not care for the least of us. No empathy. all your party is talking about is fear, with no solutions.

Fort Lauderdale, FL   September 15th, 2009 4:04 pm ET

The American people are clueless. They elected both of these characters one after the other.

Nancy   September 15th, 2009 4:03 pm ET

Bush is right. Obama isn't remotely qualified for the job. We are now seeing the results of having a community organizer as commander in chief.

Just Me   September 15th, 2009 4:03 pm ET

Bush is in no position to question anyones intellegence. That's simply illogical. Someone fooled him and told him he was smart. Perhaps it was Cheney, but whomever it was, they lied to him..big time.

Rob Johnson   September 15th, 2009 4:03 pm ET

George Bush thinks Obama was under-qualified to be President?

Considering that Texas is a "weak Governor" state where the Governor doesn't have a lot of real power, Bush was no more qualified than Obama.

George W Bush calling someone else's resume weak? Priceless.

Willy Brown   September 15th, 2009 4:03 pm ET

By George you are right!

Beef King   September 15th, 2009 4:03 pm ET

Obama makes me miss Bush. Unbelievable that Obama is the best the Demorats can offer America.
Who will lead in 2012? Neither party can offer anyone worthy. Who?

tee   September 15th, 2009 4:02 pm ET

Amazing
Sorry to bust your bubble....Hillary was no more qualified then President obama......the election proved she was less qualified.....as for Bush speaking about President Obama.......give me a break....he was less qualified then both......having a daddy as President does not make you qualified.....we get on Bush for the things he has done.....you guys get on President Obama for what you think he's going to do and what you think the out come will be.......your wish for his failure is just that a WISH

phoenix86   September 15th, 2009 4:00 pm ET

W is absolutely right. Obama wasn't remotely qualified. Unfortunately, Obama is STILL unqualified.

Cliff   September 15th, 2009 4:00 pm ET

Bush never had a clue.

David S. Robins   September 15th, 2009 4:00 pm ET

Hee, hee, hee. This is to funny. The most clueless president in American history says Barack Obama is "clueless." Too funny. Thanks again, George, for reminding how stupid you are.

PhilNick   September 15th, 2009 4:00 pm ET

oh ya thats right dennis... it doesn't matter what total utter garbage the govt supports as long as their message is coherent right?... sounds a bit like the GOP to me!

Chris   September 15th, 2009 4:00 pm ET

Clueless are you folks on here falling for another CNN stunts!!! Where in this article did the guy mention the word Clueless?
CNN is always out to spin a story!!!!
Mind you I'm not a GWB fan, but there is no need to spin a story!!!

Jeff in FL   September 15th, 2009 4:00 pm ET

Anyone who says Bush was the worst president clearly wasn't around for, or hasn't done any research on Jimmy Carter....

Kelly, MD   September 15th, 2009 3:59 pm ET

History will prove George Bush wrong. History has already said that he is the 7th Worst President Ever. Do you think I care what the 7th Worst President Ever has to say. Right, I do not. GW should take his meds and leave politics to others. Paticularly since he butchered our beloved Constitution.

Here's a thought, since he doesn't have anything to do but run his trap he can suit up and go fight in Iraq–his favorite place.

Proud Member..Party of No   September 15th, 2009 3:56 pm ET

And, of course, now we all know what Bush knew then.....the amateur community organizer isn't qualified to run a lemonade stand let alone the presidency.

Dennis The Ruler   September 15th, 2009 3:56 pm ET

Bush is right and wrong.

Obama's presidency has been competely horrible. Universal health care reform will failure because it has been pushed for too long.

However, Bush must realize his mistakes.

RealityKing   September 15th, 2009 3:56 pm ET

$1.8 trillion later..., Americans are waking up and beginning to question the progressively liberal media's agenda.

Allen   September 15th, 2009 3:56 pm ET

I don't like bush. But I have to agree with him on obama. obama has NO CLUE what he is doing. Thats pretty apparent. We can only hope that these 4 years goes very fast for our nation.

nathaniel   September 15th, 2009 3:55 pm ET

Bush was unqualified and I thought we'd learn our lessons about the dangers of unqualified presidents and elect McCain in 2008. Terrible politician, great man. By the way recessions are natural. We don't need to assign blame to anyone. I don't blame Nancy Pelosi for the recession.

Keith in Austin   September 15th, 2009 3:55 pm ET

Aptly put W!!!!

Chris harris   September 15th, 2009 3:55 pm ET

George Bush talking about someone else having No Clue, now that's funny.

Erin, laughing hysterically   September 15th, 2009 3:55 pm ET

Wow!!! This coming from a guy who congratulated Brown on the job he did on Katrina, drove this country into the worst financial collapse since the Great Depression, got WAY over his head in two wars, one of which he started using 9/11 as an excuse (I still don't get how more people aren't offended at how he took advantage of 9/11 to get into a totally unrelated war in Iraq) and turned America into a country that other countries' politicians had to turn away from in order to become elected. And I'm not talking about Russia here; I'm talking about many of our former allies in Europe.

This is a guy who did the most unamerican thing possible and defended torture.

If THAT guy says Obama doesn't know how to be president, then, well...that may be the best endorsement Obama could have.

Lisa - VA   September 15th, 2009 3:54 pm ET

You Obama HATERS make me SICK...there is no reasoning with you. I believe God takes care of EVERYTHING..and I believe in my heart God is watching of President Obama. SO say want you want to say..President Obama has done more for this country in eight months than George W. Bush had done in the eight years he ran this country. President Obama needs to "brush his shoulders off"..and let God handle his enemies.

Drew   September 15th, 2009 3:54 pm ET

People keyword is qualifications. While most people criticize Bush for the past 8 years. At the same time period in Bushs administration, 9/11 just occurred. Everything he did has been overshadowed by that and the two wars. Bush has endured a lot in 8 years so he has something what only 42 people in the last 200 something years have: EXPERIENCE OF BEING PRESIDENT. While he may have not been the greatest he does know what he is talking about.

Cruzan Obama Mama   September 15th, 2009 3:54 pm ET

The only thing Bush had to get him the job of the POTUS was the last name "Bush." Whether he wants to face it or not, he was the worst & most dangerous President in history.

All the Repubs on this chain are so ridiculous. Pres. Obama is cleaning up the mess that Bush left. McCain did not have the slightest clue about economics & he was going to help us how? Are you kidding me? Come to the table with ideas or don't come at all....all your party can say is "NO."

Everyone is candy coating the condition Bush left this country in and blaming Pres. Obama. Most of the things these Repubs are complaining and protesting about were put into place by Bush. Throw your hatred and complaints to the right person....here's a clue he is in Texas & and his name rhymes with PUSH!!!!

Karen Saucedo   September 15th, 2009 3:54 pm ET

Obama "not remotely qualified for THE job"... coming from Dumbya, that is a compliment.

Now, why doesn't he slink away so we can finally be at peace after the decade of damage he caused???

Diane Dagenais Turbide   September 15th, 2009 3:54 pm ET

Suffering from self projection as usual!

Thomas Jefferson   September 15th, 2009 3:54 pm ET

The democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those who are willing to work and give to those who would not.

Jennifer   September 15th, 2009 3:53 pm ET

Bush saying you are unqaulified is a ringing endorsement.

E=Mc2   September 15th, 2009 3:53 pm ET

Bush: A national embarrassment then. A national embarrassment now.

Clueless in Texas   September 15th, 2009 3:52 pm ET

Bush must of been shocked when Obama won the election..couldn't look Obama in the eye when they finally met on the steps of the WH. The Republicans knew what their game plan was after the election – they were going to play nice for a little while and then slowly but surely delegitimize President Obama at every chance they get. That is why Joe Wilson felt comfortable enough to scream "You Lie" because that's part of the game. WARNING REPUBLICANS YOU GUYS WILL NOT WIN IN 20101 OR 2012. Democrats will be out everyday hitting the pavement to kick you out of office.

Sniffit   September 15th, 2009 3:52 pm ET

The surest way to alert everyone to the fact that you know nothign is to behave like you know everything.

www.twitter.com/whybs   September 15th, 2009 3:52 pm ET

well well... the way Mr. Bush ran his administration for 8 years... he had AND has NO CLUE about Technology OR the economy...

