Statement from
Obama-Biden Transition Spokesperson Stephanie Cutter on today's White
House meeting
“President-elect Barack Obama and Mrs. Michelle Obama were very warmly
welcomed today at the White House by President George Bush and First
Lady Laura Bush. Upon arriving, President-elect Obama and
President Bush proceeded to the Oval Office, where they had a
productive and friendly meeting that lasted for over an
hour. They had a broad discussion about the
importance of working together throughout the transition of government
in light of the nation’s many critical economic and security
challenges. President-elect Obama thanked President Bush
for his commitment to a smooth transition, and for his and First Lady
Laura Bush’s gracious hospitality in welcoming the Obama’s to the White
House."
“After a brief private meeting, the First Lady led Mrs. Obama on a tour
of the White House that focused primarily on the private residence of
the historic home. After this tour, the First Lady and Mrs. Obama
visited in the West Sitting Hall, where they discussed raising
daughters in the White House, as Jenna and Barbara Bush were similar in
age to Malia and Sasha Obama when they visited their grandfather,
President George H. W. Bush, during his presidency. Mrs. Obama
was honored to finally meet the First Lady, who was a gracious
hostess. Following their visit, Mrs. Obama met with Admiral
Rochon, the White House Chief Usher.”