CNN

I love these people that complain about Obama using tax payer dollars to buy his lunch. Please stop complaining and do a little math. You act like he is taking thousands of dollars out of your pocket.

Presidential Salary: $400,000 per year
Divided by lets say.....35 million tax payers (I know this number is higher) If we divide 35 million into $400,000, that is an annual cost of $.0114285 to each tax payer. That is a fraction of a penny. Now, go to your car and look under your seat. (I bet you have a penny there) Then drive to your bank and deposit it into your account. Now you are offically reinbursed. Stop complaining.

If Michelle Obama wants to buy $540 shoes !!! GO AHEAD ... I'd love it...This administration was handed a plate of poopoo and asked to make Creme Brulee !!!

I can haz cheezburger?

This is great news for small businesses. This is good for that burger joint! Anything that Obama touches turns to gold, so this small business probably can ride the coat tails of this for a long time. I am glad to see our president promoting small businesses, and not going to Starbucks or Mcdoanalds. This is a great way to help a small business...OH and to "elmer fudd" NOTHING this president does is sneaky, you know where he stands on everything, and that is something the right STILL doesnt get, that is what we want, and WHY Obama will be president for the next 8 years!

Now that is what you call down to earth regular guys. The president does noy have to regal, blue blooded but a regular person who knows what it is like to be real.

@ Jason May 5th, 2009 3:51 pm ET

Did he stop to pick up some $600 sneakers for MIchelle?

Um no...but possibly stopped to pick up some 485,000 dinnerware. Oh wait. That was the last guy.

Please tell me that they were not riding in the same car!

Nice!!! Now get back to work we don't want to make REPUBS mad!!! hehe

The angry-GOP comments are pretty funny. They seem hellbent to whine about anything and everything Obama does. They seem to have conveniently forgotten the horrible disaster of the Bush years.

Very nice!!! It is amazing to see the world's president living and eating among us! I am so happy that we have a president that we can respect and feel totally comfortable with for once! Such a role model for the upcoming generation.

Jenny,
Don't want likeable and popular.
Want competent.

Don't you just love our president! This is so kool to be a part of his everyday. We love you Michelle and Barack. Those folk here haten, are just weak and sad you lost. I'm glad I didnt have to relocate to Canada – that would have been an option if Sarah and John would have had the audacity....but we have theAudacity of Hope now, . And yes its amazing and yes its a peaceful slow day, and yes we get a little good news. The man and his crew Hi JOE! IS TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS. GOD BLESS THEM.

people are gonna do what they do.....pass laws, marry each other, do whatever because they have a choice. I make mine and you make yours. I voted for Obama, and look at the things he is doing. Many of you cant deal with him accomplishing so much. Its ok...you are on for the ride too, enjoy. He is your president too.

Now whats your choice activity this week, watch Michelle and President Obama's date video or drive to Alaska to listen to Britol Palin at her town meeting. Mmmm. Ok push play...................

I have to say I just feel pity for Repulicans now.

They are one sad pathetic group of individuals.

A Religious Right that wallows in hate, fear and bitterness. Lovely eh?? All of Jesus teachings in one neat bunch.

This is great. Dangerous, but its very cool. Welcome to the little people Obama.

Well i see the 21% of the republican party are out with their nasty remarks. This just goes to show you how nasty it will be when the elections roll around but by that time there will only be 15% of them around.

It was nice to hear that our President can relate to the real working people of the US and did not expect a free lunch.

What should you care if he stop to buy 50 pair shoes. Remember Obama and Michelle had money before they got to the White House. What they do with it is their business. Get a life and if the United States do prosper then I guess we can call you a free loader I think you live on this planet and everyone wins if this United States do prosper.

gee! wow! oh bama and biden stopped for burgers! this is riiculous.

Man of the sheeple:

In case you haven't noticed, before Obama (and even Bush with the original stimulus) businesses were failing left and right. So, to say stay out of business, is asking Obama to ignore the economy (like Bush the majority of his terms). This is what caused the great depression – a laissez e faire president who thought any government involvement in business was wrong. Well, if these businesses fail and everyone loses their jobs, it IS a government problem. The way OBama's handling it is preventing this situation, and restoring our economy to have somethign LEFT for our grandchildren. In addition, he's for investing in things that will grow our country to be free of foreign oil and have investment in our country that will put us on more stable ground in the future.

Why aren't these two bums working on cutting spending and shrinking the size of government? Oh they're communists, I almost forgot. Have a burger fat boy.