Coming to transparency and working with the Business executives – that was not in his old school curriculum, so he couldn't follow it !!

The way this administration is doing business, it would be "hard" for the next guy to change the new culture and believe me , this IS good for America (Opening up White House logs, making available Online several federal regulations as well as discussions....)

Re: McCain, he is the best guy in GOP (will ignore the fact that he chose a biiitchh for VP but he was fulfilling the requirement:: Attract Crowds!!!!)

Beverly in NC   September 15th, 2009 3:51 pm ET

That;s hilarious coming from the STUPIDEST President in our history!

President Obama will be considered one our greatest Presidents and Bush will be the worst and the one who committed the most crimes as President. Bush destroyed this nation and he dares to criticize the President who is having to clean it up!!

Kate in SW Fla   September 15th, 2009 3:51 pm ET

Bush must have been looking in the mirror. Talk about unqualiifed. That intellectual pygmy has almost destroyed ths country.

Independent   September 15th, 2009 3:51 pm ET

The inexprience Obama step into the mess Bush left behind and kept the US along with Wall Street from collapsing.....Don't you remember how fearful you were?????

Fool me once shame on u, fool me twice... err...   September 15th, 2009 3:51 pm ET

Hahaha... Say what? W is a funny guy! LOL

sonny chapman   September 15th, 2009 3:51 pm ET

Bush is right. Only people with family wealth who were draft dodgers, who never made an honest nickle in their lives, who had every mess they ever made cleaned up by someone else, who are "recovered alcoholics" with Daddy Issues surrounded by political wolves should be President.

Rob   September 15th, 2009 3:50 pm ET

Goerge, you looked kind of clueless also when you were sitting in that classroom trying to read My Pet Goat to those school kids. The "deer in the headlights" glare when you were told about the attacks....you allowed that to happen....pig!!

AK   September 15th, 2009 3:50 pm ET

Bush is a comic!!! Ha ah!

Cristine C.   September 15th, 2009 3:49 pm ET

Why even comment on this people? It's clear that Georgie is going to be living in a delusional bubble forever – so why give any sort of thought to his fantasies?

Polar Bears Against Palin   September 15th, 2009 3:48 pm ET

The economy has turned around and been saved from slipping into a black hole, thanks to Obama's initives. More great economic news today and the stock market is up again. Soon we will have health care reform. Something you selfish Republicans didn't discuss or take seriously for 8 years.

Obama has already begun to clean up your mess, George. We are also regaining respect around the world. Bush, you are a loser and a killer. I can't believe Laura married you. You are a bottom feeder.

Shirley In California   September 15th, 2009 3:47 pm ET

This coming a man who still hasn't been weaned. He has spent his entire life sucking on other men because he has no guts or brains. First daddy, then Cheney. We really don't care what your opinion is Mr. Worthless.

Angie   September 15th, 2009 3:47 pm ET

george "the village idiot" bush has some nerve. he is as clueless as they come. PLEASE!!!!! this from a person that destroyed the economy, started 2 wars (sending thousands of young people to their deaths), caused the largest unemployed since the depression, allowed the fat cats on wall street to get fatter and the working class poorer. this from a person, along with crazy cheney should be under the jail.

ken   September 15th, 2009 3:47 pm ET

this is priceless. i need a good laugh. i'm so glad this is hitting the streets now. i hhave to catch the conan obrien and dave letterman monologues now. this book will contain a plethora of comedy material.

Corey   September 15th, 2009 3:47 pm ET

You liberals just keep putting the blame on the Bush administration. No matter what it is Obama always has to state it was Bushs fault. I mean he even found a way to bring him up in the health care speech. All Obama is is a campaigner he makes no choices and says what the people want to hear. Then he'll just go all the way to left with his decision. All of you will see who's party is better in the next 10 years and by that time Obama will have the Democratic Party be known as the Socialist Party. Congratulations not only are you killing this economy you're killing the American Dream

FactCheck   September 15th, 2009 3:46 pm ET

Obama = "Gone with the Wind"
Dubya = "Dude, Where's My Car?"

Jeremy   September 15th, 2009 3:46 pm ET

Hey he got SOMETHING right! Way to be George!

LW In Texas   September 15th, 2009 3:46 pm ET

OMG,,, Bush Said something and someone wrote about it, must be a slow news day.....Bush could not pour water out of a boot with the instructions written on the bottom. and No Clue... When G W was in Washington he woke up everyday saying now where am I again.

James_MO   September 15th, 2009 3:45 pm ET

So far Obama has rescued GM, saved Citibank, slowed unemployment, got intrabank lending restarted, launch a plan for fixing broke mortages, and has finally started talking about our dysfunctional healthcare system.

I dunno, can you say as much for how 2009 has gone for you?

JN   September 15th, 2009 3:45 pm ET

boy, talk about missing the mark.

New Era   September 15th, 2009 3:44 pm ET

Another voice for American politics. Wow. U Repubs are desperate.

Kurt   September 15th, 2009 3:43 pm ET

"the future president wasn't "remotely qualified" for the challenges of the job." Are you kidding me? You nimrod, we had 8 years of you and co-president Vader and you still weren't qualified. Go cut some wood, go fishin' and just go AWAY!

Stu-Florida   September 15th, 2009 3:43 pm ET

It would seem to me that the only ones with true Presidential experience are former Presidents. Makes sense, right? Palin being an exception...

Then how can a man with previous Presidential experience, like Bush,
truly have NO CLUE?? The guy was a drift!

The great thing about President Obama is what he doesn't know he learns, he learns fast and NOW, and then takes that knowledge to make an educated plan or an imformed decision. The only thing missing fron his plans and enabling this country to move forward is SUPPORT.

Marlin Fish   September 15th, 2009 3:42 pm ET

Heck, GHWB wasn't qualified for president, but he got there and look at the mess he made over the last 8 years, what a shame!
At least Obama is trying to clean up Bush's awful expensive mess. Obama didn't ask for the mess that he got left, his mission was Health care for all, but look what he got instead.

New Era   September 15th, 2009 3:42 pm ET

Now the "puppet" can talk?

President Bush had great clues; Stole the Election. Led the US to two wars. 4,000 soildiers dead and 20,000 wounded. Help evade the FBI by flying Bin Laden family out of the US after the towers fell. Spend 200 Billion on those same two wars. Lied to the American publilc about terror threats. Invaded the privacy of families across the US.
Refused to finance "No Child Left Behind" Allowed Chaney to pull his strings.

Should I go on???

GWB......Clueless

Nick   September 15th, 2009 3:41 pm ET

Wow, if Bush could see this why couldn't the liberal elite? They proclaim they are the best and the brightest and even Bush saw through Obama (and Palin). Oh well, three more years and we;ll hopefully have a real leader available.

unshrub   September 15th, 2009 3:41 pm ET

Anyone that Bush doesn't like is good enough for me.

larry   September 15th, 2009 3:41 pm ET

Interesting to say the least.

Chris   September 15th, 2009 3:40 pm ET

Have we ever seen a two-term president recede into obscurity this quickly?

Greg in Tampa   September 15th, 2009 3:40 pm ET

Just a few months ago, most of the country felt that Obama was a brilliant, articulate "breath of fresh air" that would "govern from the middle" and Bush was the clueless one. Now, much of the country realizes that Obama is a far left idealogue that is in way over his head. It would be interesting to see a poll that asked "if the election were today, would you vote for Obama or McCain?". My guess is that McCain would win today in a landslide.

Reformist   September 15th, 2009 3:40 pm ET

Talk about the kettle calling the pot black! Bush will go down as the worst President in U.S. history and definitely the dumbest!

chill   September 15th, 2009 3:39 pm ET

Pretty funny Bush thinking that Obama wasn't qualified considering his own lack of background when he assumed the job. A couple of terms in the relatively ceremonial position of Texas Governor. Not much foreign policy experience there. I guess he could see Mexico.

AEK   September 15th, 2009 3:39 pm ET

I think President Bush, in reflecting on his own failed administration, is the perfect person to criticize somebody else's conduct of the country's business.

bglg2005   September 15th, 2009 3:39 pm ET

as if GWB has any room to talk, for 8years he ruined this country, and feels he has the right to judge one's qualifications. When you are going down as one of the most hated presidents of all time I don't think you have the right to talk.

