When I heard the news that Bush was going to be in NWA, I told my better half that that makes sense…it’s the only place in the country that still adore Bush (the churches had done their job). And I was right. The hand picked and screened 300 were simply adoring. Neary a opposing question asked about the war, economy…ad nauseum. Junior had to love it!!!

Low in Polls, Bush Makes More Time for Friendly Crowds

Out there in the rest of America, polls show that about twice as many people disapprove of President Bush as approve of him. But here in a cavernous convention center hall, Mr. Bush found nothing but admirers Monday when he answered questions during a town-hall-style meeting.

One man began by commending Mr. Bush “on your steadfastness and your faith.” Another concluded by saying, “Thank you for being my president for the last seven years,” with an emphasis on the word “my.” A third expressed dismay that Mr. Bush could not run for president again.

“It’s time for new blood,” Mr. Bush replied. “Plus,” he added wryly, “I’d be single.”

The friendly audience in northwest Arkansas — not a single questioner criticized Mr. Bush — is typical of such let-Bush-be-Bush events, which the White House is staging with increasing frequency. Mr. Bush’s aides like them because the president is much better in an informal setting, especially one where he can get his message across, conversation-style, without pesky reporters asking the questions.