Barbara Bush's Tough Day at Bill Clinton's Inauguration

January 20, 1993, marked a significant moment in American political history as Bill Clinton was inaugurated as the 42nd President of the United States. For former President George H.W. Bush and his wife, Barbara Bush, this day was particularly challenging. Barbara described it as a 'tough day' for the couple, who felt that George had rightfully earned a second term in office. In her reflections, Barbara expressed her frustration with the media, which she believed exhibited a pro-Clinton bias during the election campaign. She attributed George's electoral defeat to this perceived favoritism, particularly highlighting the allure of Clinton's relative youth. Following the inauguration, the Bushes returned to Houston, Texas, where they temporarily resided in a rental home for nine months while their new house was being constructed. This new residence was designed with privacy in mind, featuring a six-foot-tall brick wall to shield the family from public scrutiny. The transition from the White House to private life was a significant adjustment for the Bushes, as they navigated their new roles as private citizens after years in the political spotlight.