Deep Throat   September 15th, 2009 3:38 pm ET

He's right about Romney. He would have beaten Obama easily.
But stupid Republicans took their eyes off the ball and nominated
a loser who admitted he knew nothing about the economy which
turned out to be the defining issue of the campaign

Obama, it appears, is great at running for president. But is far from
being qualified for being the president.

Gary   September 15th, 2009 3:38 pm ET

He would know about clueless. His legacy – the president who brought the USA to its knees and removed it as a superpower. Talk about clueless.

Haily   September 15th, 2009 3:38 pm ET

"This guy has no clue, I promise you"
I'm not the only one who sees any irony in this right? Coming from man who pretended nothing was wrong when the economy was collapsing and who consistently made a fool of himself and of us Americans whenever he went overseas to this "dangerous world"?

catbird   September 15th, 2009 3:38 pm ET

Bush says that Obama doesn't have a clue?
Bush?
Well, I guess he is an expert on not having a clue...

chicago4obama   September 15th, 2009 3:38 pm ET

We just witnessed Kanye West idiotic, performance, and equally outrages behavior by Michael Jordan's Hall of Fame Speech, Roger Federrer and Serna Williams disgusting outbursts. Then we look to the leaders and supposedly real role models of this country and find them just as childish constantly ripping The sitting President of the United States.Calling him a liar in that venue is despicable I give W a pass, because he has been ripped by The Obama Administration. Republicans such as Wilson, Bohner, Cantor Palin , Rush are just hateful and are in-sighting class warfare. There are a large number of people in this country who resent the fact we have a president of color. These people are feeding into the those il feelings. I truly believe because of Mike Pence ,Sara Palin, Rush and the rest of the hate mongers, this country will not recover for a long time.

Tom   September 15th, 2009 3:38 pm ET

Irony, thy name is George.

Don   September 15th, 2009 3:38 pm ET

Obama doesn't have a clue of what is going on. He don't want to know – he may be forced to face the corruption and dishonesty of everyone around him.

Rick Karl   September 15th, 2009 3:36 pm ET

If Bush DID like Obama I'd be worried.

Good. If Bush thinks Obama is doing a bad job, Obama must be doing a lot that IS right!

kmsujon   September 15th, 2009 3:36 pm ET

Bush is a bush. What you can say.

Sharon   September 15th, 2009 3:35 pm ET

Look who's talking! Bush wasn't remotely qualified for the job and has no clue.

gl, From Pittsburgh   September 15th, 2009 3:35 pm ET

Everybody just trying to sell their book. After Tom Ridge back tracked his story, I really don't believe any thing in any of their books.

hahaha   September 15th, 2009 3:35 pm ET

look who is talking about being qualified

The new GOP party of NO, racism, and hate is emerging   September 15th, 2009 3:34 pm ET

Typicall of the unintelligent GW Bush to say Sarah Palin was "the governor of Guam"! I would say Sarah Palin is from Russia since she can see it from her porch!!!!

George   September 15th, 2009 3:34 pm ET

For the first time I think GWB was right.

Sniffit   September 15th, 2009 3:33 pm ET

Bush saying someone has no clue?

Irony 1,000,001: GOP 0

Brian   September 15th, 2009 3:33 pm ET

Dumb and Dumber ahahahahaaa ok

James   September 15th, 2009 3:33 pm ET

Oh wow. Those are some very candid statements. And I like seeing that side of President Bush.

sonnie2   September 15th, 2009 3:32 pm ET

If President GWB had got any clue this country would be better off today.All the problem solving was left to VP cheney who didnt have a clue either.They left office, With this country in so much mess that one wonders how they show there faces in public ever again
Obamo may not have a clue but at least he is trying to do something
for the people and the country
What did Bush and Cheney did? away from there stupid war they did nothing Has anyone see one peice of legislation that benifit the people for the eight years they were in charge? Maybe the wealthy folks seen one. I know I didnt!!!! Good Ridiance

Terry from Texas   September 15th, 2009 3:32 pm ET

When it comes to cluelessness, George W. Bush is an expert.

Ez   September 15th, 2009 3:32 pm ET

bush thought obama "wasn't qualfied for the challenges of the job" LOL

Ambrose Smith, Borrego Springs, California   September 15th, 2009 3:32 pm ET

GOP was too busy thinking about defeating Hillary. they were obsessed. Obama comes along and throws them a left cross and knocks the GOP off balance.

GOP should be thanking Obama. Didn't they want "anybody but Hillary"?

Duke   September 15th, 2009 3:32 pm ET

Let me get this straight. George, quack job, who was in office when our country was attacked, who couldn't run a baseball team, who presented inaccurate information to get us into a war, who led us into one of the worse economic crisis' this country has seen in 70 years is suddenly the authority of who's qualified and who's not qualified to be president? That's a good one!

David   September 15th, 2009 3:31 pm ET

Who cares what this imbecile has to say? He is going to go down as one of the worst presidents in history. Bush saying this nonsense about Obama is like Bernard Madoff writing a book on business ethics. For the record, multiple times, Bush seemed like he had no clue (e.g. Katrina, Iraq, etc...) After 9/11, he first told the country to go shop instead of comforting them and then he manipulated the collective fear of this country to lauch us into two unwinnable wars.

eolufemi   September 15th, 2009 3:31 pm ET

Bush....I seem to remember a guy masquerading as president by that name...

Jean   September 15th, 2009 3:31 pm ET

Well if that's not the pot calling the kettle black – then I don't know what is!

Frankie   September 15th, 2009 3:30 pm ET

No. Obama wasn't qualified to be president on the first day in office. Unfortunately, being president of the United States is not a job you practice or learn to do. Based on the ideas and plans you present to the voters, they elect you to put those plans into operation. The voyers of the United States obviously liked Obamas plans better than McCains plans. Being a fickle bunch, we want solutions to work too quickly, hencg the dropoff in confidence in Obama. Give him a chance, folks.

On the other hand, Bush, based on the mess his and Cheney's policies got us into, he ended up being even less qualified at the end of his terms than he was at the start. He wouldn't have gotten into these messes (economy, wars in Middle East) if he were.

The new GOP party of NO, racism, and hate is emerging   September 15th, 2009 3:30 pm ET

Bush is apparently "well qualified" considering the state he left the US in after an unpaid for Iraq-war-4-oil and a collapsed economy!!!!

kudos to GW Bush for ruining the USA!!!

rumrunner   September 15th, 2009 3:30 pm ET

obama has no clue, mr. president? that makes 2 of you.

maxx atl   September 15th, 2009 3:30 pm ET

Its evident he (bush) didnt have a clue... 2 wars and a collapsed economy ....... and was allowed to do it by his party he even fooled them left them all holding the bag, however, our President Obama have saved the day, go figure, guess education, intelligence apathy, morals, tolerance, civility, command of the english language rules again.

Post always rejected by CNN   September 15th, 2009 3:29 pm ET

Well bush didn't know a darn thing either. All he did was fill the seat cheney ran the country.

Michael   September 15th, 2009 3:29 pm ET

And George W Bush certainly knows about being pathetically unprepared and having no clue!

The idiot approached the job like he was Washington's social chair. That's all he was good for.

Carla Martin-Wood   September 15th, 2009 3:28 pm ET

Personally, I'm looking forward to his "reactions" to the economic collapse HE caused. And I haven't heard anyone say "this cat" referring to another human since I was in third grade in the 50s. This book should have been released on 9/11 - the anniversary of another disaster. What a freakshow! He needs to just go away so Obama - the man he considers clueless - can clean up the mess he left behind.

Vigla   September 15th, 2009 3:27 pm ET

Um, honestly, I think Obama is doing just fine, thank you. Not perfect, but good enough. I don't expect him to rush us off into another unjustified war, or condone torture.

Frankly, just think the opposite of what Bush says and it's probably correct.

