But uncut videotape of the classroom visit obtained from the local cable-TV station director who shot it, and interviews with the teacher and principal, show that Mr. Bush remained in the classroom not for mere seconds, but for at least seven additional minutes. He followed along for five minutes as children read aloud a story about a pet goat. Then he stayed for at least another two minutes, asking the children questions and explaining to Ms. Rigell that he would have to leave more quickly than planned.
"Mr. Bartlett confirmed in an interview that the president stayed in the classroom for at least seven minutes. The spokesman said that as the president's staff was trying to learn more about the plane crashes, there was no need to talk to Mr. Bush or pull him away. The president didn't leave immediately after receiving the news of the second crash from Mr. Card because Mr. Bush's 'instinct was not to frighten the children by rushing out of the room,' the spokesman added. Mr. Bush's motorcade left the school at approximately 9:35 a.m., 32 minutes after he entered the classroom, according to a White House timeline and analysis of the uncut videotape
I don't understand what he could have done if he left earlier KC. I would like to think that the other departments of the government are a bit more autonomous than having to be directed by the president..... I mean I wonder what would have happened if he was stuck on the crapper after eating a few meximelts at taco bell or otherwise incapacitated?
If he would have left in a hurry I am sure people would say that he's incompetent and unsure of himself or was scared about protecting his own skin or some other such nonsense
All is IMHO
/JD