July 23, 2008
Posted: July 23rd, 2008 02:46 PM ET

From
The Obama's are on the cover of People Magazine.
The Obama's are on the cover of People Magazine.

(CNN) - If John McCain captures the White House in November, the Arizona senator might not be the only happy party: in a new People magazine interview, Barack Obama tells the magazine that he suspects his own daughters might be relieved if his presidential bid falls short.

"They have a wonderful life in Chicago," he said, in an interview released Friday. "So I'm sure there's a part of them that won't be heartbroken if things don't work out."

That life includes a jam-packed schedule of dance, gymnastics and piano lessons, plus soccer and tennis - but it isn’t all fun and games. The Obamas may spend “hundreds” on slumber parties – but they don’t give their daughters Christmas or birthday presents, in order to "teach some limits."

"Malia says, 'I know there is a Santa because there's no way you'd buy me all that stuff,'" says Michelle Obama.

And the girls’ $1 weekly allowance depends on their completion of household chores like clearing the dinner table, and making their own beds ("Doesn't have to look good, just throw the sheet over it," says Michelle Obama.) Bedtime is 8:30 each night.

Barack Obama said, after an "Access Hollywood" interview of his daughters earlier this month, that he regretted the decision to allow the girls to speak to the press. "I don't think it's healthy and it's something that we'll be avoiding in the future," he said.

But despite the glare of the media spotlight over the course of the campaign season, "I've been really happy by how nonplussed they've been by the whole thing," says Obama.

"When some folks were attacking Michelle, Malia just asked, 'What was that all about?' And we talked it through," he says, adding that "She’s completely confident about her mommy’s wonderfulness."

Filed under: Barack Obama • Popular Posts


bobby   July 23rd, 2008 5:44 pm ET

matt that is what parenting is about.i guess you would spoil your children rotten

Val from MA   July 23rd, 2008 5:43 pm ET

WOW! Who doesn't give give Christmas and birthday presents to their kids? That is just very very sad. It's almost like emotional abuse. Can you imagine the kids going back to school after Christmas and telling everyone that Santa didn't bring anything for them? I feel pitty for them – that's not good parenting.

Sig, Los Angeles CA   July 23rd, 2008 5:43 pm ET

Such a good looking family – they really are.

Jennifer   July 23rd, 2008 5:42 pm ET

Yes – maybe we should all spend "hundreds" on slumber parties. After all, that's apparently what makes great parents!

A Tolerant and Understanding America   July 23rd, 2008 5:41 pm ET

Matt, you wouldn't be using your own family values as a basis to judge others would you? Because that would be arrogant and a sad reflection of your personal tolerance of other's cultures and values. I wonder what we would find out about you if your family was put under a microscope.

As for Senator Obama's family, I think they are very fortunate to have such strong family values and frankly, its very refreshing.

crooksandliars   July 23rd, 2008 5:41 pm ET

Any time, any where...I'd vote for this First Family.
Simply luv them!

Tracey, MN   July 23rd, 2008 5:40 pm ET

The girls are so cute, and Malia seems to be a great big sister to Sasha.

The next first family looks wonderful.

Obama 08

John   July 23rd, 2008 5:40 pm ET

GREAT! I HOPE HE LOSES. HILLARY 2012

Tina, MN   July 23rd, 2008 5:39 pm ET

Is this magazine out now? I'm going to stop by the store on my way home. I can't wait to read it.

Too bad the New Yucker painted the wrong image of this wonderful family.

My next POTUS will make a great story when he arrives in the White House.

Paris. LA   July 23rd, 2008 5:38 pm ET

Well good. Let's hope he loses.

Hispanic For McCain   July 23rd, 2008 5:38 pm ET

All of you Jerks and Liberals Morons on this Blog, get over it !!!!

McCain is going to win on a Landslide, Obama is going down.

Hispanic for McCain!!!!

The BLK GUY   July 23rd, 2008 5:37 pm ET

When I grow-up, I want to be just like them....

Jackie, MD   July 23rd, 2008 5:37 pm ET

I need to talk to the girls about getting a raise on their allowance. Smile, just kidding.

Obama 08

D.Kimbro OHIO   July 23rd, 2008 5:37 pm ET

Matt, that is so low. Don't be ethnocentric!!! Just because you would'nt understand this from your parents, don't judge how someone has chosen to raise their children, have your own and then you will understand. Attitudes like yours is why there are so many spoiled messed up children in the world.

Ethnocentric = Judging another persons culture or belief system by the standard you would apply to your own.

Gary   July 23rd, 2008 5:36 pm ET

Barack, America desperately needs you and your family to occupy the White House and lead this nation. I strongly believe that a large majority of Americans do NOT judge others based on the superficial characteristic of skin color. Amercans will support your presidency and come to accept you and your family when they see you in action. McCain would take America over the cliff and into the abyss.

Jackie, MD   July 23rd, 2008 5:35 pm ET

I love this photo. They look so wonderful together. The girls are adorable.

