President Obama on Wednesday at a Democratic fundraiser in Dallas applauded former President George W. Bush on the eve of the opening of his presidential library.
“I’m really looking forward to attending the Bush library opening tomorrow,” Obama said, according to a White House pool report. “One of the things I will insist upon is whatever our political differences, President Bush loves this country and loves its people and shares that same concern, and was concerned about all people in America, not just those who voted Republican. I think that’s true about him and I think that’s true about most of us.”
Obama also promised to continue his charm offensive aimed at Republicans. “Occasionally I may make some of you angry because I’m going to reach out to Republicans and I’m going to keep on doing it,” Obama said, according to the report. “Even if some of you think I’m a sap, I’m going to keep on doing it because that’s what I think the country needs.”
Obama delivered remarks at a fundraiser held at the home of Naomi Aberly. Ron Kirk, the U.S. trade representative and former Dallas mayor, was in attendance, according to the report.
President Obama is scheduled to speak on Thursday at Bush’s presidential library opening and also at a memorial service for victims of the Waco, Texas fertilizer plant blast.
