Grapevine: Johnson returns to the White House

Johnson and his wife Chandra met President Bush in his oval office, greeting him with a signed helmet used by the Cup champion. The US President praised Johnson's effort outside the track in favour of ill children an those in need.

Johnson has participated in activities with various foundations, like Kyle Petty's Victory Junction Gang.

"You know, one of the things I love about NASCAR is not only are these great athletes, but they're socially minded folks," President Bush said. "Chandra [Johnson] and Jimmie [Johnson] and I met several times - one time at a place where the folks of NASCAR are putting something back into the community to help the less fortunate.

"In this case it happened to be in a place called Victory Junction, in North Carolina, and it was a fabulous experience. And I want to thank you all very much for taking your fame and lending it to help somebody in need.

"It's really what makes America a great place. You're leaders on the track and leaders off the track."

The Hendrick driver also met with various members of the US Senate, and Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

"As an American, it's certainly an honor to visit the White House," Johnson said. "I have been fortunate over the past few years to have met with President Bush and been a guest in the Oval Office - which was amazing considering the history that took place in that room."

Johnson has been a very busy man recently, following last week's hectic testing schedule at Las Vegas and California, coming off of the Rolex 24 at Daytona.

He also attended the Super Bowl last weekend in Arizona prior to his trip to Washington and will compete next weekend in the Budweiser Shootout at Daytona.