Obama 08

donna4hillary   July 23rd, 2008 5:34 pm ET

OMG! what kind of parent doent give a gift in recognition of the day that the child was born unto this world? forget the slumber parties, buy birthday gifts. each and every one of us ONLY HAS 1 day per year that we can call our own, how can it not be recognized by the very people that made this happen? probably something they learned in church. hhhmmmm

Connie   July 23rd, 2008 5:34 pm ET

I would like to tell the little girls they are going to Washington. A very lovely family and it speaks well of Barack and Michelle Obama. Connie from Indiana

commenter   July 23rd, 2008 5:34 pm ET

No they don't speak Spanish.

Linda K.   July 23rd, 2008 5:33 pm ET

From what I understand, the kids have "birthday experiences," like sleepovers, movies, etc. Sounds good.

White/female/age 55/Texan   July 23rd, 2008 5:32 pm ET

It would be so great to watch those precious little girls grow up in the Whitehouse!

Michael Turner   July 23rd, 2008 5:32 pm ET

Yes we can!

Kelly   July 23rd, 2008 5:31 pm ET

Yeah great parenting skills taking them to that church for 20 years.

I bet People Magazine doesn't ask about that.

McCain never talks about his 19 year old son just coming back from Iraq. Obama said he wouldn't use his kids but here he is using them.

Rob   July 23rd, 2008 5:29 pm ET

What a great looking all American Family.

Texas Trail Dog!   July 23rd, 2008 5:27 pm ET

ANOTHER SIGN OF THE MUSLIM WAY OF LIFE. OBAMA DOES NOT CELEBRATE THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST. MY, MY INTERESTING.

Lisa   July 23rd, 2008 5:26 pm ET

I like the Obama family.

Matt   July 23rd, 2008 5:25 pm ET

Great parents? Who doesn't give their kids birthday presents in order to "teach some limits"? That's just sad...

Joe in NJ   July 23rd, 2008 5:25 pm ET

They share the cover with Jennifer Garner and the world's first pregnant man. How fitting.

Jeffof Peoria   July 23rd, 2008 5:23 pm ET

Yes but I wonder if he could make up his mind whether to mow his yard or not, what color to paint the house. Maube Michelle will help him w/ that decision. To rake the leaves or not to rake the leaves – which way am I bending today????

Geoff   July 23rd, 2008 5:22 pm ET

See, Barack Obama is not a snob. Like most people who would ever use the word "nonplussed" (which admittedly isn't that many) he uses it incorrectly. Obama apparently thinks it is a synonym for unfazed, when in reality it it's a synonym for bewilderment. My comment is of course absurdly pretentious, but Barack is just a regular Joe who gets word meanings mixed up. Take that Harvard!

Remy   July 23rd, 2008 5:22 pm ET

A nice photo!

john williams san diego, ca.   July 23rd, 2008 5:22 pm ET

monitor this

G   July 23rd, 2008 5:22 pm ET

A lovely family. Great cover, People.

matilda Johnson   July 23rd, 2008 5:20 pm ET

Great Family!

Maryellen   July 23rd, 2008 5:20 pm ET

It would be so wonderful to have this beautiful family in the White House, so refreshing after the last horrible 8 years!

Go Obama 08

Kate, Atlanta   July 23rd, 2008 5:18 pm ET

How long until McMean sends out his surrogates to blast this beautiful cover and story? McNasty's got NOTHING positive to say, he just whines all the time.

Bill, Covington   July 23rd, 2008 5:18 pm ET

With a little luck and some hard work on the part of John McCain the little darlinge may not be disapointed, and can haooily stay in Chicago, visit with their Rev. Wright every Sunday and go on vacation with Mr. Rezko. Even gro up to appreciate the teachinge of one Bill Ayers.
Have a nice day!

Shosh   July 23rd, 2008 5:17 pm ET

I can't wait until the Obama family is America's First Family!

Real Independent   July 23rd, 2008 5:17 pm ET

Great family...

KC   July 23rd, 2008 5:16 pm ET

What a perfect role models to put in the whitehouse. Obama for President. All parents out there, lets form a Parents for Obama campaign.

Dean - Upland, CA   July 23rd, 2008 5:16 pm ET

Why does everyone think they are such a cute family and seem so perfect, just based on this photo and article! Does anyone really KNOW them?! Geesh, talk about shallow and superficial and pre-judging someone – they're all that and should be in the white house based on their posed family photo on the cover of a gossip magazine?! This country needs to wake up!! Try digging a little beneath the surface, people!

fella from Chicago   July 23rd, 2008 5:15 pm ET

Nice air brush job on Michelle.

Janet   July 23rd, 2008 5:15 pm ET

Beautiful Picture of the Family..

easy   July 23rd, 2008 5:15 pm ET

what a beautiful family

EC   July 23rd, 2008 5:15 pm ET

Q: Does any one know if they speak Spanish?

Sara   July 23rd, 2008 5:14 pm ET

Doesn't this seem to be reversed?

Wouldn't it be more reasonable to give a birthday present or two and spend less than "hundreds" on a night over with your friends? What could they possibly be buying for these sleepovers? Besides, it would seem to teach "there are limits" more by getting a present on a special occasion rather than getting tons of stuff 363 days of the year, no?

Debby, NJ   July 23rd, 2008 5:14 pm ET

What a Beautiful Family Barack !!!
Just what we need in the White House !!!
BARACK THE VOTE AMERICA !!!

