CHICAGO, Illinois (CNN) - President-elect Barack Obama pledged Tuesday to go through the federal budget "page by page, line by line" to eliminate excessive spending and get the economy back on track.
"If we are going to make the investments we need, we also have to be willing to shed the spending that we don't need," Obama said at a news conference in Chicago, Illinois.
"In these challenging times, when we're facing both rising deficits and a sinking economy, budget reform is not an option. It's a necessity," he said.
Watch Obama call for 'smarter' government
Obama said that he has selected Peter Orszag as his nominee for director of the Office of Management and Budget.
Orszag, the head of the Congressional Budget Office, is an expert on health care, pensions and Social Security policy. He worked at the Clinton White House as special assistant to the president at the National Economic Council and served on the Council of Economic Advisers.
The move comes a day after the president-elect announced key members of his economic team, including New York Federal Reserve President Tim Geithner as his choice for treasury secretary and former Treasury Secretary Larry Summers as his selection for chief of the National Economic Council.
Obama said Tuesday that there will be more announcements as he fleshes out the rest of his economic team.
Those named to Obama's economic team already have started working on crafting an economic recovery plan. Obama's team also must figure out how best to allocate the rest of the $700 billion bailout that Congress passed in October.
Obama said he hopes the new Congress will begin work on an aggressive economic recovery plan when it convenes in January so his administration can "hit the ground running."
An economic stimulus package is central to Obama's plan. Obama on Monday declined to speculate how big the stimulus would need to be, saying, "We are going to do what's required to jolt this economy back into shape."
Estimates for how much might be spent on a multiple-year stimulus package range as high as $500 billion to $700 billion. At the center of the plan are investments in the nation's roads, bridges, schools and alternative-energy infrastructure. Obama has said his plan will lead to the creation of 2.5
million jobs.
"At this moment, we need to restore both confidence in the markets and restore confidence of middle-class families, who find themselves working harder, earning less and falling further and further behind," he said Monday.
Obama said that the recovery will not happen immediately and predicted that the economy likely would get worse before it gets better.
"To make the investments we need, we'll have to scour our federal budget, line by line, and make meaningful cuts and sacrifices," he said.
Despite the problems facing his administration, Obama said Monday that he is "hopeful about the future."
"I have full confidence in the wisdom and ingenuity of my economic team and in the hard work, courage and sacrifice of the American people," he said.
Obama also is expected to give key Cabinet positions to two of his former presidential rivals, but those announcements are not expected Tuesday.
New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson is expected to be named secretary of commerce, and Obama aides also have said that Obama is "on track" to nominate Sen. Hillary Clinton of New York as his secretary of state after Thanksgiving.
(Updated 12:30 p.m.)
From CNN Politics
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The adults are back in charge. Yeah! Oh, wait, not until Jan. 20th. Can't we all vote to give Bush an early retirement?
finally. a voice of reason in the white house.
Obama is the son of a Jewish mother, must mean he is Jewish...which would explain the majority of his cabinet and key position choices thus far. He was put in there to promote the Zionist agenda of one world government and bring the US under the heel of the blasphemer! They will not succeed.
Not that I am complaining, but has anybody seen "W" lately? Seems Barack Obama has become de facto President even before inauguration. Not a bad idea, really.
Americans must accept the fact that things will get worse before it getting better. We will get through this and become a much better Country and better citizens because of it.
I actually think the transition team has done more than the sitting Administration.
Obama is going to be a great President. He's been doing everything right, taking leadership, selecting the right team, and shouldering real responsibility during this crisis.
Go O!
Let us see how he handles unexpected events such as 9/11 and all kinds of natural disasters. So far, all we have seen is promises, and cirticism of George Bush, to get elected, without any records or achievements of his own. It is the same old Democratic party's policy, nothing new, as human beings are imperfect, limited and sinful. It is the global problems, economically, polically and militarily, not just Obama's rheotric, "playing" with the mind, emotion and psychology of the the American people.
i am sure sos hillary, and her new presidential cabinet, will manage our country well.
Sweet!
I love how positive and steadfast Barack is.
YES WE CAN!
Obama is doing his best to get the economic team in place as quickly as possible. And yet, pundits and critics are complaining that he has not given any details about his plan!! Please use common sense. How can anyone give details to a plan when the team has just been out into place? It takes time, especially to work a very complex series of economic challenges. And besides, Obama doesn't become President for two more months!
No question he and his team will be running.....
The big questions are: –what will they be running towards?....can they get most of us to "run" with them?
As well as red penciling unncecessary spending, I'd like to see not just jobs but goods creation, perhaps through green products. We need to move from being so much of a services nation back to a goods/products manufacturing nation. If so many foreign car manufacturers build here, why do we send out?
This is great!!! Obama is doing a wonderful job. I have confidence that he is going to do all he can to get the economy back together. I don't think tha GW should get paid for the rest of his term since he is no longer working.
It is all imaginary. Out of arrogance, Mr. Obama invents the "Office of the President-Elect," there is no such office in existence. It is an insult to the constitution and the history of our founding-fathers, the tradition of the American people, our moral family values. A big laugh for the rest of the civilized world, as it is no child-play.
Thats right Barack hit that ground running, now if Bush would Just step aside and let you do your thing! Real nice to see someone who actually cares about whats going on in this country and the American People.Wish lame duck W Would do something but then again maybe its best he STAY OUT OF IT, ENOUGH DAMAGE HAS BEEN DONE BY HIM. YOU GO BARACK GET THIS COUNTRY ROLLING AGAIN!
I've been saying Clinton for Secretary of State for months.
It certainly feels good to have a wise leader who understands the complexities of the world in the White House again.
what a circus, at least we dont have to pay for the ticket! This is the best entertainment ever, watching the Messiah go back on every single campaign promise he made!
Most LIBS ever in one room and he talks about budget cuts? Yeah right!!!!!
It will take less than 12 months to have the deficit at records levels! So where will all the BUSH haters be that were screaming about spending last 8 years, when Obama will out spend that in one year!
Isn't it amazing the difference when you have someone competent going into the White House. It's called taking back America from the right wing nutjobs. To all of you who voted for President Elect Obama, Congratulations on an exquisite choice in leaders.
Sound like he is keeping his promise to make change for this country like never before. I am hopeful also that he will do everything necessary to get this country running smoothly once again and to bring peace throught the region of all nations. It may not happen over night nor in the next months to come but I believe it will come.
Therefore, to those who doubt and is waiting for him to fail, keep waiting for you will be waitig for a very long time and that time will be 2016 when his term is over. Yes, you too will enjoy the fruit of this labor even though you doubt and desire that he fail. May God have mercy on you all.
Thank God we have someone in office who gets it. He's surrounding himself not only with the best minds available but with those who are not afraid to roll up their sleeves and get to work.
I shudder to think what would be going on right now (or perhaps more accurately what would NOT be going on right now) in regard to the economy if McCain had won.
Interesting! There was nothing in this article about Nabors.
I'm more impressed by Obama every day. He will be a great President.
In response to OPE – would you rather Mr. Obama sit back on his haunches while the economy goes down the toilet??? I applaud Mr. Obama for putting his cabinet in order and speaking of decisive action to done (hopefully) before he gets into office and then from Day 1 of his administration.
It sounds like you have some sour grapes in your mouth. Go enjoy them somewhere else.
office of president elect
Your comments are so laughable. Why are you picking something so petty to wine about when we have a number of things going on in our country? It appears you are the only loser that's consider this an insult, after all he is the president elect, DUH!! Stop your hating and find something else to put that negtive energy into.
Office of the President-Elect
Hey, did you just step off the stupid train? Are you so angry that you rather see Mr. Obama fail as a President and the USA go down as well, than see that he is trying to help us even before he is in office?
Hate for yourself and your country, that's all you have left.
To "Office of the President-Elect" @12:36 pm
His actions are being done by default, since W and crew are just busy finishing their final rape of the American people with the midnight reg changes. Leadership is needed one way or the other, because a vacuum is disastrous (just look at the markets recently, if you're in doubt of that), and since W has never been up to that task, I'm pleased as punch that President Obama has stepped up. Man up! Get with the program and on board! Or, at least stop whining and carping.
I still feel Hillary Clinton should've been the next president. However, I hope Obama will keep as many promises as possible, and do his best, but c'mon, he's using the Clinton administration to run the country, why not Hillary as their leader? What does that say when you're promoting change, only to use ideas from the past? Hmmm, that means they probably worked. Still should've been Hillary up there.
Obama didn't invent the office of president-elect. He is merely detailing to the American public what he will be doing (emphasis on future tense) once he is officially in office. It is amazing how people are complaining about Obama and the man hasn't worked a day as President yet. Wait 5 minutes for him to be President and then complain.
