CNN

That is the most powerful room in the world. It is a place to be respected, not hang out in. Consider it symbolic, but it was a constant reminder of the size of the task it is to lead the greatest nation on earth. Bush and Reagan got it right!!!

Oh Mr.X
What crawled up your arse...lol

Mr. Obama is trying to get to work immediately to rebuild America. When he meets with dignitaries he will don the jacket . Please do your part to aid our president.

Are you freaking kidding me?! The man took off his suit jacket and its a big deal?! Wow, America are we THIS petty?! First and foremost, this was the ex-president's rule. BUSH IS NO LONGER THE PRESIDENT PEOPLE (thank God!). Second of all, how does Obama taking his suit jacket off insinuate that he is less of a President? Third of all, what if he was nervous and got hot? I mean its his first day on the job. Probably the most important job on the planet, I might add. You got the best country with the worst economic situation its ever been in on your syllabus. Thats enough to make anyone break out in a sweat! Let alone all these dang on people around taking pictures!
I don't really care what the man wears to work as long as he gets the job done! He can come in with flip flops for all I care!
Do your thing Obama. America, quit hatin'!

People. Relax. It's just a ticker. A little tidbit that isn't meant to be taken this seriously. See it as a random fact of the day and let it go.

Mr. President please go to work now and arrest Bush And Cheney and all their co-horts and send them to Gitmo. You look comfortable thats cool, but please take care of the last eight years first. Our country needs to be rid of this sewage for good. Please flush them to the place they made for themselves.

I am an interior designer and would love to decorate the Oval Office...but I hope you leave it just the way it is President. Use the money elsewhere to show America that people and their families welfare mean more than material things, more than a redecoration of your Oval Office. This would send a great message to the people of America that are looking to you to remake our economy.
Good luck...our prayers are with you....onward...

Amazing...so many experts here. Didn't realize it was so easy to be in the Oval office. Like any of you really know the goings on of the President. Good grief! The blame game needs to stop. Look in a mirror...maybe then you can get a clue on who to blame for the last 8 years. Grow up and take responsibility for once in your life!

This is absofreakinglutely ridiculous. What's the next headline......."Obama uses double-ply toilet paper as compared to single-ply preferred by the bush administration" Who care?!!!! I see all these headlines on every major news network like Obama is some type of god almost. Yesterday on CNN intreactive vote was a yeah or nay if you liked Michelle Obama's inaugural dress. What has this country, news media, and good journalism come to when this is all we care about. COME ON PEOPLE stick to the issues. geeeezzzzz

Why all the sudden is everyone saying you must respect him since he is the President. Never heard that with Bush in office. I do respect him but I hope he fails with any policy that aims toward Socialism.

Socialism will never work in a country with a huge population. Thats a fact.

Dear Mr Steve Foster,

I think it is you sir with the lopsided view of what this country has been subjected to by the worst politician from Texas I have ever been unfortunate to see. I am 50 years old born and raised in Texas, not Dallas or Houston and certainly not the North East where Bush is really from. In all my years... never have I seen a worse government for my country. NEVER.
You need to take those blinders off. No hate here, just facts.

Not just Bush's rule about leaving your jacket on, Obama also broke Bill Clinton's rule. He left his pants on.

Hey-The President works from home like most of us–put the baseball cap on at 8AM with the sweats and Voila! Give him some room people!–Since I'm a work a home Dad (with Mom working also–just like me–kids come home from school at 3 and it's homework time between conference calls)...so what's the problem...Geez cut him some slack !!!

most if not all of my post are under watch by cnn... so here goes.

Listen ladies and gentlemen. I am not here to declare you stupid nor ignorant . I got to say this and I want you to pay attention. I read this ticker every day and some times the news is more fun to read than the comments. I thought I did not have a life. Compared to many of you I am doing just fine. Now..... lets get to what needs to be said.

If you did not vote for Barack, I would imagine most of you will have nothing good to say for the next 4 to 8 years. Hint: saying bad things screws up your karma. Why take that chance? Prepare yourself for the next change. Go to school, learn something new that will position yourself for that next window of opportunity. Republicans. don't hate. I don't hate you for screwing up my 401k. When it comes to making the economy run like it should be running, you guys need to chill out. I don't care if Obama does not wear a jacket. Does it matter if the people that attend your funeral wear jackets? You are dead at that point . You wont know.

My brother & sister Dems ... lighten up and stop saying stupid things that make people upset. Yes; we had to live though 8 years of .. well I am at a lost for the perfect word here. But .. think about it! you are still here and if you had prepared yourself for the change and the opportunity we have in front of us now; you would have and would be making some Republican friends right about now. . All is still not lost and that window is just beginning to open.

If I could give you all some advise, the answer to this nation's problems are not as difficult as you think they are. What is going to be difficult is for all of you to realize that we all have good ideas. We need best of breed technology. The sad truth is that we own it as of now, but if we keep fighting over things that waste time , we will truly lose our innovation. The good news is that in the time of crisis we really do have tremendous opportunites to move forward and secure a solid future for all Americans. You can do one of two things.........., stand on the side lines and play dumb or get into the game and make a true difference.

What you do is up to no one but, you!

No respect for the office. It was not a 'Bush tradition,' it was a "Presidential Tradition."

Some of you need to get a life. Hanging around a messageboard only to give repeated critical remarks. I just hope he can get results.

GOP's #1 crackhead is good old Rush,put the pipe down.he's your prez to

It truly sickens me to read the racist comments. Of course that is so easy when you have no name. Shame on you and on your parents!

It is Obamas office now and he can wear or not wear a jacket. I hope he changes the curtains though. UGLY

The fact that Former President Bush was dwelling on small little details such as wearing a suit coat in the Oval Office just further proves that he was asleep at the wheel.

He should have spent more time on making sure there was proper oversight of the banking industry and Wall Street.

Figures he would zero in on small mindless things. That's about all we were ever going to get from a "C" student.

I expect we will hear about a lot more stupid rules and regulations before long.

I found a great Obama Blog at: http://TalkObama.blogspot.com !!!

He looks like any WORKING executive, crisp white shirt and tie. Who cares if Bush could play dress up. That is all he could do in the Oval Office...look like he was playing a part. I care what President Obama does. By the way, he is much better looking anyway. This is sooo non news.

If I recall Bush and Browny had their coats and sleeves off and rolled up during Katrina and they screwed that up big time.rethugs your party has come to an end,I see 20years before you will get a look at the inside of the white house

It wasn't just a personal preference. In the Bush administration, it was a rule: Jackets in the Oval Office —

So he had a rule about jackets...big deal. I wish he would have had a rule about helping people (Katrina), not lying (Iraq war), accountability (banks, insurance companies, and years of missing emails), and by all means a rule about protecting liberties (Patriot Act).

The last 8 years have been an illusion. We have been watching shadows dancing on the wall cast by the likes of Fox news and Rush Limbo, and Karl Rove. The American people finally stopped looking at the shadows, broke free of the shackles, and are now starting to exit the cave into the sunlight.

So there was a rule about jackets. This helped the world, America, how? Good riddance, Bush administration. Wear your jackets all you want in Midland. You have done enough harm to America. Now better people, more honorable people, will have to clean up the disaster left in your wake. It has already started with ethics reforms and opening wide the Freedom of Information Act.

Sit back while you are in Midland, and see how real work gets done. Jackets in the oval office – what a bunch of nonsense when practically everything else was a deception, wrapped in a lie, packaged in box of half truths and misleading statements.

Just because he has lifted the "always wear a jacket" rule, it doesn't mean he'll never wear a jacket. It's not all or nothing. I'm confident that when the occasion calls for a more formal, professional mode of dress (such as when "prominent individuals...enter the Oval Office to discuss matters of national interest"), President Obama will dress appropriately.

To heck with the GOP traditions, Obama can dress any way he wants and he can have anyone who comes into the Oval Office to do the same. Some folks have too much time on their hands to talk about such petty things-this is a none issue. Bush didn't do anything in the Oval Office anyway, except talk to his Oil buddies and Hailburton guests of his idiot VP.

President Bush wore his jacket in the oval office because he believed deeply in tradition. For eight years, he worked in the Oval Office, but he knew that it wasn't his office. It was bigger than him. Only 42 men before him sat in that office and made decisions that the typical person cannot even come close to grasping. Enough of the stupid comments.

Grant: do you see visiting dignitaries, or do you just see a guy at his desk on the phone? Of course President Obama will wear his jacket to receive visiting dignitaries.

It doesn't matter what Obama wears. If he has his way, he will destroy the country, regardless of his attire.

Mr. Obama should also rename the "White House". Call it "The President House" becasue from now on the occupant is not necessary to be WHITE.

barack is great

if the government wants to fix the economy they have to give at least 30 thousand to each legal tax paying family that has made 125 thousand or less last year. then they will pay off debts like credit cards ,mortgages and cars plus they will put money in the banks remodel homes start small bussines. they will spend and get the economy jump started but it has to be more then 300 to a thousand dollars. this will work its the only thing that will work. if you give money to the states they will hire contractors who will use illegals and americans will still be out of jobs. remove illegas and open up 14 million jobs maybe more.make e veify mandatory when illegals cant get jobs they will leave on their own.

George Bush wore his jacket out of respect for what the oval office stood for and for those who have been there before him. Leaders from around the world undoubtedly came well dressed to the oval office and former President Bush showed them enough respect to at the very least wear his jacket while he was working. President Obama has already managed to show that he values himself above all these traditions, and he does not seem to respect the Oval Office and the people of the United States enough to wear his jacket.

it is so sad to watch all you liberal america hating demorats who have been duped by the media support a guy without any experience.whos never been questioned,ruin what made america great

How about a rule that all shirts worn in the Oval Office be American Made. I'd go for that.

Whatever. This is a DUMB story.

It's a shame Bush was such a stickler for formal etiquette in the Oval Office, yet had no qualms about spending more than a third of his Presidency on vacation. Obama should make himself feel at home. He's got a lot of work to do, and a lot of mess to clean up, over the next eight years.

This is a good rule to break. At last, a President that will roll up his sleeves and get busy working on behalf of the American people. He could wear flip-flops and a tank top for all I care, this man has a purpose.

And so it begins

Whilst I like Bush's sensibility with regards to form and protocol, it shows that there was less substance to his persona than anything else.

OMG!!!!! He takes off his jacket before he goes to work! The end is near!

Rather strange, for all of his professional etiquette requirements, and riles he demanded be followed....he forgot one basic principle... work in the best interest of the common man.

Four years from now, hindsight will be crystal clear as we will fully see the good that Bush actually did in the office. By that time, we will be headed full steam towards a totalitarian socialist state.

Why are the Republicans fighting against Obama's Simulus plans? We need that money for Jobs and to go shopping this summer. .

They lost this election and like so many ae saying they may be in trouble for the next 16 years.

They need to GET OVER IT and play nice....GOD PLEASE BRING 2010 in NOW, SO WE CAN GET THE REST OF THOSE SOB's out.

The picture shows a man comfortable and confident with what he is doing. When you are doing the right thing you are not too concerned about how petty things are perceived. From the word go the man has been making all the right moves. Even Fidel Castro sat up and watched the Inauguration Ceremony excited. He said he believed President Obama is sincere! That is Foreign Relations at its best. Hater or not you got to be in awe of his influence right now. Because of his election by the people and not by the political party, even the Democrats are afraid to oppose him right now. They don't want to be seen as part of the problem.

People are acting like he's up in the Oval Offfice naked. So what he's not wearing a jacket? Someone just happened to snap a photo of the president doing- what do you call it? oh yeah, HIS JOB. I am sure President Obama is fully aware of when its appropriate and and when its not appropriate to wear a jacket...anywhere. And leave the man alone if the pin is missing.

Just because someone submits a report of story line , you do not have to print it. Show some common sense.

Clinton with the no pants rule.....

Now Obama with the no jacket rule..............

I wonder what is next?

Wow! I can believe some of the racist remarks I am seeing. Hey Bush Fans......you want to know what a real leader does,sit back and watch a real leader work for the next 8years. Oh and just in case you missed it fried chicken is an american favorite not a African American Favorite.
Rachel. Your little comment about sloppy thinking. Wow only someone with ignorance could make the comment.
CNN you should watch the comments I really didnt take you guys for the type to let comments in like that or any that are racially disrepectful to the President of the United States of America

No coats!???
Next thing ya know they'll be smokin' weed in there.
Slippery slope I'm talkin...

Okay...who hasn't heard of this: take off your jacket and roll up your sleeves... It's gonna be a long and messy battle we all face here..on many fronts..in many aspects.. I think we all need to "take off our jackets..and roll up the sleeves.." Let's do this thing!

I strongly support a person who dress professional and functional but I dislike a person who over show up.
In my personal opinion, Mr. Obama is dressing perfectly professional.

To all of you who bring race into the discussion of President Obama:

I doubt that Dr. Martin Luther King would be happy with any of these dialogs. His dream of equality in the world will not be realized until the particular race of an individual no longer matters and is not worthy of discussion.

If you are thinking of President Obama as the first African American president, you are wrong. A majority of us voted for him, he is our President and that's it.

To me, it means that we now have a working president. And he understands that jackets are far less important than jobs.

...a long as he keeps his pants on, I could care less!!!

Obama could get down to his t-shirt and boxers for all I care, but it is not humanly possible for him to deliver on the majority of the promises. I don't want that Marxist-Socialist in office one day longer than he has to be. I wish I could be there to witness the faces of all the absurdly naive morons who voted for this slick talking ad man, as they snap out of their trances and realize that thier false god can't walk on water after all.

yeah i know what's missing. paperwork. I wish Obama the best but hes only going to be Pelosi, thug jack murtha and Ted Kennedy's puppet. Obama will make close to no decisions this entire term. He will serve only as a rallier, the face of the country and a spokesperson...nothing more. All all the dems have been chomping at the bit for this day to push their own agendas and have their way with this country and they now have it.

Cnn

You make an effort to report that Obama changed a rule about a jacket being worn or not worn, but you can't make an effort to report Obama's changes of ethic rules. Ya I know, that's too much like right.

Now that is change we can believe in!

there are alot of sore republican LOSERS on the blog tonite.............. youve had your 8 years & nothing got done !!!!!!!!!!!!!! now its our turn............childish crybabies!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This is ridiculous who cares what the President wears as long as he gets the job done......

Well, at least he isn't being disrespectful by having sex with an intern in The Oval Office.

I think it's a great tradition and a sign of respect but if I'm not mistaken, it's ENTERING the office with a jacket on. I don't believe it was leaving it on at all times.

Rave, are you serious? Typical, or actually more blatent since you accomplished it in a mere 3 sentence, double standard BS! Your entry: "For god's sake he is our President and learn to respect him. I don't know if there is any living organism on this planet who will miss Bush. We had a chimp in the white house for past 8 years.. what did he do ????" In case you didn't know, Bush was our president but based on your rant you obviously didn't respect him.

Amazing really, all the bashing on both sides.

Seriously, if people want to be taken seriously in their arguments for or against either Bush or Obama they should site where they are acquiring their 'proof' for or against. Oh and do be sure that you can prove all the negativity with more than just a blog from some joe shmoe.

Bush got stuck with a real crappy deal all the way around, in regards to Iraq. I don't agree with the continued war, I'd prefer to bring our troops home, let them blow each other up if that's their choice. Our troops should Not be used as the "World Police".

I didn't vote for Obama, Not because of his race either... Mainly because it was never truly proven if he IS a US citizen, as well as many other things that Obama believes, which I do not. Top for me, Our Second Amendment. Very important to me and many others like me.

When I see photos of the Oval Office, for some reason it makes me think of coat & tie type apparel. Whatever floats the boat though I suppose.

People, regardless if you are Dem. or Rep. Please knock off the racial commentary. It's demeaning, degrading and just plain childish behaviour.

I agree with you Steve!!

Why not live by the words, if you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all.
8 yrs, of bashing President Bush was a shame full thing for American's to do.
Don't follow that same pattern, If you can do a better job then our Presidents, then why are you not in office.?

Have you really listened to your selves?
Now leave our new President do what ever he fills is best for him and our country. That is what we pay him for. I don't think just any one could just walk into his office. but staff. So what is the big deal.
He was not at some meeting, just on the phone.
We Americans can't even be in peace, with each other. Someone is always putting someone down. It would be wonderful if we just would look for the good in people. Think about it, when do you do your best, when being critized or complemented? Remember none of us are perfect. Lets have peace on this earth, Let it begin with you.

Good riddance Bush.

"If you're going to get the job wrong , at least dress for success"-GW Bush

Obama is a smart man. You take small steps when you start cleaning up the mess. This is exactly what he is going to do (at least what we expect him to do). He has to clean up George Bush's mess and hopefully America wont be lead by someone like George Bush again. The world has some great expectations from this man and I personally beleive he will stand up to the task. We all support him and I personally wish him and all his fellow Americans all the best. He brings hope to not only Americans but to everyone in every nation. I look forward to America and Americans gaining their respect back in the global community! I also hope he implements a better foreign policy for Middle East.

"President Barack Obama has spent much of his career fighting to strengthen civil rights as a civil rights attorney, community organizer, Illinois State Senator, U.S. Senator, and now as President. Whether promoting economic opportunity, working to improve our nation's education and health system, or protecting the right to vote, President Obama has been a powerful advocate for our civil rights."

I am sure he will get the job done. So stop the hate.

CNN, please post a more news worthy article. This article title wasted my time clicking into it to find out it is nothing worth reading.

He doesn't want to stink up his coat when hes out back smoking Newports.

can't blame the bruther.

