Shays To Bush: Lighten Up?

We all know President Bush isn’t a big fan of the media. His misstatements and insecurity before the press have provided opponents and late-night talk-show hosts with plenty of fodder to paint him as an angry, inarticulate bully.

But he’s great away from the spotlight and behind closed doors. Or so goes the story most Republicans tell after meeting privately with the commander in chief.

On Friday, a Republican who doesn’t always agree with the president told Bush he needs to employ that private persona more often in public.

During a question-and-answer session at the Greenbrier Resort in West Virginia, Connecticut Rep. Christopher Shays, who occasionally goes out of his way to pan the president, told Bush that he should be more candid, passionate and witty with the media, according to Republicans present.

Shays was fawning in his praise of the president, according to those in attendance, but created an awkward pause when he told Bush he should conduct himself a little more freely when he’s talking to the press.

Most other questions revolved largely around foreign policy, with Republicans asking about Bush’s recent trip to the Middle East — and Bush was able to neutralize his folksy nemesis, Texas Rep. Louie Gohmert, a close ally who loves to tweak the president with his homespun wit and mock ignorance.

Bush teased the affable former judge during his remarks and repeatedly warned Gohmert away from asking any questions.

And as he wrapped up, Bush thanked Gohmert for playing the straight man, displaying the same folksy wit that Shays apparently wants him to show the media.