Bush: 'I didn't compromise my soul'

George Bush said he refused to “compromise his soul” to be popular during his eight-year tenure as US president.

In a wide-ranging interview with Fox News Channel, Mr Bush said presidents fail when they make decisions based on opinion polls.

“I didn’t compromise my soul to be a popular guy,” he said.

Mr Bush said he did not think he would be viewed as the 21st century’s Herbert Hoover, who was president during the Great Depression. He said he worked to keep the economy from collapsing.

Mr Bush also praised the national security team assembled by President-elect Barack Obama, offered hope to US car makers seeking government assistance and said the people of Illinois will have to sort out allegations that Governor Rod Blagojevich sought kickbacks in choosing a successor for Obama’s Senate seat.

Meanwhile, Mr Bush is hosting a lunch with all three living former presidents and President-elect Barack Obama next month.

The luncheon is set for January 7. Former presidents Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton and George Bush Snr will attend, along with Mr Obama.

Mr Bush has made a smooth transition to the next administration one of his top priorities as his presidency winds down.

Recently, White House chief of staff Josh Bolten hosted a similar event with all the living former chiefs of staff to offer advice and camaraderie to Mr Obama’s incoming chief of staff, Rahm Emanuel.

Mr Obama takes office on January 20.