Hopefully, with Mr. Orszag's help, this administration will provide the funding necessary to keep Social Security intact. It was absolutely wrong for "W" and his cutthroats to use social security funding to back up their poor fiscal practices. It is absolutely wrong to consider allowing social security funding to go to illegals for their work in the U.S. If this is to be allowed, why not allow other criminals to accrue social security benefits for their work done behind bars?? Wrong, wrong, wrong!!! Those who contributed to it and worked for it (legally) should enjoy the benefits. Go for it, Mr. President-elect!! It's about time someone makes some positive moves on all of the problems facing this country. If you want to talk arrogance: Arrogance, ignorance and stupidity = Bush!! Hurry, January!
To Office of the President-Elect...please don't forget how the constitution was trampled on under Bush and his administration. The fact that Obama is preparing to hit the ground running with his administration speaks volumes. He's preparing a stellar cabinet to help the U.S. get back on it's feet after 8 years under failed Bushenomics. Don't be afraid of change. Change is a good thing.
We also want fresh blood to compensate for the more entrenched pick thus far. Trial and error, innovation and progress are part of America's fabric.
Office fo the President-Elect
Where have you been? Obama is actually doing something because the lame-duck Bush guy is doing nothing but "having coffee with Paulson". What is wrong with you wingnuts that you cannot take a favorable and authoritative approach by the incoming President, and give it it's rightful praise. This country has had enough of George do-nothing Bush. It is time to move on. Stop stressing over your lost election and get behind the new president. People like you need to do your part, rather than continue to try to tear down the President-Elect's efforts, in the interest of your own selfish partisanship.
Regarding an earlier post:
While there is no official Office of the President-Elect, it was hardly created out of arrogance. Mr. Obama is showing that he is prepared and making the transition to be President. In a time when our current president is a lame duck (as he has been for a while), it is important for someone to step up and be a leader. Now, to you, "Office of the President-Elect," if you are going to select a minor detail rather than recognize Mr. Obama's incredible leadership and poise before he is even president (essentially saving Bush in doing so), you are proving your own ignorance.
All this "bailout" talk is not helping the American people. You continue to give money to rich people who are going to tuck the money away into their savings accounts. However there are people like me who did not bite off more than they can chew and got caught up in this mess. I think since the U.S. already has all of our names, addresses, and social security numbers they should cut the check to the American people(not $600.00, and the $300.00 I was cheated out of) who are in a positon where we can't save the money but we can pay our late mortgages, late home equity loans, late gas & electric bill, late phone bills, late car payments, buy our kids some food and clothing for winter and I bet the economy will get back on track. It is just crazy to keep bailing these idiots out. Granted there were no regulations for them to manage their business, and their was no one to reprimand them for what they were doing, and that is how we are in this mess today. For once would someone send this e-mail to Barak and his team of Financial gurues and get the ball rollin. I am tired of watching bail out crap in the morning as I get ready for work and in the evening after I come home late at night from the second job. Help me, my head is spinning, and I don't have private plains to fly in and pick up my check. I will actually drive my Honda Accord that needs maintenace work on it as well.
Office of the President-Elect November 25th, 2008 12:36 pm ET
It is all imaginary. Out of arrogance, Mr. Obama invents the "Office of the President-Elect," there is no such office in existence. It is an insult to the constitution and the history of our founding-fathers, the tradition of the American people, our moral family values. A big laugh for the rest of the civilized world, as it is no child-play.
___________________________________________–
oh shut up! WE know there is no 'office of president – elect ' duh! BUT if he did not come out and speak then you people will say ' Obama is hiding bla bla bla bla ... ' So he is speaking and you write your lame speech ......
It is so nice to have an intelligent, inspirational President and First Lady to look to.
I understand that Obama doesn't have all the answers, but at least he understands the questions, unlike war criminals, bush and cheney.
Am impressed with Barack Obama and his team. They intend
to attack problems head on, which has been greatly lacking in
the present administration.
It has taken eight years to bring these diasters to our country,
and, will most certainly take time to try and bring our country
back to where it once was.
The biggest obstacle will be getting the republicans to work
with them to undo all the damage they have done. Saw where
they have a fund raiser going to "fight the left;s agenda",
That sure tells you they are putting country first???
Office of the President-Elect November 25th, 2008 12:36 pm ET
It is all imaginary. Out of arrogance, Mr. Obama invents the "Office of the President-Elect," there is no such office in existence. It is an insult to the constitution and the history of our founding-fathers, the tradition of the American people, our moral family values. A big laugh for the rest of the civilized world, as it is no child-play.
-----------------
Would you rather things go the same way as the previous 8 years? He promised change, and he's already started it, and you can't handle it. Too bad.
I'm glad to see Obama doin' his thang. He da man!
does he need to give a speech EVERY day? Geesh.
everytime he speaks, the dow drops. We were up +42, then we go down -127 after the speech. Enough already.
Somebody sound upset, Office of the President-Elect!
I guess some of you would just as soon Obama said and did nothing until Jan. while the standing President does nothing.l Some of you still believe that Bush is a great President. Some of you believe in the tooth fairy. The rest of the world is not laughing at Obama, they are laughing at you. The only insult to the constitution has be the number of times that Bush has thrown it out the window. Office of the President-Elect, you are fool, and that is putting it very very mildly.
So, you would rather nothing be done until Jan 20th? If this was normal economic times I would agree. If we had a president who was interested in leading, then I would agree. But since this isn't and we don't, I stronly disagree.
"It is all imaginary. Out of arrogance, Mr. Obama invents the "Office of the President-Elect," there is no such office in existence. It is an insult to the constitution and the history of our founding-fathers, the tradition of the American people, our moral family values. A big laugh for the rest of the civilized world, as it is no child-play."
It's the economy, stupid!
You idiot that is complaining about the name of an office. Are you totally out of touch with what is going on around you? Who cares about him putting "office of the presiden-elect" on his podium. The important thing is that he fix the economy so that people can have a decent life again. The economy is in CRISIS and you are complaining about a name. You are a true IDIOT.
Dear Mr. Office of the President of the Elect..check your history and records...this argument has already been challenged, there IS AN ENTITY already in existence for the offoce of the President Elect...and stop hating , it is not good for your health!!!
I wonder about the specifics of the plan he has. I hope it is realistic. I hope Obama does well for everyone's sake. As far as all these bailout go, it does not seem like a good sign that he is supporting all these types of big business bailouts while placing the tax burden on the citizens.
Is Bush taking notes?
katiec......."Saw where they have a fund raiser going to "fight the left;s agenda", That sure tells you they are putting country first??? '
Couldn't agree with you more.
Its good to see him hitting the ground running, I'm curious as far as his stamina however, his track record is short, and he has yet to finish a term in any elected office, we will just have to wait and see.
Bush gives the words "lame duck presidency" a new meaning. Could he just leave the keys under the welcome carpet
He is at least saying all the right things at this point.There is going to be a hell of alot of work to be done to right a listing ship,some of it will
be welcome,some not very,but at least the appearance seems to show that he has a grasp of the magnitude of the problems and what has to be done to fix them.Something the current President never seemed to convey.
It has been such a long time since we have been able to hear precise,sound understandable and truthful words from our current President. Listening to OBAMA these last weeks as he has confronted and told us the way things are to be dealt with, reaffirms my "hopes" for the economy of this country. Things will be different and difficult no doubt for an extended period of time. But in having OBAMA and the capable team he is forming address these issues head on gives me even more confidence in him than when I voted for him.The road will be winding and bumpy but we will come out of this as a better "United States".
There may be no "official" office of the president-elect, but the term has been in existence at least since the Nixon era.
Accusing Obama of "inventing" this office is like claiming Al Gore "invented" the internet. Both are ridiculous.
Guess I should have just voted for the Clinton Family Circus.
Hey, "Office of the President-Elect", at least there were no turkeys getting slaughtered in the background.
How stupid can these wing-nuts be? Come on folks.....accept reality.
Folks keep talking about Obama's use of the Clinton people for his cabinet. To quarrel about that at a time such as this, is ignorance. Obama would be a fool to not tap the best and brightest to handle the gimormous problem that this country is facing.
We should all be that humble, and in tune.
Uh.. what happened to the tax you said you would impose on the %5 to get us out of this mess?? Oh you didn't mean that??? That is change alright..
Change we can all believe in! All politicians lie..
To Office of the Pres Elect
O said we only have one pre at a time or perhaps you didn't notice because you were busy inventing ways to whine..or too ingulfed in your own rhetoric to notice that.. but then you are a repug.. (aka no thought process). There is an office of the president elect (aka transition office).. why not save your whining and crying for real issues..don't worry you'll have 8 yrs to whine so save your bile for a rainy day..
What I don't get is if all these "experts" have been populating the government, the universities, the research tanks, then why are we in the mess we are in? Being an expert doesn't equate with success when it comes to real world realities. Obama can build that brain trust because he really is an elitist. Now let's see if Mr. Change can deliver.
