Transcript From Portrait Unveiling Ceremony

I took baby steps all around the house yesterday.I knew something was going to happen.

(LAUGHTER)

But it worked out all right.

This is a great country.Politics is noble work.I've just been doing some interviews in connection with my book, and I told Mr. Ryder (ph) yesterday, I said, "You know, Most the people I've known in this business, Republicans and Democrats, conservatives and liberals, were good people, honest people, and they did what they thought was right. And I hope that I'll live long enough to see American politics return to vigorous debates where we argue who's right and wrong, not who's good and bad."

My experience is, most the people I've known in this work are good people who love their country desperately.And I am profoundly grateful that for a brief period I had a chance to be one of them.

Thank you very much.

(APPLAUSE)

H. CLINTON:Thank you so much, President and Mrs. Bush, for not only arranging this wonderful unveiling and, in effect, a reunion for many of the people who served in this house and in the Old and New Executive Office Buildings, and in the Cabinets, and in so many other capacities, but for your very warm and generous words of welcome and tribute.

I also want to thank Simmie Knox for not only his wonderful work, but his extraordinarily calm and gentle manner.

One thing that has never been said about either my husband or I -- nearly everything else has been...

(LAUGHTER)

... but one thing that hasn't is that we are patient people. Those of you who know us, know that's not at all descriptive.

And to sit for a portrait and to be available to the artist as he tries to get it just right is a very time-taking enterprise.And Simmie was more than understanding as he worked with us over the last several years.And I'm very grateful to him, not only for his artistry, but for his humanity.

I also wish to thank Kathy Fenton (ph), the social secretary, and her staff.I know a little bit about how difficult it is to put these events together.And I'm very grateful to her for just a wonderful occasion for all of us.

H. CLINTON:Finally, it is a somewhat daunting experience to have your portrait hung in the White House.It is something that really does, more than any other act, sort of, puts your place in history in this building for all the ages and all the people who come through here to see and reflect upon.

As with Bill and his description of the portraits that meant so much to him, I took also great solace from many of the portraits of the former first ladies, because it is a very difficult role and it is one that you do not seek, but you support the person you love who is seeking the presidency.

So I would go and I'd look at that fabulous portrait of Mrs. Roosevelt that just showed her intent and purpose-driven life.I'd look at the lovely portrait of Mrs. Johnson, the elegant portraits of both Mrs.Kennedy and Mrs. Reagan -- all of the women who have lived in and tried to make this house a home over the past centuries.

And so, I'm very honored to join them as part of that history. It is an extraordinary experience.

And I thank the White House Historical Association, Mr. Dudley (ph) and Neil (ph), of course, for making it possible.

Being part of history in our nation is, I think, a heavy responsibility that we carry with us and we care deeply about.But it's also a challenge for those of us still around to think about what more we can do for our country and for what this extraordinary house stands for.

So I thank you for helping us during those eight years, those of you who were our friends and our supporters, our colleagues.

And I thank you, Mr. President, for welcoming us here and for your place in history as well.Thank you very much.

(APPLAUSE)

L. BUSH:President Clinton and Senator Clinton, these portraits are lovely.President Bush and I are proud to share them with the many visitors that come to the White House.Your portraits, like you said, are in very good company.They join a collection of portraits of extraordinary men and women who've defined America and shaped our history.

And your portraits, like Simmie Knox, convey warmth and vitality. All who see them will be reminded of your dedication and all that you've done to strengthen our nation.

Congratulations.And we're so thrilled to install these beautiful portraits here.

Now I want to invite everyone to lunch in the State Dining Room.

(APPLAUSE)