Most of the prominent individuals who enter the Oval Office to discuss matters of national interest will be well and formally dressed out of respect for the President and the venue. Is it not appropriate for Him to dress correspondingly?

people who do real work, take off thier jackets... I do not think Mr. Bush work at all... Thanks Mr. Obama for showing on your first day that you are ready to work.. Now John King please find a better story to report that a jacket

Come on people....If what he wears while in the office is that important then it obvious we have a lot to worry about in the next 4 years. I will give Obama the chance to prove himself; although I feel the public as a whole has put a lot of blame on Bush for our problems which a lot he could not control due to the Democrat congress we have had for the past 8 years. Im worried the the American public has been to anxious for a change that they have not fully researched and actually "cared" who we have for President; everybody wants a change...lets see what happens!!!!

We have suffered through a terrible time of deception, greed and self interest with the last administration. To use an old Reganism, "Do you feel better off today than you did 8 years ago?"

I find it hard to swallow that Mr. Bush will likely be remembered as our savior from terrorism for starting and sustaining multiple wars. But that will probably happen.

I hope that it will not be forgotten that he also brought this country to it's knees before leaving office. A mess that the rest of us must clean up.

President Obama should be wearing overalls and leather work gloves for the dirty job that has been left to him. My support and best wishes go out to him and any others who are willing to take on this challenge.

-e

Who CARES???this isn't news nor is it even important

Okay Obamabots. This is what it is. WHEN YOU ARE IN ROME DO AS THE ROMANS AND YOU MUST ALWAYS GIVE THE ROMANS WHAT THEY WANT. OBAMA IS IN THE WHITE HOUSE; IT IS A SACRED PLACE AND MUST DRESS ACCORDINGLY. I AM NOT GOING TO WAKE UP ONE DAY AND SOMEONE TELLS ME, MY PRESIDENT IS SITTING IN THE OVAL OFFICE WITH HIS SHORTS AND HAWAIIN SHIRT ON OR HE IS WEARING BAGGY PANTS WITH HIS BELT WRAPPED AROUND HIS THIGHS. YOU CAN HAVE THE WORK DONE AND STILL KEEP THE DRESS CODE. WE CANNOT HAVE THAT SLICKINESS IN THE OVAL OFFICE. CAMPAIGN TRAIL WAS OKAY. NOW YOU ARE IN THE PEOPLES HOME AND YOU MUST RESPECT THE PEOPLE WHO PUT YOU THERE BY FIRST DRESSING APPROPRIATELY. YOU WANTED TO BE THE PRESIDENT OF UNITED STATES, NOW "BE THE PRESIDENT" STARTING WITH THE DRESS CODE. ALSO, THE ATTITUDE MUST BE ADJUSTED ACCORDINGLY. I LIKE TO SEE MY PRESIDENT DRESS UP IMMACULATELY EVERY SINGLE DAY, SNOW, RAIN OR SHINE AND MUST HAVE SENSE OF HUMOR. NONE OF THAT STARCHINESS. OKAY. RESPECT FOR THE OFFICE. "NO JIVING". GOT IT.

Sounds about right. Screw the Constitution, who cares about human rights, let's go kill a half million Iraqis...but make sure you wear your blazer in my presence!

Any "rule" buSH had was likely criminal or just plain idiotic, so break all of them.

Let him tumble into the abyss of history.

It's very clear that the foaming-at-the-mouth, completely malicious and idiotic sufferers of BDS (Bush Derangement Syndrome) are still alive and well. Attention: Get a Life! Get Over It! Bush is now very happily retired!

As for Harvard, I would point out that Bush is a Harvard MBA (the most prestigious business school in the world) while Obama is Harvard Law (a good law school, but not the best), and they are more similar than different.

Those who spew their hatred are the idiots, and I guarantee that not one of them in the bunch is Harvard educated (and I wonder how many of them even have any college time under their belts–not many, judging from the way they write).

One can only hope that 0bama will keep his trousers on, unlike the last Democrat president.

So what if he took his jacket off. Maybe he is ready to roll up his sleeves and get to work for a country that needs a change. We should be more concerned with what a person does in the White House rather than some stupid traditon about a jacket.

I am an Obama supporter and am anticipating his presidency with excitement. He is an innovator and uses his brain to make decisions rather than the puppet strings other presidents relied on. For instance. . . its hot, im taking off my jacket. It may be subtle but it is a sheer example of independent thinking versus conformity which by chance is one of the reasons that made our country great and seperates us from the rest of the world.

The following is a quote from one of the least important people in our nation. He goes by the code name rave in cnn forums.

"For god's sake he is our President and learn to respect him.
I don't know if there is any living organism on this planet who will miss Bush.
We had a chimp in the white house for past 8 years.. what did he do ????"

I am absolutely appauled by the blatant hipocrisy in the comment by Rave quoted above. Immediately after making the point that any president deserves our respect he then took a giant metaphorical deuce all over his credibility. If we are to respect Obama based off of his role as leader of the free world alone, than regardless of how unproductive and incompetent President Bush was he should be given the same respect.

And for all you racist morons who have said such things as "next he'll have buckets of KFC thrown bout the place". . . . .You all need to go home, fill your bathtubs with 156 degree scolding hot broccolli and cheese soup, fill the tub with 7 poorly fed pirana, take 13 hits of extacy 3 hours in advance, 43 sleeping pills 5 minutes in advance and a handfull of pop rocks 20 seconds in advance, than strip naked, pour a gallon of gasoline on your head, use a match to set yourself a blaze, now once you begin to scream make sure you have Wesley Snipes there dressed as a clown with a shotgun to shoot you in the chest knocking you into the tub. You racist bum.

What's missing in this picture?... I fear we will have an answer to that question very shortly.

come on folks, i think it is just fine how our new president was dressed.if he would have had swimming trunks on. it would have been fine with me.HE IS OUR PRESIDENT.......BE GLAD!!!

It's too bad it took the collapse of our society to get an honest guy in office.

wow...now that's change we can believe in...what a savior! He actually decided something!

steve foster

ahhh, your such a booshie....don'y you realize what Dubya has done to this country

I believe it is imperative that conservatives demonstrate the same respect to BO as he and his liberal supporters demonstrated toward Bush for 8 year.

In other words it is time to start impeachment procedings for failing to provide for our common defense by transporting terrorist to the United States which endangers the lives of American citizens.

All you people just go ahead and run down Bush. Look back 8 years before Bush you had a draft dodging baby kiling pot smoking, queer loving sex crazy idiot that did nothing. So what

Y'all shut up. If you think you could do any bedtter get your butt out there and run for president. WhAT YOU NEED TO DO IS PRAY FOR THIS MAN THAT HE HAS SUCCESS AND GET YOU EYES ON THE lORD. All you all can do is criticize.Shut up and get a life.

Let see what bush will be wearing on daily basis.Wearing jacket
does not measure once capacity of performing your daily duties.
Bush can go to the bushes and wear animal skins now.Who cares
about him now? Bush is being bushed on 20th january,2009.

DO YOU IDIOTS KNOW WW WENT FORM BAD TO DISASTER. DOES ANYONE KNOW HOW STUPID AND VULNERABLE WE AMERICANS AND THE BIMBOS WHO VOTED THIS MONKEY IN.

DO YOU KNOW THE REVOLTIONS THAT WILL COME FROM THIS. DO YOU HAVE PLACES TO HIDE WHEN THE BOTTOM FALLS OUT. ARE YOU PREPARED FOR THE SUPRISES OBAMA THE MOMMA MONKEY WILL HAVE FOR US AND WHEN IT COMES.

START THINKING AND PLANNING A SAFETY MEASURE.

first,let me say that this is a great time in american history. the first african american president is now seated. i believe that he is a good and honest man.i also believe that he is going to be an exceptional president.that being said,i am looking foward to the time when i can turn on cnn and get news other than that pertaining to president obama.if this obsessive coverage continues,perhaps we will need to rename cnn to cnnao(certainaly nothing but news about obama)

170 million on a party, when we have all of these problems. How would you react if McCain had won and spent 50 million.

I’m scared to death. Day one and our new president is spending the day making sure the terrorists are well taken care of. His highest priority is making sure Gitmo is closed and the terrorists are comfortable. Our families are hungry, we are losing our job, stock market has crashed, 401K’s are empty and he is worried about the terrorist? Something is terribly wrong here.

Bush wore a jacket in the oval office, it did not help him to be a better president. He got absolutely nothing good accomplished. What's a jacket got to do with it.

I guess during the Clinton administration there wasn't a rule about keeping your pants on in the Oval Office. Hopefully, Obama will keep his on.

It just shows that Obama is comfortable in his new environment. He always takes his jacket off- that way he doesn't appear pompous in front of his supporters. It really doesn't matter either way- he's a been a better president in the last two days than Bush was in eight years. Bush is lucky he's not rotting in a federal prison for his crimes against humanity.

He will be judged one day and that judge will show no mercy.

"going dowwwwwwnnnnnnn"?

DOES ANYONE HAVE GOD IN THEIR LIFE, DOES ANYONE READ THE BOOK OF REVELATIONS AND EZEKIEL. THE RAPTURE THE JUDGEMENT, THE TRIB IN AMERICA TODAY. DOES ANYONE KNOW WHAT PLANS IRAN HAS FOR US VIA OBAMA.

DOES ANYONE KNOW WE HAVE NO SUPPORT FORM ANYONE. DOES ANYONE DO THEIR HOMEWORK ON LONG RANGE OBJECTIVE GOALS.

DID ANYONE PREPARE FOR FOOD SHORTAGES, ETC, ETC.

ARE WELL SLEEPING IN LA LA LA LAND.

Bush kept on his jacket, while America lost its shirt.

man the 22% is coming out now – i scrolled through here and read tributes to Bush and people saying the way he did it was the way it should be done? Ya'll are crazy. Who cares if he wears a coat & tie. Jefferson used to answer the door at the White House himself wearing his robe and bedroom slippers.

Mr Hussain -

Remember one thing – your job is to stand tall even when rest of the world is on other side. This is a big lesson to learn from great president Mr G W Bush. History will remember him for the man who saved nation to become another playground of terrorism.

No matter what critics outline Bush's legacy, you are following him on time and thus show great respect and learn from him.

Stop show off on common sense thing. Look at Sudan, Gaza, Mumbai, Somaliya, Saudi...you have lot more to do...and pls.....don't rush to send trrop for Afgan trip...that's the ;ast thing you wants to do in rush.

DO YOU KNOW WHAT WE ARE IN FOR IN THIS COUNTRY. DO YOU KNOW WHAT HIS PLANS ARE FOR US. DO YOU SEE HIM WEAR AN AMERICAN FLAG. DO YOU SEE WHERE HE IS GOING WITH THIS GITMOS, THOSE ARE HIS BUDDIES.

I THINK YOU ALL BELONG IN THE NUTHOUSE AND EAT YOUR OWN NUTS. BECASUE YOU ALL ARE STUPID BIGTIME YOU AMERICAN BIMBOS

hahahahaha!!! That is so good!! He does not need a jacket because he has a brain!!

I love our PRESIDENT!!

I really don't care if the prez wears a jacket or not. I would like to comment that I go to a private school and a uniform is required. It's not a choice, just the rule. Sometimes there is nothing wrong with rules and traditions that's all.

It just means he intends to get some work done and not just be a poser

I find it humorous that ((some)) of the LESS educated people on these boards are criticizing President Obama for "taking off his jacket in HIS own home." He would NEVER disrespect 'THE PEOPLE'S HOUSE" for he has too much respect for himself and his family. Our country is in terrible shape, the world is almost in a virtual stand still and some of you idiots are making statements about "chicken buckets" and racist nonsense....get a life and grown the HEII up!!!!

The Bush Administration was all about appearances. Too bad it never appeared to know what it was doing.

I'd also like to know what planet Steve Foster is from.

George Bush has left a monumental pile of carnage, destruction and waste, in his wake. Just may be, The darkness would have been less, if CNN had the motivation and courage to show that under the Suits in the suites, chambers and offices of the White House, were men and women with icy hearts and ruthless, despotic temperaments.

It is great to see that at long last, there is a President of moral and spiritual dignity, who is more focus on substance, than on superficial forms and mediocrity.
By the I gave my vote to Ralph Nader, because I think that ultimately, if the nation is to have a progressive future, we must break the strangle hold of the two party system.

Sorry dave b. it's not "his office" it's the PEOPLES Office, its the "PEOPLES" house. President Obama is occuplying that space to do my work. He works for you and me and every citizen of this great nation. My clergyman wears his jacket as a sign of respect when he occupies the house belonging to the "LORD". It comes down to respect and humility of where he's at and those who have servered before him.

John King "contributed" to this report? There are only 88 words. Which ones are not his? How many writers does it take to say that Bush ordered jackets on in the Oval office and Obama did not? If this report is a collaboration, then I suggest trimming your writing staff would be a great way to ease the economic pain you may feel in 2009.

Someone asked, what did President Bush do? Let’s see….

1) Quadrupled aid to Africa and was accredited for saving 10 million lives.
2) Brought dignity back to the White House after Clinton stained it.
3) The first major terrorist attacked was at the 1972 Munich Olympics, no president. since that date has tried to stop the “saw your head off with a rusty knife” terrorist except for Regan and Bush.
4) Gave EVERY tax paying citizen a tax cut.
5) Forced N. Korea to work with multi-national panel
6) Got Libya to give up nukes
7) Forced Syria to leave Lebanon
Paid off US debt to UN
9) MADE US FEEL SAVE WHEN THE ENTIRE COUNTRY WAS SCARED AFTER 9/11.
The list of his accomplishments is miles long. This man did a great job even when trying to work with a hostile and unfair congress.

Thank You Andrea, I do Too !!

Can you ever imagine Bush putting a pay freeze on himself and on his administration because they are not supposed to get rich for serving a financially-ailing country?

THAT...is the difference between Obama and Bush...a conscience

So... Bush's frequent misuse of the English language, and aptitude for taking meetings with foreign heads of state with his feet up on the table are alright, so long as he's wearing a jacket? That's what is considered "respecting" the office/title? Okay. Just checking.

To all Obama HATERS don't hate congratulate. Our new commander in chief deserves the up most respect that was given to the presidents before him. Anyway lets not forget the White House was built by slaves I'm sure there was no compensation given. It don't matter if he wears the suit coat or not. Hooray to the First Family. GOD BLESS AMERICA.

Didn't vote for him..... So he wants to not follow tradition...... It's not a law, it's a choice. It's also not news.....

OK folks..

I'm an Aussie and we tend to be a little suspicious of coat-and-tie blokes. I run a research department – and I haven't work a suit jacket to work for over 20 years.

He seems to be a decent character, and it's about time you yanks got a better boss. Bloody good luck to him, and I hope he never needs it!

Looks like he'd probably make a pretty good Aussie.

(Think about it cobber)

@ Steve Foster – wow. Did you pay any attention whatsoever during the Bush administration? Or did you just stick the blinders on?

Whatever good Bush may have done during his presidency was vastly overshadowed by the utter crap he fed the American public.

I truly hope that "Steve Foster" is simply some guy trying to make a joke.

@Steve Foster
What service? Starting an illegal war, increasing government corruption, or how bout my favorite, making the office of the president a joke?

cool. literally.

What a shame – the professionalism we saw throughout the Bush administration has already come to a very quick end. I hope every day isn't dress down day in the White House – This special house and the people who work their are the face of our nation. Will military uniforms be abolished there too? Let's hope not. Their presence and service there should be aknowledged.

THANK YOU, Ferrell From Houston !!!

I Totally Agree !!

It's called RESPECT and Obama shows total lack of it by not wearing his jacket.

just as long as his pants aren't drooping

I love the picture. I agree with most of you. I don't care if he wears a jacket or not. I just want him to lead and work hard at fixing what is wrong with this country.

As for you "fried chicken", "sloppy thinkers" and "bling" (I refuse to use the names of you, so vile) and the others who insist on spewing (still!!!) your racist and hateful words I say to you...President Obama is in that office working for you as well. He knows you and your type, but he will still be your President. I am so glad you are in the minority. I hope you find peace and happiness one day.

Robert, for al of you self-absorbed, uneducated, right-wing Christian nuts, I am sick and tired of hearing you bellow that this country was founded on Christian principles. Show me anywhere in American history where any group of people came to this country for establishing Christianity on it's soil. From everything that I have learned about this country's history–because I got a secular education that taught not Biblical history–people came to this country to escape religious persecution; they're primary purpose for their long and dangerous journey–where many left behind loved ones they knew they would likely never see again–was not based on establishing Christianity. Chirstian principles in America are only a by-product of a nation and people of search of a better life. So get a life and stop spatting off your misinforming dogma and do some secular reading.

jt has it right, let some action happen before congratulations. good luck mr bama

We are African Americans. Casual is the call of the day. we roll up our sleeves when we get to work. If Obama took off his jacket, he is probably busy. Makes sense.

You Obama supporters are so far up his rear end that you cant see straight. If you would climb out and breath for just a second then maybe you will see what is going on. You think he is going to be such a good leader for this Great Country but oh I cant wait till you guys start turning on him when he starts screwing up. He has no idea how to run a country because his background is so poor and that has been proven by his policies. He has put people in his administration that is very questionable. He is surrounded by all these RACIST black people as well. He needs to back off these RACIST folks (the Reverend that spoke at the inauguration for example) if he wants to distance himself from that kind of nonsense but it seems he enjoys it. I cant wait till he FAILS and oh yes it is going to happen!!!! By the way Obama where is my darn stimulus check...Im still waiting for it. I need some money. You said you were going to spread the wealth so lets have it!!!!

The reason BHO has his coat off is to give the appearance he's working since he did not work in the Senate during his term it may take him 3-4 years to learn how to work.....then hopefully he will be gone..

As if it wasn't bad enough that this is news, its even more pathetic that people will take this as an opportunity to bash Bush. People seem to forget that he is HUMAN. Yes, he made mistakes but none of us were in his position, so its really easy for us to point our finger and say what we would have done.

Cool !

Just thank god we have moved on from the tradition of wearing a wig in the oval office !

Shameful, simply shameful not following the Reagan / Bush tradition.

