What makes George Bush and Michelle Obama’s friendship so popular? Former president says ‘country is starved to see…'

George W. Bush shared insights about his friendship with Michelle Obama, recalling their viral interactions, including a mint exchange.

Former US president George W. Bush has opened up about his well-discussed friendship with Michelle Obama, talking about the viral moments that have repeatedly drawn public attention over the years.

Bush has previously said that people find it unusual when individuals from different political backgrounds genuinely get along. (AP)

Speaking in a recent interview with NBC’s Today show, Bush revisited one such instance from the 2018 funeral of Senator John McCain, where a lighthearted exchange between the two spread online.

‘Country is starved to see…'

Recalling the moment, Bush said he was seated next to Obama, as protocol often dictates, and decided to share a mint with her during the ceremony.

“I get a little antsy… I was sitting next to Michelle, that’s who I sit next to at funerals,” he said, adding that he later learned he was “trending” online without initially understanding the term.

He went on to explain why the interaction resonated. “It turns out the country is starved to see… a white center-right Republican and an African-American center-left Democrat having fun, and being able to converse, not as political figures, but as citizens."

About their friendship

This viral exchange wasn't the only moment that has been seen as a rare example of bipartisan camaraderie.

One such moment in 2016, when the two shared a hug at the opening of the National Museum of African American History and Culture, also drew attention.

Bush has previously acknowledged that the reaction to their friendship surprised him, noting that people often find it unusual when individuals from different political backgrounds genuinely get along.

Michelle Obama’s take

Michelle Obama has also spoken about their connection, often talking about how official protocol has brought them together at major events.

“President Bush and I, we are forever seatmates… so we’re together all the time,” she said in a past Today interview, describing him as her “partner-in-crime.”

“I love him to death. He’s a wonderful man, he’s a funny man,” she added.

During her Becoming book tour, she also talked about the now-viral “mint moment,” saying Bush’s gesture showed his sense of humour and thoughtfulness.

Obama has said that while they differ on policy, their shared values have shaped their friendship. “We disagree on policy, but we don’t disagree on humanity… love and compassion,” she said in a later conversation, adding that people often get “lost in our fear of what’s different.”