EnoughIsEnough   September 15th, 2009 3:27 pm ET

"Wasn't 'remotely qualified"? Well Georgie, if that ain't "the pot callin' the kettle black". Which is the precurser to the overall GOP (southern white old people's party) obsession with Obama being black. How fitting.

mary   September 15th, 2009 3:27 pm ET

Interesting how the most incompentent president in recent (and probably all) of history thinks that someone else "has no clue". Obama's just trying to get us through all of the messes that Bush left behind with his incredible compentence-two wars, a recession that almost was a depression, etc.

once upon a horse   September 15th, 2009 3:26 pm ET

President Bush saying somebody has no clue is about the funniest line I've heard in quite awhile. But perhaps he meant that Obama really had no clue how uncooperative the Republicans would be towards him. Now THAT I can agree with.

Norman   September 15th, 2009 3:26 pm ET

Sort of ironic, that's what half of the nation said about Bush.

Well oh well   September 15th, 2009 3:25 pm ET

"he said the future president wasn't "remotely qualified" for the challenges of the job."

Hmmm, niether were you GWB.

Christian Values   September 15th, 2009 3:25 pm ET

And Bush has no brain.

Sam Sixpack   September 15th, 2009 3:25 pm ET

Let me count the ways we are so much better off now that Bush is gone:

um, er, um, um, well, hmmm...

oh, yeah, we will soon be required to pay all we can "afford" to fat, greedy insurance execs for health care coverage with a deductable so high we won't be able to afford any necessary treatment anyway

...hmmmm....

and Obama's new "Independent Medicare Advisory Council" will pull the plug on grandma for us – to pay for it all.

…hmmmm...

Melissa   September 15th, 2009 3:25 pm ET

Bush isn't one to talk. He's probably one of the dumbest people I've ever seen. The man can't even speak proper english.

Connie, Indiana   September 15th, 2009 3:25 pm ET

And Bush's qualification are/were, please tell me... Any guy that ran for president that "God told me to run" is somewhat suspicious..Need to check out on "youtube" some of the banned Bush's speeches, especially the one which shows a picture of Bush in gray and the back ground is black..Maybe the true picture of Bush will be seen and heard...

Nathan   September 15th, 2009 3:25 pm ET

Ouch. My question is how can Bush apear so witty (come on, Gov of Guam is a good one) here, but so terribly slow during public appearances. Though calling Obama unqualified for a job that Bush handled with ineptitude for the ages is a bit strong. That being said, no one was happier to see Obama in the White House than Bush – he was counting down the days in his hello Kitty planner...

Birther   September 15th, 2009 3:24 pm ET

Poor Dubya!!

I guess he thought every Tom and Harry he came across he thought they were just as inept as him. He forgot there is a thing called using your brain instead of seeking out yes men. But I was comforted to see he didn't lose all his common sense functions. I mean with a bit of intensive rehab he could gain his brain cells. He saw Sarah I can see Russia for what she is another fraud.

katiec   September 15th, 2009 3:24 pm ET

This from a man who will undoubtedly go down as the worse president in the history of our country?
This from a man, along with the republicans, almost destroyed
our country?
This from a man who lied to us about going to war, took away as
many of our rights he could get by with, ran a office of secrets,
spent like there was no tomorrow, hid the costs of his wars by
not including in the deficit, but managed to hand over the biggest
deficit, the largest government ever?
How can anyone give this man any creditibility????

scott   September 15th, 2009 3:24 pm ET

Bush is truly a wacko if i ever saw one. This is someone that does not have a clue on how to help the American people. Look at the mess he got us in after his eight years of acting like a leader. Every picture you saw Bush in, he acted like he was a tough guy. Arrogant, deceptive, and a true hot head. He will certainly go down as the worst President in history!!!!! How can anyone believe a word this guy says, but there are many people that does. People has to look a what is happening at the time he was in office. I like to think indepadent on issues and not be a left or a right leaner. This will destory a country and its people.

Emma   September 15th, 2009 3:24 pm ET

Bush wasn't qualified to become President but that didn't stop him and his cronies on the Supreme Court from stealing the election.

Did Bush ever learn to say the word "nuclear?"

pete   September 15th, 2009 3:24 pm ET

By the way, the heading should be Matt Latimer on Bush on Obama: 'This guy has no clue' Just because someone said Bush said something doesn't mean it's true. I mean it doesn't mean it is true that Bush said it. We know the quote is true, but who said it may not be.

GP   September 15th, 2009 3:24 pm ET

Bush has a rather odd standard of qualifications. Except for one really ad day and a few others mixed in, he did keep America safe.

What qualifications does he think are required to be president?

andy   September 15th, 2009 3:24 pm ET

I hate to say it because I voted for Obama, but he is right.

Glen Shouse Jr., Georgetown, IL   September 15th, 2009 3:23 pm ET

You have to consider that the kind of clues Bush had was that there was weapons of mass destruction in Iraq. After 8 years of failure who is Bush to criticize anyone after less than a year of effort to cleaning up his mess.

obama the liar   September 15th, 2009 3:23 pm ET

the whole world knows that the community organizer was, is and will never be qualified. Maybe in Venezuela.

DK   September 15th, 2009 3:23 pm ET

Not remotely qualified huh?... We know he has no MBA.... Obama that is... Luckily no other prez had or wil l have an MBA......and W will be the first and last prez with an MBA..

S M R   September 15th, 2009 3:22 pm ET

For a President to say that Obama has no clue was RIDICULOUS. Bush was a PUPPET as "CHENEY PULLED HIS STRINGS". You still look Stupid BUSH!!!

Dutch/Bad Newz, VA   September 15th, 2009 3:22 pm ET

"the governor of Guam" = Sarap Palin

That GWB sure has some sense of humor. What does 43 think about not being invited to speak at the Republican National Convention? I think GWB doesn't have a clue and #44 is cleaning up all of his mess.

pete   September 15th, 2009 3:22 pm ET

Once again, Bush is right, on McCain's campaign (not McCain personally) and on Obama's qualifications.

Let's now watch the left go skitzoid.

Jon   September 15th, 2009 3:22 pm ET

Bush calling Obama "clueless" is quite laughable. Who's the one who made us spend a trillion dollars on an unjustified war instead of helping folks back home?

Rumsfeld   September 15th, 2009 3:21 pm ET

That's right former President Bush, and you had all the clues and made mighty fine decisions based on those clues. In fact, you had an amazing ability to see ahead and read the clues placed in front of you. That is why this country has been in such fine shape during this year. Wow....delusional, then and now.

Jeff   September 15th, 2009 3:20 pm ET

Wow! For the worst president in the history of this country who single handedly led us into a war in Iraq we didn't need to wage, watered down the constitution for his political whims and left the country in the worst economic shape since the great depression to say Obama is clueless is like Hitler calling FDR an anti-semite.

*I figure since the fanatical right is so quick to conjure up Hitler when citing Obama, there's nothing wrong with me using it when citing Bush.

Sniffit   September 15th, 2009 3:20 pm ET

Wow...really? Bush knows that Guam exists?

Tim   September 15th, 2009 3:20 pm ET

Who was the one that "wasn't remotely qualified"???? It's pretty obvious after 8 years of a failed presidency who the unqualified one was...

Independent Again   September 15th, 2009 3:20 pm ET

Ya think???!!!

Well we are all paying for it now!!!

FormerRepublican   September 15th, 2009 3:20 pm ET

What's hilarious is that Mr. Bush is right. Obama had no clue. No clue where to start cleaning up the mess he inherited from the single most inept, corrupt, blatantly divisive and borderline evil administration I can remember. If any other nation had done half the things Mr. Bush did during his tenure, we would have invaded them under the pretense of "protecting the world and preserving basic human rights."

Best of luck, Mr. Obama. You are faced with the most significant challenges any President has faced in 100 years. I for one hope you succeed for the good of generations to come.

jd   September 15th, 2009 3:17 pm ET

Whether the story is accurate or not doesn't matter to CNN. It is only useful if it makes Bush look bad. In this case Bush is right. Obama has no qualifications other than a tremendous ego, that is likely to cost this country several large buildings, years of economic problems and continuing strife.

Dont blame me   September 15th, 2009 3:17 pm ET

Bush was right about one thing Obama wasn't ready for the job, and he still isn't.

Rookie.

munchmom   September 15th, 2009 3:16 pm ET

Well, looks like Mr. Bush had a premonition on this one–Obama DOESN'T have a clue. God help us all!

