President Bush Holds Joint Press Conference

President-elect Obama and Former Presidents Bush, Carter and Clinton Participate

PRESIDENT BUSH: I want to -- I want to thank the president-elect for joining the ex-presidents...

(LAUGHTER)

... for lunch.

One message I have, and I think we all share, is that we want you to succeed. Whether we're a Democrat or Republican, we care deeply about this country.

And, to the extent we can, we look forward to sharing our experiences with you. All of us who have served in this office understand that the office itself transcends the individual.

We wish you all the very best and -- and so does the country.

PRESIDENT-ELECT OBAMA: Thank you so much. Thank you, Mr. President.

BUSH: Thank you all.

QUESTION: (OFF-MIKE)

(CROSSTALK)

OBAMA: You know, I just want to thank the president for...

(CROSSTALK)

I just want to thank the president for hosting us. This is an extraordinary gathering. All of the gentlemen here understand both the pressures and possibilities of this office.

And for me to have the opportunity to get advice, good counsel, and fellowship with these individuals is extraordinary. And I'm very grateful to all of them.

But again, thank you, Mr. President for hosting us.

END