SIZE DOESN'T MATTER
COLOR DOESN'T MATTER
WHAT YOU WEARING, DOSEN'T MATTER
GOOD THING ,HE IS IN WORKING ATITUDE IN THE OFFICE
I LIKE THAT.HIS OFFICE SHOULD BE HIS COMFORTABLE WAY. THERE IS NOTHING TRADITIONAL.ITS VERY IMPORTANT TO BE COMFORTABLE AND FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT FOR EACH PERSON IN THAT OFFICE.I LIKE TO SEE HIM AS A GENERAL PERSON.PEOPLE VOTED HIM FOR NICE WORK AND FOR THIS COUNTRY.PEOPLE DIDNT VOTE FOR HIM TO MODEL HIS COAT OR EXPENSIVE SHOES.

I wonder how long it will take the msm and the lierals to blame Bush when the annointed one screws up, and he will, its just a matter of time. But then the people who voted him in think he is the next thing to God, beware the false prophet. You reap what you sow. Bush sent millions of dollars to Africa to help fight aids. We never had another attack after 9/11, and he loved this country and our fighting men and women. Name me 5 things that BHO has done other then be a community organizer for Acorn? He and Frank got thousands of dollars from Acorn, he came from the corrupt political bunch out of Chicago. There is an old saying, you lay down with dogs you get up with fleas. If the democrates would have done something years ago when they knew about Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae and the other lending institutes, we would not be in the mess we are today. But no, they were too busy getting money from them. People were upset that Sarah Palin got some expensive clothes, where is the upcry about Michelle O's clothes. Oh yes, and what about the 150 million plus inauguration that you and I have to pay for? Why is it that BHO can spend out money and there is no one on the left saying anything about it? Shame on all of you who look at the "O" with worship. The reason he got all the Clinton people is because he doesn't know anything about running this country, they will be doing it in the background and he will take credit for it. What a sham.

Thanks Obama, just get the job done.The last moron in office was on vacation 1 out of every three days in office.

Rock on Prez!!!! way to shake up the white house a little bit!! That place needs some good "updating".!! You have my vote!!!!!!!!1

OBAMA 09!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!111

I was just wondering regarding the comment about "basketball" and "fried chicken" being racist if someone could tell me what calling Bush a monkey is? I don't understand because I'm color blind.

For those of you Bush Bashers, do you really think he did everything wrong?? Wait, don't answer that-we have not had another 9/11, we have lower taxes, and Bush did not put the economy where it is today, it was the greedy banks, mortgage companies, and every one sitting at the top wanting more. Maybe you people should watch CNN more often where Nancy Pelosi said tonight that by 2010 that there would be no more of Bush's tax cuts in effect !! And I do beleive it would be respectful for the new president to wear his jacket so when he has his picture taken for public purposes all this crap wouldn't end up on a message board like it is doing now. I did not vote for this new president, but we will see how it goes. Miss You President and Mrs. Laura Bush !!!!

this man has been in office 1 day and stupid people things he is the magical unicorn. Of course he needs to take off his jacket that's what crack does. Let's have some change and not the stupid kind that makes this type of news. All you are going to accomplish is to weaken our nation with all corrupt clinton cronies in office, and the closing of gitmo. I would sue ya if you let a 15 yr old go that killed my US soldier overseas. Wake up stupid.

who do you know ever got any real work done in a suit coat,let the man take off his coat he got alot of work ahead of him. 8 yrs of failed government,god bless obama

Aren't you glad that the Pope has not decided to dress down.I am.

Looks like President Obama is ready to roll up his sleaves and get to work for the American people. Enough with the staid platitudes and protocols of the Bush administration when nothing really worth noting was accomplished over an eight-year stint. What good is it to wear a suit and look good for the photo ops and nothing was being done to benefit the American people?

Other topics for cnn- fox- and conservative hate mongers.

I also notice that unlike Bush and Regan , Obama walks with his left foot moved forward before his right foot. Unlike Regan and bush he breathes with his nose and eats with his mouth. Unlike great Bush and Regan he has a pair of eyes. All these are against conservatives ideas and total disrespect for the Oval office.
Impeach him and put david duke , rush and sean in the oval office. let the good times roll.

Kudos Fox and Cnn

Thank you for your service, President Bush. You will be missed. Your legacy may have been buried by millions of hate-consumed, poisoned Internet rants and intentionally lopsided news articles, but it will be unearthed and then justified. Public opinion and history never wind up on the same side. Few people could stand up to a nation full of ignorance as you have. Thank you for your example of strength.

so what? check back in a year and see what he actually accomplishes. i care more about his actions and accomplishments than whether or not he wears a jacket or not. remember the gymnasts and the flack about some of them wearing sandals?

BO is going to change a lot of things... get ready everything is 'going to h**l in a handbasket'. He wants you idiots to think he is doing something... got you fooled. Michelle might even give it up in the 'oral office'...

Get a grip......Darth Vadik, CA

BigBear,
you're not a very bright man, are you?
obviously my point went over your head, but it's nice to see average republicans trying to talk smarter than they actually really are.

Silly liberal's intelligence is for Conservatives. BTW, you don't "talk smater", you "speak smarter"...DUH!!!

This is news? For the first time in 56 years a president did not attend Salute To Heroes Inaugural Ball which was attended by 48 Medal of Honor recipients. How bout reporting this?

As for the jacket. Regan, Bush Sr, Bush Jr all wore jackets to the office out of respect for that office. Respect that Obama apparently doesnt have

This is going to get you that Pulitzer, John.

I'm glad Barak Obama is the President of the United states, because he will bring positive changes not only to the United states, but to the rest of the World!

Britney Waldron

http://waldronentertainment.wordpress.com/

Hey, Obama's from Hawaii–I predict it'll be be aloha shirts and flip-flops in the Oval Office within a couple years.

OMG! The President took off his jacket while sitting in the Oval Office!! That's it! The country's going to hell ina handbasket already!!

C'mon CNN! Could you possibly make yourselves look anymore ridiculous than reporting on such a trivial matter. Who cares that he took off his jacket as long as he's doing the job. It's no wonder Americans are so ignorant of what is happening beyond its borders when this is considered important news.

Dick c. January 21st, 2009 5:12 pm ET
next he'll have buckets of KFC thrown bout the place.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dickie dearest heart, why such animosity? Everybody likes KFC. Not just African-Americans. I'd bet your pickup truck that even your after-hours fantasy Mary Magdalene Palin likes herself some KFC. Don't let the world beat you down. It's going to be okay. Keep the faith, you are somebody’s hero.

For god's sake he is our President and learn to respect him.
I don't know if there is any living organism on this planet who will miss Bush.
We had a chimp in the white house for past 8 years.. what did he do ????
You ask us to respect him because he's the President but you immediately insult teh last President to occupy the Oval office.
What a hippocrit yu are! Are you two faced in all you do or just against people that son't lock step in line like little puppies?

(no human can and will never respect another human or any animal or anything (noun), until and only after they learn to respect them self. by james taylor) yes bill clenton did not wear a dress coat but he did not wear pants that were zipped up either in the Oral Office. take it to the bank. i bet some of these readers do not have respect from there kids ( and not goats) and i do not wouder why! (respect is only earned after it is teached)

I think Bush was 'play skool' prez.....dressup prez.....Ken prez. I mean he vacationed one third of the entire time he was there.

President Gore would have taken off his jacket. When you are hard at work you need to get comfortable.

The repub knitpicking is going to backfire...Like Rush the VIAGRA king!

Its now the Obama Oval Office and as Bill Maher says its time foe NEW RULES!!

@Robert – when will we ever hear an end to "Godly this and God that" when it comes to our country? We are a nation who's built on freedom of (and if desired – FROM) religion, not on Christianity. Our nation was built on values of fairness and freedom. While this may intersect with basic religious values, which is fine and dandy, they are not exclusive to them. This nation was not founded as a Christian nation, and while they acknowledged a higher being, they never called one out specifically, nor did they base our code of laws on religion. We are simply founded on values that are there to promote, at their most basic level, freedom, something the actual PRACTICE of religion these days leaves a bit to be desired. Our founding fathers valued freedom and enlightenment, two things that modern fundamentalism (regardless of which religious sect we're talking about, right wing Christianity included) are hard at work at oppressing. I would think that if they saw what has been going on in this country over the last several years, they'd have every right to give us all a little smack down.

Anyhow, welcome home Mr. President. Lord knows we need your help.

I think if you want to appear stuck up and better then everyone..yeah wear your jacket......BUT I don't know a common many that has worked behind a desk with his jacket on.So why should the world care how comfortable he is allowed to be. Least its not boxers an a beater....Comeon find REAL news

I just surprise how empty his desk is. With all the problems we have, I'd imagine there should be tons of things on his desk. Who cares if he wears a jacket or not. It's HIS office.

Why is this news? The President makes his own rules about what can be worn in the oval office. I know, let's use the media's (and apparently Pat Leahy's as well) favorite word, historic. President Obama is the first African American President to have his picture taken in the oval office without a jacket, wearing a blue tie and white shirt. Could this be more HISTORIC? Why yes. He's talking on the TELEPHONE... and holding it in his LEFT hand. Pardon me while I faint.

Who in the WORLD cares??

good for you mr. president...i like someone who feels free to be themselves. mr. president, you put on the coffee & i will bring the doughnuts. you did say this was "the people's house"...so when can i come over.

take care & do a good job.

thanks.

Where's my comment, Cnn?

Where's my comment, biased CNN? Didn't like it because I criticized Barack Hussein Obama because of his ridiculous ignorance and lack of Manners and Courtesies and Respect?

Bush should have been in a "straight jacket" and not a suit jacket.

Next you'll have a story about Obama in his draws. Cmon cnn get a life

Not a bad suggestion from Dick c, maybe some KFC buckets thrown about the office could generate sales which could save a few jobs in this country. Maybe a few Circuit City banners on the wall behind the desk in the Oval Office could help save 30,000 jobs immediately. Why be offended about a jacket, use the office to advertise if not for work.

This story is a lot more than symbolic- for 8 years we've had a president who would have rather spent more time in Texas, always left work by 6 even when our country was suffering, and never really made enough of an effort to take off his jacket.

Barack Obama has shown time and time again that he is ready to take up the challenges that have been left to him, and he is ready to roll up his sleeves and REALLY get to work.

BFD...has Obama taken his first Presidential dump yet?

Oh enough you nutters. If CNN hadn't pointed out that Bush had the "must wear jacket rule" and they had just shown the picture of Obama in his shirt sleeves and tie, no one, NO ONE would have even noticed.

Renee,its not HIS office its the office of an elected official of the people ALAS!! THE PEOPLES OFFICE.

Obama can dress up or dress down in the Oval Office. I really don't care as long as he does a good job. That remains to be seen.

Ok after some research, Coolidge and Arthur had to retake their oaths, so he will be the third

i see you are really into deleting comments today. what is wrong? too much common sense for the moderators ?

"major change",??????????????????????????????????????????????? seems to me it is more of an "irrelavant" change

I am all for eliminating the jacket rule. There comes a time to roll up sleeves and get down to work. Sitting around in suits proves nothing...shall I say more?

Go President Obama!!!!! It is about time for change and such an easy, yet symbolic one to start!!

Amazing. Can't wait for mid-term elections.

so what if it gets cold ? no jacket would look pretty stupid.

isn't his plan for health insurance, foreign policy, corruption free government more important for your reporting time?

I am with you KC from Iowa and the other 99.9% of the respondents who don't give a flyin flip what the man wears. He has done more in one day than Bush did in his entire eight years in office. If getting the job done means not wearing a blazer, I say GO FOR IT!!!!!

Obama should rule that FOX covers all White House news, while CNN does something else.

I don't care if he works in his pajamas! He will be a better President than Bush ever was or ever could have been. Is this really news, honestly? So he has a different dress code than Bush, who cares! What was Clintons dress code, a blue Gap dress???

Good grief !!!!! President Obama has only been in office for a few hrs. and people are already complaining..PUT YOUR LIPS TOGETHER !!!
When it is time for President Obama to put a jacket on he will put it on!
Do you think Bush sat /stand in a jacket all day ????? he put his jacket on when it was time for interviews/photos etc. REMEMBER
PRESIDENT OBAMA IS NOT STUPID, NEITHER IS HIS WIFE,VICE PRESIDENT BIDEN,NOR HIS WIFE !!!!!! I KNOW THERE ARE SOME PEOPLE WHO ARE "HATEING" RELAX YOU WILL SLEEP BETTER

wow... I can't believe all these people had something to say about it (as if "it" were actually something of substance) even me... why am I typing???
LOVES OBAMA

PS. get a life with the racisit comments... you have to have something better to say, I mean come on!

This short brief seems neutral to me. One guy feels comfortable working in a coat and the other would rather work not wearing one. Why are all of us wasting time on this? Why do so many of you read some hidden meaning? Are most humans paranoid?

Rave:

Well he did keep the country secure after 9-11, other than that eh.

Hello.
Differen't strokes...why do we always compare? Nothing else to do?
I would think either is correct..........

First that gown, now this! What's next, casual Friday's?

The President of the United States attire is of no interest to me. I just don't want to hear that he's done a Cosmopolitan spread.

He is his own boss...who cares ??

Auzzievick January 21st, 2009 3:04 pm ET

So much for total respect for the Office of the Presidency……….Ronald Reagan never walked into the Oval Office without a coat on, but then Barrack is no Ronald Reagan

Thank God he is not Ronald Reagan! Two bit actor...Two bit President....Good grief. Do you remember Iran-Contra, he was up to his shirt sleeves in that mess......

really silly

How can you get any work done with a jacket on?

It's really not that serious.
It's not a sign of disrespect.
I wouldn't want to always wear a jacket everytime i go to work.

I actually admire him for not following in anyone's footsteps and doing his own thing. He's a human being just like anyone else.
He can wear his jacket if he wants. It shouldn't cause this much controversy.

Indiana Voter..... the last 8 years have been a nightmare... and anyone who supports, defends, or argues for that nightmare proves that they are part of the PROBLEM NOT the SOLUTION. Go back to your rock... no one cares what you think or say.... your white sheet and cone hat is showing.... or is it that you are part of 5% of Bush's Base? Best remember, Obama's base is We, the People... and that is ALL!

The difference between Bush and Obama in the Oval Office is that Obama is WORKING... Not PRETENDING to work!

Look at all these hateful and sarcastic comments. For those of you saying " find some real news to cover" or " Mr. King shows once again why he deserves his reputation as a journalist", Don't understand the fact that this is the FIRST African American President in the History of the United States. But yet you decide to hate on CNN for covering it? Get real and get a life. Don't watch CNN if you need to complain about it, All American's do is COMPLAIN.. and Yes, I am American.

HOW UNPROFESSIONAL! WELCOME TO THE OBAMA ERA!

he hasn't done jack yet – so let's all remain calm and see what he does. once he does something – then we have something to cheer for. i am hoping he succeeds; but I certainly am not cheering for him, yet.

Ronald Reagan started the tradition...not bush...Regan started the rule as a sign of respect

its just tradition....let obama start his own tradition if he wants....its his office for 4 years

I don't think I ever even saw a photo of Bush in the Oval Office in 8 years.
Maybe he took of his jacket because he plans on staying a while.. getting comfortable and actually doing some work. On the job already. That is a beautiful thing Hope for more photos to come.

Okay, we got some change. Life is good, now.

Jeanne, simply put, YOU ARE STUPID!

For god's sake he is our President and learn to respect him.
I don't know if there is any living organism on this planet who will miss Bush.
We had a chimp in the white house for past 8 years.. what did he do ????

Dick C., your name fits!

p.s. is your last name Wadd?

I'm not a fan of the harsh criticism for our former president, Bush. You might not agree with what he accomplished but he did to do work in this tough time. He's out and proceeding on with his life, let him be.

That's the easiest question I've been asked all year – The President. is missing in this picture. This seat is occupied by a foreign born imposter with no respect for our nation, laws, or history. Don't expect any respect from me.

President Obama has sent all his messages openly and responsibly to not only the people of America but the people of the world who seek for peace for those who are suffering. How can we want peace without joining our hands to do the least we can by upholding the spark of the goodness he is doing, calling and caring. He is apealling to the world for reconciliation! He connected everyone to work for God alone to save the world . His courage to speak the truth and commitme in arming a sea of problems deserve the support of everyone worldwide. His humbleness! his courage! his simplicity! are the three golden keys to change war to harmony! Everyone knows that the end of the world is knocking at every human's heart at its door. He deserved I say His sense of carelessness of "without jacket on " in the vindyard is wonderful. He has come begin remaking the world! He has come to awaken the sleeping giant. Well done President Obama. Obama!

Why not get rid of ties as well. In my experience, all ties do is restrict blood flow to the brain. You can tell because most people wearing ties act like idiots!

Guys: Clothing

I was home in my PJ's and Robe on Inauguration Day

When Joe Biden was sworn in as VP I stood up

When Barack Obama was sworn in as President I stood up

I was serious and I was a proud American...In my PJ's and Robe

Happy days

D.Claire

Amazed again how both sides will use anything to attack.

I wear jeans to work and get more done then many of my coat and tie colleagues. However, there is a place and time for business attire, and I'm pretty sure Obama is smart enough to figure that out. Wasn't aware that a coat and tie = respect.

Guess since Bush got no work done because of the coat and tie, Clinton and all the presidents before him also got no work done because they wore coat and tie.

I work for a law firm and every attorney takes their jacket off as soon as they get in. They only wear them in meetings, not in their office working. It's really not a big deal and neither Bush nor Obama are wrong in this, it's their preference.

I don't care if he wears shorts and a t-shirt. He's been a long time coming!

@Big T

I think you forgot to say that Democrats always have something to say negative about Republicans too. Or, did you forget the last eight years of hate filled speech coming from the Democrat Party?

