There have been plenty of rumors about Nancy Reagan not being fond of George W. Bush, driven in large part by Bush’s opposition to stem-cell research that may have benefited her late husband. Talk intensified when the former First Lady said she would not attend a tribute to Ronald Reagan at this year’s Republican convention.
With this in mind, White House aides organized a photo-op at the Reagan’s home in Bel Air yesterday for Nancy, the president, and Laura Bush. Like Ryan Lizza, I couldn’t help but be impressed by the obvious warmth the three shared. Here’s the official transcript of the event, in its entirety:
THE PRESIDENT: Laura and I are honored to come by and pay our respects to Mrs. Reagan. We really admire Mrs. Reagan’s strength and her love of a great President, and her friendship. We really thank you for the tour of your beautiful backyard. (Laughter.)
MRS. REAGAN: I’m so glad you came — so glad you came. Thanks so much.
PRESIDENT BUSH: Thank you.
MRS. BUSH: Thanks so much.
MRS. REAGAN: I’m always happy to see you.
MRS. BUSH: Thank you very much.
MRS. REAGAN: And you met Duchess.
THE PRESIDENT: And I met Duchess.
MRS. REAGAN: You met Duchess.
MRS. BUSH: That’s right.
THE PRESIDENT: Thank you all.
MRS. BUSH: Thanks, everybody.
Inspiring, isn’t it?