Jeffrey   July 23rd, 2008 5:14 pm ET

Quite the opposite of the Bush girls. :-)

Realistic   July 23rd, 2008 5:14 pm ET

I'm glad they won't be disappointed when he loses because he is!

Diana   July 23rd, 2008 5:13 pm ET

Kent.... I have to agree... I'd love to have them as my neighbors too.

Marc PDX   July 23rd, 2008 5:13 pm ET

Hmmm... starting to sound like Obama may not be all that broken hearted to lose either. Wonder if reality is starting to set in for him about how ill prepared he is for such a serious job. Kind of like being a star high school football player then suiting up one day with the New York Giants. Maybe not as fun in real life as the fantasy seemed...

Too bad he undercut Hillary before starting to think about this! :(

EC   July 23rd, 2008 5:12 pm ET

They had better act right, rev. wright might come over! let's all hide.

NJ DEM   July 23rd, 2008 5:12 pm ET

Great article and great family. I can't wait for them to be in the White House.

Eli   July 23rd, 2008 5:11 pm ET

I would have to question the "teaching them limits" on the NO Christmas or birthday presents. I would wonder if this had to do with a religious or background belief. "Teaching them limits" would be not spending hundreds on slumber parties not NO Christmas gifts. It so nice that one child still knows theres a Santa (who coached her on that) , WHAT is this to try and make them more like one of us.

Lisa in Cincy   July 23rd, 2008 5:11 pm ET

I LOVE THIS COVER!
But can someone explain to me how you can spend "hundreds" on slumber parties?

Obama 08   July 23rd, 2008 5:10 pm ET

What a beautiful family photo!

New Voter for McCain   July 23rd, 2008 5:09 pm ET

More pandering.

atypical   July 23rd, 2008 5:09 pm ET

the children seem a lot more mature than many of the folks who post comments.

Kent Moreno - Burlington, WV   July 23rd, 2008 5:08 pm ET

Heck, I'd love to have them for next door neighbors!!!!

Go O   July 23rd, 2008 5:08 pm ET

What a beautiful family.

Oregon calling   July 23rd, 2008 5:08 pm ET

Nice article, nuff said ;-)
Obama 08

A CANUCK   July 23rd, 2008 5:07 pm ET

The White House needs a nice American family.....and the laughter of children.......it's been a long time.....welcome Obamas.

Kim, Dallas, TX   July 23rd, 2008 5:07 pm ET

You have a lovely family Senator Obama. I hope that what's best for you works out. Selfishly, I hope what's best for our country works out and that would mean you and your lovely family in the white house. I admire your values and your family.

McPander   July 23rd, 2008 5:07 pm ET

They have nothing to worry about execept how Santa is going to have to get into the White House !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ed   July 23rd, 2008 5:06 pm ET

Good... well, then let's see how smiley and happy they are when Dad gets romped in November.

Mizzy   July 23rd, 2008 5:06 pm ET

If only all parents would impart these parenting lessons on today's children. Parents are the real 'Santa Claus' all year 'round. Teaching limits and the true meaning of 'Christ'mas is more important.
GO OBAMA 08, '12

E   July 23rd, 2008 5:05 pm ET

Then why are you running for president. You should have put your kids first.

PUMA 4 HILL   July 23rd, 2008 5:05 pm ET

How about this.. I'll be heartbroken if he wins.

Not qualified and he is only a puppet. The nutty leftists are pulling the strings – Obama move left, Obama dance, Obama go to Iraq... Obama give this speech I wrote for you.

NO OBAMA – ever.

Tickered Out in Ohio   July 23rd, 2008 5:05 pm ET

Those girls are too cute...So when are we going to hear about a VP pick? In October! LOL

Right On   July 23rd, 2008 5:04 pm ET

Pimpin the kids again, i thought he wasn't gonna do that anymore...yet another flip flop! Disgraceful...

Kevin   July 23rd, 2008 5:04 pm ET

I love this cover. Obama kids are so pretty.

Nate Hussein   July 23rd, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Hopefully my kids will grow up to know WORLD peace, you have my vote!
Obama/Sebelius 08′

Sinceer   July 23rd, 2008 5:02 pm ET

Hmm....they don't celebrate Christmas? Interesting for a "Christian" family.

Fed up with the lies   July 23rd, 2008 5:02 pm ET

Smart girls. I sometimes wonder if Sen. Obama is crazy for opening up his family to the vicious lies and smears they've endured.

Obama '08

lynette   July 23rd, 2008 5:01 pm ET

Well done Mr. President.

john williams san diego, ca.   July 23rd, 2008 5:00 pm ET

elitist...buy them a birthday present instead of wasting all that money on hundreds of sleepovers just to spoil them....

MD in GA   July 23rd, 2008 5:00 pm ET

The children are adorable. I know they are planning to keep them out of the spotlight going forward but I'd like hearing a little bit about them and from them every now and then...

David, Silver Spring, MD   July 23rd, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Limits? What a concept in this time of out-of-control government spending piled on to tax cuts for the wealthiest citizens.

raz   July 23rd, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Poor obama , he will have to explain to his daughters that even though a woman was a better candidate , he stole the nomination.