OldUncleTom   September 15th, 2009 3:16 pm ET

Why would this man's opinion be noteworthy? His administration was straight out of "Blazing Saddles", hats and all.

I think America continues to deserve George W Bush's silence.

Denis -Toronto   September 15th, 2009 3:16 pm ET

Just like Bush I thought very positively about Hilary Clinton as the Nominee for the Democractic party but I am now very impresssed with President Obama who is doing a great job.

Great title for Bush's book "Speech-less" because myself included and a significant majority of thinking people in the industrialized world are speechless on how we feel and think about Bush's presidency in terms of the Iraq war that he started and the world economy that he just about destroyed , included other poorly thought out decisions that he made.

I

Dominican Mama 4 Obama   September 15th, 2009 3:16 pm ET

He doesn't know what he doing, but I still like him.

Jeff Brown in Jersey   September 15th, 2009 3:15 pm ET

Oh that pillar of wisdom, George W. Bush!

B, Illinois   September 15th, 2009 3:15 pm ET

A ringing endorsement for Obama if I ever heard one.

nimi   September 15th, 2009 3:15 pm ET

who cares

I can see Canada from my house!   September 15th, 2009 3:14 pm ET

Being a speechwriter to W is like trying to give lessons in portrait painting to the blind.

kk   September 15th, 2009 3:14 pm ET

All these intellegent comments coming from a man who left a major American city to drown, started a war based on a family fued and crashed the biggest economy in the world. By the way, has any one heard from Bush in the last 9 monthe?

Typical Republican   September 15th, 2009 3:14 pm ET

Wow, we have gone a full 9 months into this current presidents term and no terrorist attacks. This new guy sucks. Our previous president was able to slaughter 3000 of our own people in less then 9 months. I'm telling you, Bush kept us safe, so long as you disregard those 3000 new yorkers and those people from new orleans.

Randolph Carter, chairman of the death panel   September 15th, 2009 3:13 pm ET

Pretty hilarious comment about Obama when you consider the source. I wonder what Bush had to say about Glenn Beck's whereabouts in 1990. Have a nice day!

Chris, Charleston, SC   September 15th, 2009 3:13 pm ET

pot calling kettle black?

MLH   September 15th, 2009 3:13 pm ET

Who cares what George Bush thought about John McCain or Barack Obama. I want to know what he really thought about WMD's, selling the War in Iraq, and torturing human beings. And frankly, if Mr. Latimer was responsible for some of the speeches I heard Mr. Bush give, I already know I don't want to read his writing.

annie   September 15th, 2009 3:12 pm ET

Like he was?

Aric G.   September 15th, 2009 3:12 pm ET

The title on this story says it all. Obama IS clueless. Bush, even on his worst day, couldn't possibly leave a fraction of the wake of distruction this guy continues to leave behind him.

Steve A. , New Braunfels , Texas   September 15th, 2009 3:11 pm ET

Bush still thinks he was a good president,sad. The Bush administration devided this country more then anything since the civil war. And he is so afraid that Obama is just the man to put it back together agin making him look even worse,it may take some time but Obama is just the man to do it. Obama is the right man in the right place at the right time for America.

Jackie in Dallas   September 15th, 2009 3:11 pm ET

Oh, so Bush thought that Candidate Obama had no clue??? Oh, please, even with all of his daddy's millions and political clout, Bush couldn't buy a clue even if he could spell it! Who was it who let his VP trample the Constitutional rights of US citizens, break international laws on torture, insult and run off allies of American for centuries, while playing footsie with the Communist Chinese, and spent trillions and more than 4000 American lives on a war for the profits of his oil company buddies? Not President Obama. Not even a President McCain!

President Obama knows more about the dangers of this world than a little country hick like Bush, he saw them first hand as a child - and not as a child of privilege.

But since Bush's former aide has challenged most of Latimer's assertions, I would guess that we shouldn't believe any of them, right?

Hey BIG Spender   September 15th, 2009 3:10 pm ET

Bush was "ticked off" after one of Obama's speeches and he said the future president wasn't "remotely qualified" for the challenges of the job.

"(Bush) came in one day to rehearse a speech, fuming. 'This is a dangerous world,' he said for no apparent reason, 'and this cat isn't remotely qualified to handle it. This guy has no clue, I promise you,'" Latimer said.

YEAH. WE KNOW. HE THINKS MONEY CAN FIX EVERYTHING. What about Iran and Isreal Mr.President ?

Karen   September 15th, 2009 3:10 pm ET

I guess we can all see how qualified Bush was for the job. He is the last person who should be critical of anyone.

Paul from Phoenix   September 15th, 2009 3:09 pm ET

Wow, at least he was right about something.

AUSTIN,TX   September 15th, 2009 3:09 pm ET

like this guy had a clue

KD   September 15th, 2009 3:09 pm ET

Look who's talking!

Jonathan from Madison WI   September 15th, 2009 3:09 pm ET

And he is right, He has proven that he truly doesn't have a clue about anythig except spreading Marxist ideology.

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ   September 15th, 2009 3:08 pm ET

Bush isn't qualified to say anyone else "has no clue." He had no clue for the most part. I think part of it is because he couldn't imagine anyone else (I just don't think he has any imagination).

Take That   September 15th, 2009 3:08 pm ET

This from the unequivocal dumbest and least impressive president in history (or at least my lifetime).

Priscilla   September 15th, 2009 3:08 pm ET

Obama doesn't have a clue???? From George Bush??? Bush only did what Cheney told him to do. Bush is not very bright. John McCain and Obama are much better men than Bush.

chubby   September 15th, 2009 3:07 pm ET

How true President Bush. nobama was not,is not and evidently will never be qualified for the office he holds. He is in the unions hip pocket and there he will remain until he is voted out of office in 2012 and that will be "GOOD RIDDANCE".

sara-fl   September 15th, 2009 3:06 pm ET

Are we going to start listing to the greatest Liar that ever lived. Panthetic! I want to know what's it going to take for this rebugs...to realize he is the worst thing that has happened to our great country and yet we treat him as the best thing as apple pie. The world know us for what this man represents , an ignorant criminal Liar. Truth sometimes hurts...Get over it.

Percy Anson   September 15th, 2009 3:06 pm ET

George Bush was right-on about most things, and this is one of them. Note that Obama is carrying on with most of Pres Bush's policies but just calling them something different and has many people fooled by this. What has America done to itself??? Terrible.

Pete   September 15th, 2009 3:06 pm ET

Let's bring W back! It would be great to have a real leader again.

Bush 2012 !   September 15th, 2009 3:05 pm ET

I wish Bush could run again, and serve another 4 years as President. Maybe we can change the Constitution to allow it – it would be worth the effort, although anybody but Obama will do.

richard   September 15th, 2009 3:05 pm ET

We ARE in trouble. NO ONE is qualified to lead this country, in my opinion. We are in BIG trouble.

The selfishness and greed in the name of 'working hard and making a better life for oneself' does NOTHING for this country. We produce no durable goods whatsoever, and there are a relative few people in each class level who are grabbing all they can.

This is a recipie for disaster. There needs to be some reinvestment directed to our education and retraining of our people. Can we somehow turn off the TVs?

Frisky   September 15th, 2009 3:05 pm ET

well George would certainly not be a good critic for who is not remotely qualified for the job.

Art Michaelson   September 15th, 2009 3:04 pm ET

WHO YOU KIDDING? Bush was niwhere qualified when he first ran for president 8 years ago. Go back to his interviews. He had no idea who Musharif (Pres. Pakistan) was other than some Paki General. He also identified the TALIBAN as the name of some ROCK GROUP. Come on give me a break. His ignorance of world religuons and customs led us into a costly war (lives/money) we should never have started If and when the TRUE history of the BUSH/Cheney years are written Americans will be shocked and saddened.

Bonnie   September 15th, 2009 3:04 pm ET

wow, Takes one to know one.

abraxis   September 15th, 2009 3:04 pm ET

"W" has been recalled to the village in Texas that was missing its idiot. He is there, let's let the idiot be, please!

CJL   September 15th, 2009 3:04 pm ET

He is ABSOLUTELY CORRECT.