People like you make me laugh because you show your double-standard. What? You don't like it when Republicans constantly say negative things about Democrats? Now you know how it felt the last 8 years for Republicans having to listen to your crap.

Get rid of that ugly carpet!

Jacket ? I agree with Brutis. There was no reason for Bush to take off his jacket since he hasn't worked in 8 years. He should have kept his hat on as well.................... and how about rush slimeball saying that he hopes Obama fails. I hope he moves to another country he should not even have a public voice. To say that he hopes Obama fails means that he is against all that Obama stands for including Unity which is the opposite of divisiveness, and divisiveness is the same as segregation which is the battle cry of all racists, so that makes Limbaugh one in the worst way. That also makes him un American, because if our leader fails, so does our country. Limbaugh, Rove and Chaney needs to be placed in the middle of the Atlantic in a row boat.

But, brah! Gotta make 'em Aloha Shirts on Friday!!

Im speechless...Don't we got better things to cover than this?

A bullcrap attempt to cause a stir for the media to get some traffic. Bush killed 1,000's of people and Obama's first day they want to talk about him not wearing a Jacket?

Find some real news to cover.

Mr. King shows once again why he deserves his reputation as a journalist

now all obama needs to do is trash any pictures hanging on the wall of Bush (jr and sr)...; hell, a fresh start means getting RID of any evidence of past horrible incompetence...

scott in NH

So what? Forget the dress code and I don't care if he smokes a bong in the Oval Office (but he better stay away from Monica's replacement)... he just needs to do the job well. That's it... and I didn't vote for him.

wow, I guess that shows what kind of president we will have. A casual and not serious one.

ALL of Bush's rules need to get scrapped!! He wore his suit and looked polished (or tried) and drove this country AND his party to the ground. All you blind republicans, wake up and thank God we have Obama... a thinker, a doer. How much time did Bush stay in the Oval office anyway?

Why not be comfortable? Makes sense to me.

Good for Obama. Any change form the stiff , imperial and overly secretive and formal Bush years is welcome. Seems like those Connecticut Yankees ( please, he is NOT a Texan) put more stock in formality than results.

Wow this is news???? Ok so what's wrong with what he wears while he's working in HIS office. This is such a lame topic and what's even worse is that me and many others have just commented on it. OMG let the man do his job the and drop it.

.
Hey, V, with the vendetta for the federal government worker….I have worked hard in my career in a Naval Shipyard, for 33 years….I get less than my civilian counterparts do in civilian shipyards working the same ships…YOU need to get a clue..I pay as much tax as anyone else in the same income bracket, I get NO breaks as a federal employee….so why don't YOU go volunteer to have YOUR pay frozen and such, I have a family to feed also .....

Good for him... he should make his own rules & regulations.

It's a new day. Obama came to Washington to get things done and to air the place out: of its seemingly never-ending lies & subterfuge, behind-closed-door deal making, corruption and shallowness. It feels like the winds of change (and right) are blowing through this land. The picture of him at his desk sans jacket (sans hypocrisy) is a sight to behold.

Mr. Smith has come to Washington and may the corrupt (and clueless) beware.

God bless him.

And you don't think THIS picture is a photo-op? Seriously.

Holy cow, stop the presses, cut into the broadcasts, let's have a 20/20 episode dedicated to this subject... Obama isn't wearing a jacket. This guy could burn his toast and make the news.

President Obama is going to do some work in the Oval Office for a change something Bush never did.

Let me get this straight – Bush took his OFFICIAL presidential portrait in a light green looking oxford style shirt; yet, Obama is disrespecting the office by being COMFORTABLE WHILE HE WORKS.

If the "rule" under Dubya was to always wear a jacket, why have your "official" portrait made without a jacket?

The man carries himself with dignity and gravity that supercedes any suitcoat. Let's get a reality check – if we were to stop in to see PM Brown, President Sarkozy, or the CEO of any major global corporation, I would bet the ranch that they don't wear suitcoats 24/7. Let's move on to more important topics like keeping the US from sliding into the abyss.

That's because Bush was never at his desk long enough to take it off.

Dear Mr. President: Don't start following that trend Bill set by stripping off your garments in the Oval office, please. Show decorum and respect for the position and the place.

If he wants to take his jacket off that is fine. Mr Bush did not because he wanted to show respect for the office, same as Ron Reagan. Clinton showed disrespect for the office by dropping his pants and getting oral copulation. This is not that big of a deal. Do not knock Obama for taking it off, Do not knock Bush for leaving it on. It is just symbolism dumba$$es

There is only one President at a time. As of 12 noon on January 20th, there were no longer any Bush rules to be scrapped. The only Presidential rules in effect are those of President Obama.

must be that obama is prepared to roll-up his sleeves and get down to serious work. by all appearances, it seems that bush's only time in the oval office was for photo opps.....

This is not a dress code folks..this is a PERSONAL PREFERANCE..geesh...you poor folks need to get a life...

Auzzievick..who in the h*ll is BARRACK..your insult would have worked if you learned to spell his name correctly...

Robby..we do love those Democrats...you wish you were like them and had a reason to take your pants off...

Dick...your name suits you!!! Now go back into your double wide and eat your Ramen Noodles...

That picture is absolutely awesome. A simple symbol of how far we have come...

Maybe he can also remove the "pants required" rule like Clinton did.

President Obama is going to work. Mr. Bush was up for a photo-op

I can't belive this is news. Like there isn't more important things to cover.

Wow – what decisiveness! If he institutes a shoe-optional policy for the Rose Garden, why ... this is the Hope and Change we've earned.

Wearing a jacket may not make him a better president, but it will help how others around the world perceive him. We're a nation built on Godly principles and values and like Bush, I hope he makes the right decisions on fundamental issues. That will be the key factor as to how strong of a nation we are in the future.

Good! Maybe if they all feel comfortable at work they can do a better job. I am all for it. Go Obama! I love the changes he making.

Mr. Obama looks like a normal man at work! I love it! It makes me feel good to be a BLACK man in America! If this is ALL you "Anti Barack" people have to talk about, go and join the Bush's in Texas. Cowgirls and Cowboys! Those days are over! We the people need to as a whole need to get on the same page as Barack and help this Nation really be a Great place to be. He is a Peace maker, and knows what it means to work hard.

and also, on retirement, yes, I can retire at 55, with 30 years...the way it is I will retire at 60 with 37 years between active duty Navy and federal work...
V...can you say as much or are you an underemployed pedofile driving and ice cream truck somewhere....hmmmmmm?

Thanks V for sharing that information. You sound very knowledgeable.

Next rule to go will be the no-smoking rule.

Obama just so sllick with it...

Judge not a person by their wardrobe but by the output of their efforts. Judge not a person by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character (or their resume). Oops, sorry, I forgot how this person got elected, sans experience...

I used to take my jacket off when I was getting ready to do some serious engineering work. So I can see he is ready for the work at hand.

Most successful people understand that you dress for success.

Dress down and.... well let's all hope.

Hey, you with the vendetta for the federal government worker....I have worked hard in my career in a Naval Shipyard, for 33 years....I get less than my civilian counterparts do in civilian shipyards working the same ships...YOU need to get a clue..I pay as much tax as anyone else i the same income bracket, I get NO breaks as a federal employee....so why don't YOU go volunteer to have YOUR pay frozen and such, I have a family to feed also MORON !!!

Come on you all, remember his speech yesterday...un-clench those fist and PEACE OUT!!!!!!!!!!!

Obama has done more in one day,than bush did in a whole year.

He's got to roll up his sleeves if he's going to get to work at redistributing the wealth and borrowing more money....errr...I mean if he's going to fix the economy.

i think he looks like he's working harder with his jacket off and his sleeves rolled up, i like it.

Hooray! This is exactly the change we've been hoping for! Good work everyone. Good work CNN for covering this!!!

Good for Obama....It only means he plans to get something done...Bush never did a good days work in 8 years so had no reason to take off his coat...Maybe now some one will do some work in the Oval Office for a change..

Dick C should take a break from making out with his sister and perhaps crack a book from time to time.... Then again, he probably figures he "dun reed gud" after finishing a Dr. Seuss story (televised).

So, I take it that folk on this board WHO work in an office enviornment keep their jacket on while they are at their desk working? PLEASE give me a break!!!

Geez, this is "news". I'm an old codger, so I've gone the whole route from when coats & ties were required office attire for men and dresses and high heels were required for women all the way down to the often overly "casual" attire accepted today. Trust me to Ms Houpt who questioned "how can you work in a coat"– it really can be done. But does it really make any difference if Obama takes off his jacket? I don't care if Obama works in his pajamas just as long as he gets the job done.

This is news??? Who cares!!!

It is about showing respect to the office. He should always wear a jacket. Especially when greeting people. You young people may not understand that but he needs to show respect to an older generation who he also is the President of.

If the most powerful jobi n theworld doesn't require a dress code then what does. Grow up children.

Who cares our new President WEARS, it's what he DOES that counts! Bush looked like the stiff that he was in that suit! Thank God for Obama...he's comfortable and working on all the garbage left behind by the Suit and his pals!

so bush prefered to wear a jacket... obama does not... big f'ing deal

obama can wear jeans, teevas, and a t-shirt to the oval office for all I care, and Bush could have too.

In fact I'd prefer it if he did. All the hype about not being a politician as usual – the whole suit/tie look basically screams "I can look the part, but I don't have to accomplish anything."

Such cavalier attitude does not bode well for the new president. He should not start using up the goodwill people have for him.

I appreciate President Obama s common touch and trying to be down to earth one of us type guys. But the Oval Office deserves the coat and tie and the formal professional look.
He has another office he can do the causal look in. Let's keep this one at the level of repect it deserves.

FREEZE,,,,,,,,,,,FEDERAL,,,,,,,,,,,,PAY,,,,,,,,,,FOR,,,,,,,,,ALL,,,,,,,,,,,,JUDGES,,,,,,,,,

AND,,,,,,,,,,,,BUREAUCRATS,,,,,,,,,,,ROLL,,,,,,,,,,BACK,,,,,,,,,,SALARIES

so bush prefered to wear a jacket... obama does not... big deal

obama can wear jeans, teevas, and a t-shirt to the oval office for all I care, and Bush could have too.

In fact I'd prefer it if he did. All the hype about not being a politician as usual – the whole suit/tie look basically screams "I can look the part, but I don't have to acomplish anything."

It's ironic that W was more focused on APPEARING professional than actually BEING professional.

Well, at least he looked like he was supposed to be there.

seems the headline of this article is in error... there was no rule, just a matter of personal preference

The suit and tie are nice and show respect for the office. However, I don't think it needs to be so stiff as to be a mandatory rule. Some of society's rules being broken down are good, some not so good. Since he is now our president regardless of how we voted, I hope that he has the good sense to know what to do, not just in dressing, but with our country and our economy

A jacket? so what! I want to know what Obama is going to do about the Immigration issue!

ANOTHER FIRST!

I am no historian, but I would wager that Obama is the first president to:

TAKE HIS OATH OF OFFICE TWICE

Q:How many Harvard grads does it take to recite a 35 word oath

A: More than 2

Not looking real promising for America

that's right Big T. Republicans are going to bash this president and his cabinet and policies just like Democrats bashed the former president.

Get use to it.

Just another photo op with pleanty of smoke and mirrors. That's all we'll get for 4 years. What a load of crap.

This is vaguely interesting, but how is this news at all? Next time, could you please tell us what Obama ate for breakfast? Or, you know, anything substantive?

Aside from that, I have enjoyed reading both the pro-Obama and anti-Obama commentators clash trying to spin this to their favor.

V – There should also be a requirement that you learn proper English!

It's a well-deserved reward to be able to break one of Bush's stupid little rules. You think this is bad!?... Bush is going to be even more mad when Obama goes through line-bu-line, and summariy overturns every single little rule Bush made.

Not a bad idea to show respect for such a high office. It tells more about about the office holder than the office itself. The new president should give it a second thought.

Big T January 21st, 2009 6:18 pm ET
You notice the Republicans always have something negative to say when it comes to any Democrat. I am just trying to figure out at what point are the people for the good of the country? .....

If you switch Republican with Democrat in your blog, it reads true. Where have you been the last 6 months? Try reading any post about McCain or Palin. God, even read this one and half the comments are bashing Bush.

@Sebastian, booing Bush was just disgusting. He was still President. How will you feel when Lord Obama gets booed, and he will?

Thanks, Mr. President, for having the right priorities! It's about getting stuff done–not making a fashion statement!
Boy, do we need to grow up in this country!

@Michelle from Alabama

"Is it dissrepestful to ___________ while in the Oval Office?"

Let's have Bill Clinton fill in the blanks on that one. DEMOCRATS ONE AND ALL! Cannot wait for Obama to get caught having an affair. NICE! How many young interns you think want to get it on with the messiah Obama?

Obama just wants to look more like JFK, that's all, thus cementing his claim to it. Poser.

It is called R-E-S-P-E-C-T. Respect for the office, Respect for the title, Respect for the people of the United States. Whether or not you know this is the doorway to the rest of the world and as such commands respect.

I think he should wear denim. He has a lot of work to do. He may as well be comfortable.

Take off your jackets and get to work America. For the past eight years we have been wearing our jackets and have done nothing.

It is called R-E-S-P-E-C-T. Respect for the office. Respect for the title. Respect for the people who come to the office. Respect for the people of the United States. Whether you may know or not this is the office that doorway to the rest of the world, and as such, it commands respect.

Big T... You're a generalizing goof. When someone starts a sentence with "all republicans" or "all democrats" it just... Gaahah.. Why bother.

I can't believe there are over 100 people commenting on Obama not wearing a jacket while he works.

Stay the course in Iraq; troop surge in Afghanistan; stimulus packages; and bailouts... yup, so far this is the biggest, if not the only, change he's made.

I don't think this will be the only bush rule President Obama will break. bush was worried about dumb things like jackets in the Oval Office, but ran the nation like a simpleton. bush was a 6 year old who just learned the rules of checkers trying to play three level chess. Good riddance to him and his dopey rules.

President Obama is not there for show, he is there to work!!

Get over it people...Repeat this after me and go to sleep tonight......He is my President.... He is my President...He is my President..Hopefully you got the dream~!. GO BAMA! ONE NATION UNDER A GROOVE>>>

Most street thugs don't wear a coat.

Idiots trying to reinforce negative stereotypes. Mr. President, go to the oval office in speedos if you want!

Do you guys have to swoon every time Obama scratches himself? BTW, I hear that the only reasons cell phones didn't work at the "coronation" was that the lights weren't shining on the chosen one.

Obama starts out the vary first day with showing no respect for the oval office,does it just go down hill from here???

Wow, we're save for sure now. That's CHANGE. !!!!!!!!

Just another boss demanding his staff to follow or get out...

How childish to pick on Obama not wearing a suit. Did it make Mr Bush better in leading the country for the last eight years wearing the suit. We are in our worst time for the last 8 years and I think the suit has to do something about it so take the suit off...Go Obama.

Hard to roll up your sleeves to get work done when you are worried about 'looking good' with your coat on.
Hoya for Obama.

Ok, now can we focus on the slightly more important issues of the economy, defense, and true homeland security (not the farce Bush sold us).

Geez.. I don't care if he's naked as long as he gets his work done. *rolls*

-SG

Does Obama think he is chillin in a lounge somewhere? GET TO WORK!

you go mr. president..........naked or with clothes president obama will get the job done and we as the people should show faith and willingness to stand by his side and show the world as a unified nation we are one............out with the old in with the new.......

For those of you who cant remember 8 years ago, the one thing Bush was big on was bringing respect back to the office. After the scandals of the Clinton years he wanted to show he respected the office. You can agree or disagree with what happened the last several years, but at least have some sense of history and understand why this story was written.

People's ignorance is shown by their responses in this blog, it proves you should have to take a test to vote in this country!

Just another reminder that Obama doesn't really have a clue about being the president of the United States of America. He is in over his head. God Help Us!

Let him take off his shirt and have his tie off.

Well they have fianlly been able to identify the stench in the White House.... B.O.

BigT, It really goes both ways. Liberals are upset when somebody says sometime negative about President obama, Conservatives are angry when somebody says something negative about former President Bush! Somebody's just gonna have to be the grownup! I just hate the hypocracy on BOTH sides!

What does it matter jacket or not, just as long as he is doing his job.

It is comforting to see that my new president is interested in issues and not show.

He needs some more paperwork on his desk.

This is not a big deal. If working in his shirt sleeves helps him get the job done, it's okay be me. Obama has his own style and manner of doing things! I wish him all the best!

who cares really? I don't care if he's wearing boxers or whatever...honestly, I think Obama is getting WAY too much attention for nothing. It's kind of making me regret voting for him.

Let him do his job, stop making a big deal on what he's wearing, stop turning him into a commercial icon, and just let him work!

Oh, and you know what? If he decides to eat a cheese burger in his office next week, I don't think that's media worthy either...geebus

Well , it was very openly said as an Afican American President, so the time has come to change the name of the "White House" to something more meaning full.

All that is needed to answer the question "what is wrong with our country", is to peruse these blogs.

From the poorest, uneducated indigent, to the wealthiest and most educated individuals, this trite and fickle mentality is becoming the building block and foundation for our own demise!

Regardless of your political affiliation, wouldn't we be better served to refrain from ignorant banter, keeping our negative sick comments to ourselves? Couldn't we instead contribute something positive and intelligent or......keep our mouths shut?

The petty, ignorant tripe I've read in these blogs, whether against President Bush-or-President Obama, can serve no purpose other than to destroy. Think of what could be accomplished if the time spent in wallowing in this filth were to be directed in a positive direction, aimed at accomplishment and fulfillment.

This leaves me with only one question:

"CAN YOU DO BETTER THAN WHAT HAS OR WHAT WILL BE DONE"! Feel free to participate....

I beg your pardon about the "Harvard Education". Sometimes all it takes is money, anyone with money can BUY their education even if they're NOT smart.