Sharon   July 23rd, 2008 4:58 pm ET

He continues to exploit his daughters. I guess he flip flop on that too. The arrogant Rock Star!!!!!!!!!!

Eli   July 23rd, 2008 4:58 pm ET

Only if they had not been raised in a household that attended such a radical church. Childern are such a lump of clay in those years that they attended the church, you would have to be crazy not ask what it did to them and what lasting impressions they have on the USA as a whole. The one year that we should have had a change and it would have for sure happened but the DNC tried to push this man and his family on us and it may have just cost us the election.

MilitaryMom   July 23rd, 2008 4:58 pm ET

wow, so refreshing to see down to earth, real folks in public life. what a blessing it would be to have them as the first family representing our proud nation...!

Andrew, NO   July 23rd, 2008 4:58 pm ET

You can tell a lot about a man's character by his parenting skills.

Denise Oliver-Velez   July 23rd, 2008 4:58 pm ET

This is a family that should become a role model for all Americans.

Johnboy   July 23rd, 2008 4:57 pm ET

How sheepishly gullible can you people be? If younger teenagers could vote, Obama would be on the cover of Teen magazine while riding a skate board and holding a guitar and a juice box.

Obama Supporter from FL   July 23rd, 2008 4:57 pm ET

So adorable! Theyare a great family, and whether Obama becomes president or not, I'm sure they all will have much success in their future.

anonymous   July 23rd, 2008 4:57 pm ET

Ultimate American family JD? You've got to be kidding! Another photo-op. I'm glad Michelle can't break that sourpuss face and actually crack a smile.

They are the last people I want to see in the White House!!!! What a sham they would make.

Cindy   July 23rd, 2008 4:57 pm ET

What?!? No Christmas presents?!? Sacrilegious!

hehe...

Vegas Barbie for Obama   July 23rd, 2008 4:57 pm ET

I am completely confident about the entire family's wonderfulness and 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. in D.C. (and the entire country, for that matter) will be the better for them being there, once they take residence as the new First Family early next year.
OBAMA '08 & '12–YES WE CAN!!!

anonymous   July 23rd, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Are you kidding me? This guy has NO MAJOR LEGISLATION TO HIS NAME and he gets better press than the pope. Ridiculous. Change is a word, not a policy.

Joe Reg   July 23rd, 2008 4:56 pm ET

It takes courage to be president and at the same time raising a young family.

I believe Obama is going to do it easily.

Obama 08 7 12.

Obvious   July 23rd, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Compare this to McCain's family....oh boy.

Doug in Seattle   July 23rd, 2008 4:55 pm ET

The smiling picture of Obama with his family contrasts starkly to McCain's scowl hidden in the shadow of his Navy hat in the article above.

Michael   July 23rd, 2008 4:55 pm ET

THere are no words but UGHHHHHH>>>> MCCAIN 08'

Natalie in SC   July 23rd, 2008 4:55 pm ET

What a beautiful family!! God Bless and Protect them!!

OBAMA '08

Vincent from Ireland   July 23rd, 2008 4:54 pm ET

What a beautiful family. I love this guy!

Sari, Mpls MN   July 23rd, 2008 4:54 pm ET

well golly gosh darn gee...

ARB   July 23rd, 2008 4:54 pm ET

I definitely won't be heartbroken if he doesn't win either

Michelle   July 23rd, 2008 4:53 pm ET

Those girls should live in the White House whether he wins or not ! :-) You can really tell they've been raised well.

Eric in Ca   July 23rd, 2008 4:53 pm ET

Obama 08! What a terrific family to have in the White House!

Bring it on nay-sayers with your negative & divisive and bigoted viewpoints! After you've done posting please find the nearest unbroken mirror and look at yourself...

Mike - Texas   July 23rd, 2008 4:52 pm ET

The kids would be far better off if Obama lost the election. It is a very demanding job and the kids will have to deal with being watched by the Secret Service 24/7. Not a good childhood.

Candy West Virginia   July 23rd, 2008 4:52 pm ET

If this isn't a perfect picture of a beautiful family, I don't know what is. They would look perfect in the White House.
Some deranged repuglican will say something negative though, just watch.

JD   July 23rd, 2008 4:52 pm ET

Huh, that's interesting. A lot of muslims don't celebrate Christmas or their own birthdays, either.

BO   July 23rd, 2008 4:52 pm ET

Down to earth!!! Nice people....

Pamela Wilson   July 23rd, 2008 4:51 pm ET

What a fabulous family. They have done an outstanding job of setting boundaries. Furthermore, they continue to raise their daugthers very well, it's tough on the campaign trail, but they press on. I see MD written all over Mahlia (SP). She's very brilliant too.

Brian   July 23rd, 2008 4:51 pm ET

Right. What better way to elect a President? Lets look at how he raises his children. That in itself should qualify him to be the President of the United States. He can always treat Iran the same way.

Idiots.

NotFallingInLine.org   July 23rd, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Hey, CNN, who moderates the biased moderators?

July 23rd, 2008 4:43 pm ET
Your comment is awaiting moderation.

This story is so cute.

They won't be heartbroken if their daddy loses?

