Obama stays in $20,000 per night Washington hotel - taxypayers to foot some of the bill

Can I give you an "AMEN" on that comment?  Okay, Amen! ;-)

lol danny
geez you really must want obama dead

I am not a wealthy supporter and I have donated to Obama's Inaugral fund.  I hope he orders room service every 2 hours with caviear, lobster and thick steaks.  I hope he really lives it up because he is going to have a stressful job thanks to Bush.

I hope he orders room service every 2 hours with caviear, lobster and thick steaks.  I hope he really lives it up because he is going to have a stressful job thanks to Bush.

Yea, right.  That's a fabulous approach for our President-elect to take when millions of people are going without food, warmth, and shelter.  It would be great PR. 

but the inaugral committee receives taxpayer funding therefore taxpayer money is being used to bankroll this extravagance

Sorry, but it doesn't follow that taxpayers are paying for his hotel simply because there are taxpayer funds present. It also is not established that this is an "extravagance."

What is established is that you would like to paint Obama in as negative a light as possible.

James that's just Danny, but you have to remember he isn't a very credible source for anything he's been banned by Tyler for his postings.

Kori-the sarcasm just flew right by you.  But if you are so worried about the President-elect expenses you might just want to look at the current President's expenses.

Yep you're right I got you confused with The Capitalist.  My sincere apologies.

Spanks hands 10 times.

debmo:  oooops, sorry.  Can't magically read your mind and intent.  I've seen many ridiculous comments here in NV that were dead serious.  Aren't we supposed to tag sarcasm with \sarc?  That was my understanding, per CoH.   

Thanks.  I'll try to hone my mind reading skills.  \sarc

I hope he orders room service every 2 hours with caviear, lobster and thick steaks.  I hope he really lives it up because he is going to have a stressful job thanks to Bush.

LOL.... duh. Thanks to Democrats as well... Not everything is Bush doing. Democrats were huge part of the housing mess and financial melt down. It was't all Republicans fault. Thats fact... no matter how much people want to stick there heads in the sand and pass the buck.

Simple-I know those darn Democrats screwed everything and blamed poor little GW.  I should have included all the Democrats that ever served because we know they are real cause of this mess...not anything GW did.  He's innocent and all of us mean old Democrats are picking on him. 

why we pay for the Blair house Mr Bush got something are someone more important that will stay their, on the tax payer dime, and the media want try to find out who is so important that the president elect and his children can't stay.

I totally agree with you and for the record I am not an Obama supporter.

you are right, but we should know who will be staying their, don't you think so.

of course... but if you read the article again "Obama stays in 20,000 per night Washington Hotel" this wasn't about who was staying where...it was about, how much was spent

give the guy a break...at least let him get in office first... now where were we?  ah yes!! back to the 1.9 million people that can't find a job...that's something we should talk about. Or the 1 trillion it will cost you and I to fund this "War on Terror"

really tell me one dr danny.
you know suitible residents for less exist. tell me the addy of one.
tell me the addy of one that doesnt have sniper areas to worry about.
t ell me one that the ecret service acan get in and out of.
tell me one.
your makign the claim
tell me one

on an utter extravagance when other suitable, less expensive temporary residences exist.

Name one.

There's no propaganda in reporting that Obama is wasting taxpayer money on an utter extravagance when other suitable, less expensive temporary residences exist.

The real irony is Danny isn't even a US citizen and pays no US taxes, and he has a picture of one of the biggest waste of tax payer money as his avatar.

Blair.  Oh, wait, Obama already asked about that.

Danny did you vote in the last election?

Are you a  citizen of the US?

You are not a US citizen so should have no say in where our president stays:it doesn't affect you.

US citizen have no say on their own

Sure we do: its called the presidential election (unless a republican like Bush steals it).

Danny:

I am getting this strange sense of deja vu about these questions of your citizenship, and your responses/reactions about it being off topic.........

Oh... I know what it was..... Obama not "natural born" and "palling around with terrorirsts".... and constant demands to show more proof at the expense of dealing with real issues............

Kinda sucks, doesn't it?

Since I don't know anything about accomidations in Wash.D.C. I can't really state an opinion, BUT, I think there just might be a little bit of exaggeration of cost. The cost is not for Obama and his family ONLY, whatever it is, it is divided by several other factors.

Even if it weren't he could afford it on his own so what is the problem so many seem to have?

Since I don't know anything about accomidations in Wash.D.C. I can't really state an opinion,

That didn't stop Dr. Danny!

you know how much it costs tax payers every time bush went on vactaion?
and during our 9 years of hell with him he wen on vacation moe than any other president in history, costing us millions just so he could play cow boy at his ranch.. or go relax at camp david.
why arent you complaining that it costs more that 20k just to life bush by airforce one and land again?
because it doesnt fit in calling obama and elitist?

I did not vote for Obama/Biden nor McCain/Palin either, and I'm not upset by PE Obama and his crew staying in the very expensive hotel; it's just the cost of doing business and maintaining security.  I am concerned, however, about my income being confiscated and my constitutional rights getting trashed during his presidency, however.

This is not the cost of just Obama and his family, the secret service will need rooms too.

So, I agree, it is a large tab, but I think that we may be overlooking all who must be accommodated when the future President comes to town.

joulesbeef, didn't Obama just get back from vacation?  Who paid for that?

I gladly paid for his vacation.  thanks for asking.

Dembo,you're craking me up with your postings,lol.Hellloo much needed humor for the New Year.

Agreed!  BTW HE paid for his Own Vacation, except for S.S. expenses.  WAH!!

newoneironaut:

I am concerned, however, about my income being confiscated and my constitutional rights getting trashed during his presidency, however.

#6.2

You really think that more of your constitutional rights will be trashed under Obama than have been under the fellow currently on the throne? Wow, your'e going to have a stressful four to eight years...

Uthaclena

You really think that more of your constitutional rights will be trashed under Obama than have been under the fellow currently on the throne? Wow, your'e going to have a stressful four to eight years...

eight years?????????
 that'll never happen

And the money coming out of your pocket is from eight years of borrowing to make up for tax cuts that didn't pan out.

I'm afraid that people will not realise we are going to have to pay the debts the Bush's and reagan racked up and it going to be blamed on the dems....

