Barack Obama in Decision Points, by Pres. George W. Bush

On Budget & Economy: McCain calls 2008 White House meeting; but Obama has package

McCain wanted me to convene a White House meeting on the rescue package. I knew John was in a tough position. He was trailing in the polls to Obama. No question the economic trouble was hurting John. Yet I thought the financial crisis gave John his best chance to mount a comeback. In periods of crisis, voters value experience and judgment over youth and charisma. By handling the challenge in a statesmanlike way, John could make the case that he was the better candidate for the times.

I opened the meeting by stressing the urgency of passing legislation as soon as possible. Obama had a calm demeanor and spoke about the broad outlines of the package. I thought it was smart when he informed the gathering that he was in constant contact with [Administration officials]. His purpose was to show that he was aware, in touch, and prepared to help get a bill passed.

When Obama finished, I turned to John McCain. He passed. I was puzzled. What had started as a drama quickly descended into a farce.

Source: Decision Points, by Pres. George W. Bush, p.460-462 Nov 9, 2010

The above quotations are from Decision Points, by George W. Bush . Click here for other excerpts from Decision Points, by George W. Bush . Click here for other excerpts by Barack Obama. Click here for a profile of Barack Obama.
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