Dan   September 15th, 2009 3:03 pm ET

Bush is right on all these:
-Obama not prepared to be president (duh),
-Palin not prepared for the national scene (double duh), and
-McCain campaign totally unorganized (triple duh)....
(From the place he had nothing to gain or lose or to be political, he was expressing his real assessments, at least from the position of serving for 8 years as president– regardless of his job performance or the reflection on his job performance by the press and by die-hard left democrats.)

Angie in Pa   September 15th, 2009 3:03 pm ET

Like W was qualified look around you Bush look at the Mess you made oh another thing YOU DID NOT KEEP THE COUNTRY SAFE 911 HAPPENED ON YOUR WATCH YOU IGNORED THE WARNINGS You should be Thanking the Current President for working hard trying to clean up your disasters!

Tedmonds   September 15th, 2009 3:02 pm ET

This article just comfirmed that I was right all the time. The former President doesn't have a clue to what's going on in the world. You cn look at him and tell that he's in his own little world.

Chipster   September 15th, 2009 3:02 pm ET

If Bush's performance in office indicated in any way whatsoever that HE had a clue, this might really mean something.

Bush destroyed the economy, waged a war against the wrong enemy, violated the Constitutional rights to equal protection, due process, search and seizure, and disrespected the Geneva Convention. Our allies were dismayed by his ineptitude and disrespect - and that's our allies!

Please, I'd laugh if it were really funny but Bush is just plain sad. History will not be kind. There is simply to much evidence of his incompetence.

Jason   September 15th, 2009 3:01 pm ET

Even until the very end....Bush was clueless.

jm   September 15th, 2009 3:01 pm ET

And Obama still isn't qualified.

Dave S, Tinley Park, IL   September 15th, 2009 3:01 pm ET

Obama has no clue? Well that's the pot calling the kettle black. Good riddance, Bush-keep yourself hidden like you've been doing.

Carol   September 15th, 2009 3:01 pm ET

Ooouchhh... Kind of harsh towards everyone, McCain, Palin and Obama weren't you Bush?

Ken   September 15th, 2009 3:01 pm ET

Let's see, arguably one of the worst presidents to ever sit in the white house presumes to critique future candidates? The delusion pills being swallowed by the GOP between 200-2008 were indeed huge, and they still haven't worn off....they even contaminated the water in Alaska, as Bush correctly surmised.

Obama 2.0   September 15th, 2009 3:01 pm ET

Wow I didn't know Bush could think!!! I always thought that he operated from instinct! Interesting, wish he could have thunk before Iraq ;)

DanB   September 15th, 2009 2:59 pm ET

And baby Bushie had a clue?
Dude never had ANY business beeing anywhere NEAR the Whitehouse... Not too mention his gang that methodically abondoned the Constitution.

Doc SteveO   September 15th, 2009 2:59 pm ET

If anyone would know about not being qualified, I would guess George Bush would be the resident expert on that issue.

Kim   September 15th, 2009 2:58 pm ET

Dubya said Obama wasn't remotely qualified to be President? Please excuse me while I roll around on the floor laughing my head off.

vickest   September 15th, 2009 2:58 pm ET

It takes one to know one.

Trade Freedom for Security, Lose Both   September 15th, 2009 2:58 pm ET

Bush got this one right too. He was right about Palin, McCain's campaign and Obama's qualifications.

Steph   September 15th, 2009 2:57 pm ET

No, dear former president, you have no clue!

Mary ohio   September 15th, 2009 2:57 pm ET

And he bush had a clue?

Robert   September 15th, 2009 2:57 pm ET

If I were in a position to do so, I would point out to Bush the absolute irony of him calling anyone unqualified to be the president. But then, I'm not so sure he'd know what irony means. Obama doesn't have a clue? Really? Then how is it that after 6+ months, he's already begun to clean up your messes that you left behind?

George W. Bush was an absolute embarrassment to have as a president, and moreover, HE was the one who was clearly unqualified to be president; that's why he had to be appointed president rather than let the American people decide. What a joke. And speaking of cruel hoaxes, we sure are glad the cruel hoax that was the 43rd president of the United States is over...

Wake Up   September 15th, 2009 2:57 pm ET

Bush is right. Obama isn't remotely qualified. We all knew that. What we didn't realize is that he is a liar as well. Not knowing what he's doing and a liar...is a bad combo.

Ed   September 15th, 2009 2:56 pm ET

So says the WORST president of all time.... what a FOOL BUSH IS.

naicho   September 15th, 2009 2:56 pm ET

Which one is worse: not being remotely qualified or not being remotely prepared?

kapinhotatl   September 15th, 2009 2:55 pm ET

Seriously, this coming from George W. Bush is credible? Give me a break! Can he even spell qualified???

aproudmemberoftheunpatrioticmob   September 15th, 2009 2:54 pm ET

Bush sure had the right take on Obama, he does not have a clue. Our lives are in danger while he makes nice with the unions and ACORN.

mkn   September 15th, 2009 2:54 pm ET

That comment from the Worst President EVER???
That is hysterical.

carole   September 15th, 2009 2:54 pm ET

Where's Bin Laden Dubya? Do you have a clue on that?

Oh yea, torture and lying for WMDs.......that's Dubya the Dufus.

alicia   September 15th, 2009 2:53 pm ET

LOL.....Bush has alot of nerve. This explains alot. He could not even speak a cohesive sentence and stumbled around.

Considering his life was a complete cocaine and Jack Daniel fog until he wakes up to see the Lord one day.

I love how the likes of Bush and Palin have the nerve to judge such an intellectual mind as President Obama.

Bush looked out of place at Ted Kennedy's funeral. All the other Presidents, Republican or Democrat before Bush had brains at least.

DJW   September 15th, 2009 2:52 pm ET

hahahahah this is the funniest article yet on CNN– So Bush thought he was remotely prepared hahahahahahah OFLMAO hahahahahah

Ben in Oil City   September 15th, 2009 2:51 pm ET

President Bush doesn't think President Obama is quailfied? Would that be the same guy who was mediocre in collage, a failed businessman, and a proven rotten President. That pretty much trashed to Constitution and allowed his thieving contemptoraries to run our national economy into a very near Depression. That President Bush?

Pete   September 15th, 2009 2:51 pm ET

Bush proved for eight years just how unqualified HE was. He started off by letting us get attacked because he ignored explicit warnings, started a war against a country that had NOTHING to do with the attack on ours, and then grew government and the deficit to unprecedented levels using the attack that he did nothing to prevent as the excuse. Then, through tax cuts for the wealthy, the unfunded war and allowing big business and banks to do whatever they pleased (and to heck with the rest of us) he drove our economy off a cliff—the whole time shredding the Constitution. All in all a good eight years' work, huh? He apparently was right about Palin's preparedness however.

Jeff   September 15th, 2009 2:51 pm ET

Yeah, good one George. History will show who was qualified......

W was an unmitigated disaster – domestic and foreign.

Julia - Native American from Idaho   September 15th, 2009 2:51 pm ET

talk about cluless, that would be Bush, I hear his book will soon be available at Barnes and Nobel, Borders, and Toys R US. But wait there's more, it comes with a free box of crayolas, ha, ha, ha ha,

Magoo   September 15th, 2009 2:50 pm ET

HA! Bush calling someone else unqualified. Unqualified to lie to the country blatantly. Bush really deserved to be yelled at "YOU LIE".

woah   September 15th, 2009 2:50 pm ET

im actually starting to like this guy .. why couldnt he be this intelligent during his actual presidency

GOPer   September 15th, 2009 2:50 pm ET

Please. By the end of the Bush error, most Americans were "clearly not impressed" with the operational incompetence of the Bush administration. A "cruel hoax," indeed.

Bush's numerous disasters (Iraq, Katrina, economic collapse, etc.) showed he was not "remotely qualified" for the challenges our country faced.

Then, Bush projects on Palin by alleging she's governor of Guam? "This guy has no clue." Pot meet kettle.

Dean   September 15th, 2009 2:49 pm ET

Bush may not have been the smartest president but he was sure bright enough to have Obama figured out.

RTB   September 15th, 2009 2:48 pm ET

Coming from the one who most Americans view as the worse Pres. in our history and viewed by the rest of the world as clueless. I don't think that what "W" has to mutter is worth much.