Obama is going to reverse everything Bush did just to make a statement. He reminds me of how my son acted the first time I let him stay by himself. I hope he can grow into that office someday but I doubt it.

The question is simple. Do you work better when you are comfortable, or uncomfortable?

I don't care if he wears a prom dress, a push-up bra, and a tiera as long as he gets the job done!

Take off your jacket, roll up your sleeves, have a seat, and give us the help we so desperately need!!!

When will this shameless newsmedia cease acting like teenage groupies at a rock concert?

That chair looks comfortable....I'm stuck sitting on this 50 buck piece of crap Staples chair

Why not get rid of ties as well. In my experience, all ties do is restrict blood flow to the brain.

I take my coat off when I am at work what's the big deal??

Because he's reflecting that he is rolling up his sleeves and ready to get to work.....I love it!!!!

I think Government is really too uptight on the dress code issue. Long, long ago I used to work for MCCS and I had a very strict dress code that needed to be met on a very low income. I know Obama has the income to dress appropriately, that's not my point. My point is that most government agencies have this rule but some of the salaries can barely cover socks, forget about business casual.

Like the retired WWII veteran who wrote during the campaign how
much he thinks of Obama: "I'd take a bullet for this man."

How much more can one say? That really impressed me. This one
wonderful man has shown the most perceptive of us just how much
he thinks of us. I believe that at the time we need a great leader the
most, God has given us this great man.

I'm begging for those who cannot see beyond their nose to spite their faces–please give him a chance. What have we got to lose? Just maybe some pre-conceived prejudices that we need to lose anyway, if any of us ever want to get to Heaven.

How can any of you be so full of petty thoughts!? The greatest thing
this nation can achieve is for it's people to finally work TOGETHER to
help bring the whole world out of this crisis! Let's all be leaders!! Let's all look at the example God has given us, and do our best to work together and sacrifice our past prejudices to make a new TOMORROW! We are Americans–we can do it!! We have greatness in each one of us.

Good job, President Obama!! We like you just the way you are!!

Dick c. January 21st, 2009 5:12 pm ET

next he'll have buckets of KFC thrown bout the place.
_______________________________________________________
hey dick, your pointy hood is showing. you are such a loser. jealous that an African-American is PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. Get use to it. that BIG DUMB BELL bush is a stupid as they come.

Baggie pants, underwear hanging, and a crooked ball cap is next.

v. The one who said there "is" hundreds of federal employees who haven't paid taxes for years. And you know this, How??? There are millions, MILLIONS of non-federal employees who haven't paid taxes for years, and it's far easier for them to evade taxes than it is for a federal employee.

If the IRS is so incompetent it can't collect taxes from people who are on the federal payroll, when all they have to do is know what grade and step someone is to figure out approximately the amount of taxes they should owe, than it's the failure of the IRS.

I worked for the federal government for several decades and every now and then would hear this crap about federal employees not paying taxes. If someone found a way not to pay taxes they never told me, since over the years I've probably paid a little bit less than a million dollars in taxes. It was taken out of my paycheck every 2 weeks like clockwork and I never figured out how to get much of it back.

By the way, the W. Bush people were big on that coat, tie, dress business, but were the most incompetent bunch I'd ever worked with.
What good does it do to look good if you don't know what you're doing?
Look at the mess the Bush Administration left. But I guess it's alright since he had a tie on, and a clean desk. (That's because no work was going on in that office.)

Looks like someone's not afraid to doff formalities to get some real work done for a change.

George Bush disrespected the Office of the President far more than any past President by SPENDING the country into a $1.2 TRILLION debt. The fact that some foolish people are making an issue of Obama not wearing a jacket goes to show how screwed up mentally the modern day 'conservative' is.

I am so sick of people acting like Obama is God! He is not!!!!!!! Obama is not God and Bush was not the devil! There just mortal men! The jacket thing, well who gives a flip about that!

Yeah Bush wanted him and his other accomplices to wear jackets in the Oval office so that everyone can look like they're working...They were the masters of deceptors.

hahaha.. change to believe it.

The ignorance of most replies continues to frustrate me . . . but then, I have learned that most people are ignorant of the important things in life. The stupidity of the public is the reson for so much negatism in the USA.

Well, Bush was never really working, much, so he had no need to be comfortable fo the work day.

Barack = Easy as a Sunday morning. It is about getting the job done. Rolling up ones sleeves and getting this country on the right track. Not about photo ops.

There isnt nothing missing in this picture as far as im concerned, let the man do what he wants and be comfortable. I know i sure wouldnt want to wear a jacket all day long, its gets too hot and too confining. I would rather him not wear a jacket and make great progress and have great success with his policies than wear a jacket and make terrible mistakes that bush did and keep are country in the state that its in. Its a new era and time for a rolling up of the sleeves and this picture is evidence of that.

President Obama is a working man. He knows the value of hard wprk and will not strive to look any other way. I am so very proud to be an American! I love the fact that someone that understands my struggles and my concerns, looks like me, actually cares for this nation and not to just get my vote. I did not want to see the day end. Now that the wark has begun, I am praying that God will continue to guide and lead him. I know that God will be with him. This is a great day! Be blessed President Obama!

Well, at least he'll keep his pants on. That's better than the last Democrat President!

Really! Jackets in the Bush White House a Rule! Well like they say, "it's what's underneath the exterior that really counts." The jackets didn't do the job for them, as what was underneath was very visible.

Make it your own Mr. President!!

I'm sure President Obama has dress rules about attire in the Oval Office, as well. It doesn't make President Bush better that he wore a jacket, it doesn't make President Obama worse that he doesn't. It's simply a personal preference. Let's get over the silly stuff and focus on governing, shall we?

Good for him roll up the sleeves if he wants let's just get to work.

President Obama knows that respecting the Office of the President is done by your works not by the garment you adorn yourself with. Simple Christian belief thats all. Do you respect someone for coming to church in their "Sunday Best/clothing" or what is inside a person their heart & soul? It reminds me of the diference between the Pharisees that prayed in the streets to be seen of men Vs one that does the work and soils his clothing in the process of his work. I will take the latter all day long!!!

President Obama is the real deal and that is what the country & the world needs.

republicans stop the racial jokes and the stereotypes and accept it : barrack obama is the president of the united states because he beat ur guy fair and square . we democrats are the majority in this country and judging by your attitude it will stay that way for many many years to come . we have the majority in congress as well . if you cant take it you guys can always move to iraq ( bush new vacation ranch ).

Good luke Mister President. Barack Russein Obama ll.

This is just more of what is to come. The demoralizing of our nation has started. The founding fathers are rolling in their graves. How could you America?

It's not the clothes that matter in the Oval Office: it's the President who wears them. And the picture of Obama sitting behind that historic desk is simply the best thing I've seen out of the White House in 8 years.

I really couldn't care less what he wear he can come to work nekkid for all I care as long as he bails us outta this mess we got ourselves into.

I guess one jack off in the oval office was enough under Bush.

To Big T

You sure haven't been paying attention to how you libs ripped Bush, ripped Palin, ripped McCain and engauged in full fledged racism in public and on these blogs.

I think that it was a slap in the face the way that you libs treated Bush before the innaguration. Pathetic.

Oh come on what does it matter what a person wears to work? If our President is sitting at his own desk and doing what he was elected to do then so be it. If he had to go out into the public eye to do something chances are our President would dress appropriately. If people would stop knit picking and give this man a chance to improve this country maybe he will surprise a few of you and make this a better country than it ever has been. Just give him a chance before making any kind of a harsh judgement especially about how he dresses. On other words get a life!!!

I love it.

Stuff like this must infuriate all you closet racists out there.

LOLL!!

Funny, I thought we wore a Jacket out of respect for the office. Silly me.

Hey people, don't take the bate. This issue is far to trivial.

Those who make negative comments here are either jokers or idiots.

He's so kicked backed and relaxed he's going to get us all killed.

Just wait and see. This country will be 3rd world in 4 years.

I really don't care if Barack goes to work naked as long as he gets the work done.
Bush sat around in a suit and tie and lied to us, shamed us and bankrupted us. Yep, that jacket really made him a better man.
There should be a computer in that office and there should be some real work done there.
And you haters with your fried chicken and basketball comments need to grow up. I know CNN only posts your comments because they are so uneducated and outrageous. Actually, I do get a laugh out of some of them, but I pray they are made up and no real human bares the opinions you express. The thought that they could be real just make me sick . I will consider you to be the jokers you sound like.

It doesn't matter if jackets are on or off. Bush was a lazy President. So it would figure that he would focus on the trite. Now we have Obama, who seems to have a preference for rolling his shirt sleeves up. Either way, it's the work that makes the difference not the clothes or how they are worn. Let's see if Obama is any less lazy than Bush.

Hey Big T, you mean "their". Maybe he can improve the schools too!

I heard Laura Bush on the History channel last weekend comment that there's a desk in the private quarters and that Bush actually worked there. The insistence that she had to make was odd I thought.

Bush took more vacation days and slept the most. I'm sorry, but if I was up all night and then had to sleep in a bed that wasn't mine in a big drafty old house you'd see me jacketless as well.

It's easier to roll up your sleeves if your jacket is off. Obama is getting to work–something Bush should have done.

Why does cnn let these racist comments come thru the board? "next he will be throwing buckets of chickens in the oval office". does that really need to be given to the collective consciousness? How about you stop allowing rude racist comments to come through your boards? Be respectful cnn.

I believe Mr. Bush wore his jacket as a symbol of respect. I personally believe that when people from other countries, and even some people in this country, see our president, they expect him to be professional. Some might think otherwise of someone "dressed down". I'm not saying that it's a correct way of thinking, but I do believe it's the case.

As someone else has already noted, former president Clinton had such little respect that he didn't keep his pants zipped up. I have great faith in our new president, that he respects the office, no matter what he's wearing.

On a different note, I'm ready for CNN and all other media to quit harping on the race issue. It's a leading story on CNN.com right now, and it serves no purpose!

bush took all the jackets with him as he left the white house, in the photo, Barrack is actually calling to order a new jacket.

Thank you Mr President Obama....get to work, solve our problems, be a leaders...don't worry abou the photo-ops....history will not judge your 'coat' or 'no coat' rule , but what you DID in that office. Too bad that wearing a jacket and destroying our world reputation was about the only thing that happened during the last 8 years!

WHO CARES IF HE WEARS BUNNY EARS IN THE OVAL OFFICE! HE IS ACTUALLY WORKING AND DOING SOMETHING TO REBUILD OUR NATION AND THAT SEEMS TO BE WHAT IS MOST IMPORTANT IF YOU ASK ME...

He is the President and he is working for us everyday, I don't care if he shows up in shorts and a golf shirt as long as he continues to work everyday for us. I read a lot here about the dignity of the Oval Office, Bill Clinton kind of stepped on that don' t you think.

I don't care what he's wearing in the Oval office, as long as he's doing his job.

More power to the 'casual' look! Luckily I work from home and don't even have to get dressed if I don't want to.

Let's just let the man do his job and not worry about what he's wearing or not wearing.

Brightest Blessings to All

To put it in the words of our former Vice President......So?

Southern Girl850:

I am thrilled that we have an educated, Harvard grad as our president!
What color he is does not really matter to me or many Americans. He was elected because voters thought he was the most capable person to get the US moving again! I really feel that race is not going to play much of a role in how he governs the country...he's educated and knows better. So, let's all respect Obama, the Harvard grad!

lr: Abortion isn't a 'substantive' issue. It's a pathetic issue raised by right wingers, like flag burning and gay marriage.

i didn't vote for obama, but i agree with scrapping the jackets.
everyone in washington needs to role up their sleeves and go to work.
maybe this is a sign of great things to come

I don't care if he sits in the Oval Office with no clothes, as long as he can do the job!!!!

This has nothing to do with the article, but with the comments.

You all know that the anti-Bush bandwagon has ended you all can get off of it now.

Just wait a few years, then the successes of the Bush Administration will come to light.

hahah. this is a funny story because we shouldn't be caring if he has his jacket on or not. Lets judge him on what he does for America

I always find it interesting that people who think you should wear a jacket at work are always the ones who never actually DO work. I have to actually WORK when I'm at work, and a jacket (on the rare occasions when I have to wear one) gets in my way – has nothing to do with "comfort" or "being sloppy." I have to move around a lot, type on a keyboard, pull books and reference materials out of shelves, etc. etc. If you're a man, you know that the buttons on a jacket will catch on anything and everything (that's why we "roll up our sleeves") – now if you don't know this, you've obviously never done real work. Even writing on a notepad is a pain if you're wearing cuff links and they catch on the notepad...and don't even get me started on wearing a tie...paper shredder...tie...I'll leave it at that.

Even if you dressed Bush up, he wasn't fit to be President.

The Dark Ages are over.

WOW, lot's of strange comments here.
Many professionals wear "uniforms" and
a suit and tie is one of them.
However,,the boss or company policy calls that shot.......

As far as you racist folks,,, loose the "african american" or "black"
label and just consider him as the new president. That's
real equality for the better.

They were probably forced to wear jackets to make it easier to smuggle things in and out of there.

This isn't news. It's merely an interesting story about one of the differences in style between two people. I wouldn't look too much into this.

its not HOW one dresses,, it HOW one get the job done and i trust obama will get this job done and done the right way,,,, hes proven so far that he can do this job abd is keepin his proise to those who voted for him,, let him do his job and enjoy,,, because he will fix things , like he said in his speech,, it wont be done overnight BUT HE WILL PREVAIL<<<<<< GO OBAMA,, GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.. show those who didnt have faith in you,, that youcan and you will,,

Thats the whole problem with every presidential administration in history. They put their buddies in positions to cover their.... Now I see Vilsak from Iowa is putting all his buddies and getting their wifes positions in this administration while the rest of us get laid off from jobs. Get reay Iowa we are getting ready to be screwed....

Not wearing a jacket in your own office is a moot point. It's not like he's meeting with any dignataries, just his own staff. Hopefully, his staff will take off their jackets, roll up their sleeves and get to work too.

Bush – a lot of jacket and no substance. Country in disarray.

Obama – no so much fashion and lots of smart and hard work. Rebuilding America

In other words, Obama is rolling up his sleeves and getting to work. I don't see the problem. In fact I want to see his desk look as cluttered as mine within a week - to show that the guy isn't just a figurehead, but he's getting his hands dirty.

The president just about as professional a job as one can get. Put the coat on and show some respect for the office and what it stands for. The White House does not need any casual Friday either.

That's right,its all about appearances. Obama wants to be compared to MLK with his speeches and now he's going for a JFK look without the jacket. Now who's all about smoke and mirrors. PRESIDENT Bush,like Ronald Reagan brought back the right to mention God's name as well as patriotism to this country. He made us remember the values that this country was founded on. I didn't vote for Obama but I'm willing to give the man a chance. He's been voted President of the United States.That's all.He can't part the Red Sea or walk on water,so let's not be blasphemous and equate him to Jesus Christ in the glorifying of the man. I'm willing to give the man a chance but I'm not impressed with his sitting there with his jacket off.

I used to work in a suit and tie all day and was very uncomfortable. Didnt really feel like doing anything. I guess thats why our country fell when Bush was in office. Now Obama is going to roll his sleeves up and get some work done. Oh.and I dont remember Kennedy wearing a jacket in the office. And Nixon sure didnt either. If Obama wanted to wear his pajamas in there he could. Its HIS office and now HIS house. He can do whatever he pleases..... As long as he gets the job done! Get off the mans back and let him be president.

It's so awesome to see President Obama behind that desk!

JUST ONE OF MANY THINGS THAT PRESIDENT OBAMA WILL DO. LOOKING FORWARD TO ALL THE GOOD HE WILL ACOMPLISH KEEPING IN MIND HE IS ONLY ONE PERSON AND CANNOT DO IT ALL ALONE.

Why is the headline "Obama Breaks Bush's Rule"? Bush is no longer president and his rules are (thankfully) no longer important. I don't see Obama wearing a sweater either; so shouldn't your headline read "Obama Breaks Carter's rule"?

I mean, come on. Have some respect for the man in the president's office NOW. You people at CNN should find better headline writers and focus on some real stories instead of this substanceless fluff.

Most of the presidents had more respect for the oval office. Obama just wants to look like he's working for the public!

It is part of the reason people like Obama so much. You can relate to him as a fellow citizen. Just goes to show what a stuffed suit W was.

Just more proof that this man is not serious.He does not respect the office and he certainly does not respect the history, heritage and traditions of this country. A pure democrat alright. He is "too cool" to be president...this is the remaking of America?

I'm sure the leaders of foreign countries will love it that Obama has a lax dress code. Perhaps he will also allow staffers to drink on the job. Up next: look for the fuzzy dice hanging from the mirror in the presidential limo.

Please remove Soledad O'Brien from discussing african american issues. She doesn't have a clue!!!

Why are you surprised by Obama not wearing a jacket? Haven't you heard...Change has come to America. He's not being disrespectful. I've seen worse outfits during services at my church. Embrace the change and stop looking for something to complain about. If you really care about fashion...let's focus on getting rid of flip flops and crocs!

Charles Atlanta – Yeah, and you can see how great business is going these days. Right.

totally agree with Jim!

less hope he don't bees turnin de oval offis back into da oral offis.

Is this surprising? Bush brought a firm level of respect to the office. Obama could learn from that.

That's because its a little hard to roll up your sleeves and get to WORK
with a Jacket On. B.O. knows this, too bad Bush did not.

Obama can sit in the oval office in his draws if he wants to... it's his office he makes the dress code...Bill Clinton got down to his draws a time or two and he was a helluva President!!!

It's because monkeys don't like to wear jackets.

Why is it most of the comments below supporting Obama have spelling, syntax or tense errors? Think I'm biased? Look for yourself. Like the song says, "Things that make you go Hmmm".

What a useless article. Next are we going to get to read articles about what Pres. Obama ate for dinner?

