An Unlikely Friendship: George W. Bush and Michelle Obama

During the funeral of former President George H.W. Bush, a lighthearted moment occurred between former first lady Michelle Obama and former President George W. Bush. As Bush greeted the former presidents and their spouses, he appeared to pass a piece of candy to Michelle Obama, sparking a smile from her. This gesture, though unexpected at a funeral, highlighted the unique friendship between Bush and Obama.

In September, Bush had also given Obama a cough drop during the funeral of former Sen. John McCain. This small act of kindness became known as the ‘cough drop moment,’ going viral after Obama discussed it during an interview on ‘Today’ in October. She explained that their seating arrangement at official events often leads to them being together, essentially making them ‘partners in crime.’ Obama remarked, “We are forever seatmates because of protocol… We’re together all the time.”

“President Bush and I, we are forever seatmates because of protocol, and that’s how we sit at all the official functions,” said Obama.

Bush affirmed this camaraderie during a People Magazine interview in 2017, revealing that their bond was strengthened by humor. He expressed, “She kind of likes my sense of humor. Anybody who likes my sense of humor, I immediately like.” The interaction at Bush’s funeral was another example of their connection.

Their relationship, established during Obama’s presidency, has become a symbol of bipartisan friendliness. They shared a notable hug during the dedication ceremony for the National Museum of African American History and Culture in 2016.

In an interview with Ellen DeGeneres, Bush commented that their friendship often surprises people, demonstrating that political differences can coexist with mutual respect and affection. “[The Obamas] are around serious people all the time and we just took to each other,” Bush added.

The seating at George H.W. Bush’s funeral included President Donald Trump and Melania Trump, as well as former presidents Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter with their spouses. Despite political divides, Bush and Obama have shown that personal connections can transcend those differences.