MESA - While President Bush’s stop in the Valley was quick, it certainly was not short on controversy.

President Bush departs after short Valley visit

azfamily.com

VIDEO: Air Force One touches down
VIDEO: Downtown protests
VIDEO: Bush's itinerary
VIDEO: Bush-McCain truce

Air Force One touched down at Sky Harbor Airport just after 2 p.m. Tuesday.

Just four hours later, a little after 6 p.m., he was back at the airport and headed out of town.

After Air Force One landed President Bush stepped off the plane to be greeted by some of his bigger fans like 12-year-old Tamara Skinner, who Bush praised for her volunteer work.

From the airport Bush's motorcade made its way over to Mesa. The President stopped off at the Silverado Cable Company, a business he claims has seen benefits from the economic stimulus package. Nevertheless, before he made his way inside he had to make his way through hundreds of protesters.

Hundreds of more protesters also gathered at Cesar Chavez Park in downtown Phoenix.

After a passionate rally the protesters marched down the street to the convention center. That is where the McCain fundraiser was supposed to be held but reports say it was moved to a private location in the Biltmore area because of lackluster ticket sales and the McCain camp was worried the protesters might outnumber the supporters.

Although Bush was in the Valley campaigning for McCain, their contact was limited. Political insiders say although McCain can use Bush's fundraising prowess, the presumptive GOP candidate is trying to distance himself from the man who holds the worst approval rating in presidential history.

Ticket prices for the private event ranged from $1,000 to $2,500 for VIP treatment. Despite the high cover charge Bush did not stay long. He was back on Air Force One by 6 p.m.

President Bush left for Salt Lake where he had two fundraising events scheduled.