That's good, because we're not going to let him complete his takeover of the Democratic Party.

True Democrats – who believe that our party leaders have to uphold our core principles of democracy and represent us well – will ensure electoral humiliation of this unknown, inexperienced, unqualified and unprincipled neophyte in a nice suit in November.

Believe it.

Knoxville NFIL

John McShame, Obama Is Going to Tax You & Cindy, but Not Me & 95% Americans Making < $250,000/Yr   July 23rd, 2008 4:50 pm ET

this is what we call great american family values........not mcsame multiple wives!

Adam   July 23rd, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Yes JD,

Great parenting skills. We should all bring our kids to a racist church every weekend.

Adam   July 23rd, 2008 4:49 pm ET

I thought Obama was against using his kids for political reasons? Another flip-flop. I'm not a big McCain fan but you haven't seen him try to use his son who served in Iraq as a political tool.

no McCain!   July 23rd, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Wow! I love this family! This is the kind of family we need in the United States!

Obama '08

urbantexan   July 23rd, 2008 4:47 pm ET

I pray that your father get's the job. America needs to see children in the White House and it will be a joy watching these young ladies grow up. I for one will be one proud woman and I hope their presence makes all of America proud.

Veronica from nj   July 23rd, 2008 4:47 pm ET

I know Kathy..they are great!

OBAMA 08

linda from South Dakota   July 23rd, 2008 4:47 pm ET

dont giv it another thought obama,, you will land the presidency,,,,, with all mccain has lied about and "MIS_SPOKE",, who in their right mind would vote for him????? my vote STILL goes to obama,, 08!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Donna   July 23rd, 2008 4:47 pm ET

What a lovely family. They'll be a great addition to the White House!

Desmond Sequeira   July 23rd, 2008 4:47 pm ET

If the USA does not ELECT OBAMA, it will very soon regret its colossal error – and so will the world!

prefer koolaid than your arsenic   July 23rd, 2008 4:47 pm ET

"She’s completely confident about her mommy’s wonderfulness."
and so are we Mr. Obama. one problem with this story, if McCain wins the wonderful lives you have and the lives we have around this great Nation will not be wonderful any more....at least not when John S. McCain gets confused and bombs Iran.

Shelby   July 23rd, 2008 4:46 pm ET

What a beautiful family!!!!!

ber6964   July 23rd, 2008 4:45 pm ET

Nice looking All American Family!!!

Willy   July 23rd, 2008 4:45 pm ET

Well that's good because he will loose big time!

Cathy   July 23rd, 2008 4:44 pm ET

Gosh...they would be such a great family to have in the White House!!!!!

JD   July 23rd, 2008 4:44 pm ET

Great parenting skills, if they aren’t the ultimate all American family I don’t know what is.

You go Mr. President.

Obama "08/'12

Claudia   July 23rd, 2008 4:44 pm ET

God bless this family. Children are off limits and should be loved and respected as children whether they are Obama's children or McCain's.

Mary in CT   July 23rd, 2008 4:43 pm ET

The cover of People magazine!?!?! THAT'S how Barack keeps his daughters out of the media spotlight? Wow.....you've all been hypnotized....

NotFallingInLine.org   July 23rd, 2008 4:43 pm ET

This story is so cute.

They won't be heartbroken if their daddy loses?

That's good, because we're not going to let him complete his takeover of the Democratic Party.

True Democrats – who believe that our party leaders have to uphold our core principles of democracy and represent us well – will ensure electoral humiliation of this unknown, inexperienced, unqualified and unprincipled neophyte in a nice suit in November.

Believe it.

Knoxville NFIL

Dr.Mimi De La Cruz for OBAMA   July 23rd, 2008 4:43 pm ET

SORRY TO DISAGREE WITH YOU LADIES,

BUT WE WILL BE HEARTBROKEN IF YOUR DADY

FOR ANY REASON DID NOT BECOME PRESIDENT.

NewYorker Magazine Rocks   July 23rd, 2008 4:43 pm ET

I agree, all Obamas should stay in Chicago.

Annoy the media, say NO to Obama

Judgement over experience   July 23rd, 2008 4:41 pm ET

Sorry Malia but millions of people NEED your father in the White House. I'm sure you'll be okay cause you have great parents.

Roger from CA   July 23rd, 2008 4:41 pm ET

Hmmmm. Don't know about the whole thing about no birthday gifts or Xmas gifts, to teach "limits." Seems a little backwards: you DO give gifts on b-days and for the holidays, but NOT otherwise during the year.... When the kid begs for something, say "maybe for your birthday..."

Not to put too fine a point on it, but that might come off a bit weird to most folks.

[And I am a certain Obama voter, by the way].

Ms. White   July 23rd, 2008 4:40 pm ET

What a beautiful First Family of the 21st century

Dood   July 23rd, 2008 4:39 pm ET

There are going to be a lot of heartbroken Obama robots on Nov 4.

Brian   July 23rd, 2008 4:39 pm ET

His daughters have more scene than most of his supporters.

David Goldman for OBAMA   July 23rd, 2008 4:39 pm ET

WE WOULD BE COMPLETELY HEART BROKEN & BROKE,

IF, GOD FORBID, OBAMA DID NOT BECOME PRESIDENT.