Office of the President-Elect November 25th, 2008 12:36 pm ET
It is all imaginary. Out of arrogance, Mr. Obama invents the "Office of the President-Elect," there is no such office in existence. It is an insult to the constitution and the history of our founding-fathers, the tradition of the American people, our moral family values. A big laugh for the rest of the civilized world, as it is no child-play.
Isn't it time now to put all of this silliness away. Somehow I don't think that I would be so bitter if John McCain won instead. He (Mr. Obama) is the President-Elect, if the communications come from his office, then it is the Office of the President-Elect. Look at our economy and just how bad it is, can't you find something better or more productive to discuss or debate? It's a new day and whether you choose to celebrate and stand behind OUR new president doesn't matter. He's still the president and he is currently being very "Presidential" if I do say so myself!
Office of the President-Elect
Look at your 401K if you have one dude! or your stock portfolio. Do you see anything that looks imaginary? You feel like laughing now?
It seems to me that every time Hank Poulson appears in front of a microphone or the press he looks hunted and haunted.. He looks mentally unstable.. I wonder if he has anxiety and depression issues. He must have if he has a conscience.. Whenever he appears in front of the cameras and makes an announcement.. the stocks go down..
When Barack Obama appears in front of the cameras, the stocks go up.
He evokes an aura of calm and stability.
Obama must be driving those thick skulled conservatives crazy. He's a well spoken, intelligent, knowledgable, thoughtful confident leader. All this in contrast to Bush and Palin who can't complete a intelligible sentence and have not an ounce of sense between them.
Yes, Mr. President-Elect! It is good that you are a fitness buff and not a lazy slob. While you hit the ground running, please trample all manner of evil which has beset this country! Too bad that your task will be akin to that of a glorified janitor who will be expected to clean up and fumigate the land ASAP. Yikes, it sounds like 1830 revisited!!
Obama forgot to add those fake marble pillars as his backdrop.
billary's cabinet is coming along well.
ATTENTION TO ALL POSITIVE PEOPLE:
How are you guys today? Ready to get this country back for our children? I feel great about President-Elect Obama and his forward thinking. Remember guys, we are ignoring the negative comments so that we can enjoy our Thanksgiving with our positive thinking family and friends. Happy Turkey Day!!
He sounds more Republcan everyday.
Nice to see Congress grill the big three for 25 billion. But hey! That 13 billion that was embezzled over in Iraq and the 10 billion it cost to run that war.........................get real people.
It's well past time we finally instilled some fiscal responsibility in our government by tackling the waste and combining like functions. I'd hit Homeland Security first and put it in DOD where it belongs and then overhaul DOD for the new Anti-terror mission, then look at FEMA to replace James Lee Witt's plans making it reliable once again. Dump that stupid No Moron Left Behind stuff and improve education as a whole. President Obama's line by line audit of the budget will provide him the long sought after Line Item Veto after the fact. Hopefully, he can finally end the do nothing Congresses with a work ethic and stop the toe tappers from taking over!!!
"It is amazing how people are complaining about Obama and the man hasn't worked a day as President yet. "
Brandon, you have a problem with people complaining about the President-Elect but have no problem with people annointing him the next Messiah? Shocking...
The reality is that Presidents always get things rolling before they take office. It's his arrogance that people are complaining about. He just made his own office with his own sign...just like when he created a presidential seal for himself when he was running for office, just like when he put himself on a Greek Temple stage at the convention, just like when he created his own tv channel. I hope he can pull us out of the mess this administration created but the arrogance is a little much.
Hopeful for Tomorrow November 25th, 2008 12:30 pm ET
"I actually think the transition team has done more than the sitting Administration."
____________________________________________________
100% accurate. Enough said.
Intelligence is coming back to the White House.
Competency is coming back to the White House.
Hope is coming back to America.
The Consitution will once again be the legal foundation of this country, not a 'piece of parchment signed by old guys in white wigs over 200 years ago'.
America is coming back.
My gosh, 8 years of stupidity and uselessness, of narcissism and nepotism, of Consitutitonal violations - now we're actually going to have someone who can do the job of the president sitting in the Oval Office.
This has been a long time coming.
Obama is doing what he has to do. Any person who got into office right now would have to do the same. It is a necessity to get the Country on the right track, and the people surrounding Obama will do just that, not the so-called President-Elect – what is that!!
Also the standing President (Bush) will step aside when it is time to do so.
Mr. "President-Elect" are you going to put your hand on the "Holy Bible" when you are sworn in like every other true American President has done since the beginning of time?
CNN: What happened to my post?
Nothing offensive in it.
Just expressing my appreciation and gratitude for Obama's forsight, determination and intelligence. He is thinking everything thru and preparing for the daunting task he is taking over. He seems to me to have put more thought into where the country should be going and how to get it there in 3 weeks than Bush's admin had done in 8 years.
To Office of the President-Elect:
Your comments defy reason. What a crock.
Lord, please bless the intellectually less fortunate souls that believe in trickle down economics. Grant them enough intelligence to see through the fear tactics of those that seek to use them for their own gain. Please allow them to see that you cannot blame Clinton for the eight years after his presidency (Future) while blaming the Democratic Congress for our current situation (Present) and Obama for the two months prior to his Presidency (Past). Please show them that people with different colors on their skin are every bit as good if not better than themselves. Grant them the humility to realize that they have no right to project their own flawed morals upon others that seek to share their lives together in peace and tolerance. Show them that you cannot drill for more oil and protect our planet at the same time. Lord, please raise the price of gas continuously until we finally find something else. Please teach them how to spell so they don't look so dumb when they try to respond to this.
Laura – you sound like everybit of what we don't need in this country.
Why are we still posting question that Hillary should be President. Just to answer your question, Hillary would most certain have almost the same team Obama is putting together. I'll prefer a Experience team who have tackle these problems before versus a team of unknown who never faced this sort of challenges before. Only image who would be on Mccain team. ouch!!!
We need to bail out the banks and auto.
Obama need to take a step back and let President Bush take care of the economy. He'll have his chance soon enough.
Obama = Good
OMG, how can you call this man arrogant?? Seriously, after the last 8 years you can honestly find yourself calling Obama arrogant. Wow! I guess haters will always be haters!!
GO in your hole and cry some more.
Maybe "Office of the President-Elect" would like to help move things along by having Bush and Cheney's airline schedules booked for the Hague war crimes tribunal. C'mon, I've got moral family values too, I just don't think an alcoholic and his friend do–do you?!
I can't even think of where to start after reading Office of the President Elect. Obviously this person never studied beyond the 3rd grade, has not picked up a newspaper, listened to a new program or watched television. Wait a minute! It must be Sarah Palin posting!
the rookie does not have line item veto.
bobby rubin, tell him know!
To the Office of President Elect Poster. President Elect Obama is doing more to project calm and present a plan that George le canard. It is not out of any 'arrogance', he is doing something our sitting President does not know anything about: being Presidential. An insult to our founding fathers is leading the American people to war on groundless accusations, spying on its citizens and circumventing the Constitution and the Bill of Rights in the process.
Not including taking the side of big oil and big business and not the side of the 'We, the People'. An insult to our family values is when a President does not support legislation that allows research that could extend a child or parent's life, or takes the side of insurance rather than the insured. In case you didn't notice, the rest of the world says "Thank you for electing Obama".
Talk the talk Obama,the Democrats in Congress will have not let anybody kill there pork barrel projects-welcome to Washington !!You better start buttering up the Republicans if you expect to cut cost on anything--It's all B.S. for the press anyway !!
Chris...Does Bush know how to take a note? lol
Office of the President-elect: Do you really see the rest of the civilized world laughing at Barack? If so, take your medicine. It's dangerous to be out there unmedicated. They aren't laughing - they are cheering.
Bush treated this job as child's play for eight years, destroying our constitution, our economy, and our environment. He certainly seems to be trying to get his last shots in for repealing all environmental protection laws. Does that bother you and your "moral family values"? What about Obama and the "Office of the President-Elect" bothers you so much? Maybe it's time we do create that as a position since he's the only one who's actually leading the country right now.
This country will always be brought down by the ignorant among us...
Does he have a blue sign ready for the presidential bathroom?
Office of the President Elect needs to find something to do with his/her time. I find it quite refreshing to have someone capable of understanding the economy, job creation, the market and the budget getting ready to hit the ground running for US. I am sure some government programs will be cut come January 20 but we really need to suck it up and do more for ourselves. Change is not always pleasant...but we're getting no where in a hurry. Go Barack
Am impressed with OBAMA and l hope he will do everythings in power to return this great Nation on tract .Now he is showing power of intelligent that is very positive and l pray hard for him .