To show respect Ronald Reagan always wore a jacket and tie in the Oval Office.

What does Obama and the Desk have in common?

They're both empty!

Mr. President:

Show up in your SWEATS man! Who CARES?!? You go catch 20 minutes of hoops between meetings with your own folks (and maybe full court hoops if they fix the court) and everyone will be ahead for the time and money savings!

It's not the wardrobe, it's the person! We just got done with 8 years of the clothes having no emperor. ENOUGH OF THAT NONSENSE!

President Obama shunned a jacket, he is not shunning responsibilities. It is ridiculous to begin judging a man as important as president simply because he isn't wearing a jacket. And yes, I am white, no I didn't vote for him, but I am glad to see that he won because I believe its time we had change. LOL, Bush wore jackets and spent tons of money, perhaps President Obama is starting to make the budget leaner by shunning the jacket. As long as wears pants I could care less as long as he does a better job than Bush.

Seeing Obama in the picture in his shirtsleeves reminded me of JFK. And seeing Michelle yesterday in her inauguration attire, reminded me of Jackie Kennedy. They are an inspiring couple. And, although I am a hard right Republican with a strong dislike of all things liberal, I must say the country is fortunate to have this First Couple to lead us, encourage us and wrangle the dag nab rustlers.

I see some CEOs on here,they never work,just make an average of 400 times the pay of their laborers.

Who cares!

Everybody keeps pointing on how they are the first black family to look up too, why cant they just say they are a family that all americans should look up too. not black or white, obama had never said anything about race and neither should we including NAACP or the media we need to start calling each other americans and that is it. because that is what we all are no matter the color of our skin

W just liked to play dress-up. Now, he is dressing-up like a cowboy. I hope someday he gets to dress-up like an inmate.

It's been my experience that scoundrels insist on wearing their suit coats when they're about to fleece you – lawyers, brokers, insurance agents, you know the type. People that actually provide value and are here to help you – like doctors, teachers, etc, have shunned suit coats for quite some time.

I think it was a good rule of Bush's, just out of respect for the office. At the same time though, I don't think this is news. People showering praise on Obama for every little thing he does is getting really, really old. I kindof expect to start seeing reports on how many times in a day he goes to the bathroom, and an analysis of what that says about his work ethic.

Someone on here said Bush treated the White House like a frat house. How does that compare to how Bill Clinton treated it?

Sounds good to me – I'm sure if people are more relaxed, they'll do a better job. I can't imagine having to wear a suit all day – yuck!

I just hope that he's not on a slippery slope to deformalizing the presidency. I still want my leader to be dignified.

I'm sure he'd allow reporters and photographers in there if he were having "serious" phone calls. Or maybe privacy isn't important to the President, why don't we just put a web cam in the Oval Office, that way we don't need the media at all?....

So when's Hawaiian shirt day at the Oval Office?

Hey Obama, better have the cleaning staff scrape the bottom of the desk for buggers.

Michelle Bell from Alabama,

you give hope to me that Alabama might yet join the 20th century, and maybe even the 21st,
if not, we'll always have a place for you in Southern Cali.

I love this President. My generation will work for change – real work. Like the POTUS we will roll up our sleeves and get to work.

Let the cynics continue to say stupid things – it is expected of them.

How is it possible for Obama to break a Bush rule when Bush is no longer president? Wasn't this picture taken after noon on January 20 which means the Bush White House is now history and President Obama gets to establish HIS own rules?

To Rachel,

So you are a racist. In your comment pasted below who are the THEY...Seems like a ugly remark regarding african americans. Shame on you! What makes you so superior...we all bleed red and cry salty tears.

January 21st, 2009 5:10 pm ET
already showing a lack of respect for the office. Sloppy dress leads to sloppy work. And we already know they have sloppy thinking.

Its his turn to be President and he can break with tradition. Lets face it, with whats facing Obama to fix, let him do what he wants with minor stuff like this. After 8 years of jacket wearing by Bush, apparently thats all that got done in the Oval Office while the country crumbled under his lack of leadership!

This simple fact is.....Bush showed respect for the office by requiring jackets in the oval office. similar to not wearing head gear indoors. Its a traditional and conservative standpoint.

Obama will have his own way of enforcing respect for the office.

Thats it!

Bush haters..........get real
Obama haters......get used to it

Good for Obama. We see what keeping a jacket on has done for us these last 8 yrs.

After the day the President and 1st Lady had yesterday, I wouldn't mind if they came to work in their jammies.
He's definitely getting down to business and though he's not even my leader, he most certainly has inspired me to get down to mine. If only my country had someone willing to not only work on his own country WITH THE PEOPLE, but the world too???? I would consider myself blessed.

It makes him look like he's actually working, which, after 8 years, is something that I have missed.

Honestly, as long as he does his job, cares about the American people, and represents us well in public. I don't care what the man has on!

looks very sloppy and non-professional

TrueEthic is an idiot. Who works 8 hours a day straight with no breaks? You are to blame for the economy. You probably don't even have a job!

I guess it was silly of me to read this headline and think that perhaps the article would be about something substantive like abortion, health care, or foreign affairs. CNN will apparently keep us up to date on more important matters.

Well, Bush didn't do anything in the Oval Office except use his rubber stamp (prior to 2006), and after that, his veto pen. I guess you can get by with wearing your constricting jacket if you're only going to be in the Oval Office working for 1 or 2 seconds.

thats just what he promised he would do, roll up the shirt sleeves and get down to business. Bush was all about appearances and he walked with his arms away from his sides sort of a swagger, this would of been too noticeable with just a shirt on.

Uhm, petty.......

Just like wearing pantyhose in ANY office should not be a requirement.
Good for Obama!

Really – is this news? Who cares what rules bush put in place. we all know were it got us. the nightmare is gone, just move on

I only signed in to post a comment for one reason: of all the important headlines on this page–THIS is what you signed in to comment about, to make ridiculous, predjudiced and just plain stupid statements towards our new president. Of course, andy l, dick c, frank, laughin @ lib. etc...etc...etc...we should already expect this of you...it's people like you that contributed to the past 8 years of hell....why don't you go into a headline about guat. bay or something important and say something intelligent, if possible!~

i'm sure there will be a whole bunch of bush rules thrown out the window. Thank goodness!

You notice the Republicans always have something negative to say when it comes to any Democrat. I am just trying to figure out at what point are the people for the good of the country? Oh yeah that is right! It is only when there candidate is in office. I think the Oval office sets the tone about how this country does things. If Barack rolls his sleeves up and get to work in the Oval Office and get to work making this country a better place for all American's then each of us as American Citizens can do the same. After all, we all want what is good for the country right?

Does this really matter to anyone ??

I guess Obama doesn't need a place to hide the microphone pack that has to feed him info

You're kidding me right? This is news? Ok people...Wearing professional attire is important...and it's obvious that President Obama has always valued proper attire in the work place. I don't ever recall seeing a picture where he was inappropriately dressed. By taking off his jacket in the oval office, President Obama is placing emphasis on the old expression of "rolling up your sleeves and getting to work". Who cares that he's in the oval office without his jacket. it's an "office" people...not a "temple". His focus is on fixing the country...and we all know he's got a lot of work to do. The previous president made this great nation go broke while wearing a jacket in the oval office. President Obama has chosen to do the opposite. This..I believe...is a very good sign.

Something that would help is if Mr. President would make all Federal employees submit proof of taxes they paid. There is hundreds of Federal employees who has failed to pay taxes for years.

Then they should go after anyone else that has not paid their taxes. This might not be much but it would help with the budget.

He should freeze all Federal pay for one year, if not their pay then promotions.

He should also raise the minimum retirement age of Federal employees from 57 to 65. The private sector has to wait until they are 70 years of age for full retirement. They should at least raise the minimum retirement age for Federal workers.

You should get the rule book for FERS retirement for federal employees.

The jacket precedent was started by Ronald Reagan who insisted on wearing a jacket because he was president although I am sure Clinton removed more than his jacket.

PLEASE! It is obvious Bush was all about appearances and look where that got us! A trillion dollar deficit. What executive sits in HIS office all day long in a suit and tie? PRESIDENT OBAMA should be allowed to dress in whatever manner he deems appropriate after all it is HIS office!

That's why everybody here in Europe can't take you Americans seriously. 100+ comments about wearing a jacket. Hilarious.

And all the racist comments about wearing baseball caps and bling bling are the proof that you aren't interested in facts or in the way somebody works but in stereotypes.

To make this clear: This comment is a stereotype bout Americans.

Let's hope that your new administration will make sure that America gets back it's old image here in Europe, when a lot of people saw the US as a role model in democracy and leadership.

Are you folks on here smoking crack or are you just naturally stupid ???? With all the problems we have in this country and you are worried about President Obama's attire in the Oval Office ???!!!!!

This election has proven one thing for sure,,, just how stupid the American people who believe his attire is of importance are complete idiots!!!

God Bless President Obama!! I am so glad to have him, coat, no coat, tie no tie, shirt, no shirt, ,, he's fine as hell anyway, so as far as I am concerned he can wear it or not, I could care LESS!

I want smaller, less intrusive government and fewer dumb laws. Therefore, I'm delighted Obama has already gotten rid of one silly rule. Beyond that, the symbolism is powerful: this is a man who wants to roll up his sleeves and get to work, not merely look good in a photo op. I think that's exactly the right message right now.

I'm sorry...where oh where did it say in this great day and age that wearing a jacket was going to be the defining characteristic of a great leader?

Oh...it didn't? Whew...good.

i thought I was going to have to sleep with one on night after night...in case someone was watching...

President Obama is a "working" President....the kind a man that wants to take off his jacket, roll up his sleeves and get to work. He's not looking for a photo-op. He's got serious work to get done.

Bush "respected" the office when he wore the suit in the Oval Office while "working" but "work" involved Crayons and a baseball coloring book...

It's his office, he's the boss, let him do what he wants. Minor, irrelevant story, nothing to see here folks, let's move on to some substance.

Think it's a sign of taking off your jacket and getting to work on the problems of the American people. Something bush never did, just gave us more problems. bush was an "empty suit" that accompanied his empty brain. Glad he's gone. Only thing I'll miss about bush..is his "bushisms.." guy was a joke! Glad to see President Obama is ready to work, someone has to clean up bush's mess!

i work from home and i wear my pjs, it does not make me any less intelligent people need to grow up.

SouthernGirl850, you state, "as you sit in your office reading posts" It sounds like you are one of the millions to blame for our crumbling economy. If you're in your office shouldn't you be WORKING? Doing what you're paid for?!?
Remember JFK's "Ask not" quote?
Whatever happened to hard-working Americans?

Some people are quite creative with their hatred and racism. You keep hatin', now, ya hear!

What CNN didn't report is that there are more photos of Obama working in the Oval Office than Dubya.

THIS was the "major" Bush rule that was scrapped?

I'm disappointed. Of all of the possibilities for real news reporting, this sort of sensationalistic journalism is so disappointing.

We have the change we sought for in the Oval Office.

Now if we can just get the change we need in the media.

That's because President Obama will actually be rolling up his sleeves and getting to work. You have to take off your jacket to do that. This new approach shows that Obama is down to earth and approachable. Way to go, Obama! Loving your style.

Oh my stars,what next,turtlenecks and birkenstocks?Tiedyed t-shirts and the return to large afros?Maybe the president along with Biden and Hillary could recreate the"Mod Squad"look from the sixties.He could sit there all day in a undershirt and boxers as long as he gets the job done right.The only jacket Shrub should have worn was a straight-jacket.

I Think the most appropriate comment here would be "Big Deal"

Comments about "fried chicken" and "basketball" are both racist and inappropriate.

The history of the suit and tie is lame at best.Its all about showing that "im better than you or above you in stature",something like the rooster over the flock.

Good for Obama.

No doubt that the Boards of several American Heavy Industries such as Exxon, General Motors, etc., demanded that Georgie wear a suit jacket. But it begs the question as to who helped him put it on each day.

He's happier now, btw; he can run amuck on his farm in Texas wearing only his Mattel Cowboy Outfit – complete with 10-Gallon hat – and chase the 'Bad Guys'. My heart goes out to the individuals of his Secret Service detail that have to spend their day being chased by this Village Idiot.

It would appear that Obama can think for himself.

And for the record, I voted Republican for nearly 35 years prior to George W's Father having his son elected President. Sad when you think of it really as rumor has it that all he wanted to do was to sell shoes in the local K-Mart, but instead managed to put an entire Nation through the worst eight years since the Stock Market crash of 1929.

Funny how all the nobodies want to tell the president what to do and focus on dumb things like whether or not he's wearing a jacket. Maybe the president should wear a powdered wig while he's at it?

President Obama is at work in a shirt and tie while you're watching "what not to wear" in your jogging pants!

Is this policy one that he adopted from a restaurant in Texas, back when he was governor? (no jacket – no service, doesn't matter if it fits, just wear it). How often was he actually working in the White House and not on vacation anyway? Bush hardly comes to mind when I think of decorum, elegence, intelligence, and leadership.

Just more of the same...style over substance. Thankfully we'll only have to put up with four years of this...and even that's too long.

May a higher power help us as we wait this out.

Good to see President Obama getting to work and cleaning up the mess W, Dick and the GOP have left us.

Bush was all about dressing up and play-acting. The whole coat in the Oval Office thing seems to me no different than strutting around an aircraft carrier in a flight suit or lighting up Jackson Square after Katrina. All image, no substance. As President Obama (get used to it wingnuts) said so eloquently yesterday, it's time to put away childish things.

Obama is all about doing the job & doing it right. And this job means he's gonna have to roll up his sleeves and work hard for all of us. And to do that, he needs to take off his coat.

bush had a lot to hide. his bullet proof vest, lies, murder,lies, bullet proof vest,job lost,lies, bullet proof vest, home foreclosures, lies, lies,lies,lies,lies,afraid of cheney,lies,lies and more lies.

I worked in the finance world for 13 years. Professional, business attire was REQUIRED. Everyday I would go to work in a suit. While I was working at my desk I would remove my jacket. When I met with clients I put the jacket on. Working at my desk = jacket off; meet with important people = jacket on. Simple. Grow up and get your priorities straight! Its not the packaging that counts its the content of the package...no wonder we've been going down the tubes the last 8 years. We've got real, scary issues to deal with and you're freaking out about a coat!

Really? A suit coat? I don't see how this is newsworthy or somehow turning political. Bush wanted people to wear suitcoats in the oval office, Obama doesn't. That's it. If your boss wanted you to wear a suit to his meetings, you would. If he said just dress casual you would. It's just personal preference. And those of you who say it's not the 50's anymore... who cares if someone wants to stick with tradition and have his staffers to look prefessional? Honestly, focus on something more important.

If President Obama can get this country back on track after the mess he was left by GOP leadership, I could care LESS what he wears in the Oval Office. Some of you "haters" just will gripe about anything this man does. For a while it was even funny but it's really starting to get pathetic!

A picture is worth a thousand words. I think this was a pose for the cammera. No press conferance today, which is why reporters have nothing to give. So what do we know? From the begining Oboma said "Change We Need". In the picture he appears to be focussed and working. If he does nothing else, giving the appearence of changeing something, on his first day, is changing something. Lets try and not be overly critical of him on his first days on his job. Anyone that has heard him speak knows this, that he is a proffesional. What his true motivation is, is yet to be seen. The next few months will speak volumes.

A lot of professionals take their suit jackets off when doing desk work because of the heat in their offices. At a formal business meeting, the jacket goes back on. No big deal.

If he fixes the economy and gets us out of Iraq Pres. Obama can go shirtless for all I care! (Oooh, yum!)

What a silly rule. That's like saying a person cannot do any serious work unless they are dressed "professionally." Who defines what is professional dress?

Should we expect our troops to wear a suit and tie to work? No, because it's not practical and certainly not safe. He's working, he's comfortable, leave him alone and let him do his job! If it is more practical for him to not wear his coat, then so be it!

He shouldn't be having to think about what stupid stuff is being covered on CNN, like what he is wearing to work. There are many more MUCH more important things on his mind.

I'm sure he didn't EVEN think that he was "breaking a rule" that a FORMER president put into place. This was something STUPID to report on CNN.

And how many of you that wear jacket's at your workplace, keep them on in your office? exactly, point made, and thankyou.

Everyone can judge Obama in four year's time the same way they judged Bush and the GOP last year. Otherwise keep your thoughts to yourself and let he man/administration get to work.

Oh I fear this is just a few of the many "Changes" to come. Change is coming alright, not necessarily for the better. The Reverend that spewed his racial hate at his inaguration states "where Brown can stick around, Where yellow can mellow, where the redman can get ahead man, and where White can embrace what is right?" well that statement pretty much took us all the way back to segregation times. How fabulous.... This is the man that has been Obama advisor for 20 years, he clearly hates White people. I say Get over it, and as a "Revernd" you should be ashaemd fo those comments, and shouldnt be holding on to "old ideals" this generation has nothing to do with those times. Obama smiled when those comments were said, which tells me he feels the same way. Now to me that isnt really trying to bring the world together as ONE like what was being reitterated in his speeches. WAY TO GO to all the people that voted him in... Thanks.

Considering that Bill Clinton went pantless in the Oval Office, Obama going jacketless isn't very newsworthy

A lot of professionals take their coats off when doing desk work because of the heat in their offices. At a formal business meeting, the coat goes back on. No big deal.

If he fixes the economy and gets us out of Iraq Pres. Obama can go shirtless for all I care! Yum!

A person needs to be comfortably dressed while at work. Being too dressy will not enhance thinking process, work quality and ability to handle complex issues, which is rather required of a President.

Obama the working man! I luv 'im.

I'm sure many rules will be broken or changed. I do have a question though.
I thought Obama was "BI-RACIAL". Is he or isn't he? Black father, white mother....Isn't that bi-racial? Why is he the first BLACK President and not the first BI-RACIAL President???? Someone fill me in please.