WE ABSOLUTELY DON'T SHARE THE OBAMA GIRLS SENTIMENT.

E.C.Coleman   July 23rd, 2008 4:39 pm ET

Michelle will be heartbroken............that's a given.

PUMA Hillary supporter   July 23rd, 2008 4:39 pm ET

well this is good to know...because he is going get beat.... goooo puma

ChicagoJosh   July 23rd, 2008 4:38 pm ET

I got really nervous when they said they don't buy christmas gifts for the girls. Thank Goodness for Santa!

I want this family to represent the United States. No more sleeping around, drugs, alcohol, or trophy wives. If we claim to be a family centered nation of morals, shouldn't the 1st family reflect that??

Lisa   July 23rd, 2008 4:37 pm ET

Obama's looking old in the picture and he hasn't done anything yet.

Lisa   July 23rd, 2008 4:37 pm ET

Obama's looking old in that picture and he hasn't even done anything yet.

right source   July 23rd, 2008 4:36 pm ET

Beautiful photo cover of our future president and family.

Leon   July 23rd, 2008 4:36 pm ET

Great People, great family. GO OBAMA...

lana   July 23rd, 2008 4:36 pm ET

It sure will be nice to have a real family in the White House again, we need that.......

Rob indetroit   July 23rd, 2008 4:36 pm ET

The first family of America Obama 08.

Hope M. Madisonville, KY   July 23rd, 2008 4:35 pm ET

Barack and Michelle Obama should be complimented on how
well they are raising their two girls to be happy, confident and
well rounded children. If we look at the example of what a good
father he is, it is just a small step to see what a good President
he will make with his even handed and intelligent manner.

Fay Tx   July 23rd, 2008 4:35 pm ET

NICE FAMILY Mr Obama ....MAY GOD BLESS you and your Family

Biffington, Biff   July 23rd, 2008 4:34 pm ET

Guys... Can we please not attack the babies....

Please?

James - Alpharetta GA   July 23rd, 2008 4:33 pm ET

The Obama's are a perfect example of what family is all about. Another reason I am voting for him. Contrast the Obama's with the John McCain story of cheating on his first wife to marrying the wealthy socialite.

Republicans talk family values... Democrats live them.

Jenny   July 23rd, 2008 4:32 pm ET

Beautiful Family! That represents America!

T-n-EP   July 23rd, 2008 4:31 pm ET

hmmmmmm.... could it be that the Obama kids don't get presents for Christmas and Birthdays because they don't celebrate those holidays?? And I think we all know the answer as to why they don't celebrate.

No-obama!

MsSapphire, Little Rock   July 23rd, 2008 4:30 pm ET

oops.....raising

pa   July 23rd, 2008 4:30 pm ET

oh that to bad
bacause he should
hes a fake and a flip flop rep in democrats clothes

MsSapphire, Little Rock   July 23rd, 2008 4:30 pm ET

What a beautiful, grounded family. Barack and Michelle are wonderful parents and are rainsing two "normal" kids.
How refreshing!!! Who wouldn't be proud to have the Obamas living in the white house?.....only the haters.

Obama '08

Vig   July 23rd, 2008 4:28 pm ET

And neither will be half of the country.

Matt, Manchester, CT   July 23rd, 2008 4:27 pm ET

Why would they be heartbroken if he loses? They would still have both parents alive and well – which is a lot more than many kids have these days.

eric   July 23rd, 2008 4:27 pm ET

Republicans could learn a thing or two from the Obamas about how not to produce silver-spooned trust fund babies that feel entitled to everything when they grow up.

Steve   July 23rd, 2008 4:26 pm ET

Or maybe the girls know just how lousy a President their dad would be. Defeat the leftnecks, defeat Nobama!

McCain 2008

Erika, KS   July 23rd, 2008 4:25 pm ET

Who cares?????!!!! This is not news! This is not pressing information! Do we now vote for the candidate that has the most 'adorable" children? Please! Enough of this nonsense. Let's hear details on health care, the economy, high taxes, high cost of gasoline, high cost of a gallon of milk. Stop the media parade, Obama. You're called an empty suit for a reason!

Yetty   July 23rd, 2008 4:25 pm ET

Beautiful Family

rachel   July 23rd, 2008 4:24 pm ET

Malia looks just like her mama, she is adorable, but besides all the fact that he has cute kids, can we stop with this hollywood crap, access hollywood, instyle, intouch etc etc. I swear It makes me ill and Obama is just soaking it up, all we need for Obama to complete his supose transformation into JFK is for some blonde starlet to sing him happy birthday... I hear scarlet Johanson is willing...

Montana is Obama Country   July 23rd, 2008 4:22 pm ET

The Obama family are wonderful to hear about. The girls are grounded and well mannered.. They enjoyed the picnic in Montana and I look forward to watching the become accustom to the Whitehouse.. So sorry girls you will need to get use to being in Whitehouse cause your dad – Barack is going to win and take care of America as well and considerate as he does you both..

I'm going head out to p/u my copy of people now..

Obama... 2008, 2012.....