If Obama can do as much as President as he already has as President-Elect (putting together a second-to-none transition team), we're in for a GREAT 8 years! He not only talks CHANGE, he seems to be walking the talk. Nice to have a President (Elect) we can look up to and respect again for a change. I look for great things from our future First Lady, too!
This is in response to : Office of President-Elect
Just by your shear ignorance, you must be from Alaska !!!
Wow, an intelligent president, who talks to the American people like they're adults.
This is going to take some getting used to! I'll be glad to make the adjustment, though. If anyone's ever been dealt a handful of really bad cards, it's Obama; Bush and the Republicans have created a hellacious mess that's going to be difficult to undo. But if anybody can play those bad cards well, it'll be Barak.
Sounds like a plan. There is too much waste and corruption due to the influence-peddling of lobbyists that literally write their own legislation to bankroll agendas.
Time to trim the excess and greed of the big $ lobbies. Corrupt politicians need to take heed and stop taking bribes.
Micheal – you're kidding, right? Letting Bush take care of the economy is akin to letting Micheal Vick take care of your dog.
MICHAEL
Thanks but no thanks enough of Bush already we are trying to save our Economy and country not destroy it more!
Cori from Colorado,
Obama and Hillary have two different mandates that is the difference. The supporting team can be similar, but very different directions.
Using sports as analogy! When teams are underperforming, the board look to change the top line management, namely the team coach, hoping to give a different strategy and breathe of fresh air.
Don't worry, Hillary will get a shot at the top job come 2012!
Anyone remember the scene from DAVE where he led the cabinet in a line item review of spending and put the axe to the pork? We, the people, remain hopeful this scene will become reality.
To office of the president elect:
Are you kidding? Or just mentally incapacited?
The civilized world has been laughing for 8 years at the current administraion and the ignorant people like you who voted them in TWICE! The joke is finally over. Perhaps you should put your Bible, your rifle, and your Rush Limbaugh fan club membership card down and try traveling the world. You'd find the laughter has been replaced with hope and admiration.
Your opinion is a joke. Try finding something constructive to do. Books are your friends.
Office of the President-Elect: Why is it insulting to our morals for President-elect Obama (I love typing that!) to establish this office? I think it's great that he is informing us of his intentions rather than holing up in an office and claiming "pre-Executive privlege" any time he's asked a question. There was no Department of Homeland Security before it was created. Was it an insult to our Constitution, history, tradition, and moral family values (what does that even mean?) to create it?
And to Cori: Hillary did not win, get over it already! SHE DID NOT WIN, AND WILL NEVER WIN! Be happy President-elect Obama got elected. He has almost no difference in policy issues from Hillary. The big difference is Hillary would not have this huge amount of goodwill built up as President-elect Obama does. If you think President-elect Obama is getting it badly (see: post from Office of the President-Elect) please know that Hillary would be getting is 1000x worse.
RE: "Obama need to take a step back and let President Bush take care of the economy. He'll have his chance soon enough." He sat back all this time, said there was only one president, and said it again today, but every pundit, and many more people have been begging for him to say something. Now he cautiously says something, and you want him to keep quiet again. I ask you Michael, where is Bush?
Clearly, he can't fulfill all his promises
Obama is right to step up to the plate for an Obama recovery as soon as possible if necessary beginning next month.
Let the plan and Obama recovery begins!
Hopeful for Tomorrow wrote "I actually think the transition team has done more than the sitting Administration." I agree. Amen!
Michael November 25th, 2008 1:15 pm ET : WROTE, Obama need to take a step back and let President Bush take care of the economy. He'll have his chance soon enough.
Michael surely you jest!!. What is Bush going to do in 56 days to make up for the past 8 yrs? As far as I'm concerned he could move back to Texas NOW and no one would notice given the
non-leadership he has shown during this crisis.
Our economy is like a FAT man, dying of a heart-attack, and the doctor is OFF-DUTY. The more we can do now to help people, the better off we'll be. The more the OFF-DUTY doctor can do something about the heart-attack, the better off the FAT man will be.
I think just getting an intelligent leader in the driver's seat reduces my anxiety about the economy knowing that he is hitting the ground running. I think some people speak their mind out of envy and fear. There will always be people that will be afraid of change. I have total confidence in my President elect, Barrack Obama and his team. This is history in the making where a President elect takes charge while while the current President waiting for his time to run out, which happened along time ago at the expense of the taxpayers.
The election is over. Now is the time to fully support the President Elect who is inheriting formidable problems. The sooner everyone pulls together...the sooner we'll get out of this mess. Negativity only tears this country down, it doesn't build it up. Let's Roll!
Obama Is Not Even The President Yet And He Is Doing A Better Job Than Bush! Bush Is Not Doing Anything Except Giving Pardons To His Criminal Friends!
The invention of the "Office of the President-Elect," demonstrates Obama’s extraordinary leadership skills in this time of crisis. There is nothing imaginary about it at all. . He provides access for those who have a need to access him in anticipation of his pending position as leader of the free world. There is a physical office, staffed and organized around the issues Obama is presently involved with. He is approaching this task in the organized and effective manner in which he ran his campaign. His efforts are having a positive effect on stabilizing the market and if he did not do this he would be criticized much more for not doing what he can, especially considering the financial melt down going on right now.
Does anyone know how much the practice of "house flipping",have to do with the housing and mortgage crisis we now face.I dont hear it mentioned,but my friends in the market say they are hiding it.
To Cori from Colorado:
Quit the whining about Hillary, will you! Please, you sound like a an idiot.
Hillary didn't win. The best candididate won. Got it? And as for your ridiculous remark that Obama is using Clinton people to run the country (or something like that) let me remind you that POLICY effects change, not the identity of someone's past employer.
Obama '08–'12
America would be really be up a creek if we had to wait until March, 2009.
That was the way it was prior to the 20th admendment.
President -Elect is working forward for our country because of the degree of working backward by our current President and his Cabinet.
They might need to hold a press conference together soon or a prayer breakfast in the White House before January 20th.
Hillary 2012?? If we dont STICK together NOW, there will be NO AMERICA,. We need to make sure we PLANT our roots NOW firmly in long-term goals to see light at the end of the tunnel in 2016. I remembered I was watching a documentary on some firemen/policemen and when Katrina struck, they HELD on to a twiggy plant outside the office. The TWIG had its root deeply entranched on Mother Earth and it saved them all. A TWIG withstanding Katrina? Yes, all in the name of being deeply rooted....
When Mr Obama takes office, and he has not or cannot take it yet, then after the real Obama shows himself, then all of you that are four him, can sit back and wonder how the man got into office. He is going to put us back into the same fix that Clinton left us with and that Bush has tried to fix for the last eight years. So go ahead and laugh it up while you can because one day you will be crying so hard you won't be able to see your hand in front of your face.
OFFICE of the PRESIDENT ELECT !!!! what a pompus, egotistical, elitist person...Barry Obama is truly a con artist from Chicago
How can it be a SMARTER government when the people leading it are all the same players from a different administration?
It's not change, it's not smarter – it's what people said of the other candidate – MORE OF THE SAME!!!
CNN – why won' t you post my comments?
Office of the President-Elect
The American people need to see our President elect because our current "President" has been MIA on the economy for the past 8 years.
Finally, a President that can hold a news conference without butchering the English language........
55 days left...Hang in there America
How many ways are there to restate what the media is saying? I see it all over these boards. I sure hope this new administration does a good job, because judging by most comments here, it is evident that the American public has lost its ability to think critically.
BRAVO, BRAVO, BRAVO – This is the best I've heard yet from our President-Elect!!!!!! You have my whole-hearted support on this one. May this "trickle down" to state and local budgets as well. Albany Democrats are you listening to your President-Elect? Feel free to follow suit!!!!
To Indie PA-
I agree about Social Security but I think you've been watching to much Lou Dobbs. Illegals pay into the system of Social Security thru employer deducted payroll taxes. They are NEVER able to then claim those benefits later on. So they pay in and get nothing in return.
I think where your talking points should focus is on the welfare apect as the main sticking point for "illegals, illegals" fear mongering that gets spewed out by Dobbs. But even that, is just a tiny miniscule sliver of our welfare budget. And eliminating one big corporations welfare package they get from the Republicans would essentially pay for those beneifts.
Yep okay every President has said they would go page by page when they take office it hasn't happened yet.
To Cori from CO
I dreamed and wanted Hillary for Prez, but I believe Obama is the man for the job. The Obama team has the management skills and judgement to sweep every corner of America. They will server America well. The Clintons have the experience and they too, will serve us well. Currently , the two BEST poltiical rivals are FUSED at the hips. Obama's team will manage and the Clinton BRAIN will power it. THis is the best of the best running the country. The next step is for all of us to PRAY. We have been ushered into a new Anti-Christ age so just BUCKLE up.
I will be happy if the %40 who dont pay taxes actually start paying the piper epecially since they use majority of the services. I keep reading from you people those who make over 250K have had a free trip over the last 8 years give me a break.......It is called education and hard work, try it instead of soaking off me.