My comment above was not to trash Obama.  No, I did not vote for him.  I'm a little concerned that he is not able to use Blair House for his stay until he takes over at the helm of government, but maybe that is something that should be addressed for future presidents-elect.  It would keep costs down for everyone who has to foot the bill, taxpayer or not, and government, state and local overspend all the time.  This is a huge issue and spending and cost restraint has got to be exercised in the near future.

My point is that $20,000 per night is a staggering amount to house him and his family when there are folks in this country that do not even make that amount in a year.  Reading that feels like a slap in the face to those persons.  I agree he does need extra security, though, and I have no problem with that.  

When I said he is now a member of "Washington royalty", I still stand by that statement.  Elected officials, all of them, become Washington royalty.  Like it or not, they are now very different from the rest of us and a great deal of them lose touch with those who elected them, forgetting that we the people are supposed to be the supreme power.  I hope Mr. Obama will shake up that affliction, but like it or not, his life will never be as it was before he became our President-elect.

As I said, I did not vote for Mr. Obama and not for McCain either.  However, he is my president now.  I wish the best for him and I truly pray that God watches over him due to the fact that there are those who wish him harm and I very much fear they may actually go about trying to do so.

He is now my President.  I accept that and will support him up to a point, just I have supported all the presidents in my lifetime up to a point.  I would actually like to see our first black president (it's long overdue) go down in history as one of the greatest presidents in history.

May the Lord bless and keep him and his family and guide his judgements and decisions for the ultimate best for all of us.

thomrob

Apparently showing his friends a good time before he gets put out is more important that assuring the safety of our next president.

LOL. The Secret Service will assure the safety of the PE no matter where he lives.

Learn a little about your government before you embarrass yourself further.

rickace
you should learn a buit before you make such stupid copmments yourself.
sure they would keep him safe were ever, but that doesnt mean they want to keep him safe where ever.
there are certain areas they can keep him safer.. and likewise that is where they want to be.
You really should look things up your self before embarrasing yourself by attacking someone when it is you that are full of ignorance.

I hope Obama has no one stay at the Blair House when he is President.  Also, why did that even leek in the first place, Obama needs to learn to keep things to himself, and take the high road.  Presidents should act with class.

JoulesBeef - why don't you learn a little about spelling and grammar before you make comments about other people's ignorance?

why does everyone pick on spelling, grammar, and punctuation when they have absolutely nothing of importance to say, but disagree with the person they're attacking.

someone should write a psychological thesis on that...

why...(shhh)Should be capitalized. Just between you and me.

someone.... " : )

(# 8) Quit whining and expecting the Obamas to kick everyone to the curb to accommodate their every need.   The Obamas have know for months they couldn't move into the Blair House until Jan 15, as is the case with every incoming President and his family.  There are activities planned at the Blair House, visiting guests and natl/intl dignitaries.  Is kicking those people out and scraping planned activities just for one family's convenience good PR for America?

To expect the Obamas to demand that others blindly acquiesce to their needs would be in bad taste, very rude and arrogant.  Why would you want the President and his family to behave like that?  Is that a good role model?  I'll answer for you ... no, it's not.

Finding temporary quarter in a very expensive hotel is not that big of a deal. 

Maybe they should have rented an RV and parked it on the White House lawn.  Then they could hang their laundry on a line attached to Rose Garden and BBQ'd for supper.  But then again, someone would have an issue with that.  Do any of us have any idea what went into the decision of the Obama's staying at this hotel?  NO!!!  But I am sure it had more to do with security than luxury.

(8.2)  haha, that's cute!  An RV in the Rose Garden with their "drawers" hanging on a laundry line.   Are you being sarcastic, again? : )  

I don't have a problem with Obama's security necessities and maybe a $20,000 per nigt hotel is the best deal in DC.  Remember that $20,000 is more than some people make working a whole year and in light of the millions of people who are going without food, shelter or warmth, it's fair and reasonable to question and hold our decision-makers accountable.

However, at the rate of speed our country is heading downhill financially, it might come to an RV in the Rose Garden scenario someday.  Or maybe the two President's will shack up during the transition.  Wouldn't that be something!  

Kori-I can understand your concern about average Americans having trouble surviving but there are many other ways to save our tax dollars then putting Obama up in the Super 8.  Halliburton, Iraq war, Congress pay raises.  Maybe Bush should have forgone his Christmas at Camp David and volunteered at a Soup kitchen.  Not going to happen but the President-Elect is suppose to give up his safety and his families security so anti-Obama nuts can feel better about THEIR tax dollars.  Ridiculous.

Besides all the aforementioned objections/arguments................................How many bedrooms are there in the White House itself?  No room at the inn?  Or no room in reality?  I'm sure High level guests (who are there for what reason,since they leave Jan.15??) could have been provided rooms.  Where do they go for the 5 days before inauguration? Must not be in D.C. for that.

(8.4)   No one is asking, demanding, or insinuating that the President-elect should sacrifice security or be put up at the Super 8 -- you're missing the point! 

While I agree that politicians take alot of liberties with our tax dollars to live it up, that happens to be true on both sides and the tax payers have the right to question it.  Bush has nothing to do with this situation.  He's history, on his way out and no longer a true significant player in my book.  

We're the ones who work and contribute our tax dollars to these political heathens (on both sides) to spend as they see fit.  It's very easy to get "hooked" on living an upscale lifesytle and forget about the people who elected you to the serve and represent them.  We, as a people, have the responsibility to never let them forget or ignore us.  

$20,000 may be a legitimate expense but you act as if the taxpayers have no right to question it and that's wrong. 

Oh,Kori.  I have been questioning but the answer was always that I was being "Un-American" if I didn't agree with the huge money sucking blackhole known as Iraq was a legitimate expense.  So may I now say you are being "un-American" by questioning where the President-Elect is spending the days before the inaugration.  That accusation can be used by both sides for whatever reasons.  It may be unproductive but it feels good to know that I am the "real" American now.

I get it now - this is a tit-for-tat exchange.  Someone said you were un-American because you questioned the Iraq black hole (which you had every right to question), so now you get to "pay it forward" when I ask about the $20,000 per night expenditure of the darling President-elect?  Hmmm, aren't we supposed to discuss the pros and cons of the article's topic in this forum?