Barack and Joe are great. Stopping for a burger like two regular people. I can't imagine Bush and Cheney ever doing something normal like that.

Wow, shouldn't these guys be working? I mean, I didn't vote for him to eat burgers. Seriously, he should be fixing our problems right now. In fact, he shouldn't eat, sleep, or even take a bathroom break until the economy completely turns around... Honestly, the people who criticize people for going out for lunch are just people who are looking for anything to criticize. I know people will disagree on some things, me included. But eating lunch certainly isn't one of them. Sheesh. It's not like he's on vacation or anything. That being said, whether or not you agree with his policies, you have to admit that he has done a lot in a short span of time. Hopefully it will all turn out for the better.

For all of those who are constantly criticizing the President. Can you tell us anything good that GW did while in office for 8 years???
Didn't think so. He was a big joke around the world, or didn;t you notice that either? Didn't think so.

So many of you criticize Obama and make inferences that McCain made during the campaign, but it did not win McCain votes. The ugly comments of GOP folks is not going to endear Americans.

What a great leader who knows how to mix with ordinary people during a fun-time lunch. We are living again, America! Radiance!

To Derek.I have $400.00 shoes.Whats wrong with that? did you pay for them??
i didnt think so!

I always liked the stories of Jimmy Carter sneaking out of the White House and going fishing. Nobody knew (I bet Rosalyn did). I'll bet there's an unmarked government Taurus stashed around there somewhere for burger runs...
What about cash? I always hear stories about Presidents never having cash, since they can't ever go shopping, anyway. Is there a 'mad money' box in the Oval Office?

A crushing indictment of the Obama administration. Who says the GOP news media lacks substance?

Bravo President Obama! You will never get a even break from the corporate media monopoly (judging from the right wing talking points being spewed in these comments). So just do the job. Do it well. Do it right. Be honest and do your best to make sure those around you are honest too. Just a thought, if you kept the Bills short (like 5 pages) and you made sure that the language was simple (stupifyingly so), it would help with the transparency issues and no politician in Washington would have an excuse for not having had the time to read a Bill all the way through. Keep up the good work, and reach out to the left as much as you reach out to the right. May God Bless.

Hey Carol, Barack did more for our country in the period between the day he was elected and the inaugeration than Bush did in 8 years! Get over it!

You ALL have it wrong on this posting. The Barakster and Joe Da Foot were checking progress on their $750 Billion stimulus package and how many $5 per hour jobs were being created at the burger joints. BTW, wonder why he was disipointed about not getting his French Fries??

Republicans commenting today are just reconfirming how bitter they are.

Where were all the complaints from Republicans when George W was in Texas ten gazillion times for vacation? derrrr

How refreshing! Never saw this from the elitists who had these positions for the last 8 years!

Running a country can work up a big appitite!

It is so great that the President feels and does get out in Washington. The people are loving this guy, is he so natural. He has opened up the WH to the people too. I love his sense of being and who he is. We needed him back 8 years ago.

In response to Kevin from Ohio, do "blue-bloods" not eat at burger joints? How should he be acting? Should he stay locked up in the White House and never go out in public? He is only trying to stay grounded and in touch with the American people.

All these spontaneous excursions from the White House make me a little nervous. I like the fact that we have a vital and energetic President, but don’t these outings put him in danger?

CK

What a delightful little story, I enjoyed it, it made me smile!

Very cool...

Kevin in Ohio:

Obama and Biden bluebloods ????
Obama – son of a single mother, eating with food stamps at times. Biden, working class boy whose dad couldn't afford to live at home, since he had to work in another city for a time. If you're going to criticize, at least have a legitimate and factual argument.

I wonder how many people were inconvenienced over this??? But hey, it does look cute, doesn't it?? Groan!!

Politics in America = popularity contest
proof: this article has 200+ posts
the article about the taliban taking a huge region of pakistan has less that 50. That says it all.
We would rather talk about what the president had for lunch.

I wish the president would spend more time in the White House working on our economic problems, rather than doing burger runs, jet setting all over the country, etc.

I remember when I used to be able to go out for a burger......the good ole days

I find it quite amusing that the GOP is still all whiney about losing last year. It's a lot of fun watching the Grand Oil Party implode – while all the time clutching it's guns.