What do you liberals like to call the lazy and enemployed "Going Through Hard Times"
Mr. Obama YOU ROCK!!! This man will work tirelessly for this country and it's people and anyone who can't see that is just plain stupid. He is not a miracle worker and please don't expect miracles. The village idiots (oops, I mean the current administration) have done nothing and frankly don't care. All we get are smiles from them because each of them can now ride off into the sunset of the priviledged few. They never had a clue. But Mr. Obama, wow, intelligence and a great work ethic. We've made a good choice folks! This man doesn't waste a minute! A choice by the people, for the people. What could be better.
The Messiah has become a Republican...............welcome aboard
To Office of the President-Elect
Obama arrogant? I think Obama wanted to take some time off and relax, but he doesnt quite have an option. It's a good thing he's on top of things. This shows he CARES about AMERICA.
Michael November 25th, 2008 1:15 pm ET
Obama need to take a step back and let President Bush take care of the economy. He'll have his chance soon enough.
--------------
It seems that Bush himself wants Obama to start early. This is being done with W's blessing (go figure!)
How refreshing to see the proactiveness of the incoming administration. Very little of this would be necessary if GWB and pals hadn't nearly destroyed this country. At this point in his "presidential-elect' phase, all GWB was worried about was how fast he and his cowboys could invade Iraq. Your no- mission- accomplished presidency is UP, George. Please don't ask anyone in America for references on your upcoming job search.
I'm still laughing about that one clown calling the notion of an "Office of the President-elect" an insult to our moral family values.
Funny...the people complaining will be the first ones reaching for a hand out.
Mr. Obama has a little less than two months before taking office AND you folk have started the attack game already.
Where were you over the past eight years of madness; did you really like what you received?
Oh wait; you are the very wealthy who will be saked to pay a little more taxes and given the fact that you have all made hundreds of millions already, giving back a little should be ok for now.
Obama is with more ambitions to become a good president. He is very cautious about the mistakes others made in the past.
That is a good attitude for a top CEO of a country. Americans will praise Obama for ever!
How wonderful to have man "take the bull by the horns" and get something done!!! Bush is just standing around with his tumb you know where and can not put a sentence together let alone understand what his administration has done to this country!!!
Thank you sooooo much for taking charge President Obama and bless you and your team. You have big job ahead of you but this week I feel like we have a true leader that cares about the American people and not just the very wealthy and what they can get out of the poor!!!
Sounds like his advisors are talking some sense into him.
Do not raise capital gains or any other taxes.
As written in Real Clear Politics, Obama doesn't know anything about economics. Its just that McCain admitted it.
He needs a good cabinet with people who know what they are talking about since he doesn't know anything. They will make the policies an he will go along with it. Just a figure head.
It is all imaginary. Out of arrogance, Mr. Obama invents the "Office of the President-Elect," there is no such office in existence.
Point in fact, if you go to Chicago, you'll find the Office of the President-Elect exists, and that it's guarded by Secret Service, filled with paid staff doing important work, and headed by President-Elect Obama.
The fact that it's not in the constitution doesn't mean he doesn't have an office to work out of. It just means his office has no constitutional authority.
You can call it arrogant if you want, but even President Bush recognizes the importance of Obama using this time to lay the groundwork for his presidency, and IMHO Bush has been remarkably accommodating.
Office of the President-Elect
What would you have him call it?
How about, The Office of the Guy Who is Taking Over for the Bumbling Boob Who Got Us Here?
TO Hopeful for Tomorrow November 25th, 2008 12:30 pm ET
I actually think the transition team has done more than the sitting Administration.
DITTO,DITTO.
I will say an extra prayer for all the Obama haters......I know you all still can't believe he won but it's going to be ok....this is your chance to show your human side....
i THINK THE PEOPLE WHO ARE COMPLAINING NEED TO GO AND HANG OUT WITH SARAH PALIN , MAYBE SHE'LL HELP YOU SLAUGHTER YOUR THANKSGIVING TURKEY THAT BUSH STOLE FROM YHOUR DINNER TABLE .......................
I donated $25 to Obama and then I bought that $75 Runway to Change bracelet (which turned out to be a dog collar) from the Obamastore. But even I think Obama is being too loud about his plans for when he takes the presidency. As he stated before, there is one government at a time.
He definitely needs to be working and putting together a team, and formulating a plan. And I understand that a lot of people, especially on here, feel that Bush is incompetent and Obama is competent, and therefore Obama should just take over now. That is what makes them okay with Obama doing anything that he chooses to do right now.
But I feel that to be respectful of our Constitution, Obama should do everything he is doing quietly, and not make announcements about it. I don't know if I would call it arrogance like the below poster, but I do feel it's wrong.
It doesn't matter how much you hate Bush or how much he makes your blood boil. Respect for the Presidential Office and for the Constitution means respecting it no matter who is presently in office.
I don't need to care what anyone says about Mr. Obama anymore, he's been elected, I'm happy and everyone else can learn to deal.
To Cori from Colorado November 25th, 2008 12:47 pm ET
If you still feel Hillary Clinton should've been the next president, then you are just like John McCain during the Campaign, YOU DON'T GET IT, and I wonder if you will ever do!
"THERE IS NO OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT ELECT???"
Well thank God there is a PRESIDENT ELECT. People like you need prayer.
Maybe you will be happy with My President Elect going into hiding until
innauguration day??? May peace be with you.
Cori and Office of the President Elect...Bawhahahaha! You two haters made my day. I love how underestimation by those of your ilk are exactly why you have to hail to the incoming chief...44th President of the United States of America....Barack Obama. Don't choke on it now you here! *wink* *wink*
Does no one listen to what President Elect Barack Obama says? He told us where some of the money for the new budget was coming from. A lot of the money will come from cut programs that do not work. I believe that there is enough wasted money in the current budget to pay for a lot what is needed. I am much impressed with the picks for the cabinet; President Elect Barack Obama is making to lead us out of this mess. In his campaign, Barack Obama, said he did not yes men in his cabinet, but those who would challenge him, so he could make good decisions. I see that he is keeping the statement he made. I believe that he will try to keep all of his promises. However, we must give him time to do it. RWM
Cori,
We must remember it wasn't Hillary who was President before, it was Bill. All those previous Clinton advisors being folded into Obama's new administration were chosen and hired by Bill not Hillary.
Hillary's political career is best measured by her stint as Senator, not by her husband's tenure as President. In the Senate, she is a minor player. She did not win the election. The better candidate won.
Serving as Secretary of State will be a huge career boost for her. I think Obama will be back up for reelection in 2012, so Clinton won't be an option.
Obama is interested in results for the larger good, not politics. It's the rest of us with our special interests that are crying foul.
BRAVO, BRAVO, BRAVO – Best news I've heard yet out of The Office of the President-Elect (it's OK to call it that, since that's what is is!) This is the sort of "trickle down" we need. NY Democrats in Albany – Are you listening to The President-Elect (one of your own!!) Please, feel free to follow suit!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Man we are screwed what are we going to do four more years of a bad situation.
"It is all imaginary. Out of arrogance, Mr. Obama invents the "Office of the President-Elect," there is no such office in existence. It is an insult to the constitution and the history of our founding-fathers, the tradition of the American people, our moral family values. A big laugh for the rest of the civilized world, as it is no child-play."
LOL There WAS an election, and Mr. Obama IS OUR PRESIDENT ELECT! There have always been executive transition teams...and they work ...in offices...so just how does this insult "Traditional" American values? (By 'traditional and founding fathers, I certainly hope that you are referring to the Native Americans, otherwise, I take these comments as covert codes for racism and elitist ethnocentricity).
Obama inherited 10+ trillions of national debt, the interests payment alone will prohibit him to do more things he wants to do. He also faces the great economy meltdown we probably has never seen during our lifetime. He needs great management team and negotiation skills in order to get some programs going and bring back the prosperity. So folks, let's get together and help Obama to move us forward!!
$800 billion from the Feds, another $700 billion per Obama.....where the heck is this money suppose to come from? Also, the only way to bring the budget back into line in a couple of years (actually decades) will be to raise EVERYONE'S taxes....not just the rich....everyone. Don't be so quick to applaud...this is serious money people.
What a difference already this team that Obama is putting together is making....he has chosen some excellent people so far and it seems the country is very upbeat about it.
If it makes such an impact already to the markets etc, what is it going to do for us as a nation when he becomes President....I think he is going to be a fabulous President.
We must all be aware that nothing is going to be "fixed" overnight and he is not a miracle worker either....but, boy is he going to work like the devil to get this country working again.
I am so very proud that I voted for him and felt confident from day one that he was "the one" to fix this country..... I am even more proud to call him my President.