Now that I've gained a better understanding of the "pay back" intent of your comments, I think we're done.  Maluhia, Peace. 

BS

$20,000 a night?! For a hotel room?! I didn't know such a thing existed!

The article stated that the wing of the hotel cost $20,000 a night -- probably adjacent housing for security teams, maybe some advisors.

Mr. Obama, it's not like you needed to go to the Dew Drop Inn, but I think your constituency deserves an apology for this.  

C-R-A-P-P-O-L-A.  Okay?  BS all day long.  Nobody complained about the costs of Bush's vacations and lodging accomodations.  PE Obama is leader of the free world, and as such his safety is a priority.  To expect that he and his family lodge at an econo-Lodge is just stupid.  Do you know that he will require an entire FLOOR for his security detail?  Add in the cost of the rooms for the Secret Service agents and, surely, even YOU can figure out why the cost is so much.

You probably got something in your eye, its Obama and the secret service.  And you are only footing some of the bill.

He owes you no apology, he is doing what he must, I want him protected, I want his family protected...I pay taxes so and I donated to his campaign, I am sure that at least 51% of the country will agree, the future President of the United States should be secure and so should his family.

Whoops!  Apologies for the horrible math (working with too many spreadsheets):

100%  - $340,000

75%    - $255,000

50%    - $170,000

25%    - $85,000

Hehe math,my teachers use to tell me stop using mind use the paper,lol..

It took me a minute there with the Da**ed thing and I said ooo hoo hoo..I shoulda had a V-8 today =p

Snap :)

Who cares what he spend for room and board for his family. Its peanuts to the amount of the bailout that is taking place. Aig gave more money than that for bonus. And for there junkit....

Joules: 

I see your point, but your calculation is way off. It costs $56,000 per hour to fly Air Force One. The plane does not stay in the air circling for 24 hours a day while the President is on the ground.

The flight time between Washington and nearby Waco is about 3 hours 30 minutes each way. So, multiply the number of trips to Crawford by $196,000 for the full cost.

How many trips to camp david in Marine 1?  That chopper isn't cheap.

How many trips to camp david in Marine 1?  That chopper isn't cheap.

No, it is not either. Has Bush traveled to CD more often than his predecessors? Presidents are continually moving around the country and the world. That is the nature of the job. It costs money to transport him, the Secret Service, the staff, etc.

Jay there you go :)

Presidents are continually moving around the country and the world. That is the nature of the job. It costs money to transport him, the Secret Service, the staff, etc.

Right On point....Guess what Obama is? The PRESIDENT Elect.

I don't understand why anyone is comparing what we are spending to support a PE to what we are spending to support a President.  Shouldn't we be comparing what we are spending to support PE Obama to what we spent to support Bush when he was PE?

Comparing apples to oranges has never made sense, no matter how angry the misinformed are.

How about comparing what Obama spends in the first 3 months of his presidency (adjusted for inflation) to what Bush spent in the first 3 months of his first term?

How about comparing what Obama spends in the first 3 months of his presidency (adjusted for inflation) to what Bush spent in the first 3 months of his first term?

Still comparing apples to oranges, seeing as how Bush inherited a largely peaceful economic boom from Clinton, whereas Obama is inheriting the worst recession since the Great Depression and a multi-regional occupational war from Bush.

Now there's some revisionist history if ever I heard it - the dot com bubble had just burst before Bush took office. Growth was slowing for quite a few quarters prior to Bush taking office.

Growth was indeed slowing, but slowing compared to what baseline?

I'll give you that Obama is taking over in tough times, but Bush was dealt with a pretty difficult hand too inside of his first year.

Hmmm, "worst recession since the Great Depression" vs "Oh wait, there're no longer s---loads of people getting rich off of IPOs anymore"

Dang, the latter does sound tough.

Bush was dealt with a pretty difficult hand too inside of his first year.

Yeah: September 11. I swear, Al Gore looked upwards and mouthed "Thank you" that day.

Jack: the economy does not respond solely to a one- or two-term president. Actions in the 80's can effect today's markets. I'm not saying Bush could have done more (or less) to limit the current recession, just that you can't point to two dates on a continuous curve and draw vast conclusions.

John- Very well said

Actions in the 80's can effect today's markets. 

I agree.  Let's blame Reagan.  ;-)

Jack: the economy does not respond solely to a one- or two-term president. Actions in the 80's can effect today's markets. I'm not saying Bush could have done more (or less) to limit the current recession, just that you can't point to two dates on a continuous curve and draw vast conclusions.

True. Simply pointing out that comparing first-quarter spending figures is hardly a direct apples-to-apples commentary on the competency of a President.

The rising oceans will begin to recede, every country in the world will love us, the planet will heal, none of us will have to pay our mortgages, gasoline will be free, and shiny white unicorns will dance on rainbows with butterflies coming out of their butts.

(# 13.1)  Effective January 21, right?

Obama urges quick action on economy

More change. No wait...Bush did that just last week! My bad. ; )

I`ll bet no one can guess what happens if we don`t pass this pkg. ASAP.

While taxpayers were still absorbing the shock of having to foot an $85 billion bill (a tab that later grew to $144 billion) to bail out American International Group, executives at the insurer headed straight for the exclusive St. Regis resort in Southern California just days after their company got the money. The $440,000 tab for their eight-day stay at the Tuscan-style resort included $150,000 for meals, $23,000 in spa charges and $7,000 for golf outings. AIG says the event was held mainly to reward performance of independent insurance agents and brokers who were not company employees.

And there`s talk of a 10cent tax!? ^^ Was O`bama maybe thinking that if these execs can live high on the hog then why not?

By Michael Brush, MSN Money

Millions out of jobs . Congress gets a raise. Foreclosures skyrocketing. O`bama 20,000 a night luxury. Oh yeah, were gonna see change alright

NONE of which are in Obama's administration or control.

Really? The Democrats have been run out of Congress? The Democrats have been run out of the Senate?

Must be nice and cozy in that `Virtual Palace` Obama is in. Meanwhile....

