Obama joins the President's Club

Former Presidents Jimmy Carter, George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton joined with the current Bush and Obama for an historic gathering, the likes of which haven't been seen since 1981.

"I want to thank the President-elect for joining the ex-Presidents for lunch," President Bush said at the photo op. "And one message that I have and I think we all share is that we want you to succeed. Whether we're Democrat or Republican, we care deeply about this country. And to the extent we can, we look forward to sharing our experiences with you. All of us who have served in this office understand that the office transcends the individual. And we wish you all the very best. And so does the country."

Obama responded with thanks. "I just want to thank the President for hosting us. This is an extraordinary gathering. All the gentlemen here understand both the pressures and possibilities of this office. And for me to have the opportunity to get advice, good counsel and fellowship with these individuals is extraordinary. And I'm very grateful to all of them. But, again, thank you, Mr. President, for hosting us," Obama said.