Al in Florida   September 15th, 2009 2:47 pm ET

"This guy has no clue, I promise you" ????!!!!

Pot meet Kettle

Flipper   September 15th, 2009 2:47 pm ET

Of course President Obama had no clue during the campaign. He's as green as they come. Even today he still has no clue on a great many things, especially domestic issues.

thersa   September 15th, 2009 2:44 pm ET

Obama's not qualified? Well, I guess you'd be the one to know.
Also, you've got to be kidding me, Bush referring to Obama as a "cat."
Did we really have that boob in office for eight years? What an embarrassment.

fellow from chicago   September 15th, 2009 2:44 pm ET

Mr. President; your assessment on both the good Senator McCain and the Democratic nominee at the time, Obama, proved so correct. McCain's national aspirations are gone and Obama as President still doesn't have a clue on how to guide the people of this great nation through difficult times.

DODGE THESE BULLETS   September 15th, 2009 2:44 pm ET

Really, a complete moron calling one of our most intelligent Presidents ever clueless...priceless. Bush couldn't carry Obama's bookbag.

anthony   September 15th, 2009 2:44 pm ET

...and bush knows clueless

Gary W. Grabau   September 15th, 2009 2:43 pm ET

I guess I greatly underestimated the former Presidents judgement
of others. I only wish I had been as perceptive, having voted for Obama. I feel it is true that the american public really didn't stand a chance in this election when one considers our choices.

One would think that of the millions of American citizens we should have had a far better selection to choose from. Too bad we, and I
refer to myself and those of us who voted for Obama, could not have examined his limited experience and excluded his glib rhetoric.

Maybe the next election will be better, if we are allowed to have another election. I'm beginning to question that probability.

Lisa P   September 15th, 2009 2:42 pm ET

So if a habitually clueless guy says you have no clue that's a compliment, right? ;-)

Enough   September 15th, 2009 2:42 pm ET

Bush hit the nail on the head......too bad so many Americans are slow learners and were swept away with the promise of change. Reality has set in and people are waking up the nightmare that they elected this Naive, unqualified man to run our country into the ground. As Obama said "judge me by the people I surround myself with".........now that is truly scary, his choices have been terrible, starting with Biden. A community organizer does NOT make a good president, zero understanding of business.

Irony   September 15th, 2009 2:42 pm ET

I LOL'ed at Bush saying "this cat isn't remotely qualified to handle it. This guy has no clue, I promise you".

So...who WAS president then when 9/11 or the market crash happened?

More LOL.

Steph   September 15th, 2009 2:42 pm ET

W doesn't even know enough to spot someone qualified for the job of President of the United States. Sadly, he was the one "not even remotely prepared" for the job, and we are still suffering the consequences. Thank God we have President Obama, an intelligent man who has worked his way up in the world (he wasn't handed anything by "daddy" like W), to guide us out of the mess.

Cate   September 15th, 2009 2:41 pm ET

"...this cat"?!

Well, my cat isn't remotely qualified to handle the job either, but you don't hear Bush going on about her!

Jim   September 15th, 2009 2:41 pm ET

curious.

after leading us into an unjust war, sanctioning torture, and driving the economy into a tailspin i find it pretty low that he has the nerve to espouse an opinion on anyone.

Marilyn   September 15th, 2009 2:41 pm ET

I can't stand George W. Bush, but he is right about Obama having no clue and not being "remotely qualified". This country has gone from the frying pan directly into the fire!!!

Dominican mama 4 Obama   September 15th, 2009 2:41 pm ET

......what on earth is going on in your newsroom cnn? Why would you headline this story with Obama as the lead versus McCain, or Pailin?
Evidently Bush did not think anyone was qualified to follow him into the presidency. He slammed McCain, and Obama, and DID NOT know who Pailin was even AFTER supposedly meeting her. The governor of Guam indeed!

Cleaning up after W   September 15th, 2009 2:40 pm ET

Bush saying Obama has no clue?!? Anyone else see the irony in that statement?

Bush started our economic free-fall and Obama is the one who is cleaning up his mess. Bush killed thousands of soldiers and innocent Iraqi civilians and Obama is cleaning up his mess.

janetlaw   September 15th, 2009 2:40 pm ET

"wasn't remotely qualified for the job" – What, and you were?????This, coming from the witless worst president ever wonder – he really doesn't have a clue, does he?

Dennis   September 15th, 2009 2:40 pm ET

I think the total lack of coherence from the administartion shows that Bush is right.

Farrell in Houston   September 15th, 2009 2:40 pm ET

9/11 happened under your watch Mr. Former President Bush and we will never forget and have you also forgotten as a result we went to war with Iraq under a lie of WMD's. Have you forgotten because of you Mr. Bush we are still at war. Have you forgotten Mr. Bush we lost over 4,000 brave American men and women because of your lie.

Enough   September 15th, 2009 2:39 pm ET

That pretty much sums it up in a nutshell.

Obama Victim   September 15th, 2009 2:39 pm ET

well..look like W is right again...................

Pepou   September 15th, 2009 2:39 pm ET

As if Bush was EVER qualified for the job ! The mess we are in today is entirely his doing. He never had a clue ...

rredd5   September 15th, 2009 2:39 pm ET

Well, Bush was right on two counts: the McCain was a 5 spiral crash and Sarah Palin was not remotely ready for the job.

geecee   September 15th, 2009 2:38 pm ET

Heh, heh, heh – goes to show you how much Bush knew! As if McCain/Palin would have done such a bang-up, super job with the mess he left behind for them to clean up. Don't give me nightmares thinking about what our economy and international relations would be right now with those two in office. If you think they are bad now – just imagine that scenario. We'd be in the throes of another Great Depression and involved in about 3 more wars – at least. Yikes!!

Paying Attention in Conn.   September 15th, 2009 2:38 pm ET

wait a minute.... Bush said someone else wasn't remotely qualified??

I don't know if that's final proof of his idiocy or just ironic.

Just Me   September 15th, 2009 2:36 pm ET

If true, Bush should be the last person on this planet making such a statement. For God's sake, Bush was not exactly known for being the brightest bulb in the White House! The man mangled the English language and spoke as if English was his fifth language. Bush could not read a book to Obama in Laura's library.

MCD, SF, CA   September 15th, 2009 2:36 pm ET

Do you think that Bush has a clue how all these remarks sound??? How ironic these remarks are? Do you think he even realizes that these are all things that have been said about him??

Independent   September 15th, 2009 2:36 pm ET

As an Independent and former Obama supporter, I agree with Bush.

Peoples Voice   September 15th, 2009 2:36 pm ET

What can the worse president this country ever say about our new president.

This man is the one who is completely clueless. Not to mention all the people who have died because of his lies. He should be in prison.

Amazing   September 15th, 2009 2:36 pm ET

Bush isn't as dumb as you make him out to be. We all knew Obama has no clue and wasn't ready to run this country. Too bad the media threw Hillary under the bus in favor of Obama!! Now, I expect the media to quit sugar coating the disaster Obama is making and report the TRUTH. Hillary should run in 2012........willing to bet she would win.

HBO   September 15th, 2009 2:35 pm ET

Ummmm, here is a man who did the job for 8 years and still has no clue... Is this a case of "the pot calling the kettle black?" Pun intended!

Darth Vadik, CA   September 15th, 2009 2:35 pm ET

Everybody has that one guy, known as an idiot, yet the idiot actually thinks he's knows everything. We just put a national face on that guy, and it the prodigal dim son himself George W Bush.

God   September 15th, 2009 2:35 pm ET

And the Shrub thought he was qualified? Eight years and he still wasn't qualified for the job! Look at the mess he left when we put him out to pasture! Thank goodness this dweeb couldn't run for president yet again!

Rick in OP   September 15th, 2009 2:34 pm ET

Bush is correct about Obama being clueless. Obama has overwhelming majorities in the House and Senate, the the undying devotion of a slobbering news media, and all he can do is get the country deeper in to debt.

Diana NJ   September 15th, 2009 2:34 pm ET

As earlier suspected this is a book of comedy.

Shaw (OHIO)   September 15th, 2009 2:34 pm ET

43 was actually talking about himself.