Did You Know 200,000 Vets Are Sleeping on the Streets?

jbdadd - Ghandi says "be the change you want to see in the world"

so what are you doing besides misquoting and spreading falsehoods?

sorta knowing something makes you an expert on nothing you know...

Blizzy

Quote the misquote or STFU. Obviously in this instance I`m doing the same thing you are .

What makes you stupid is that you bring up things that have nothing to do with anything (like 20,000 vets homeless, etc.) to support your point without actually supporting your point. We call this a baseless argument.

I stand by what I said before...you know nothing about anything so you should STFU.

The Hay-Adams is not a virtual palace. Many well-to-do Americans, and many average Americans stay there regularly. The most expensive room they have is $3200 a night, and you can spend that in pretty much any major city per night at a swanky hotel.

20K a day wouldn't help 20,000 homeless vets unless you think they're cambodian refugees that can be fed and clothed for $1 a day so shut up about that.

The Millions out of jobs has nothing to do with Obama, and little to do with congress. The economy has been steadily weakening since 9/11; and the war just exacerbated the situation. You probably wouldn't understand why - so let me explain...

See the country doesn't really make anything anymore. So the profits we've seen from wars like Vietnam, WWI & II and Korea aren't being realized within our own economy anymore...other countries, like China and Mexico are seeing the benefits instead of us. Stores like Walmart have helped further hurt the economy because we're importing way more than we export these days.

If anything, a smart person would blame Clinton for NAFTA which started the spiral. Bush didn't help with his fake war, congress (both sessions) didn't help with their overreaction to the situation, giving the banks money they haven't put back into the market and so on and so forth.

To believe that a single group (democrats) or a single entity is responsible for today's situation proves you to be grossly undereducated - which is also part of the problem...we have way too many Americans like you in this country, and they're reproducing at an astounding rate.

Blah blah blah. And the `Misquote` is?

You have got to be kidding. Bush has bent over backwards to make the transition as smooth as possible for Obama. More so than any other transition in history, and certainly more so than what the classless Clintons and their staff did for Bush.

You people on the left are frickin' deranged.

With the exception of not lending out the Blair House, I agree with you.

People on the left,right,middle,center,bottom we're just a bunch of deranged people trying to survive in this country and dammit I want my vote back from the last 8 years-doh I forgot it was stolen from me.-humor

Bebe-are you being un-American?  Don't you know your vote was re-educated.  It was sent to Guatanomo, water-boarded and harangued until he flipped to Bush.  Watch out, they can only re-educate so many votes then they will come for the voters.  Your vote was a vote for Bush to keep the country safe.  Feel safe, yet?

Abunai

What is with you people and the inability to read without adding implications that do not exist!  How I wish you all would learn to read and then practice being fair and balance.  For example, my criticism on the matter was strictly about the article.  I never once implied that it was about any other parts of the transition.  If you saw that in my post, please quote it as I have no idea where you are coming from with the indication of my attacking Bush for not being cooperative on other fronts.   That said,, I am not kidding.  Just because Bush has done a better job does not excuse doing all that is possible.  If it is possible for him to make the transition even smoother such as by preparing a place where the children can start their first day with ease-Yes this administration should have prepared for that too.

The difference between you and I on this issue it seems is that I do not see this as a partisan issue.  Contrary to what you choose to imply, it does not matter to me who is leaving or coming, politeness and consideration is not based on a party as you attempted to describe my concerns to be formulated from.  It matters not to me if the party is D or R or I.  Who ever is leaving should do their very best to prepare for the next President, period. 

If you find me wanting them all to act like adults and somebody stop the foolishness and do what is right in all areas, then I accept you find me deranged.  I would first have to respect the person insulting me before it could have an effect.  No one and I mean no one should make this transition more difficult than it has to be.  There should have been thought to the girls needing a place so they can start school on time and since we picked The Obama's and Bush will not make arrangements for them, I have not problem in them taking the matter into their own hands.  Now if you want to fuss about cost, I still say we must start first with Bush loaning out the place that would have saved us on that cost.  From there, we can discuss how much it is costing us, but all said and done, it still falls back to the addition money would not have been spent had Bush not placed his friends in the Blair House.

LMFAO,Debmo...

Jen

Country  First, does not seem to apply to the Bush's! 

There's your quote.

Just how does the fact that the Bush's didn't kick the already scheduled guests out of Blaire house negatively affect the country?

In the matters that do affect the well-being on the country, Bush has gone above and beyond in facilitating a smooth transition for Barack.

As far as you concerns "not being a partisan issue," I'll have to call BS on that. It's easier to float that lie if you don't have a history on Newsvine of extremely partisan posts. I have that history, so do you.

debmo-571638

  Your vote was a vote for Bush to keep the country safe.  Feel safe, yet?

I feel safer with GW than I will with what we're stuck with for the next 4 years

Abunai is proof that people create their own realities...

Facts just get in the way.

Blizzy,

Do you have an example of what you are talking about, or did you just hear that really cool quote somewhere and decide to use it here as a display of your intellectual awesomeness?

Jen, I owe you an apology. I thought that you were a person that I have bumped heads with before.

After I wrote that you had a history on Newsvine of extremely partisan posts, thinking that you were this other person, I looked at your posting history. Most of you posts are very reasonable and open minded.

So, I was wrong and I'm sorry.

In this case, however, your comment about the Bush family not putting the country first was over the top and way off base. As much as he has bumbled his way through his presidency, my perception is that everything he has done has been, in his mind, what is best for America. He has refrained from lowering himself to the level of the seethingly dishonest, mentally unstable, tunnel-vision, conservative haters on the left and in the media (but I repeat myself.)

His gracious handling of this transition should be proof to those who will open their eyes, that he does put America first, and is a class act, despite the low IQ and evil intentions that the left has saddled him with in their own minds.

I certainly don't agree with everything Bush has done, and from your irrational glee at Obama's election, I can tell you don't either.

However, the Obama's understood the reason why they could not use the Blair house, and they were fine with it. The only ones screaming bloody murder about it are the press and various Bush Derangement Syndrome sufferers who are ecstatic that they have yet one more meaningless thing to hate him for.