I WAS ABOUT TO SAY THE SAME THING. THIS TRANSITION TEAM HAS DONE MORE IN ONE MONTH THAN BUSH AND CHANEY DID IN EIGHT YEARS.
Some of these posters are hilarious.
Out of one side of their mouths they say, "Give the man a chance, he hasn't even taken office yet."
Then they say. "He's already done more than the sitting Administration. He's running the country."
But then, the majority of you jokers voted for the man. A man who had no resume to give you any idea about his political views. A man who preached Hope and Change for two years but never told us how he planned to accomplish anything. A man who has made a bunch of promises that most of you morons will completely forget about because Obama will tell you everything else is on the back burner until the economy is fixed. And he's already told us that may not be fixed in one term.
Remember whose campaign is still in the red and whose campaign isn't.
The guy is working prior to starting work, while the sitting prez has been on vacation for the last 4 years...glad to have someone who is at least willing to listen and work...
Budget reform alright. Another $800 billion to banks and credit card companies (so they can lend us our own money) on top of the $1.2 trillion already committed since the Bear Stearns meltdown. That comes out to about $100,000 for every man, woman and child in America. Why don't you just give us the money you are borrowing from us? I know my family of six would quickly pay off my mortgage, all debt, buy new cars, etc. I bet that would do more for the economy than any of these idiots. Some change..... that's all we have left after these idiots get done saving our economy.
Next election, vote out all the incumbents. They got us into this mess and are attempting to buy there way out with our kids and grand kids future. This second coming of the Clinton administration just goes to prove the old addage, the more things change, the more they stay the same.
Why is he calling himself "president elect"? Shouldn't he of all people use the correct term even if the press and everyone else isn't smart enough to know better???
hey, imagine that !! Someone from the Clinton administration – what a great idea!!! And I thought the Democrats nominated and elected Obama not Hilary "smarter government" or retread? Only the future will tell.
Does no one listen to what President Elect Barack Obama says? He told us where some of the money for the new budget was coming from. A lot of the money will come from cut programs that do not work. I believe that there is enough wasted money in the current budget to pay for a lot what is needed. I am much impressed with the picks for the cabinet; President Elect Barack Obama is making to lead us out of this mess. In his campaign, Barack Obama, said he did not want yes men in his cabinet, but those who would challenge him, so he could make good decisions. I see that he is keeping the statement he made. I believe that he will try to keep all of his promises. RWM
"Obama need to take a step back and let President Bush take care of the economy. He'll have his chance soon enough."
Congratulations Michael, you just made the dumbest post on these boards EVER, so stupid I had to give up my personal vow to never follow the crowd and go negative on here.
I feel so much better knowing Obama is working hard to restore our country.
The Bush Admin. has ruined the United States, and I can't wait until the door hit him in the arse. He needs to go back to Texas with the rest of the joe six packs and car-hart wearing republicans.
No more rednecks in the White House!
All this pessimistic attitude towards Obama doesn't help. America's future is at stake so why not cheer for him to succeed. No one likes all the money the govt is spending but this is the only way. There isn't private capital out there so the govt has to do what it has to do. At least the money will be spent on new infrastructure which will create jobs. its gonna take a long time for this to happen but we Americans screwed up and we have to suffer in the mean time. Deal with it.
OMG, who is the HOMER that said sit back and let BUSH fix the economy...GEESH...any HOMER would know that BUSH is what screwed the economy...just like any ohter job he has had in life
Good luck Obama, 1/2 trillion more in debt in the first 100 days. I voted for Obama, however, I believe that you people are going to make him fail. God is jealous God and no man will take his glory. Most democrats worship him. He is not to be worshipped. There is only one God.
Wow – holy sh–. Obama has already upped our national debt by BILLIONS!!!! This is helping the people???? Well, maybe his elite political buddies who want zillions of dollars for their grandiose lifestyles. Already this man is a scam artist – promising reforms while adding to the billionaires pockets.
Good move–sounds good.
I'm so glad we selected Obama.
Everytime President Elect Obama name a new cabinet member the stock market goes up. All i can say is GO GO GO OBAMA for the people by the people
bsmith171... November 25th, 2008 1:20 pm ET
the rookie does not have line item veto.
bobby rubin, tell him know!
----------
The idea of a line item veto applies to legislation... Obama is discussing the Federal Budget. Two different things... Not to mention, that either way, he can still go through line by line and make recommendations, influence decisions, etc.
But not that I suppose correcting the facts will stop the attacks. It never does, and clearly you and many others are just desperate to see our new President fail rather than admit success for our country. Sad, lame, and not very patriotic.
I see CNN is still going for the popular vote only since I wrote something not so good about Obama earlier and wrote something good about Bush. That's okay American people, we will pay one day for Obama being in office and the pay won't be so good!
No kidding. This guy reminds me of Bush more and more each day. People continue to elect people who are clearly not qualifed to be president.
Is "The Office of the President-elect" simply the name given to the place where he sits to do his work? It is obviously temporary.
God, where did all these stupid people come from. We can't blame this on the immigrants.
Office of the President Elect – ya baby that's EXACTLY who you are! to you Office: should know that child-play isn't hyphenated. Once you get the grammar down you can start on the politics.
Go obama – great job.
screw the republicans/evangelico "christians" they have perpertrated the biggest heist in the history o f the world.
Let's all go to Georgia and boo ailin Palin ....wink, wink!!!!
@Debbie
Sounds to me like your financial issues are due to your own mistakes. My mortgage is not late and I didn't take a home equity line of credit. I live in my means and save a large portion of my income. The government shouldn't have sent those stimulus checks or bailed anyone out. No one deserved the stimulus money to begin with so why are you angry. It only contributes to the future hyper-inflation that will set in.
He isn't going to change anything. The only way he can get the economy back on track is to bring the troops home from all around the world, not just Iraq and Afghanistan. Taxes need to be cut big time. Bailouts and inflation need to stop. But it looks like he's just more of the same. Lets just start calling him President Bailout.
He should start by stopping the 10 billon dollars a month in Iraq!
It is an insult to the constitution and the history of our founding-fathers, the tradition of the American people, our moral family values.
____________________________________________________-
and bush and cheney did not insult and tear up the constitution, and destroy family values? Come on.
Wake up.
The past 8 years have proven to be the undoing of this country..and to be honest I am not sure that anyone can fix the problems that this administration has caused. Especailly in the last year when they ahve done nothing and continue to do so.
many years ago I taught that when leaving a job you leave by making sure that you ahve done everything that has been asked of you, and that you do not run out the string. that how you leave a job is shows more about your charactor than anything. Well guess we are truly getting a view of this adminsitrations character.
BRAVO Mr. President-Elect!!!! Conservative Republicans have been trying to get to a balanced budget for a long, long time. I wish you best of luck in your quest, you're going to need it! Your party members could learn a lot from this. Especially in New York, where they can't even get one in on time much less balanced. BRAVO, BRAVO, BRAVO
This is all Harvard empty suit demagoguery. There is one thing Obama excells at: Kool Aid recipe for zombie followers.
I'd be happy if only Michelle Obama would get a make over. I'm not sure I can stand four years of an eyes sore.
I think it's time to officially rename the Obama Adminstration:
The Clinton Lite Administration.
Looks like the first African American President is still a Clinton.
Sometimes I crack myself up!!!!!!
I, for one, am very impressed by PE Obama and the way he has hit the ground running since November 4. For those who don't remember, President Bush and even President Clinton didn't take the time or energy to pick their cabinet members before the inauguration day. They both waited until well after they were sworn in as presidents. PE Obama is a "game on" type of person. Such a refreshing change for a politician.
Your all a bunch of Obama zombies.
Re: Office of the President Elect. I find it truly amazing that anyone has the nerve to criticize the transition team for using this title even though it is not recognized under the Constitution. Who cares?? Obama is the only leader the Country has right now and the entire world is looking to him for direction. Please do the right thing and get behind this amazing new team of people and put your knowledge of the constitution and your egos aside for another day.
"civilized world" you excluded becoz you are not civilized enough by your comments. go back to your cave.
Also I suggest everyone youtube "Peter Schiff was right" The truth will set you free !
As for the "office of the President-elect"?
Under The Presidential Transition Act of 1963 (Public Law 88-277) amended in 2000, the General Services Administration funds an office for the President-elect after the general elections.
While few recent President-elects had a sign, all of them had an office to run their Transition activities out of.
So, yes, there is an office of the President-elect. It is official and paid for by the taxpayers.
The President-elect is doing more in a month than some people have done in a lifetime. Those who chose to verbally attack are but dust in the wind.
Barack should ties his Cabinet Members' salaries to their performance. No workee, no money
Mr. Obama can do little about the primary cause of this economic dilemma, which is zero population growth? I believe the reason for decades of prosperity was the baby boom. To sell a home or car, one needs a buyer. Instead, the boomers are retiring, withdrawing money from the markets. Cars and homes are built better and last longer, creating a paradox of sorts. And, no, I'm not suggesting the obvious solution to this.
