Wednesday, September 19, 2007

W. Rules Out Rudy?   [Kathryn Jean Lopez]

The buzz coming out of the West Wing this afternoon was: “Did the president just rule out Rudy Giuliani for president?”

Before the Romney and Thompson and McCain campaigns start breaking out the press releases, let me explain!

Asked what traits people should look for in choosing a President, George Bush responded immediately: “Be comfortable with your family. Work hard to make sure there is love in the White House.”

He went on to talk about how a president needs to have “rock solid” principles and warned that D.C. is a town where they will be constantly challenged. “If your principles ever get eroded, I don’t know how you will look in the mirror.”

He also said it was important to “soak in the beauty and greatness of America.” And whoever gets to the White House, he says: “Enjoy it as best you possibly can.” Reflectively he said of running for president, “I’m glad I did it.”

The president was very clearly looking inward as he offered his insights. But there was a clear, albeit unintended, takeaway from his immediate answer: the candidate who doesn’t talk to his children may lack the personal, loving support that his predecessor found indispensable.

09/19 03:52 PMShare