Leonard   September 15th, 2009 2:33 pm ET

Are you serious??? G.W .says somebody else is not qualified. Really after eveything he did to this country. You all are really trying to get my blood pressure up this morning. Bush is the reason . President Obama has all this junk on his plate.

IndyVoter   September 15th, 2009 2:33 pm ET

Bush said, "and this cat (Obama) isn't remotely qualified to handle it. This guy has no clue, I promise you"....WOW! Really Bush? And your "vast" experience and "unrivaled intellect" got us where? In the worst shape this country had been in in over 50 years. Now this, "cat" (Obama) has to come along and clean up your garbage. You couldn't even control your own cabinet! Rumsfeld and Cheney mopped up the floor with you. Obama has done more in 6 months to put this country on the right track than you did in 8 years....Dust off your own cowboy hat first before you start criticizing other peoples'.

Tony in Maine   September 15th, 2009 2:33 pm ET

I'd be concerned if Bush thought otherwise. He had an incredibly consistent record of making the wrong choice.

EDR   September 15th, 2009 2:33 pm ET

Ha, and let's not forget what Joe Biden said of Obama during the campaign "The Presidency does not lend itself to on the job training."

Cindy   September 15th, 2009 2:33 pm ET

heh... I guess the feeling is mutual...

I think President Obama had way more "clue" than President Bush did, at the same time in his presidency.

I can't help but think Bush regrets saying that now.

No Hillary = No Obama   September 15th, 2009 2:33 pm ET

George Bush should have been impeached but Nancy Pelosi couldn't do it. I would say this takes gall to judge others when his own Presidency turned out to be one of the worst in history.

Moderate Democrat   September 15th, 2009 2:33 pm ET

Hey George. When Clinton told you about a likely terrorist plot to fly planes into buildings, and then you did nothing. What do you think most educated americans thought? yea, you guessed it...you were an incapable moron.

Second question, when you didn't find Bin laden, didn't win either of two wars, and didn't find WMD's, what do you think people with sound judgement thought? Yea, you guessed it "This guy is an absolute retard that gets everything wrong".

Hey, but "Mission Accomplished" right, Georgey?

Debi   September 15th, 2009 2:32 pm ET

Bush is saying someone has "no clue". This is the guy that let Cheney take over his presidency and he think Obama has no clue?

Mississippi Mike   September 15th, 2009 2:31 pm ET

So far, he's right. Obama is doing an absolutely terrible job. Don't believe me? Just watch and wait.

Island girl   September 15th, 2009 2:31 pm ET

Bush's question as to whether or not Palin was "governor of Guam" is either a sarcastic show of disrespect for a fellow Republican or confirmation that he himself is clueless as is evident from his trademark blank stare.

John   September 15th, 2009 2:31 pm ET

If there's one thing to which George W. should not be speaking, it's qualifications.

shoegazer   September 15th, 2009 2:31 pm ET

Gee,I wonder if"W' has enough brain cells left to understand that his adminstration probably played a very large part in McCain not being able to draw more than a handfull of supporters.Look in the mirror.
Speaking of unqualified for the job,the buffoon was in way over his head from the git-go and that fact became painfully obvious as his tenure wore on.Lastly,his quote"This is a dangerous world"is very true
and he and his henchmen made it even more so.

wahoo   September 15th, 2009 2:30 pm ET

Bush was right about the Big-O. As well as Mcain. Palin maybe, maybe not.

notfooledbydistractions   September 15th, 2009 2:30 pm ET

BWAAAAAAAHHHHHH!!!! Bush saying someone else – particularly Obama – doesn't have a clue? BWAAAAAAHHHHHH!!!! Now that's hilarious.

grant   September 15th, 2009 2:30 pm ET

i wonder how bush feels about his own qualifications. honestly, do we even care about his opinion? the conservative movement has driven our once proud country into the ground...

demo no mas   September 15th, 2009 2:29 pm ET

On this one, Bush was right. Palin wasn't ready, and Obama wasn't either. I hope this young man starts learning how to drive before he causes a bigger wreck.

scorzany   September 15th, 2009 2:29 pm ET

I agree 100%. Obama was not even remotely qualified to become President. 2012 can't get here fast enough. The Republicans better put up a good candidate this time or the Tea Party just might materialize as a viable 3rd party.

Carolina   September 15th, 2009 2:29 pm ET

Bush says Obama isn't remorely qualified for the job? That out of the mouth of the most illiterate president we've had in a century or more. Priceless!!!

Jack   September 15th, 2009 2:29 pm ET

I may owe this guy an apology.

Stacy from Leesburg, VA   September 15th, 2009 2:29 pm ET

I treat these political “tell-all” books as fiction based on facts. How accurate are this speech writer’s assertions? Do we have confirmation from several sources or just the word of Latimer? So, it becomes the political he said, she said now? One would learn more about the inner workings of the White House viewing a repeat of the West Wing than these juicy gossip books.

S   September 15th, 2009 2:29 pm ET

Yeah, Let Bush knew what he was doing....look at the mess he has put us in

CensoredLikeIranByCNN   September 15th, 2009 2:28 pm ET

LOL Bush, I miss his dumb remarks. One thing he did right is give tons of material to comedians.

I can see Canada from my house!   September 15th, 2009 2:27 pm ET

"Latimer said Bush was "ticked off" after one of Obama's speeches and he said the future president wasn't "remotely qualified" for the challenges of the job."

Now W knows how we felt about him when he ran. The difference is that Obama is actually trying to get us out of the ditch W drove us into.

Anthony   September 15th, 2009 2:27 pm ET

So one of the dumbest presidents in our history calls one of our smartest presidents clueless.....

oookaaayy.....

Nothing to see here people, move along....

stormerF   September 15th, 2009 2:26 pm ET

The Truth will set you free,and we have figured it out Obama,is so inexperenced he is still campaigning.He still does not know he applied for the job and ran for the office,he did not inherit anything he did not ask for. If Obama feels the job is too tough he can always resign.

Duck Fallas   September 15th, 2009 2:26 pm ET

'and this cat isn't remotely qualified to handle it. This guy has no clue, I promise you,'"

That settles it! President Obama IS the man for the job!

What a joke   September 15th, 2009 2:26 pm ET

LOL!!! and GWB was ready??? Where has he been the last 8 years to see all the destruction he has caused our nation and to start a war that he could not finish.

Robert   September 15th, 2009 2:25 pm ET

The dumb often think those smarter than them have no clue.

Rodrigo   September 15th, 2009 2:24 pm ET

Of course Obama has no clue. This is what you get when you put a street lawyer in charge of the country. Prosecuting the CIA for doing their job is just a super expenditure of resources when the only thing the CIA should be busy doing is protecting us from terrorists. Obama blows -

Georgian   September 15th, 2009 2:24 pm ET

This article is better than chocolate.

Tree   September 15th, 2009 2:24 pm ET

Bush was right on all accords. Obama, McCain and Palin were not prepared to be President. Romney would have been the better financial guru....

Kitchen Police   September 15th, 2009 2:24 pm ET

Mr. President, you say Obama is or was not qualified? Well, you should know.

elle   September 15th, 2009 2:24 pm ET

coming from Bush ?! LOL

Right Leaning Independent   September 15th, 2009 2:23 pm ET

Bush said Obama "Wasn't remotely qualified". Seems like Bush was clairvoyant and pretty astute on that observation!

Kevin in Ohio   September 15th, 2009 2:23 pm ET

It was true then, and its true now. Obama has no clue. Hopefully, he is the last "community organizer" to rise to the presidency.

Doug, New Jersey   September 15th, 2009 2:23 pm ET

"he said the future president wasn't "remotely qualified" for the challenges of the job."

Yup, which is why every evil Dictator on this planet loves how the Democrats in power now see their own citizens who are honest, law abiding, factual people as the terrorists, while those who took down the twin towers are according to the Democrats just victims of Imperialist America. Hey, you agree, if you vote Democrat you do, sorry no debating it, that's a fact.

Carlos   September 15th, 2009 2:23 pm ET

Tell it like it is George.

GRITS (Girl Raised in the South)   September 15th, 2009 2:22 pm ET

Talk about "clueless"...!!!

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