I remember a time when we all took off our jackets, and dresses, and smoked cigars!

Oh, please, just let the man work. At least he brings his substantial intellect to the office.

It isn't his office, it is the taxpayers office. He should show it the proper respect.

wearing a jacket when being presented to the public doesn't mean the person is respected or should get respect; who the person is and what he/she does in life is the reason someone should get respect

I could care less what he wears. The fact that he can speak in complete sentences, join those sentences together to form complete thoughts all the while enunciating the words properly is a breath of fresh air for me. We have a lot to recover from, it will take plenty of time and a team effort. Focusing on if/what coat President Obama is wearing is a distraction in the goal of improving our country and world.

*BREAKING NEWS* ....there is the severe possibility that President Obama may be breaking another rule in the OVAL OFFICE. Now we ask this of the Commander and Chief, Boxers or Briefs sir?

"Ronald Reagan never walked into the Oval Office without a coat on, but then Barrack is no Ronald Reagan"

That's true- I doubt Barack will sell weapons to Iran like that traitor did.

I don't wear a jacket and don't know anyone who does at work. People like Bush get too tied up in meaningless dogma. It fogs their minds and then next thing you know they've killed thousands, spent billions and let the bullies run wild.

A new direction in every bit of the word! Thank you for being an average person President Obama. Now please talk to Congress about all of their pay raises. The "Average" person does NOT make $172,000 per year. Not even some of the top directors of non profits. I thought that this is about service for your country NOT getting wealthy off of the backs of the hard workers here.

Peace

I am glad to see my president bringing some reality to the oval office.

After all, it is work, not a fashion show. Whoever said "the clothes make the man" was an idiot.

Some folks walk the walk but don't talk the talk.

Some folks talk the talk but don't walk the walk.

My president does both.

Whoop dee freakin doo!

I'd like to see him roll the shirt sleves up. I mean after all... it's time to get down to business.

Wow, as I sit here in my office reading these posts I am completely shocked at some of the asinine comments. It's sad that your perception of African Americans is so tainted. After everything that has transpired over the last couple of months, I see racism is alive and well in the United States. Who cares whether or not Obama wears a coat or not. I am most concerned about the work he does for the people of this great nation. Bush ran this county for 4 years without a coat and look where we are. Perhaps some of the negative posters have forgotten that YOUR President is a Harvard Law graduate. I wonder how many of you are bitter because an educated African American male has been elected to the highest office in the country. Shattered dreams perhaps?

First time any real honest work has been done in the Oval Office in 8 years! The only real way to get the job done is to roll up your sleeves and get the dust off! Congratulations Barack!

I wouldn't care if he wore a big pint bunny suit, he'd still look smarter than the last guy.

Stupid coverage. This is why we're so divided.

not wearing a jacket doesn't mean your work is sloppy – get a brain

Actually, I see it as relevant. To me it validates that Bush was all about pomp and circumstance and "appearances" to make him LOOK like he was working to get the job done, but it was a charade. Like a kid dressing up to look like an adult. Obama is obviously more interested in getting things done and less concerned about what looks good in photos....thank goodness.

I am not an Obama supporter, but I really don't think that Obama's lack of wearing a jacket is the worst thing to ever go on in the oval office.

Joyce you're right. Just a little over 24 hours and some people are determine to go back in time to the 60s, 50s, back till 1776. People are making these stupid statements over an article about not wearing a suit jacket. Instead of questioning his respect for the office. Respect the Man in Office!!!!!!!

Um ....Obama grew up in Hawaii-we have a different dress code here.
If you do happen to see a suit-a rare occasion,you wonder what's going on? is it the FBI? some sort of Federal worker?
I honestly can't remember the last time I saw any one in a suit.
can't blame him for not wanting to be uncomfortable when he is trying to think about more pressing matters than his wardrobe

There is nothing sacred for Obama, No tradition or fortitude either, He's a chump. Next He'll be wearing an Aloha Shirt or maybe even his Somalian cloth... I won't even be surprised. And all you Lefts will still make excuses.

He could work naked for all I care. I just want him in the Oval Office.

Lighten up people. Its his office, you know, the place he works...I am sure when he meets with important people in that office he'll put his stupid coat on. Wearing a coat doesn't make you a professional it just makes you warm. I would be more concerned with his actions. Besides, it wasn't a presidential rule it was George Bush's rule and he's not the boss anymore. When you call a place of service do you care what the person on the other end of the phone is wearing? No. You worry about whether they can get the job done.

The jacket does not define the man. It is the work done by the man that defines him. With or without the jacket, President Obama must do the task before him and do it well. To everyone that says his attire is disrespectful to the Oval Office answer this question:

Is it dissrepestful to ___________ while in the Oval Office?

a) to dress in a coat and tie while destoying the foundation of America

b) dress comforably while restoring America

It's 2009, not 1959. "Traditions" of the past, like...institutionalized racism, bigotry, ignorance, and bullying have just been replaced in the Oval Office, but obviously not among the GOP's constituency.

Welcome to the new era. The train is leaving, and no one is waiting for you.

Good luck.

He can wear whatever he wants. He is already hard at work attempting to fix the Bush debacle of the last 8 yrs. In this case, it certainly does not matter what clothes a man is wearing. Bush could have worn 10 suits at once and it would not have mattered. The man was NOT Presidential material. He would not have even been in the Oval office had it not been for his daddy's friends, the Supreme Court. Have you all forgotten how he got there?

Lolita – You hit the nail right on the head -

"If taking your jacket off allows you to get more work done than President Bush did, then be my guest. I don't care if he takes his shoes off as long as he gets this country back on its feet!!!"

The sooner I don't hear the name Bush anymore the better I will feel.

Though Clinton did make the tough decision to not keep his pants on, we can all agree that he was willing to make that tough decision. As we all know, its not about whether the decision was right or not, just the fact that you had the courage to make that decision. Oh how I am going to miss the decider.

Obama represents new and younger generations. No jack in office works for almost everybody in today's business environment.

rachael

You are ignorant. Get rid of all the smoke screens. we all know who are the hard workers and quick thinkers. Don't believe the sterotypes or your HYPE. I see the truth everyday.

You know why Bush never had his coat off??? Thats because he never really did anything behind that desk but take orders from others on what decisions to make. President Obama is getting down to business and not waiting on any speeches to be prepared for him to be read off of paper!

Why would he need a jacket to show respect for the office. What he DOES in the office demonstrates his respect more than what he wears. All the people complaining about not wearing a jacket must be over 50.

It didn't do Bush much good. Enough said!

Dick
I can bet that if someone asked if you loved God, you will not hesitate to say yes. But the irony is.....you have not seen God before. Do not make disparaging statements that you will live to regret someday could be in on earth or a different dimension when before you creator.

Well, since formner President Bush proved that wearing a jacket had nothing to do with your ability to perform, bravo to President Obama...lose the jacket and run the country as it should be.

The difference here is, Obama is actually working. Not setting up tee time in Texas. When you are actually WORKING the jacket gets in the way. Way to go Obama! Thanks for closing Guantanamo Bay on your first day! Good job.

Bush had his way and Obama has his! Some of you on here worry me with the fact that so-called "traditions" are more important than the work being accomplished.
But it takes ALL kinds in America, you all are evident of that!

I can feel my problems being solved with every article I read like this one.

What a bunch of small-minded dolts.

Abraham Lincoln used to upset Mary greatly by parading around the house and office in his shirtsleeves. She would get very upset when he received visitors without his jacket on.

Wearing a jacket in the Oval Office certainly didn't make Bush Jr any smarter, more honest or pragmatic. It didn't do anything about the spiralling deficit he created, it didn't change the tragedy of Katrina, it didn't stop the hundreds of thousands of job losses this country is suffering. The only thing it did is serve as a symbol of his presidency–create a perception of tidiness that hides the true nasty, corrupt machine that he and Cheney built.

Some of the comments here really amaze me. While the issue of jacket/no jacket is of absolutely no consequence (I agree with someone who commented that you men do not wear your jackets while working in your offices), some of you are just down right mean. Comments like "Here we go, oversized sweatpants and bling bling and a baseball cap" (boy, that wasn't racist at all, was it???), and "No surpise here. Like the Clintons, Obama has no respect for the office. Or its traditions. I just hope the country survives the next 4 years" are just ridiculous! Talk about no respect – the man's first day on the job, and you guys are already bashing him like there's no tomorrow.

Bush had to wear a jacket to cover up the radio receiver he wore, that Cheney used to tell Bush what to say.

This has been the problem with the right wing nutters for years, form over function … make it look good and you can convince the lemmings to follow. Reminds me of their supply side economics experiment; looks good on paper, they easily sold it to the mindless, but neglected to include the impacts of the greedy and corrupt.

Sorry, It’s time to get things done. On word Mr. President!!!!

What he needs is an ear piece!

Is "CNN" taking "TMZ's" gigs now, John King you should be ashame of yourself, you should go work for Paris Hilton....

Hey Dick c – YOU ARE A RACIST AND IT SHOWS!!

Get a life little boy. All you other idiots, if the President doesn't want to not wearing a coat is – well NONE OF OUR BUSINESS. This is a man you should be thankful was willing to run for this office. After what Bush has done to this Country who in their right mind but someone VERY VERY INTELLIGENT would be smart enough to run and get elected. Time to give it up all you GOP losers

Bush always wore a jacket because he never broke a sweat looking out for real Americans...just let Rove, Rumsfeld, Cheney, and Gonzalez do all the dirty work....

Is this the only newsworthy thing the Media has to report on? It's the man's first day on the job!! I wouldn't care if he went to work in HIS office in his Pj's and slippers. As long as he can do the job we elected him to do.

Thank God for term limits or who knows we might have been stuck with Bush for another 4 years.. Good riddance.

GO OBAMA!!

Its amazing how some people are offended by a man not wearing a jacket, and that others would take it so far as to INSULT our pres...Some of you really need to realize what happened and where we are going. Put those confederate flags away and pick up a book.

Wearing a jacket sure didn't help Bush do anything! Finally there is a President where you can see that he is obviously thinking, that his grey matter is working!

Maybe he didn't even think about it...... Took the coat off and went to work. I do it every morning.

I don't care if the man shows up to his office wearing his favorite sweats. If he does the job, does it with integrity and with the nations interests as a whole at heart, then what he wears in the office is moot.

Now if he shows up like that at a dinner with diplomats and heads of state and national leaders – that's a foul.

People who keep bashing him on what he wears need to stop it. It's silly really. What do you guys want for him to put on a coattail jacket, a Lincoln top hat, and grow a bear so he looks more presidential? We all knew he thinks different than those in politics in America and that is the reason why we elected him. Judge him not by what he wears but rather by the actions he takes in office.

"Barack is no Ronald Reagan"

Thank God!

How can the President get anything done if he cannot even "ROLL UP HIS SLEEVES", hello America he is ready to work.

Bill Comeau
South Chatham, MA

It only took one day for the racist epithets and slurs to be hurled at our new President (KFC chicken buckets, Bling, sweats & baseball caps, etc). For those like Dick C, Jeanne, and Aussievick who are content to call for "respect for the Oval Office" in Obama's dress, while HYPOCRITICALLY deriding the new occupant of said office, TSK TSK TSK. Let this intelligent, articulate, educated, thirty-something black female encourage you to pick up a dictionary & expand your minds rather than belittle those who have already done so.

President Obama can wear a Barney the Dinosaur suit & still exhibit a level of professionalism and personal respect for his job as Commander in Chief than our former President Bush did on his best-dressed day. History will bear me out on this one.

how ironic, the empty suit gets replaced by a man who doesn't need one

Let's get to work!

Maybe that's because the Obama White House plans to do more than look pretty in photo-ops. Maybe they plan to roll up their collective shirt sleeves and get some real work done!!!

' January 21st, 2009 5:27 pm ET
now i could care less about him taking his jacket off, especially when this is the biggest news you have, but i can see how it is disrespectful, you need to portray yourself as a professional..'

He's the Pres. I think him being a professional is a given. I would like to see him take off his jacket loosen his tie, roll up his sleeves and 'get down to it' more than i would like to see him look snappy in his 10k 'professional' jacket.

Excellent !!

Obama always dresses cool.

Listen, he is the President and he is going to make CHANGES.

That was what his campaign was all about, CHANGE !!

Perhaps he won't replace the furniture so he can SAVE taxpaying money.

That's what I like about Obama, the man of change!

Yes he can !!

I think they need to reinstate the rule. The Office of the President should command the respect of wearing a jacket when being presented to the public

This was not newsworthy. Try again.

Most business men take off their suit jackets to when they get to work. Only the one that don't plan on doing anything constructive stand around with their hands in their pockets with their suit jackets on.

How do you relax and lay into reading a book or long document or newspaper with a suit jacket on while sitting at your desk? OH that's right Bush didn't read.

I am angry that Obama hasn't given me anything to criticize him for yet. Don't worry, we are patient and we will get him, even if we have to make stuff up. We will be waiting, watching, and hoping that he will make some mistake that will allow us some feeling of triumph. How dare a Black man try to fix the mistakes made by a group of Old White Men as they rightfully tried to squeeze every dollar out of the UA taxpayers. I am hoping of four more years of financial crisis, unjustified war, political incompetence, and trampling of the Constitution. HA! ? Did you see Obama trying to take all of the empty beer bottles out of the Oval Office? That's why he had to take off his jacket.

Apparently the jacket was a little too tight and was restricting the blood flow to his brain. How else can you explain how he let our country just fall by the waist side.

No wonder it took so may years. So many racists still exist, as evidenced by some of the comments here. I mean really, "buckets of fried chicken?" Again, I plead with you Un-American folks – please leave the country and let the rest of us get on with the business of fixing this country. You give an idiot a computer – he's still an idiot, but now he advertises it!

Obviously wearing a suit didn't help Bush or his Bushies do a good job of running this Country or our Foreign Policy. I suppose its not the suit but the man in the suit that matters. Something Bush couldn't figure out. Even naked, Obama is 100 times a better man that George Bush will ever be.

Dick C. – did you type that out between crying into your confedarate flag and doing your sister? Can you at least pretend to not be a racist???

Where's WALDO????

I remember when Bill Clinton was derided for disrespecting the office by wearing shorts ... of course, that was early in his presidency when he still had his pants pulled up.

Whats missing? A jacket. For now. Because it will be 4 years before we will know what this man is really capable of. Of course, that won't sway all the emotional liberals from already crowning Obama the 2nd coming of JC.

wait- john king contributed to this report? it took more than one of cnn's "finest" to "report" this piece of non-news?

Bush had rules???

I don't care if he wears sweats as long as he gets the job done!!

I THINK SEEING PRESIDENT OBAMA WORKING IN THE OVAL OFFICE IS ENOUGH FOR ME. IT MAKES HIM LOOK REAL TO ME AS I WORK IN MY OFFICE IN A BLOUSE OR SWEATER WITHOUT A JACKET. HE IS WORKING ON MY GRANDCHILDREN'S FUTURE AND I WANT HIM AS COMFORTABLE AS POSSIBLE.

People are seriously criticizing the President for this? I've worked for large, prestigious law firms in which everyone has to wear a suit. But I don't know a single person who wore a suit jacket while at work in their office. You can't get work done that way. It's uncomfortable.

Regardless, are people truly such poor losers that they want him to fail? It's only your economy, healthcare, education and safety that is in his hands. Root for him!

wow....with all the news in and around the world, wars, hunger and oppression, CNN's choice for reporting was this? Obama takes his jacket off in the oval office?

people are getting killed as we speak, through US waged wars, 1000s of palestiniams were slaughtered in the last 3 weeks, and we get the report that Pres. Obama chooses to not wear his jacket in the oval office.

bravo CNN for once again re-affirming the fact that you are not a news station but a tabloid centre of gossip and sensationalist bits.

Welcome back Darth! I was glad to see you back on the boards late last week! Your astute comments have been missed in there forums.

The ignorance of some of these comments is evidence to the fact we haven't come as far as some would like to believe.

Enough psuedo work ethic, time for real, shirt sleeves hard work.

now i could care less about him taking his jacket off, especially when this is the biggest news you have, but i can see how it is disrespectful, you need to portray yourself as a professional..

Wearing a coat and tie while working at one's desk is the silliest, craziest "business" tradition in this country. Why be uncomfortable and stuffy when you don't have to be. I am interested in what Obama does for this country, not what he wears while doing it.

Does it really matter? Bush's preference was to wear a jacket and Obama doesn't share that preference. Nobody's right, nobody's wrong, it's just a matter of preference.

The press needs to move on and cover other things of importance. We know Obama is going to work hard for us so can't you guys give him room. Stop with reporting on his daughters, what he is wearing, what his wife is wearing, and where they are going. I know this is history and you don't want to miss a thing but we need to treat the man as the President of the United States and not like some celebrity. The news has officially become the new paparazzi.

That is great lets pay for more abortions. Why does it take Federal money? Such a joke. Good job Obama, we are broke but you are willing to pay for foreign abortions. What a great idea.

Dick,
President Obama has been sworn in. Please move on with your life. Jealousy just doesn't suit you well.

Let the hatefest begin! Never mind how amazingly trivial the coat/no coat decision is, the republicans on CNN's boards need something to complain about!

Come on CNN you'll post race baiting comments like Dick c. without a second thought but the one's with civility are disregarded I Know your better then that. Right?

My preference is to leave the coat and tie behind. But the, I am not the Commander and Chief. I suspect we will be learning alot about Mr. Obama in the next few months and years. I hope there are not too many suprises.

Bush achieved a lot with his JACKET ON = tricked us into war – trampled our revered Constitution – trashed us citizens – pulled the plug on the economy – - you feel what I am talking about, and if you still defend him you certainly deserve to reap the fruits of his labor.