Chad, Wisco   July 23rd, 2008 4:22 pm ET

Doesnt this cover go against his "I wish the media would keep my family out of this speech."

Kiah   July 23rd, 2008 4:22 pm ET

Now that's what the first family should look like. Delightfully refreshing!

Obama '08 & '12

insanity   July 23rd, 2008 4:21 pm ET

Awesome family..

President McCain   July 23rd, 2008 4:20 pm ET

That's good to know.

ARB   July 23rd, 2008 4:20 pm ET

Pretty bad when your own family doesn't care if you get elected,

sherry   July 23rd, 2008 4:19 pm ET

WHAT A BEAUTIFUL PICTURE

I PRAY THEY ARE IN THE WHITE HOSE IN 2009

Tina   July 23rd, 2008 4:19 pm ET

Great article...

Thanks..

Mb   July 23rd, 2008 4:19 pm ET

Very Cute and down to earth. How nice to see parents training thier children the old fashiion way to appreciate and respect all that they have.

Lisa   July 23rd, 2008 4:18 pm ET

I'm glad they're preparing now!!!

Stacy Clarks   July 23rd, 2008 4:18 pm ET

LOVE THEM!!

Anonymous   July 23rd, 2008 4:17 pm ET

No it doesn't matter if he wins or not. You will still be the best candidate ever. Much love to the Obama family.

Thank you so much

susie   July 23rd, 2008 4:17 pm ET

And I won't be hearbroken either. Then every magazine and newspaper in this country can stop printing his picture.

Cheryl (Retired Vets for Obama)   July 23rd, 2008 4:17 pm ET

I love this family.......Go Obama 08

karen-phoenix   July 23rd, 2008 4:17 pm ET

Obama will NOT loose!!! Not only does America need him, the world needs him!!!! Obama is the only man to get us out of the mess the Bush Administration got us into. Out with the old and in with the new!!!!
Peace is Patriotic!!!

Jackson   July 23rd, 2008 4:16 pm ET

You mean "WHEN" he loses.

ClintonDem4Cynthia08   July 23rd, 2008 4:15 pm ET

Thats sweet. Too bad Cynthia McKinney is going to win this year. Maybe they can visit the White House on a tour or something? Maybe Cynthia will let them sleep over?

A nightingale Sings in Berkley Square   July 23rd, 2008 4:15 pm ET

I see Micheel and obam are still pimping their children for political purposes.

But I am not shocked. Didn't Ob ama invent the automobile and the TV.

He is long winded and will talk your leg off but then he will change his position. And if you are his friend, he will toss you under the bus.

Give me a break

Janice   July 23rd, 2008 4:14 pm ET

puke

Rudy NYC   July 23rd, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Cute kids. Nice family picture.

Is that Michelle or Vivica Fox?

Griff   July 23rd, 2008 4:13 pm ET

They are much more in touch... They have a right to be Children. First, last and centre...

Laura   July 23rd, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Have they thought about the fact that Obama won't be able to spend the quality time he does now if he is elected?

I mean look right now he has been away from them for 6 days, imagine when and if he is elected president and must be out of the country often (since he will be talking with IRAN and CUBA etc).

I think his daughters are adorable and need to continue to live in Chicago. So do a roll call for Hillary in Denver in 33 days. After all Chelsea is all grown up.

peakarach,des moines,IA   July 23rd, 2008 4:12 pm ET

COOL! I TRULY HOPE BARACK HUSSEIN OBAMA WILL GO DOWN JUST LIKE MCGOVERN,MONDALE AND DUKAKIS.

MCCAIN 08!
HILLARY 12!

A Woman In California For Obama   July 23rd, 2008 4:12 pm ET

I'm not quite sure about this statement. However, I do hope you win.

NC Attorney   July 23rd, 2008 4:12 pm ET

What a beautiful first family they will be!!

James in Ohio   July 23rd, 2008 4:12 pm ET

The Obama's spends "hundreds" on slumber parties? Wow.

I full well support the successful right to enjoy the fruits of their labors, but I also don't expect them to stop blathering on about how they identify with the common man.

PUMA power!

Wow.   July 23rd, 2008 4:12 pm ET

What a BEAUTIFUL FAMILY!

Anonymous   July 23rd, 2008 4:12 pm ET

Wow, our possible president using the a word like "nonplussed." What a welcome change from Dubya and McCain.

theresa in Prattville   July 23rd, 2008 4:11 pm ET

What a beautiful family.

Peg   July 23rd, 2008 4:11 pm ET

What a beautiful American family. :-)

EDW   July 23rd, 2008 4:11 pm ET

Obama, tell your daughters to pack their Barbies. California won't have it any other way. We want you in the White House.

Angus McDugan   July 23rd, 2008 4:11 pm ET

How touching... Wow, Obama is just one of us. Isn't he?

Ian   July 23rd, 2008 4:11 pm ET

Most kids don't like to see their parents sell their soul.

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ   July 23rd, 2008 4:09 pm ET

At least the girls are getting some sense of responsiblity since they have to do chores. I would hope that all parents can do that; teach the kids to do something to help around the house. From the description, they sound like other kids in that age range.

Tejano   July 23rd, 2008 4:08 pm ET

This man makes me PUKE.. He doesn't want his family involved, yet he parades them before the media. Give me a Break.

