Washington (CNN) -- There were smiles, laughter and tears -- but little politics -- when former Presidents George W. Bush and his father, George H. W. Bush, joined current President Barack Obama at the White House for the unveiling Thursday of the younger Bush's official portrait. An emotional ceremony in the East Room saw the new White House residents thanking their predecessors for their service to the nation and for helping them out during the move more than three years ago. In personal tributes to the 43rd president and his wife, Laura, both Obama and the first lady expressed their appreciation for the example set by the Bush family during their eight years in the White House and the guidance and help provided during the transition.
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NEW: Former President Bush and his wife unveil their White House portraits
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NEW: The Obamas thank the Bushes for helping smooth the transition
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NEW: Bush jokes that now Obama can ask: "What would George do?"
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Obama has blamed George W. Bush's administration for failed economic policies
The Obamas made a point of thanking the @placeholder girls for guidance they provided the Obama daughters, with Obama noting his two girls have followed the advice to make loyal friends and slide down the bannisters.
The Obamas made a point of thanking the Bush girls for guidance they provided the @placeholder daughters, with Obama noting his two girls have followed the advice to make loyal friends and slide down the bannisters.