How about some of the bailout money benefiting those of us who have SACRIFICED and were still RESPONSIBLE. We paid our mortgage and credit card debt on time. We used good judgement and lived within our means and didn't get into debt we could not afford. We did this even though we lost dearly in our 401K's. We were told by our leaders until recently that the economy was sound. How about lower mortgage interest rates for all of us, even though we are not behind on our house payments.. How about a tax credit for a portion of our 401K losses. I feel sorry for those who have not paid their bills on time but those of us who have need a break also.
Why isn't he president already? Where is that idiot Bush these days?
I know it is difficult for some of you republicans, but what Obama and team are doing is called a "Plan." This is something Bush and republicans have failed to do in eight years.
Wow the right wingers are in full force, aren't they?
Sorry Jessica but Obama is doing the job already, before he is even sworn in. Imagine that, a President who cares about doing what is right for the American people and not just what makes his friends richer.
Ron-yeah, you just need to crawl back under the rock you came out of .
I like that you, my New President, have hit the ground running, and beginning to do what you promised during your campaign!
Keep up the super work! You're the Mr. Man!!
Ron, is Michelle Obama's makeover the most important thing on your little mind... that's sad.
Joining the gang of responders to Office of the President-Elect: So what should he do? Hang out on the beach and play with the kids until January 20th and then step into the White House with absolutely NO preparations?? There's no insult here. Pay attention. It's what ALL president-elects do between the election and the inauguration.
Next time, be sure your brain is engaged before putting your fingers on the keyboard.
Ron
When all else fails it's time to use insults. How low can you go? What else can a little mind as yours come up with? Here is an insult you might understand. You are acting like a pig.
It is becoming clearer and clearer that Pres. Elect Obama is determined to go into office with a full deck and a well-thought-out plan. He has done what few politicians have ever done–gained trememdous respect from yours truly.
I can't wait to observe his inauguration ceremony. That's gonna be HUGE, but moreso, I can't wait to see how he does afterward. Go America!
I am happy for you all that the stimulation of the economy will include infrastructure renewal. I could never understand why such was neglected for so long. Surely infrastructure is one of the foundations of a modern economy.
It looks like a great team your pres-elect if building. I hope all Americans recognize and do their part. We in Canada benefit from your wellness.
Can someone please tell Obama that the President doesn't have line item veto power because Congress (both parties) are too protective of their pork. So even if he finds thousands of useless line items (and he will) there's no way to remove them unless Congress ( who voted for them in the first place) agrees.
Line by line through the federal budget and get rid of unnecessary spending? With a Democratic Congress? Hah! Good luck with that.
I'm sure "Office of the Official Presidential Transition Team" was a bit too long-winded to fit on the podium. In the grand scheme, who really gives a rat's patute what he calls it? The man is getting things done, and fast, which is a whole lot more than you can say for the current cast of characters in charge. And could someone please explain to me what the hell the name of Obama's office has to do with that neo-con whackjob's family values?? Get a life, fella...yikes. Last I checked, Barack was the President-Elect, worked in an office, and had a full staff working with and for him on the transition of power...Sure sounds like the Office of the President-Elect to me, whether the title existed previously or not. He can call it the "Office of the Soon To Be Big Shot in the White House" for all I care, long as he keeps the ball rolling.
At least Obama has a plan other than "trickle down". Even his Dad called Reagan economics "Voodoo economics".---- Sooner or later when things get tight or scarry for the FEW who have all the money, the flow downward stops and the less fortunate are cut off.----- As you can see now !!! Wall street banks got their money first.
Dear Ron: Beauty is only skin deep and, by the way, the word is "eyesore" not "eyes sore". The bastardization English on this board is the real eyesore.
God Speed Mr. Obama. We wish you much success, you've already done more than is called for as President Elect. I was hoping you could get some rest between now and 1/20 but I guess not. A lot of us are praying for you daily.
Ron don't you dare hate on Michelle Obama ! She is a beautiful black woman and will make a great first lady. Much better than Cindy McCain any day. She has grace style and elegance.
Mr President, please start with the defense budget. We spend on defense as much as the rest of the world combined, including Russia and China – that is just plain ridiculous. We don't need to spend that much to protect ourselves from terrorists. Who are we scared of attacking us? Iran? Russia? China? It doesn't make sense. All this adds up to is welfare for the military industry and it's lobbyists.
The Republicans say they're against protectionism. They should stop advocating for all this paranoid "protectionism" then!
Mr President, you have a mandate. Please stand up to these money grabbing fear mongers!
Well a good place to start is not to have 1 trillion dollars already spent before you take office.
Stimulus package the first day....what are we all supposed to end up working for "the one"
Millions of jobs are losing.
Is 2.5 million jobs created under the plan sufficient to counter the reccession? This number is too small as compared to jobs lost.
Better plans needed please....
Budget reform is not optional, but necessary.....how right he is! But, someone has to STOP bleeding us regular people dry by doing all this bailing out. People are losing their jobs and struggling regardless of these bailouts. STOP and start the US actually being on a budget. Isn't that what a budget officer is for?????
Start with the grossly bloated Pentagon budget
hope obama has the spine to make the tough decisions and cut, cut, cut then cut some more. states, counties, cities need to do the same and now. obama needs to move faster, announce plans faster, announce appointments or potential appointments faster. if i was his drill instructor, i would be hollering in his ears "move, move, move!"
We are all witnessing Obama put the Republican party on it's death bed. It's only a matter of time before America pulls the plug.
No comment from the Office of the President-Elect! Interesting
Earth to Dave: Republican Administrations have incurred over 80 percent of our entire national debt – most of that with GOP controlled congresses.
Obama's actions are not what you expected because you believe all the BS about him being the most liberal being in the history of the universe. I expect that he will continue to confuse right wing nut jobs like you while disappointing some ultra liberals.
Obama is a liberal leaning pragmatic moderate. Liberal ideals, but practical solutions. Anyone who read his books and policy statements and listened to what he actually said understands that. Idiots who get their information from Limbaugh and Fox news will never get it because they are selectively avoiding balanced information.
DJ, just what is the man getting done? He's named some of his cabinet nominees just like every President before him has done. That's Being President 101. He appears to have picked qualified people so far (HRC excepted), but it remains to be seen if they can be team players or all act like a bunch of prima donnas. It's way too early to say he's great or he's bad. It's like an NFL coach preseason. He's done a good job at the draft, but the team hasn't even suited up for the first game yet. You're predicting he'll win the Superbowl. It's a long season.
Obama is moving ahead responsibly with the professional management of his transition team, and this gives the majority of Americans, a picture of his skill as our leader. It's one reason why I voted for Obama. The president must read voraciously if he wants to understand the details, and Bush has openly stated that he doesn't read the majority of documents he signs, or dismisses, depending on his adviser's accounts to the contents. That's not good leadership. I'm glad Obama is our incoming president, he's the right man, at the right time.
Hey idiot democrats, what are you going to be saying in one year about the economy and barack obama? i'm sure you will blame the republicans, even though you will have been in-charge for three years.
post it, you guys will never post anything when it is negative about the dems
Obama will go through the budget page by page, line by line?
Well, duh. It's his job as President! The question is whether he can submit a balanced budget... And just by looking at his position on the bailout, I'm incredulous that he can do so...
This is a joke/ 85% of this country's budge is in defense, social security, and other entitlement programs. Unless Obama is willing to attack these issues (which he isn;t) and budget cutting is reminicient of Jimmy Carter who also promised to go line by line in the federal Budget with its millions of line items. This notion of budget cuts is window dressing and disingenuous. My, how quickly Obama is learning to play the DC stay in power at all costs game
The rate on the bridge loan was reduced to 3 percentage points over 3-month Libor from 8.5 points over Libor – currently 5.24%, compared to 10.74%. On the unused portion, AIG now has to pay 0.75% interest, down from 8.5% in the original deal.
I want this deal for my mortgage with my bank. 8.5% interest rate down to 0.75%....wow....that would get the econmony running in no time if everyone had a rate below 2 percent. How about everyone's credit cards too. The Feds would not have to bail out anybody.....most loans would not fail but the banks would only make a tiny profit.....wow just a tiny profit.....hmmmmmmmm
Update on AIG Loan:
The rate on the bridge loan was reduced to 3 percentage points over 3-month Libor from 8.5 points over Libor – currently 5.24%, compared to 10.74%. On the unused portion, AIG now has to pay 0.75% interest, down from 8.5% in the original deal.
I want this deal for my mortgage with my bank. 8.5% interest rate down to 0.75%....wow....that would get the econmony running in no time if everyone had a rate below 2 percent. How about everyone's credit cards too. The Feds would not have to bail out anybody.....most loans would not fail but the banks would only make a tiny profit.....wow just a tiny profit.....hmmmmmmmm
Dear Mr. Orzag.........FIX SOCIAL SECURITY AND MEDICARE!!!!!
