Since we're discussing MSNBC, I haven't read all of the comments on this thread as I had bowed out for a bit, but in case it hasn't been noted:
I discern the way is to lavish "praise" and insert little jabs here and there--that goes on across all of the channels.
Today Andrea Mitchell praised George H. W. Bush's comments, then had to add that in "reality" (ahem) the elder Bushes were not close to the Reagans. She asserted that Barbara had resented Nancy and then Andrea said the Reagans had never hosted the Bushes in the private family WH quarters. That is why, Andrea marveled, the emotion displayed by the elder President Bush was such a surprise.
I admit I am drawn back to MSNBC from time to time out of dread fascination to hear what they'll come up with next. I'm on Fox right now as the plan taxis, ready to take off.
I've noticed that as well. Did Andrea Mitchell mention that Reagan personally requested in the 1980s that 41 speak at the funeral? I'll bet not. And I'm sick of hearing all the double-edged praise of Reagan which is really designed to jab Bush by comparison. Could these people give it a rest already?
Both First Families became closer after both had left public life. So what. Politically, they were an excellent team.
The business about never seeing each other socially on a private basis is an absolute lie. The Bushes were hosts to the Reagans in Houston after the 1980 Convention; the Reagans hosted the Bushes privately at the White House after the Inauguration; the Bushes reciprocated at the Vice President's home; the Reagans hosted the Bushes privately at their Ranch in California, etc.
More lies from liars.... Andrea Mitchell and the MSM.