OMG!!! Wow!!! He ate!!! OMG!!!! What a great photo op to show the whole wide wonderful world how down to earth he is...aw shucks Barry! You really are a man of the people tipping off the paparazzi to show the world you're just one of us! You're really swell!!! I can live my life now knowing what the president ate for lunch. This is amazing!! I'm calling all my friends right now!!!

btw...I'm not republican in case you crazy pple want to attack me =)

HAVE A NICE DAY EVERYONE...wow...a burger..can't get over it...wow...no ketchup..i'm not gonna order w/ketchup either!! This is just great....I can go on and on and on and on........

dominican mama 4 Obama:

You are so right, people would rather hate then pray. I'm so happy I choose to pray! It's not worth hating, life is too short.

I may be a Rupublican, but I do think our president is a down to earth guy and an awesome husband and father.

Just because I disagree with some of his policies, does not mean I don't support him.

sad that there are over 170 comment s on this and 5 on same sex marriage in Maine. You people need to get your priorities straight.

I can't honestly believe their are so many mean-spirited Americans out there.

It is so sad to read these replies because Obama went and had a hamburger.

What makes people so mean-spirited with so much hate in their hearts?

Doesn't this just give you a thrill up your leg?

I notice CNN has a hard time printing my comments whenever I point out the incredible biasness of their channel.

Do you think CNN EVER would run something like this if Bush and Cheney ate a hamburger?

I love you most of you are now calling Obama and Biden "real people". You are absolutely crazy and brain washed by the media. This was obviously a new way to get press coverage. I'm sure this has been planned for days for security purposes and the media makes it sound like they just decided to go grab some burgers at the spur of the moment. Real people? Ask Michelle Obama where she got those $540 pair of shoes.

Boy this is news worthy... Rock on CNN...

I love these guys. I think Obama likes to get out now and then as he is stuck in the bubble all the time.
The conservatives that post negative stuff are just jealous that we have such a likable, popular President.

I'm glad this story didn't lose out to unimportant things like foreign policy, the budget or whether or not the dog has fleas...

I don't have a problem with these two getting a burger, I just don't think it's appropriate to report it as political news when there are MUCH more important things for reporters to talk about.

So many negative people!!!

1. it was lunch time....that's why he wasn't "working"
2. Yes, he paid with OUR money....we're paying him...he's spending his
paycheck just like you do!!
3. They were not "sneaking" around...just breaking the norm!
(He's doing alot of that!!!)

I love MY president!!! (And VP, too!)

a big greasy burger hits the spot and they know it

I figured President Obama would opt. for the Sinclair dog.

But, Obama, be careful, your abs! Hamburgers are for fat, christianist, sexless slobs!

great... I am HUNGRY!!!!!!!!

Wasn't it Bush senior who didn't know how much milk cost?

Okay, the media follows two guys that go out and dine on a burger and conservatives want to tear them a new one? Geez, we cannot even go to lunch anymore in this country! It would have been really funny if Dick Cheney was there serving burgers...how about that?

this is my neighborhood burger place. It's the best burger I've ever had. I'm glad to see he's learning the best places to eat in the hood. I can't to see him out and about DC.

These are two "blue-bloods" trying way too hard to appear to be like common people. Very obvious. says one disgruntled citizen ...

If you and your ilk think that either Obama or Biden are "blue-bloods" then you have researched their early lives. Both come from working class people and through hard work, education and guts, are now where they are! Unless you automatically hate successful people who come from humble beginnings!

You have the right to your own opinion – but not the right to your own facts!

kevin @3:54

Is this all you guys got left? The guy wanted a burger. No matter where he went he would have cameras following him. Why is this such an issue? You guys really need to get over yourselves and discuss something constructive.
It seems to me that your side are the ones who were had for all those years by leaders who told you they cared about you while ruining this country and its future for their greed.

all of this for a stupid burger !! well i'm glad the billderburgs let him out to eat!!

ag May 5th, 2009 3:53 pm ET

ha.. and cnn had to be the news channel following them. classic. i think obama gots cnn on speed dial for whenever they decide to pull one of these, "hey lets show the public we are like them" type of stunts
________________________________________

hhmmmmmmmmm actually since EVERY network has a reporter WORKING at the WH .... they do their job to report whatever the President does ... and it is their job to see if they want to report it on the news or blog page. AND since CNN knows that people are reading the blogs and leaving comments .... they decide what to post in order to get people in their site.

Sooooo ag ......... learn something new about who this 'job' is done.

The President, and his Next In Line, having lunch in an unsecured, public location.