As far as the tax-payer money going to pay for Obama's temporary housing, I understand that there are security concerns that need to be addressed, and that those concerns cost money. In this economy, however, it is very reminiscent of the Auto Execs heading to The Hill in their private jets. Nobody in a highly public position should be asking the taxpayers to tighten their belts while showing absolutely no inclination to practice what they are preaching.

Jen

Country  First, does not seem to apply to the Bush's! 

What I meant by that was that I think when it is time to switch, the sitting President should take into account all the needs of the arriving President Elect.  I thought of this in this way, if someone had bought my house and had to move in order to meet a deadline, I would not have my friends over during that time.  Instead I would ready the place for the new arrivals.  I would expect the same from the new house that I was moving into.

What I meant by "Country First" is that I think we should meet the needs of those who represent us first before our personal friends.  If Bush had folks booked, he should ask that they consider other arrangements.  Or another way to look at this is to ask why is this article written/posted?  We (Americans) are asking about the expense.  Does not making room for the Obama's put an end to that debate?  Bush had/has the power to do that by who was allowed the Blair house.  He choose his friends over the President - Elect.  For me, that is friends first and the Country's (money) last.  His response matter just as much as Obama's residence for the nest couple of weeks.

I was not and do not believe President Bush has not shown courteous to the Obama's, I just think that more can and should be shown.  When Obama leaves, I expect the same from him and his family. 

I just read your second post.  Thank you.  I want you to know that I think a great number of things Bush did were done in most sincerity and I don't think we can ask for more.  I think he was very naive and it played too much in his decisions, but I do not think he is evil, either.  Stupid and/or slow? I am afraid I do think that (sorry), but I think for the most part he is honest. 

I am more gleeful about the change than the person, but yes I am excited about what I hope Obama will bring to the office.  I am prepared to not have everything I want and as I understand (with appreciation) decision will benefit America as a whole and not a party, so I think I have properly heard, voted and prepared for what I understand how he will govern.

Abunai,

Sure sure. First, congratulations on your recognition of my intellectual "awesomeness".

Second, when you talk about Bush making the transition easy, you talk as if he really had a choice. You know there's a whole set of rules governing the transition process, not to mention its just being a good sport to work with the new guy coming in.

When I said you create your own reality, here's what I was keying to: The fact that you think that Bush already did enough to help Obama's transition, why allow him to stay in the guest house too so his kids can start school on time."

Blizzy,

OK, Mr. Intellect, where in the "whole set of rules" does it say that the current president should anticipate that the incoming president (the incoming president's wife, actually) will ask to stay in the Blair house 10 days earlier than is customary and schedule around that request months in advance?

What "whole set of rules" are you talking about? Or is that, again, something you read somewhere and are repeating here?

Assuming you know what you are talking about, I would guess that you are refering to the Presidential Transition Act of 1963. Nowhere in there does it say anything about the outgoing administration being responsible for assisting the incoming administration with lodging prior to inauguration, yet Bush's staff is helping the Obamas. The White House helped the Obamas arrange the accomodations at the $20,000 per night hotel. Above and beyond.

Bush didn't have to put together a luncheon with himself, Obama, Bush Sr., and Clinton, to help ease the transition, but he did. Above and beyond.

Bush doesn't have to be gracious to Obama. Lord knows the Clintons weren't gracious to him. After the eight years of crap he took from all you moonbats on the left (the press most definitely included) I certainly wouldn't blame him for snubbing Obama when possible, but he doesn't. Above and beyond.

As I said before, the Obamas understand why they can't use the Blair house, and they're fine with it. One of Obama's transition team members said:

"The Bushes have been extremely accommodating to the Obama family's needs and the entire process has been smooth and friendly."

Another member of Obama's team said:

"It's just the way things happen. We understand -- it's no big deal."

The only people trying to make a big deal out of it are those with an irrational, partisan, deranged axe to grind. Those (including you) are the people that are trying to create their own realities.

Abunai

The only people trying to make a big deal out of it are those with an irrational, partisan, deranged axe to grind. Those (including you) are the people that are trying to create their own realities.

Lest we forget the seeder of this article and those like him who are trying to imply a level in inpropriaty of Obama who is simply utilizing the alternate accomodations that the incredibly accomodating administration helped to arrange.

You are correct that there's nothing in the transition act about lodging...but the fact that Bush sat down and made the process smooth was not him trying to make things easy, it was him following the rules. And this stuff about the Clintons being mean to Bush is baseless; you probably made it up unless you can cite a non-partisan source. Cause I've never heard that before.

The guy is the future president of the United States and you think Bush needed to help them find accomodations? Laughable. Any number of hotels in the D.C. area would've wanted that business and would've jumped at the opportunity to house the future President for 2 weeks.

8 years of crap he took from us? Boy are you dilusional. You're that type of person who would say "it's your fault for giving him crap" to a woman who gets beat up by her husband. The U.S., for the past 8 years, has been that adbused woman. There's really no need to debate that; the majority of Americans (minus that 23% you're probably a part of - sad) agree with me.

Abunai

I read what you wrote to Blizzy and hope you do not mind my asking you a few questions.  You said:

Nowhere in there does it say anything about the outgoing administration being responsible for assisting the incoming administration with lodging prior to inauguration, yet Bush's staff is helping the Obamas.

If what you state here is true, you seem to be arguing against yourself.  Either the Clinton's were not to prepare for the Bush's arrival or he was.  Which is it?  

The White House helped the Obamas arrange the accomodations at the $20,000 per night hotel. Above and beyond.

I can not find an article to support this.  Would you provide your source?

Bush didn't have to put together a luncheon with himself, Obama, Bush Sr., and Clinton, to help ease the transition, but he did. Above and beyond.

Again, perhaps I missed something as all reports I heard about the meeting included statements from Bush saying it was Obama's idea and he has no clue what they will be discussing.  So how do you conclude it has anything to do with transitioning?  Where is the source for that statement?  Perhaps I am mistaken, but are you saying Bush went "Above and beyond" because he said to his staff, "Put a luncheon together?"  Really?

Bush doesn't have to be gracious to Obama. Lord knows the Clintons weren't gracious to him. After the eight years of crap he took from all you moonbats on the left (the press most definitely included) I certainly wouldn't blame him for snubbing Obama when possible, but he doesn't. Above and beyond.

