Barbara Bush: A Memoir, about Michael's visit ot the White House in 1990

Barbara Bush

: A Memoir
By Barbara Bush
2003

Quote:

Earlier that spring, another VIP visitor came to the White House — Michael Jackson. Now you might wonder why I would mention a pop star in the same context as men who will be remembered for changing history. Because it always amused me what a huge ruckus the appearance of celebrities caused at the White House — sometimes more than the history-makers. You could tell from the number of staffers who left their desks to sneak a peek who was hot and who was not. Michael was definitely hot. I wrote in my diary: He was honored this week as Entertainer of the Decade by the Children's Museum. I went over to G's press conference announcing the Gorbachev visit and met Michael in the Oval Office, where he was talking to George and having a “photo op.” He wears the darndest clothes, skin-tight black suit with at least two big medals on his chest, and this day he had on four belts, red leather with big silver buckles. One belt was around his waist and the other three were around his left leg, two above the knee and one below. He has straight, long black hair. You really have to listen to him as he has the softest voice, almost a whisper . He was very pleasant and genuinely wanted to see the upstairs at the White House, especially the Lincoln Bedroom. So I walked him over to the residence and was just amazed by the numbers of normally sophisticated people who suddenly appeared to be walking by, gaping and staring. He does like crowds, and I can certainly understand that. After we saw the Lincoln Bedroom we went across the hall to the Queen's Bedroom with Millie and Ranger at our side. The dogs jumped up on the window and looked out at the tourists leaving by the North Portico. This was a great fun thing to do because the tourists always take one last look back and when they spot the dogs and sometimes me, they wave and take pictures. This day I asked Michael to join us at the window. I have never seen such excitement. People literally jumped, laughed out loud and waved. I wouldn't have been surprised if they had done cartwheels and somersaults.

Sarasota Herald-Tribune - Google News Archive Search

Jackson Upstages Politics

Quote:

''They had a very amiable chat,'' said White House liaison office aide Joe Watkins.''Mrs. Bush complimented him on his boots. He said, 'I like your dress.''' The first lady wore a black-and-white checked spring suit.