The reason CEOs and their COOs and CFOs don't travel on the same plane. It's called Succession Planning.

Not well played, Mr. President.

For a brief moment POTUS was not trying to figure out how to keep my grandchildren enslaved to the governement.

Like I always say it makes no difference who you are sometimes we all need to take shelter in comfort foods. Always make time for a good burger the beef association should bring Texas back into the union despite the Governors statement just to keep selling meat at the very least.

How absolutely cool are these guys....I wander will they come to my next cookout at my house.
Maybe I should send the Obamas/Bidens an invitation.

Obama/Biden
2008/2012

You're telling me they couldn't order the burgers via the White House? Come on. Something smells fishy.

A lot of angry Republicans on the message boards!

I would be angry too if my party was making themselves more and more irrelivant with each day that passes.

Wow, thanks CNN. Can I get a job with you to report on things like this? I think I'm qualified, after all I have eyes.

Thanks, keep up the good work.

Guess Barack has figured out that he should keep Joe by his side, to keep him from sticking his foot in his mouth. They do Laurel and Hardy proud!

hey "ag".....
"gots" really ?

"...Why, or why couldn't MY side be more casual like this..."

I find this the saddest comment I've read today. When will be ever be just Americans again, working together without "your side" and "my side?"

Surely there must be thousand's of acres of "common ground" out there among we the people. Instead there is talk of "purging" anyone who disagrees with "the party" and automatically voting against the nominee for the supreme court – not even knowing who might be asked ...

The next election may see the next revolution and the seating of in the middle moderates in Congress... new people working for the country not just clinging to the old party line.

I find it interesting that some folks are complaining that Obama and Biden decided to have a lunch break. In his first 100 days, Bush spent half of them on vacation. There are those who SAY they work hard and cry and moan whenever someone else takes a break, and then there are those who REALLY work hard. Obama works his ass off (and even harder since he has to keep an extra eye on 'big-mouth Biden'). Give the guys a break!

This could have some pretty brutal ramifications for that burger place. I go to college in St. Louis, and ever since Obama made it public that Pi was his favorite pizza, the place is always so swamped that my friends and I can't get in there... EVER. I expect something similar may happen to Ray's.

Oh well. I guess as far as presidential mistakes go, accidentally denying me access to really good cornbread-crusted pizza is on the low end of the spectrum. I'll let it slide since other than that, he's done a darn fine job. Keep up the good work, Mr. President.

I love our President and Vice president. I'll die for them

Some of you are probably right to say its not newsworthy, but its' just cool. Love it.

Spring is in the air, take a big breath and enjoy. God bless America.

It's nice to have a normal down to earth President. He's a very bright guy next door.

Now I'm American again
8 long years but we's all Americans...again....

Sorry KAY real people dont butt into every private business they get a whim to wreck. The more the government continues to jump into the private sector the more each and everyone of us loses individual freedoms. Obama doesnt have any experience in the private sector so he and the government should stay out and not use our tax dollars to prop of any business.

A burger joint that does not serve fries?! Mon dieu!

the GOP will have their panties in a bunch over this one !!!! Stop the presses !!! Hannity will have alteast an hour on this !!!
LOVE THIS !!! Hmmm don't remember Bush supporting any of the local "joints" EVER !!! oh maybe in "country" of Texas...

If this is making news, everything else in the world must be in great shape.

I'll have to check this place out next time in VA!

Based on some of the comments, Obviously Republicans don't eat. And it only makes sense…their eyes are too closed to read the menu and mouths too busy whining like morons...as usual of course!

The only good republican is a dead republican!

The Obama administration wants to spend $63 billion to fight disease in impoverished countries, expanding a Bush administration program that concentrated on AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis, the White House announced Tuesday.

“We need to harness the energy and focus that has made such a difference in addressing HIV/AIDS, malaria and TB to tackle this broader range of health-care challenges,” said Deputy Secretary of State Jack Lew.

You people are fools. These guys are idiots, and you will someday figure out you were foolish in voting for him. Lets see how many more billions he spsnds before your taxes triple and you have ZERO take-home pay!

BO and JB are really cool.... I cannot imagine how tiring it is being holed up in the White House.. they sure did need a break.. Love his comment about the press writing about him freeloading.. he really does have a good sense of humor.. Good job barry... good job!!