I think this statement speaks greatly to why Bush is unpopular and whyPresident-Elect Obama won.  I think most folks are tired of everything being about sides.  You guys did this so we have a right to do that.  Clinton was mean so Bush does not have to be nice.  I think most of us who support Obamaare tired of that kind of thinking.  It does not show the best but the the worse of who we are.  It does not and should not matter who did what in the past.  Obama supporters that I know believe it is past time for us to come together.  We believe we should show kindness not because someone deserves it but because you can!  How pitiful we will be if we continue a mindset of  looking for tit for tats.  I know plenty in the Senate and House think like you, but what I find interesting is that the disdain for working together seems to be coming from those who oppose the PE.  How revealing and disappointing. 

I want to pre-requsite my next thought by saying the Obama's camp may be stating the truth about assistance from the Bush camp.  That said, the  camp statements are not a surprise.  Be it true or not , I see the Obama's as folks who would paint a nice face on others immaturity for the greater good.  The Obama's do come across as folks who will not make a stink even when they have the right to do so.  So for a public statement that just may save Bush more humiliation, I can see them choosing to let it go to put the "Country First".  

those with an irrational, partisan, deranged axe to grind. Those (including you) are the people that are trying to create their own realities.

I heard something today that I found interesting and would love to hear your opinion.  I do want to say that I have no idea if it is factual, but I am curious if it is found to be true, what would be your response.  According to the Washington Post, Rachel Maddow(there are also other articles here about this too), reports are the Blair House was available and blocked intentionally.  The house was not booked when the PE family asked to use it and was filled later for Jan. 13th by the ex PM of Australia.  In other words, it was an intentional block.  If this is true, does it change anything for you?

Obama supporters that I know believe it is past time for us to come together.  We believe we should show kindness not because someone deserves it but because you can!  How pitiful we will be if we continue a mindset of  looking for tit for tats.

agree 100%

Get off it Mike, all Bush had to do was allow Obama to stay at the Blair house, what happened to no child left behind.  No his friends were more important, well thats no change from the rest of the last eight years. And when has you fearless leader ever stayed at an average hotel during his 900 days on vacation?

By the way where did I just read this?

Here is my recommendation of what we Christians must do, how we must act and talk.
1- Contend without fighting
2- Speak without offending
3- Preach without condemning

I thought I was doing that?  Are you saying you don't stay at $20,000 per night hotels?  I haven't stayed at a hotel in so long, I have no idea what they cost?  I thought this sounded reasonable.....it's not?

PS:  I also want to acknowledge that while many might think so, I don't consider Obama to be The Christ........I generally don't mix politics with religion.

Also Mike, you might admit that you are not the President Elect.  It is ridiculous to think that Obama should be staying at the same places you and I might stay.  In fact I'm sure he wouldn't stay at the same place I would have to stay even if he wasn't President Elect.  If McCain were elected do you thing he would stay at the Super 8?

http://www.boingboing.net/2007/11/29/president-bushs-trav.html

article doesn't even go into the cost to the tax payer to collect all of the Presidents bodily wastes.

I can't understand why you guys are jumping on me?  I make a statement that Obama is making a sacrifice and not being extravagant.  From what I understand, he isn't even staying in the penthouse suites....he requested them, but.....they were already booked. 

So can't we all just be proud that we have a president now that understands and relates to how the average American lives, and sets the example for us all to follow?

Mabye because sarcasm isn't your strongest suit

(15.1) Blearc, lay off.  Don't using people's religion against them just because he/she expresses a personal viewpoint that differs from yours.  Show more integrity and backbone than that, please.  A fellow human being who expresses an opinion different from yours doesn't mean he/she is being offensive, is instigating a fight, or is condeming.  Quit maligning other people's words and meaning and bashing them with their "religion".  Show respect. 

Don't using people's religion against them

Why not, don't religious groups use their religion against everything they deem unacceptable.  Why shouldn't they be held to their own standards?

Kori I usually don't, I respect Mike, the data your lacking is what his post said before it was editted

edited? 

(15.9) I 'm referring to an attempt to personally discredit another poster who was simply stating an opinion.  We're not talking about difference of opinion in political or social issues.  Big difference between the two.  

(15.10)  We can't edit a post after it's posted.  Nice try, Blearc. 

20.000 a night is not what I call average hotel

We can't edit a post after it's posted.  Nice try, Blearc.

Actually, we can. That's a really sad thing to lie about, by the way, since we all (or maybe just the non-newbies, per Newsvine policy) can see the post-submission edit feature.

Jack -

Are you alluding to the three minute window you get after posting to edit?  I use that feature but sometimes the darn thing doesn't work, like earlier today it displayed all the text but would not allow me to modify any of it.

:-(

Just to clarify my original comment, it was intended to be sarcastic.....but not so much directed at Obama personally, as it was directed at our politicians in general.  It makes me sick to see our politicians living the lifestyle of the rich and famous, on our tax dollar.  When I take a look at how much money our government and politicians waste, and see all the people living in this country that are in need........I just find it disgusting! 

It also makes me sad to see people that want to justify it based on which side of the political fence they are sitting on. 

I'll say this once more, but I believe it's intentional that our politicians keep the population divided between donkeys and elephants, because as long as we are fighting with each other, they can continue to get away with robbing us blind and we either don't notice or don't care.

I use that feature but sometimes the darn thing doesn't work, like earlier today it displayed all the text but would not allow me to modify any of it.

Post-submission edits always add an line return at the beginning and end of each quoted passage in my comments, and sometimes disables Backspace until I type something in the quote. Truly bizarre.

I'll say this once more, but I believe it's intentional that our politicians keep the population divided between donkeys and elephants, because as long as we are fighting with each other, they can continue to get away with robbing us blind and we either don't notice or don't care.

The Roman Empire, the Soviet Union, and modern-day China are one-party systems. I doubt you're yearning for those governmental systems just yet.

15.14 - Jack,

Actually, we can. That's a really sad thing to lie about, by the way, since we all (or maybe just the non-newbies, per Newsvine policy) can see the post-submission edit feature.

First, I did not lie and your accusation is unwarranted and false.  Second, I was referring to a editing a comment after it's final post.  However, if the reference to editing comments (15.10) meant during the 3 minute window, that's entirely different and I agree.  

