George W. Bush took time out of his busy fundraising schedule to drop by the tomb of The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr on the slain civil rights leader’s birthday. Hundreds protested the spectacle:

Bush's visit to observe King's birthday upset some civil rights activists who said the president's policies on Iraq, affirmative action and funding for social services conflict with King's legacy.

Bush placed a wreath on King's grave before heading to a $2,000-a-plate fund-raiser in Atlanta.

Beating drums and chanting, "In 2004, Bush no more," protesters marched in circles near the tomb. Some held signs that displayed King's image and read, "War is not the answer."

Bush, who was appointed President by the Supreme Court in 2000 after losing the popular vote to Al Gore, has refused since taking office to met with living members of the Congressional Black Caucus or other prominent African-Americans leaders.