During President Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, 2025, former President George W. Bush’s animated facial expressions became a viral sensation. Seated next to former President Barack Obama, Bush was seen raising his eyebrows, winking, and laughing, capturing the attention of viewers and sparking widespread discussion online.
Jenna Bush Hager, Bush’s daughter and co-host of the “Today” show, shared insights into her father’s viral moments. She revealed that their family group chat was buzzing with messages about his expressions, humorously noting that Obama might have been a “bad influence” on her father during the ceremony. Jenna likened watching her father at such events to being a “stage mom” at a child’s performance, focusing intently on his behavior.
This isn’t the first time George W. Bush’s candid moments at public events have attracted attention. In 2017, during President Trump’s first inauguration, he was famously seen struggling with a rain poncho, a moment that quickly went viral and showcased his relatable, down-to-earth demeanor.
The camaraderie between Bush and Obama during the inauguration was evident, with their lighthearted interactions serving as a reminder of unity amidst political differences. Jenna Bush Hager emphasized this sentiment, highlighting the importance of such friendships in divisive times.