Etiquette re George and Laura going down the stairs?

Question

A question of etiquette: As President Bush and the First Lady walked to their seats tonight, George clearly wasn't sure if he should go down the stairs first or Laura. Finally he went first.

Is the situation ladies first or men first?

Answer 1

Normal etiquette usually calls for ladies first but this is the President and he always comes first and then the First Lady.  BUT....they should have come down together.  They do at almost all formal affairs...he's had almost 8 years to get his etiquette together and he still cannot get it straight.  At such an important event they should have come down the stairs as a couple.  

Answer 2

They should have walked together, but this is Bush, he never really has shown much class. The camera was on him a number of times, and each time it caught him looking at his watch and looking bored.

This is a worldwide event, he should've at least showed he was remotely interested.

Answer 3

Protocol here is that the head of state walk slightly ahead of all others.  However, it is permitted to have husband and wife walk together.  It is entirely up to the couple.

As to Mr Bush, well, he's not very long in the social graces department.

Answer 4

He should go first then if she happens to fall she can fall on him..  LOL.. or they go down together on a wide staircase as a couple which shows neither one is superior.. but on the stairs. she should go up first. so if she stumbles he is behind her if they go down he should go first. Then if he happens to break his neck at least she will land softer.. and live..xx