In contrast, Obama not only looks gorgeous in his shirt, he actually works with the well being of our great country in mind, how refreshing – no oil men, no Halliburton, no Saudis hanging around to be served, just us, the American Citizens, We, the People! Thank you, Lord!

We are doomed. It is a proven fact that people who do not wear suit jackets are useless, unintelligent, and incompetent morons. I can't believe he is not wearing a suit jacket. Truly, the terrorists have won.

It is so asinine how people are attempting to make a political statement out of this. It is bad if you don't like Obama, good if you do. Good if you don't like Bush, bad if you did. Move on people, the election is over. I am happy to have Obama in, but I don't want to be hearing about "boxers or briefs?" in a week or so.

It's hard to play basketball with a jacket on.

Are you people serious. OUT OF ALL THE PROBLEMS IN THESE UNITED STATES THAT WE HAVE GOING ON, YOU ARE REALLY SITTING HERE DISCUSSING A SUIT JACKET IN THE OFFICE. What's wrong with America? People like this discussing silliness like this.

Let's see, which would I rather have? A dopey leader who wears a jacket or an incredibly smart leader with no pretense. Wow, that's a hard question.

Pres. Obama was not in the military. So, I can understand why he changed the jacket policy.

The U.S. military's high standards, work ethic and discipline starts every morning when a soldier puts on a uniform. It signals the brain that it's time to work. A strict dress code in an office is a similar means of setting the tone that expects work from the employees. A strict uniform standard is also a means of visually identifying those who can be trusted. Anyone who can't do something as simple as putting on a jacket shouldn't be trusted with anything more important.

So, in eliminating the jacket policy, Pres. Obama may be off to a bad start that will see a decrease in office efficiency.

What's missing? Aptitude. Experience. Wisdom. A Commander in Chief the troops can trust. Shall I go on?

There are plenty of photos of W. with his feet on the desk. I find that more offensive and less professional than Obama with his jacket off.

I don't know whether or not the posters who have written things that reinforce black stereotypes are joking, but it makes me cringe. It is completely inappropriate, whether you are a fan of our new president or not.

GROW UP!

The only time W had his shirt sleeves rolled up is when he was touring the aftermath of Katrina. He was told by staffers to roll up his sleeves for the photo ops to make him look like he was "working" to take care of the problem. As if that would have made me feel like he was taking care of the problems down there. To even have had a jacket required rule to work during the day was ridiculous to begin with. There is nothing wrong with the way Obama looks in this picture..he appropriately dressed.

You people are complaining about a lack of tradition in the Oval Office? Ok, where was Bush's powdered wig and frock? Honestly folks, grow up.

I don't care what he wears, I'm glad we've got him!

So what, this is 2009 not 1776. With all these crises in his hands now he deserves a little comfort well he works.

Typical of the two men.

Barack Obama took off his coat to get work done.

Bush put on his coat for photo ops, just like he did with Walter Reed Hospital.

Why didn't Bush take the rug, curtains, couches, and chairs? Those could have all gone to his future Presidential Library. It seems odd that Obama would keep all the Bush items, and not come up with his own decor. I'm surprised Bush apparently didn't want the stuff? Clinton took his stuff, as did Reagan, and so on.

It's because he is a real person, and wants to focus on the matters at hand, not his wardrobe. Didn't know there was a dress code in the Oval Office!

Obama is practicing what he preach.......that's the way it works....... now you all follow the leader roll up your sleeves and get to work.

Good, less show and more work.

next he'll have buckets of KFC thrown bout the place.

already showing a lack of respect for the office. Sloppy dress leads to sloppy work. And we already know they have sloppy thinking.

Mr President Obama, you just go on and take off your jacket and roll up your sleeves. I don't judge a book by its cover, and you are perfect just as you are. It's an honor to have you as president, and I'll stand behind you all the way. And I'll defend you against any enemy.

Who cares about the Jacket- When Gitmo shuts down, & all the terrorists go to South Carolina, we can all breath a sigh of relief. All the detainees will be here with us! Isn't that wonderfull? Usher in the end of the world. Hilary Clinton Secretary Of State? WOW. Who's the Dept of Homeland Security Advisor? WE ARE SCREWED!!! Who cares about the economy- when barrak hussain over there releases all his holy warrior buddies; what will remain after all the car bomb explosions? Only time will tell. Like I said, who cares about the jacket!

WHO CARES??

Maybe if W hadn't been so busy worrying about dress codes, he would have had a 50/50 chance of properly governing our country.

Nah...Not even then...

I do not have a problem with this. The man has a shirt and tie on, what's the big deal? My husband works in the Corporate Center for a major chemical company, and they haven't worn ties for years. His big gripe is the women in flipflops, for God' sake, and not covering their bellies. Hopefully the Washington crowd is more sophisticated and smarter than some of the dummies here in MI. A certain amount of decorum is showing respect for your job and the other workers. I can only remember a couple of times in the election season when Obama was tieless...very few.
And who knows what Bush wore when the cameras weren't there, anyhow?

THE OLD TIMER....

He is "President " Barack Obama.... not Bubba. Idiot !!!!

Good, it's time we started ranking people on performance, and intentions instead of the bs that comes out of their mouths or what fancy clothes they wear.

If he has to take off a cumbersome, stifling jacket (why the heck would you wear a jacket indoors anyhow...this has always baffled me) in order to get to work, so be it.

cool

If the man does his job and gets the results this country so sorely needs, he can wear his pajamas every day in the oval office for all I care.

Appears to be a 'layup' news story for those who wish to criticize anything about President Obama.

This is a nothing story. simply an observation. By the way, it's how most of us work. Nothing outrageous there.

The high standards are already being lowered.

No surprise there, it was not a rule for Clinton or Carter! You make the connection.

the guy hasn't worked a day in his entire life and now, all of a sudden, he rolls up his sleeves to get to work???

Wow finally a guy that is willing to roll up the sleeves and take the jackets off. THis guy is gonna do wonders for life issues. I guess in a crude way of speaking, the birth of babies is causing turmoil for young mothers trying to make there way in the world. Isnt it gonna be wonderful to have a man in the oval office who is gonna spread the word to the world that there is a better alternative than birth... Abortions!!!!!!! like duh, if you ever wanted a more convienent time for an advocate of abortion, partial birth and live birth negligence, we have found our man. Babies are the enemy, we wouldnt wanna get our jackets soaked in blood for something so worthless.

All those who say he looks bad or whatever, It looks like he's doing work to me. Now if he was kicking back and was playing solitaire or something, then I'd be pissed.

America is a country where your work speaks louder than your attire or who your dad was.

Since when does wearing a jacket make you more professional? It's about time we ditch the stuffed shirt mentality. I don't like playing dress up. That's for kindergarten!

Boy are the haters out today. You people need to get a life. the new president is at work for us, whether he's in a jacket or not he will make this place we call USA a better place no matter what you haters say. Bush wore his jacket in the oval office because that was his preference, President Obama's is not wearing his, and yes it's new worthy it show's the difference ahead for this administration.

It's a PHOTO OP, people – nothing more. This is Disney-Prez.

@Mickie: Bush arrived in the Oval Office every day at 7am. Don't slam Bush's work ethic, dearie.

I don't care if the man is in there nekkid, just get to work and fix what you can of this mess.

I believe President Reagan also had that rule.

Good! That means he's rolling up his sleeves and working.

I'll tell you what is missing in that picture …..executive experience!

not surprised that john king a repub. would think this is news worthy.

AndyL
"oversized sweatpants and bling bling and a baseball cap"

Do you think the racial stereotyping is appropriate here?

What will you people do when he actually delivers on his promises and this country is back on track? Oh, I know, you either won't acknowledge it or somehow say Bush set the wheels in motion for it before he left office.

To all you that don't support your new President whether you voted for him or not: WHY DIDN'T YOU RUN FOR THE POSITION? Stop complaining and wait. I am sure a lot of you contributed to your own misery. So unless you ran a campaign for president, keep the dumb comments to yourself.

Anyone who actually cares or makes a negative comment is close minded and clearly unintelligent.

I think it's funny that there are a ton more comments about this piece of fluff than the much more substantive items on the ticker.

To all those who say former President Bush required jackets because he respected the office. Are you kidding me? The office of the Presidency is not respected by jackets. It is respected by up holding the basic laws of the land, and keeping safe the very liberties that our constitution specifically gives us. It is respected by not only protecting our liberties, but also remembering that those people in other countries have rights to. I respect President Bush for the service he gave to the country, but I don't think he always treated the office the way he should have. He's not an evil man, and he is not a stupid man. This notion that he respected the office by wearing a jacket is ridiculous. I can think of a lot better ways to respect the office. Perhaps he could have, well, you know respect The Constitution. Perhaps he could have helped the poor, finished in Afghanistan before invading Iraq, not desecrated the environment, and not taken away civil liberties. Perhaps that is too much to ask though.

That's what happens when you work. You take your jacket off.

Laughin at lib: Interesting remark you made. Obama's first day in the oval office and you have him taking a nap because he doesn't have a jacket on. People who work hard don't have to have on a suit jacket to prove themselves, but for the next few years you guys will be right there with any sort of accusation you can grasp.

No matter what he does in the Oval Office it will be 100 times better than the fraud that occupied it the past 8 years.

laughin at lib,

While you are laughing at one party, yours is disappearing (thank goodness). It is the anger that your chosen party spouts that contributes to this, so please, continue.

First, if this is news, it's sad that Obama isn't doing more real work, then this would get overlooked.

Second, Bush had that rule in place because the office of the most powerful (debatable) man in the nation is a place of some ceremony.

If you went into a meeting with a high-powered CEO, chances are you'd wear your jacket too. This is the office of the CEO of an entire country. There are plenty of other rooms where work gets done, and in those rooms, I'm sure Bush had no problem throwing his jacket over a chair and getting down to business.

It's just too bad that Obama doesn't have enough respect for his own job to do the same.

/raises shield to deflect the liberal bile sure to spew in my direction after I hit Submit.

What is more important...looking good or getting to work. I vote for getting to work. I don't care if president Obama is in the oval office in his birthday suit. If he feels and work more comfortably with his jacket off, then by all means take it off. I did not vote for his wardrobe. I know there are plenty of men out there that once they get into the office they take their jacket off, so why should president Obama be any different.

Sound like a good rule to break to me. When does the computer get set up? Don't forget pix of the wife and kids Mr. President!!!

I remember when Carter made a similar innovation in the White House. His aides lounging around in lace-up boots, feet on desks, as if they'd come straight out of the boondocks. Oh and those adorable sweaters he wore on his t.v. chats.

Four more years . . .

HEY D- HEADS WHERE IN THIS PICTURE DO YOU SEE HIS SLEEVES ROLLED UP!!!! ALL YOU DEM'S SEE THING TAHT ARE NOT THERE.

Sir, It is alot more comfy to sleep with your coat on! i have done it! and you can try it too. all bush did was to sleep or go on vacation!!!!!

he slept when 9/11 happend!
he slept when Katrina happend!
he slept when Dafur happend!

and he was on vacation when economy happend!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hey AndyL, do you see anything wrong with your post?
AndyL January 21st, 2009 3:31 pm ET

@me 3:04 pm that would be the rumor (rumour if your are British or Canadian) but never "roomer". I love it, you are probably one of these dumb liberals who though you were smarter than Bush.
__________________________________________________

So you are going to get on this blog, call someone a "dumb liberal" ,and then spell thought wrong (it has a t, without a t it is though, which is a word but not the correct one)and expect not to be laughed at like a typical Neo-Con know -nothing. ROFL

January 21st, 2009 3:48 pm ET – Jean wrote this.....

MAYBE SOMEONE SHOULD TELL HIM HE IS THE POTUS AND HE IS IN THE OVAL OFFFICE NOT THE BASKETBALL COURT…..WHAT'S NEXT…MAYBE HE CAN TELL THE QUEEN WHEN HE MEETS HER THAT SHE HAS NICE BLING……….

Are you kidding me? Whatever backwards, po-dunk, Nascar lovin, hillbilly, "Deliverence" town you come from you should remain there. You give light to your ignorance just by speaking. Become educated get a life & please stop showing the world how ignorant some inhabitants of Trailor parks in America are. Two words that come to mind.... White......the other would be Trash. Just for the record. I am White. Just galled with the sheer stupidity of your views!

If we want to talk change, how about talking about how much the party cost yesterday.. how about how much the new furniture and paint in the oval office cost? Fiscal responsibility begins with the man in charge IMHO.

Hmmm, Let's see one must wear a shirt, tie and jacket while authorizing a war that shouldn't have happened. Also dress properly to let big business get away with theft of poor people's money and oh don't forget to look presentable while torturing prisoners.

Yea, clothes make the man.

Bush is gone. Out with the old in with the new. Let our new President get his work done.

Speaking of "work" some of you are real pieces of work.
The Dems won – and it wasn't even a close election. Democracy at work. Get over it!

The Oval Office is actually the "informal" name for the Presidents Office. It is his own private office & he will spend many, many long hours at a time there. There is absolutely nothing wrong with removing your suit jacket & "digging in" while in the privacy of your own "informal" office.

Take the Jackets off!!! They are there to WORK not have a tea party...

God, listen to you people... They are finally WORKING get it... Not spending your money on stupid lunches... No Jacket required!!!

Screw the "sign of respect"... The respect is DOING the JOB for you and I...

Amazing.

Sweet one Bush rule down, one million more Bush rules to go!

Think about it people. Bush wore a suit each day to the office and what did it accomplish? Crap on 14k gold plates is nothing but plate holding Crap!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Obama has done more on his first day to straighten out the country than Bush managed in 8 years. I don't care if he works in a bathrobe as long as he continues to make progress toward bringing back the constitution and dignity of our three branches of government.

Bush kept his Jacket on, because BUSH DIDN'T DO ANY WORK . . . AND AMERICA IS EXPERIENCING THE RESULT'S!

It's symbolism folks.

Let us hope that President Obama breaks every rule his predecessor made.

Andy L....Everyone is smarter the Bush.

I don't care how he dresses as long as he can help this country out of the mess that the last administration left. It's obvious that wearing a suit didn't help Bush.

President Obama looks hard at work in this picture. Who cares
if he has his Jacket on or off. I believe we are going to see alot
of things in this administration that will different. It doesnt
mean hes not a good man or that hes not going to do a good job.The
voters of America let it be known that it was time for a change. I
find everything about President Obama refreshing. I enjoy seeing
little things that remind me that he is a person just like me who enjoys music, dancing, laughing, having a good time but,who knows
this country is in a mess and its going to take alot of work from all
of us to fix it.

I would think that this was a simple way that Bush tried to tie himself to Reagan, who had the same preference. Probably the only thing the two had in common.

Bush probably needed to wear a jacket in the oval office so he would know he was there for his 10 minutes of work. The rest of the day he was probably in sweats riding his bike.

its role up the sleeves time and get the hard work done that BUSH didn't not do!!!

Its a new era. Can't hind behind a coat from things like Bush did!

Whatever it takes to get the job done...who cares what he wears. Thank goodness he cares more about getting the job done than appearances. Go Mr. President!

Chuck Walla, I hope we survive the next 4 years as well... we almost didn't survive the last 8. I think the fact that getting work done in the oval office means more than wearing a suit jacket.

If the guy performs half as well as I'm hoping, I don't care if he wears a tutu with swimming goggles.

You people are silly. CNN says it "seems" like he changed the rule. That doesn't mean that he put it in writing or even made it a rule. So calm down please people.

It looks like our new president is ready to get down to work rather than let the whole country go to heck!

Lawyers wear Suits when appearing in Court. In office quality of work is more important than dress. A person needs to be comfortably dressed while at work. Being too dressy will not enhance thinking process, work quality and ability to handle complex issues, which is really required of a President rather than a President who always remains dressed up in gaudy clothes to enhance his looks and appearance.

This is ridiculous. Jacket on, Jacket off, who cares. Mr. President has more important things to do than worry about his Jacket and rules. Former President Bush should have been more concerned about other RULES. Like NOT breaking the law. Now that's news to debate!!!

Get a life and stop criticizing, already!!!

I have read some of the comments of the people above,it seem that they are a lot of ignorant people still in the U,S,A, and back ward thinking, like Andy L and the rest who is complaining about how the president is dress,do you alway sleep in pajamas to go to bed? do you alway wear the same outfit to work ? so why are you airing your mouth about the president ? don't you know most business men hang their jackets when in the office,for more than one reason it could get wrinkle and when they are ready to have they meetings it would not be in good shape, If you have nothing to say shutup.

Why do you need a suit jacket anyway. I wear a suit everyday, and the jacket comes off as soon as I walk through the door. The only time your jacket is needed is when you are in a meeting. Is Obama in a meeting in this photo? No. You try sitting for 8-10 hours in a suit jacket and see if you like it. Also has anybody heard of symbolism?

In Hawaii where President Obama went to school, aloha shirts are normal for men in professional or formal settings. For example, want to tell who is a visitor from out of state at Church on Christmas Eve? It is a man wearing a tie.

I love Cnn. I LOVE Obama.

It doesn't matter what he wears. Bush wore a jacket for 8 years, looked presentable and all, and where did that get us?! Who cares!

Lets face it – its time to work not attempt to look pretty and polished. I guess when all you have is your looks to be concerned about nothing else really matters. Glad that dumbo is gone.

Here's some hard-hitting journalism. But I see all the disciples lapping it up.

One more primitive ornamental ritual flushed, it feels good to have a White House atmosphere that looks, and feels real.

So what. All we have here is a matter of personal preference and an interesting footnote, nothing more.

I don't care if he's sitting in the oval office in his underwear with a toothbrush sticking out of his mouth and a messy sandwich on the Resolute Desk (please, don't do that though Mr. President)...as long as he gets the job done that we hired him for.

Hey Chuck,
The country not only survived but blossomed during the Clinton years.... It barely did during "the-white-house-respecting-citizen-disrespecting" president Bush...
Get your data and mind right...