Are post-submission comments viewable on the vine during the 3 minute window?  From what you've said they are, but I will check as it is my understanding comments are not viewable on a thread until after the 3 minute window.  

Maluhia, Peace.

Second, I was referring to a editing a comment after it's final post.

You were speaking about general editing of a post after it has been made public. Granted, you may have confused that with only "editing... after it's [sic] final post."

Are post-submission comments viewable on the vine during the 3 minute window?  From what you've said they are, but I will check as it is my understanding comments are not viewable on a thread until after the 3 minute window. 

Yes, comments are viewable upon the first post submission and during the 3-minute editing window. I've occasionally seen comments change and even responses posted in parts of comments deleted in post-submission editing.

Jack, thank you for clarifying when a post is viewable on the vine - I stand corrected. 

I am somewhat surprised that the 3 minute window post is pubically viewable as the comments do not always represent the final thoughts of the poster.  I change mine quite often after finally seeing it on the screen.  Also, when I select the edit function, a small amount of time is spent cleaning up the extra lines that are added during the edit, mainly if there are quotes.  Have only found that to be the case the past few months.  

Mahalo, Peace

It also makes me sad to see people that want to justify it based on which side of the political fence they are sitting on. 

I'll say this once more, but I believe it's intentional that our politicians keep the population divided between donkeys and elephants, because as long as we are fighting with each other, they can continue to get away with robbing us blind and we either don't notice or don't care.

Or the people who want to condemn it based on what side of the fence they are sitting on.

The only people who are even mentioning Obama's stay at the hotel as being inappropriate are those who still cant get over the fact he won the election and inauguration day is closing in.

It is Bush and his staff who helped Obama make the arrangements at this hotel. Which was an attempt to bring people together and make the transmission smooth not divide which by the way what you yourself are trying to do by publicly trying to condemn Obama for using the arrangements that Bush helped him make.

Use your common sense Mike.

CSM in @15.16 has a point I agree with.

This division of the 'people' over stupid little things, is purposeful, it distracts us all from what is truly happening..... WAKE UP! and realise this before it is way too late!!!!

Agree wholeheartedly, Ron. 

The problem is that the tactic obviously works.  Here we are wasting our time responding to it, in spite of knowing it is an utter waste of time.

This thread is ridiculous.  This never would have been an issue with any other president-elect.  Being president comed

Just remember, Obama is not spending all that money to benefit himself.  This expenditure is mostly for his children, so they won't be traumatized by having to start school a week late. 

Wouldn't each of us do the same for our kids, if we had access to unlimited funds?

I had to read the responses from the people who understand about how Bush would NOT let Mr. Obama use the Blair house a week early so his children could start school on time.

It is a non issue where Obama is staying or how much it is costing.

Just had to check... Got online to check reservations, quality, etc.....

Of course, booked up w/folks there for the event, but did see it was a 2-Star hotel.   Single Room other hotels w/2 stars(if they were available) from the 15th to the 22nd, such as the Comfort Inn, around 500 per night per room.....

And did you vet the security at that facility, Dr. Danny?

Hmmmm, I'm thinking no, you didn't.

So, maybe it's a bargain if you think the President-Elect and his family are expendable.

You must have some awesome connections to get those reservations.   Nobody else can.   I personally couldn't when I tried.

Dr Danny,

So does that mean you will be traveling to D.C. to celebrate the inauguration?

I hope so! I am trying to get off work for it.

The only reason I thought you were going is because you were able to secure reservations. My bad I was fooled by yet another of your blatant lies.

That's interesting because I was able to book from the 9th January to 22nd January for a little over $4000.

Blatant lies? Probably not. Blatant dissembling? You bet.

Did that $4000 cover your four family members, support staff, and secret service? And was it for the entire floor and a few rooms above and below as required by the Secret Service?

That's a Hell of a deal. Maybe you should start a website for discount hotel bookings.

I just went through the steps of getting a reservation at the hotel Obama is staying for right after the convention ends.  Basic room 299.00 per night, right across from the White House.    Very comparable/competitive to other locations.

That was two rooms containing four adults. Perhaps he'd get a discount with children. I'm curious as to how many rooms the Secret Service require - shouldn't they be protecting Obama rather than sleeping next door?

Right, because having a Secret Service base of operations literally next door to the president-elect means nothing when it comes to efficacy of protection, right?

I have to agree with Surf7 - a military base, some which offer very plush accommodation, could be obtained at a fraction of the cost and are already well protected areas.

And Surf's pronouncements have already been thoroughly rebutted.

Perhaps in America you don't have the saying, "look after the pennies, the pounds will look after themselves" because you use dollars. But substitute "pounds" for "dollars" and there's a lesson in frugality for the US government, who should lead by example.

Coming from a Brit, high-and-mighty lecturing about frugality is really quite amusing. Are these the pennies and pounds you're talking about?

I'm curious as to how many rooms the Secret Service require - shouldn't they be protecting Obama rather than sleeping next door? I have to agree with Surf7

Your arguments are absurd.

Likewise with your arguments

No, not at all ^.^

No retort from Danny because he has no defense, and knows it.

When the secret service is protecting the president, they do so in roving shifts, so technically about half of them would need rooms at any given time, but they share a room.

What the "average" person like Danny doesn't get is that there is a profile used for hotels that will contain various dignitaries including the president. How would I know? Because I used to work in the hospitality industry as an operations executive so I know the ins and outs from an operations perspective. Many hotels across the country have been designed in a way that allows the secret service to operate their security requirements, which are usually redundant. Location, location of service elevators in relation to the president's room, location of windows and distance from adjacent buildings, construction, security system and personnel, access to roadways, etc. all come into play. Which is why the average 3 or below star hotel won't have the stuff necessary to accomodate the president or other dignitary. Why bother going through that expense is the justification. So no, he couldn't stay at a Motel 6 or whatever the hell random hotel you brought up before.

That I know of, the only 2 hotels in D.C. that could handle the security requirements is the Hays and the St. Regis, which actually costs a lot more than the Hays per night.

Danny your arguments are unrealistic. It's almost as if you're saying the President should ride on Southwest instead of have his own plane to save money. I mean, come on...Southwest has enough seats for the Pres and his secret service right?