Bubba May 5th, 2009 3:42 pm ET

FOXnews will run this story over and over at top speed: OBAMA BOWS TO BURGER KING!
__________________________________

LOL!! Fox news will say ' OBAMA scares the folks in a small town resturant ' ... poll : Should OBAMA quit now?!

wcmillionair. YOu are a perfect example of a GOP loss soul.

Only a GOP member would say something that stupid. SMH. Man, I know you are joking. YOu cannot be that stupid. LOL

You gotta love the part about these guys not working. The people that make these claims must have their heads in the sand. They have done more GOOD in 4 months than Cheney/Bush ever did. Keep up the good work Mr. President, and dont get ketchup on your tie.

Obama says "Who wants a free lunch - we're buying!!!"

Isn't that also the name of his budget and stimulus plan?

Obama can only afford a burger since his wife is out buying $580 shoes for her next soup kitchen visit with "the folks".

Someone posted a comment here asked if the President should've instead been working... It was LUNCH TIME! Goes to show that some people will criticize just about anything Obama does! [rolling eyes]

After looking at all the liberals here vent theiir praise to the Almighty Obama, its obvious that this was nothing more than a photo-op and that liberals will bite on anything..... you all are incapable of knowing when you've been "had". These are two "blue-bloods" trying way too hard to appear to be like common people. Very obvious.

mmmmm..... burgers!!! I am inspired to go have one myself!!!!!!

To Ya: Most burger joints around where I live ask you how you want it cooked – only the fast food joints don't ask.

To John Holden: He paid for it himself I would imagine – he does that most of the time. But, if he didn't, what's the big deal – he has to eat and my boss treats me to lunch every once in awhile so what would the difference be since we taxpayers are his boss? Picky, picky, picky!

How amusing far-right-folks comments are. How many asked "why aren't they working"? I am always amazed at the ignorance!

Everyone deserves a break...... even the president!

Good for Obama & Biden to break for a burger! They supported an American business by buying lunch, good!

ha.. and cnn had to be the news channel following them. classic. i think obama gots cnn on speed dial for whenever they decide to pull one of these, "hey lets show the public we are like them" type of stunts

Obama can haz cheeseburger?

Please let me know when they shower and what brand of soap they use! Who is the "journalist" assigned to cover these stories?

Marx and Lenin chow down in VA. I'm surprised they didn't ask for a side on borscht.

I've never been more proud of a president in my lifetime. We FINALLY got a good one! Long live and rule OBAMA!!!!

Love these guys!

Did he stop to pick up some $600 sneakers for MIchelle?

How nice to have two men who relate to the everyday average working man and women and student across this country. go out for a lunch burger and just be Americans. Talk about connecting to the People. God Bless them both!!!

Awesome taste in lunch joints. I live in Arlington, and its the best burger joint around.

that's why I really like these guys – bright hard working and getting the country back and shape and doing a burger run!

republicans can't even eat pizza without looking out of touch -besides they have no – count them no ideas – except cutting taxes for their friends

Give me the burger guys any day!

Man...I love when the "opposition" have to work so hard to say something negative about my President. LOL Go Obama!!!

I love these kind of pics of the President and VP...let's me know they're not in an ivory tower looking down at the little people...they're down here with the little people!

What the heck!? Who really cares!??! It's really funny what the media focuses on when it comes to anything to do with liberals. But yet, when we have troops still serving our country, dying, and participating positive, important events like their units rebuilding schools and actually making a positive impact for the people, all while fighting off terrorists and the war at hand...nothing gets mentioned at all. Only the negative or completely pointless news gets mentioned, like this pointless story. Talk to a soldier that's been there...they can tell how many positive issues the media does NOT publish.......WOW they got a BURGER..THEY ARE HUMAN...oh how funny this really is– LOL!!

@Michael May 5th, 2009 3:39 pm ET

Don't let them get to you Michael. I had one nut calling Oprah a "racist" because she supported his candidacy.
People rather hate than pray. It's all good, it rolls right off our President's back and makes him more determined to succeed.

@ Dan in Tx:

I didn't even consider that possibility! Way cool!

I am so proud of my president ! not only he is smart but he is also cool !

What kind of burger place doesn't serve fries? That would be like going to an Italian restaurant that doesn't serve bread. Obama rocks!

talk about wanting attention!!!!!! another democratic publicity stunt, and all you idiots will think the president is so much like you guys cause he ate a freakin burger in public. i bet if this man crapped in a bucket the dems would praise him for it and say how he is a "green" president for not wasting water.. boy all this fuss over a burger. get real

That place is going to have so much business after today they may need to hire another cashier. Excellent! You go Mr. President and Vice President! You make me proud to be an American again. After the last eight years it's nice NOT to have to apologize any more.

