Before discussing aid for the Philippines, George W. couldn't resist kicking things off without first mentioning of the "Philippine-American" member of his kitchen staff: Bush To Filipino President: "I Am Reminded Of The Great Talent Of The -- Of Our Philippine-Americans When I Eat Dinner At The White House"
PRESIDENT BUSH: Madam President, it is a pleasure to welcome you back to the Oval Office. We have just had a very constructive dialogue. First, I want to tell you how proud I am to be the President of a nation that -- in which there's a lot of Philippine-Americans. They love America and they love their heritage. And I reminded the President that I am reminded of the great talent of the -- of our Philippine-Americans when I eat dinner at the White House. (Laughter.)He was, of course, referring to Cristeta "Cris" Comerford, who was named White House chef in 2005. You've got to be kidding me, Mr. President. You're meeting with the fellow leader of a foreign nation, and this is the best you can come up with to say? Compliments to your Filipino cook? What is this, a frickin' country club?
PRESIDENT ARROYO: Yes.
PRESIDENT BUSH: And the chef is a great person and a really good cook, by the way, Madam President.
PRESIDENT ARROYO: Thank you.
Could he really be any more condescending? That's like a clueless idiot meeting a Korean American person at a party and saying, "Oh, you're Korean? I love Korean barbecue!" (This has happened to me before.) Except were talking about the President of the Freaking United States. And of course, Bush has no idea that he's said anything inappropriate. Awesome.