Former U.S. President George W. Bush appeared on NBC television to

Former U. S. President George W. Bush is defending his economic policies while in office, saying he is proud of his record of financial responsibility. (27) In an appearance on NBC television Wednesday to promote his memoir, Mr. Bush responded to criticism about increased government spending during his presidency. He said he vetoed two spending bills, but the vetoes were disregarded by Democrats in Congress. (28) Mr. Bush avoided weighing in on controversial issues, such as the proposal to build an Islamic center near the site of the September 11, 2001 terror attacks in New York. He said any comments he makes will be compared to those of President Barack Obama, and he does not want to interfere with his successor’s ability to do his job.