JDC // Ohio   July 23rd, 2008 4:08 pm ET

We conservatives will do our best to try to make Obama's family happy.

Deb, Allentown, PA   July 23rd, 2008 4:08 pm ET

Whatever your feelings on BO's candidacy, no one can say that these girls aren't being raised in a loving environment. They seem extremely well-grounded.

I do fear for their safety. Seeing the hatred of some of the people on these blogs, directed at the Obamas, really makes me wonder if any member of this family might be fair game for the right wingnuts.

Olive Oil (a-guhg-guhg-gugh)   July 23rd, 2008 4:08 pm ET

Hmm, what co-inky-dink... I won't be heartbroken either.

Bayou Joe   July 23rd, 2008 4:07 pm ET

What do you mean IF. You will lose and go back to the Chicago Hood.

Now that everyone knows who and what you are, you will be lucky to hold on to your Senate Seat at the next election.

Adam   July 23rd, 2008 4:07 pm ET

Republicans should be ashamed of themselves...they have become the Corrupt party and not the Conservative party! *tisk tisk

Roberta, NC   July 23rd, 2008 4:06 pm ET

OH PLEASE!!! And "most Americans" say he "cares about me and my problems"? THINK AGAIN, PEOPLE!

Mary Varnell   July 23rd, 2008 4:06 pm ET

I'm glad his daughters are handling the whole thing so well. I really hope they won't be too heartbroken when they have to move into the White House in January!

Confused   July 23rd, 2008 4:06 pm ET

Who in the world doesn't give Christmas or birthday presents to their children? This seems like the ultimate in post-American political correctness.

Clinton/McCain   July 23rd, 2008 4:06 pm ET

I'll be relieved when he's not elected.

R.I.F.   July 23rd, 2008 4:06 pm ET

Kind of sad shen you have to see your wife, and moreso, the mother of your childern being attacked by cowards like Hannity, Rush, and the GOP gang. I know it's part of the downfall of running for president but I bet a part of him just wants to go and ring those jerks necks. I even heard one Fox radio host, John gibson, talk about Malia.

ali   July 23rd, 2008 4:05 pm ET

thank you for your personal sacrifice.it must be difficult weighing one's family against the interests of one's country.our founding fathers made very similar sacrifices at the birth of our nation.you are a patriot sir,and i salute you!your country needs you ,now ,more than ever,and your supporters will not let you down.

Mike, TX   July 23rd, 2008 4:05 pm ET

My daughters will be estatic when Obama loses.

MD   July 23rd, 2008 4:05 pm ET

I've come to believe that the Political Ticker is not just news – its pretty much if anybody says anything about anything that remotely connects to politics, it goes in the Ticker. That's why we get everything from stories that really matter to ones like this, where we find out that, hey, Obama's daughters might be happy where they live. If the Ticker was about News worthyness, this wouldn't be there. After all, what children that age are thinking "sure, i want to leave my friends and life behind so I can live in a strange new place with strange new people"

:;shrugs::

Tim   July 23rd, 2008 4:04 pm ET

With John Magoo McCain shooting his mouth off with one mistake after another, why is this crap on the ticker??? You can only cover McSame for so long CNN!!!! Pretend it was Obama that said that the surge caused the great awakening, that Iraq and Pakistan share a common border, refer to Czechoslovakia that doesn’t exists (4 times), or blamed Obama for high gas prices and then praises Bush for low oil prices. This stuff would be plastered on you station 24/7. Now show some guts and report fairly.

Michael, Torrance, CA   July 23rd, 2008 4:03 pm ET

A lot of America won't be heart broken if Obama doesn't win either.

DflateMacsStr8TalkXpress: Econ MIA, AWOL on facts, POW from reality   July 23rd, 2008 4:03 pm ET

Can't wait for McCain and Rethuglicans to start picking on the kids now that Grampy Grumps is so desperate for attention. Maybe he can blame the Obama children for his brown lawn and dandelions this summer on his sprawling ranch and other six homes. I say give him all the attention he asks for so the world can see what an out of touch, lying doofus he really is.

Veronica from nj   July 23rd, 2008 4:02 pm ET

Cute!

Open Your 3rd Eye   July 23rd, 2008 3:59 pm ET

Please don't bring the children into this game. You know better CNN. I don't care about the bias complaints, you are wrong on this one.

STOP PANDERING TO MCCAIN AND HIS FALSE ACCUSATIONS.

YOLA   July 23rd, 2008 3:59 pm ET

But we would be Barack! McCain will cause death and destruction to our lives and way of life.

Jeff in Illinois   July 23rd, 2008 3:59 pm ET

Maybe his daughters own oil company stock and he doesn't know it! I'll be heartbroken if Mr. "Bomb Iran" wins and gasoline goes to $18/gallon.

No more useless wars, no more "debt & spend" policies devaluing the dollar. End the Neoconservative attack on the bottom 99%. VOTE OBAMA!

Independent in Iowa   July 23rd, 2008 3:59 pm ET

No Christmas presents!!! That's just crazy talk.

$1 a week allowance?! I got $5 back in the 80's – he must not understand the concept of inflation!

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