Former President Shares Heartwarming Message That Will Restore Your Faith in America

Quick Smiles:

• George W. Bush sits down with daughter Jenna for touching conversation about America’s future
• 43rd president reassures worried citizens with hopeful perspective from decades of experience
• Uplifting reminder that democracy is ‘self-correcting’ and America has overcome division before

In a heartwarming father-daughter moment, Jenna Bush Hager had the privilege of interviewing her own father, former president George W. Bush, ahead of the USA’s 250th birthday. His message about healing the country will warm your heart.

This year marks 250 years since the United States declared its independence from British rule. And while our founding fathers would have hoped we’d be a nation of peace and love, political tensions remain high. But our 43rd president believes we can turn ourselves around — and his optimism is contagious.

During an interview on April 20th, Jenna and George discussed how the political divide affects friendships, families, and society. While Jenna expressed concern about the future, her father’s response was beautifully hopeful.

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“One of the things about the 250th is it gives us the chance to focus on the common good and the wonders of this country. The history of this country. I am not concerned about the long-term health of our country. Because I’ve studied enough history to know that we’ve been through periods of intense anger and intense rivalry of ideas. But the beauty of democracy, Jen, is that it’s self-correcting.”

A Lifetime of Perspective Brings Reassuring Wisdom

George W. Bush, 79, was born just after WWII ended. He lived through the Korean War, Vietnam, the Civil Rights Era, the Gulf War, Watergate, 9/11, and more. He’s watched the country fall apart and reunite dozens of times, so he doesn’t think our current issues will break us.

His words about civic participation are especially moving.

“I’m going to encourage citizens to participate in the process, and if you don’t like what’s going on, vote. And that’s how America heals itself.”

The interview serves as a beautiful reminder that America’s greatest strength has always been its resilience. Through every challenge, the nation has found a way forward — together.

Watch Jenna Bush Hager and George W. Bush’s full interview and Jenna’s interview of Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, and Joe Biden here.

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