*I'm with stupid*

But keep in mine bush does not drink. Boring party. Bet Aig and the reast of the bailout companies will be there.

I expect that the Secret Service picked out his place of residence for the next couple of weeks based on their needs, not his.  I bet cha, dog goooone it.

Danny you didn't answer the question.  Did you vote in the November election?  Are you a British citizen or Citizen of the United States?

Dr Danny

Why not just answer the question? Even if you are not a citizen of the US you still can voice your option.

Well spoken! Too much is made out of all of this and if you broke it all down, we would understand. And the Bushes had scheduled the White House visitor house for others to use the two weeks right before the Obamas came to town. Coincidence? I think not! But then again, I'm not with the secret service, a news-service or the Obama-team. But I did stay at a HOLIDAY INN last night...

Normal was once upon a time. Meanwhile, back on the ground of reality, these are times with the economy and social issues seemingly spiraling out of control. Things deteriorate by the day! Many are anxious to have Obama get 'on-the-job' and Bush is anxious to retire and have a few stiff drinks. These are in fact extra-ordinary times and one of the few crucial times when a change of administration took place. Maybe Mr. Bush and his planners are still somewhat aloof about reality, much the same way a natural disaster like Katrina baffled them? Just a thought!

One might just think, that it would be easier to reroute important 'guests' (who are they again?) to a splendid hotel, than the man who is supposed to run the country. One may also want to respect the Obama's decision NOT to be housed at the military base.

OMG, surf7.  Excuse me for saying so, but you are a broken record.  Move on already, please? 

By no means should the President-elect put up his family on a military base until Jan. 15.  NOR should he have stayed in Chicago until then causing his daughters to miss out on 2 weeks at their new school.  You must not be a parent.  Your arguments are ridiculous.

The Hay is a block form the White House, within the Secret Service security envelope.

The Secret Service is not based on a military base.

Military housing is obviously NOT as secure as a hotel a block from the White House. Just think about it rationally for a minute. Sixty seconds.

Right James.

The people who are complaining about this are doing so either because (a.) they didn't want Obama in the white house to begin with and are looking for any little thing to pick on, or (b.) simply do not understand how things work.

Then there's the 3rd option, while rare, you have those people who just plain make stuff up out of a mix of general ignorance, fairy tale beliefs, rhetoric, and propaganda. *cough* surf7 *cough*

Blizzy some people just run out of waves before they climb on the board.

There is no reason the Bush administration expect that the Obamas would need Blair House early.

And the move was not to get Mr. Obama working, it was to get HIS daughters started in school. 

Surf -- if YOU know that Obama's got school-aged daughters, why is it unreasonable to expect that the Bush administration would know that???  Or are you saying that the Bush administration is too inept to connect the fact that young children need to start their school semester before the inauguration???  (I could accept that allegation...)

It doesn't really matter WHY Obama requested the house early...  UNLESS the Blair House is being occupied by a head of state, those people should be politely requested to move...  It's more important for OUR President Elect to be safe, no matter where he is or for what reason, up until the inauguration than it is for a Bush friend to have a free stay and a beer...  Regardless, if Obama's team is OK with it, then what does it matter???  End of story, move on...

And, BTW -- I think the meeting he had this morning already with Pelosi counts as "getting Mr. Obama working," don't you???

Until he gets booted again.

I have read a lot of the posting here and a lot of you are so proud that the PE is a very extravagant person.  I guess you need to be because he is going  to be  spending a lot more of your money.

He's done nothing wrong... some people just hate  when they are challenged ,and they can't agree to disagree.... I hav a few liberal friends like that....

Kim

I believe they are capable of handling the moves.  It is their choice you know?

BB:

Is that what you believe? Based on what? Your well-documented dislike of the Obama family?

Kim

You talk about them as if they are helpless.....They can pack and unpack suit cases.  They are not moving furniture.  They made a choice to want to be in Washington DC, before the scheduled time.  They do not need to be given any special treatment because they are the Obama's and that is how you make it sound.

They made a choice to want to be in Washington DC, before the scheduled time.

They don't get to change the school's schedule, BB. Duh. 

Kim

They don't get to change the school's schedule,

Well, they will have to make do, now won't they.....just like ordinary citizens.  Everything doesn't always go our way, you know, and not for the Obama's either.  I bet it doesn't upset the Obama's as it does you.

They are no longer just "ordinary" citizens.   Obama is now a member of very elite group of men -- U.S. Presidents.  Membership has it priviledges, you know?  As it should.

Remember when he said, " I am an ordinary citizen, just like you."

I never heard Obama make that statement.  Even if he did say that at some point, he certainly understands that since his election, he is no longer just an ordinary guy.  That has changed.  His security is imperative and he should be afforded whatever measures it takes to secure him and his family.  Period.

Kim,

He never asked to move into the White House early, you idiot.

I did not say he asked to move into the WH early. It was a suggestion I have heard many times on the Vine in the past week or so. I simply made a statement that the Secret Service would likely not allow both the President and the PE be living in the WH at the same time.

I DO NOT appreciate being called an idiot. 

He asked to move into BLAIR HOUSE.

He and his kids will move from Chicago to the Hay-Adams, the Hay-Adams to Blair House and Blair House to the White House all in 3 weeks. I don't know about the last time you moved, but I found it to be an immense pain in the rear, even with good help.

 He could alleviate that pain in the butt by not moving so many times. His kids can start school at the new address, there on Pa Ave, when the family has moved in, until then, they can continue at their current school. Millions of kids and wives every day do not see their daddy/hubby for weeks on end because of work. These families all do quite well. I am sure the Obama familly will be just fine if they do it too.

And then you'd be complaining about the added cost of Secret Service in 2 locations instead of one through the end of the school year.

He could alleviate that pain in the butt by not moving so many times. His kids can start school at the new address, there on Pa Ave, when the family has moved in, until then, they can continue at their current school. Millions of kids and wives every day do not see their daddy/hubby for weeks on end because of work. These families all do quite well. I am sure the Obama familly will be just fine if they do it too.

How could they do that?  Their "current" school was in Chicago.  As a mom, I wouldn't want my kids to have to start the new school term two weeks late -- especially, if I could avoid it.