During a photo opportunity at the Washington Global Economic Summit in November of 2008, U.S. President George W. Bush walked past a reception line of world leaders and did not shake hands with any of the participants. He was the only world leader not to extend a handshake or have one extended to him. CNN's Rick Sanchez noted that President Bush looked like "the most unpopular kid in high school that nobody liked."Huffington Post: World leaders don't shake Bush's hand at G20 summit (November 20, 2008)

In a separate incident, news agencies speculated that President Bush appeared standoffish toward Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd. Bush appeared to give Rudd a quick handshake while greeting the Prime Minister at the entry way of the White House. Herald Sun.com: Bush Standoffish as Kevin Rudd arrives at G20(November 15, 2008) The reason for the reported snub was a leaked conversation between Rudd and Bush where the President reportedly asked Rudd, "What's the G20?" Rudd had supposedly suggested to Bush that the President hold a G20 summit to deal with the world financial crisis.HeraldSun.com: Rudd needs to clear air over bush call (November 2, 2008)