Former President George W. Bush greeted his successor President Barack Obama at President Jimmy Carter’s funeral in a way which caught viewers’ attention Thursday.
The moment, caught on camera, showed the Republican tap the Democrat’s belly as he approached his seat at the Washington National Cathedral.
Why It Matters
Interactions between former and current presidents are often watched closely at formal events such as Thursday’s funeral, particularly between those who have been vocal in their political differences over the years.
Obama was sitting next to President-elect Donald Trump, whom Bush appeared to ignore as he approached his seat, despite the pair both being Republicans.
Former President Barack Obama talks with former President George W. Bush and Laura Bush before the state funeral for former President Jimmy Carter at Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., Thursday, January 9, 2025. Former President Barack Obama talks with former President George W. Bush and Laura Bush before the state funeral for former President Jimmy Carter at Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., Thursday, January 9, 2025. AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin
What To Know
The five living current and former presidents were in attendance at the state funeral in Washington, D.C., namely Joe Biden, Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, Donald Trump and George W. Bush, as well as vice presidents and first ladies.
Over the years, Obama and Bush have voiced their differences on policy, such as over the Iraq war, but have always maintained a professional and even friendly relationship. At times, the pair have worked together on initiatives such as disaster relief.
Thursday’s interaction, in which Bush tapped Obama on the stomach before taking his seat, appeared to continue that friendly relationship. The latter did then also speak with Trump throughout the ceremony, also appearing to joke together.
Other moments between the group also caught viewers’ attention, including Trump and his former Vice President Mike Pence shaking hands, and the apparent lack of conversation between Vice President Kamala Harris and First Lady Jill Biden, despite sitting next to one another.
What People Are Saying
Republicans Against Trump, on X, referring to Obama sitting between Bush and Trump: “‘Thanks for taking one for the team, bro’.”
Harry Sisson, a Democrat commentator, on X: “LOL! George W. Bush completely IGNORED Donald Trump and embraced President Obama at Jimmy Carter‘s funeral. Even established Republicans know that Trump is trash.”
James J. Zogby, founder of the Arab American Institute, on X: “Watching the interactions of these folks at the Carter funeral: Obama chatting it up w/ everyone (inc Trump & Bush) – he is popular one; the Clinton’s w/ each other; when Kamala arrived Trump kept staring at her, she wouldn’t look at him; & Melania hasn’t been happy all morning.”
What’s Next
The next time the group will likely be together is Trump’s inauguration on January 20.