And after he gets done reading the budget (how many volumes is it now?), what is he going to do? Remember, there is still no line item veto...he either accepts the entire budget, or rejects the entire budget...
And meanwhile back at the ranch, George is still trying to fugure out how to be president. So much for cowpie diplomacy and the likes of him!
The Office of the President-Elect has existed since 1964 and is authorized under the Presidential Transistion Act. Learn the facts before you post your stupidity.
We hear this BS every time a new President comes in, and government continues to grow like a cancer.
All smoke & mirrors. He does not have line item veto, he will not take on the government unions or cut government jobs, so all he can do is ask for them not to spend money and then sit on the butts doing nothing.
If he wnat st make a statemen, cut fedral jobs, cut federal worker benefits. Practice what you are preaching in the private sector while you are there in the public sector. FREEZE GOVERNMENT HIRING!!!!
Sallie Mae adding 1100 jobs in a down cycle is ludicrious.
Everyone saddles this on Bush, I like what Obama is doing but realistically Bush is not the only one to blame. I blame Dems and Repubs in Congress. Just always remember be skeptical but respectful and politicians are all crooks in one way or another.
Repub or Dem...this mess is huge and I give President Obama full support in trying to fix this mess. He has come into a situation that will take some time to turn around and for those who doubt Him step aside and let Him do his job.
Independent November 25th, 2008 3:48 pm ET
Obama will go through the budget page by page, line by line?
Well, duh. It's his job as President! The question is whether he can submit a balanced budget… And just by looking at his position on the bailout, I'm incredulous that he can do so…
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And I'm sure President Bush did just that, right? Give me a break.
inat2 November 25th, 2008 12:54 pm ET
does he need to give a speech EVERY day? Geesh.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Actually, since he came out with his economic team 2 days ago, the DOW has had it's biggest 2 day increase in history.
YOU IDIOT.
Why don't you at least get your facts straight.
Amen! Exaclty what is needed...........
What Mr. Obama is claiming to be able to do is a "Line Item Veto". Congress has refused this privilege to every President. The President must accept or reject a budget bill in its entirety. Congress will NEVER give this up simply because it is how they get re-elected to their Senate and House "seats for life". Mr. Obama knows this. He is just telling us what he wants us to hear, yet again. Empty talk, Empty promises, Empty suit. It all leads to empty pockets.
david November 25th, 2008 3:31 pm ET
hope obama has the spine to make the tough decisions and cut, cut, cut then cut some more. states, counties, cities need to do the same and now. obama needs to move faster, announce plans faster, announce appointments or potential appointments faster. if i was his drill instructor, i would be hollering in his ears "move, move, move!"
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David, President Bush is still the President in case we haven't forgotten and what exactly is he doing right now??? Sitting on his behind. There's only so much the Pres-elect can do right now.
Obama is all talk and you naive morons will soon find out.He has to pick the Clintons staff because they are the ones with the know how. thats your by's big Change. What a joke.
Watch out for the excessive pork that will be added on, for the good of some Democratic or Republican ticket name Sayers!!!
President-elect Obama you are in charge of the budget that so many will want to increase taxes in order to fund additional programs. You are the far left liberal that will be seeking a centrist point on the budget
And you will want to be smooth like former President Clinton when it comes to budgeting!!!
Steve – the first step to fix Social Security and Medicare is for Congress to STOP raiding the funds from it to pay for other things they want to pay for.
Micromanagement will not work, Mr. Obama. Learn the lesson from Jimmy Carter.
Absolutely bull! The man is so full of himself, he's going to ruin us all! I cannot believe the number of people sniveling after his every word (which says nothing more than we already know). He thinks the American people are stupid. Well, the ones that voted for him sure are questionable. Unfortunately, when its too late, we will all be in a hole!
YES WE CAN BRING THIS COUNTRY BACK FROM THE ASHES OF BUSH'S FAILED POLICIES. YES WE CAN.
The fall from the pedestal is going to be debastating! You people are placing all your hopes and dreams of Utopia on your Dear Leader. Wait and see what it feels like to elect the American Hugo Chavez and then sink into the misery and agony of Socialism. If you all had any dendrites left in your cerebrum you would know that all this country needs is Reform of Democrat-led initiatives such as the Community Reinvestment Act, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. And of course harsh punishment of abusers such as Democrats Dodd, Frank, Pelosi and Reed.
Obama uses the term "Office of the President-elect" to let everyone know the difference and that he is not the President. He knows that with all the preparations he is doing that there are those who will criticize him for trying to take over as President as there are some on the blog already doing. Of course there are GOP's who don't want him to succeed and will jump at calling him down for not being ready. Weren't they saying he was not ready to be president? I don't think McCain or even Hillary would be getting ready to take over the office as Obama is now doing as it takes a lot of energy and "smarts" to do all these preparations. While his opponents were busy criticising him, he was quietly carrying on his agenda for change. Forget Hillary Clinton running for president in 2012 or 2016. Age will catch up with her.
How refreshing to hear a politician say he's going to get tough on the budget! Oh, no, wait. I remember now. They all say that. Then they go back to their offices and print money to pay people off. I'll be impressed if two months from now I'm reading a story that the federal budget actually decreased by 10% or more. I'm holding my breath, starting now...
He's going to fall from the pedestal and shatter into a million little particles.
Wow, Obama! What a "novel" idea - like no other president has EVER done that! It's your job, buddy - and there's nothing extraordinary about YOU doing it !!!!!!!!!!!!
I love the way President Obama has taken charge. I look forward to seeing him do some real budget cuts and I pray that he can turn this mess around. We're with you Mr. President.
Go Obama!. Sounds like there's a lot of sore Republican losers posting! Let's hope that bitter republicans don't derail our hopes of changing for the good.
Wow! you guys still haven't realized what is actually happening in this country? This is bigger than all of us! He is and will be the man, because he was sent by the man . . . And Obama's job will be done when the man says so! It's deeper and bigger than all of us! I thought maybe after beating two political hardballs in the country, people would realize what was happening, but I guess they haven't looked through the proper lens to see the light. But I guess, if one lives in darkness, they can never see the light. Well, whether you all like it or not, the light is shining and you tried to do something about it, by not voting for him, but it was just too bigger than you– Obama is the leader that we need at this time, period! Nothing would have changed that. This was a part of his life journey! He was chosen. Be happy and summon a new spirit of love for yourself and the country. He needs all of us.
More Washington insiders. Some-old-same.
From what I have read, the seeds of the economic downfall were planted during the Clinton administration, coming to fruition under G-dub (obviously overlooked by his administration as well), so why is everyone so excited that he picked all of these Clinton people? Also, a Democrat controlled Congress and Presidency certainly will not mean budget cuts, and every one of you Obama supporters know that deep down. I do applaud his transparency and efforts thus far though, it's his ideology and the reality of his party that worry me.
Hey folks,
I suddenly realized that ALL of George W. Bush's pictures will come down in EVERY government building and Barack's pictures will go up. YES, I love it.
Yes, we could have a barn fire with the pictures they could burn of GW.
Hold on people, we'll get over Bush's recession soon.
Egads, we've been in the sandbox for eight long years. Thank God we're changing hands. Tick...tock...
I think Obama should go through the ranks of Civil Servants and reduce the head count, by firing all the Bush appointees that have been 'Burrowed". That should save some money.
These Bush hacks are sleeper right wing extremist moles that are there to poison progress, get them out.
President elect Obama is the bomb!!!
Jessica;
This forum is too deep for you and you write silly things.
You need to go find your rabbit, Roger, and do some patty-cake.
That's not too intellectually challenging, and you're probably good at it.
The change is going to be in your pockets, folks, not in Washington, DC. Obama's geius financial team is the same bunch that helped get us into this predicament in the first place. The sh _ t is going to hit the fan and I'll bet Obama's got all his savings off shore!
Go – Obama – Go!! I knew you were not the run of the mill "Politico" – so very glad that I voted for you...... as for the "nay sayers" sorry you can't come up with anything better than the same old "blah blah blah" – I haven't been so intrigued by a polititian in like "forever" I hope and pray that his every step in the quagmire he is wading into is blessed by the "spirit" of hope and renewal that we all need. The people who back him are there – knowing – what he must be going through and cheering him on!
Oh, and I don't vote for a party, I vote for an idea, a vision!! I don't vote for "looks" I vote for competence & abilities. This left/right nonsense is just that - nonsense!! people get off your blind horse and walk on the dusty road and get a feel for what is really going on in the world!
He's going to cut every program which the LIBERAL LEFT doesn't consider important. It doesn't matter what's best for the country – Osama Obama is going to cherry pick what he wants and let his Dems put all the pork in that they want!