I think I have finaly figured out what kind of people voted for Obama. They're the kind of pepole who are more concerned with what he wears , what he had for lunch and what king of a dog he bought. You should be looking past that and see what he is actually doing to the American way of life. He is turning you into mind numbed robots who will not be able to do anything for yourself. He wants you to be totally dependent on the government and he wants to be the one who decides what you can have and what you can't. See who he is....who he really is.

What's ironic is the commercial cnn makes you watch before gettting to see the video. It's an Applebee's burger commercial.

When they got there Bill Clinton was already at his usual seat munching away on a triple stack bacon burbon burger.

Don't get me wrong, I love our new president and vice president. But I really don't think that this is news worthy. They get hunger like everyone else. Also to wc millionairre, have you ever heard of people taking a lunch break?

wondering wrote "Ok, so they got some burgers. Where are they jobs??? We need work!!!"

Hey buddy,
start making burgers and sell on 1600 Penn Ave. Better yet, find out if the president prefes "burger" delivery at home. Change your name to "Wandering Burger"; lol

Awesome Nice to see some normal people in the White House.
The Bush gang was too busy torturing people to go
for a burger.

Well said Maggie!!!
"Nothing wrong with going out for a burger. You are human too"

Why do people keep asking "why are they not working?" Hmmmm.....do you get a lunch break? Why shouldn't they?

wcmillionairre _ I guess if you had a job you would realize us working folk have a thing called a lunch break.

wondering _ first off proper English is appreciated here and second, shouldn't you be out looking for a job instead of making asinine comments on a blog (yeah I said it, and BTW education education education as the great TJ recommended + a little dose of drive and ambition, you can never stop learning). I’m off to teach myself Chinese.

ya _ I'm guessing you've never had a burger outside of McDonalds.

scottb_ what does the president getting a burger have to do with the GOP, stop pulling the politico card its such an ignorant cop-out for mundane situations???

mr. president – cheddar cheese burger is personal favorite of mine as well when I cheat my healthy habits and Ray's is definitely the place to do it, that and five guys...

mmmmmmmmm cheese buuuuuuuuurgerrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

I didn't vote for Pres. Obama and don't yet know if I trust him, but this truly is the way to win the population. Why, or why couldn't MY side be more casual like this.

You both deserve brake away from work (POLITICS) and meet average Joe on the street.....................GOP will not understand . Keep it up

There is pleasure in seeing the two top honchos having a 'normal' lunch break. Nothing pretentious just burgers and water … My kind of guys!

I will bet this hamburger place will now have "Presidential Fries" on their menu!

Obama is the man!

"shouldnt these people be working?"

ah yes, because the president and vice president dont have to eat lol. i believe the people who said that belong over on foxnation

@wcmillionairre – Shouldn't you be working instead of trolling CNN?

lol at the lady beating on the window trying to get obama's attention. for the people complaining that obama and biden should be working, are you not allowed lunch breaks where you work?

We are lucky to have such a great President and Vice President.

There is pleasure in seeing the two top honchos having a 'normal' lunch break. Nothing pretentious jusy burgers and water ... my kind of guys!

Got to love these guys.
Go get her done!!!!!! Mr. President, good job from you and the vice the all the others in your admin. 2009-2026

It is hard to put into words how desperately this country needed a different tone...if it is all orchestrated, then so be it. But, you really do feel like they are more like us than different than us or above us. Totally refreshing! We'll see what Fox News says about it.

I didnt think the president or VP carried their own money. Who paid – oh yeah thats right we did (the taxpayers) – its easy to pick up the tab when its not your own money. Thats why in companies there are expense controls that prevent folks charging back things like this – I guess Washington doesnt know how to curtail spending (Dems or Repubs) shame on them all.

Whoa! I had a burger today too. Just out of the blue I thought, "I'm havin a burger for lunch." Must have been that handshake I gave President Obama in Iowa City last year. The President bodysurfs and enjoys french fries, My Man!

Obama and Biden go to White Castle?

Is that a Phillie Blunt I see in Biden's back pocket?

Snide remarks, Michael? Every other comment, Michael? Give me a break. The true "Party of NO" is the demoncrats who have been active in that arena since Bork. My comment here is one of concern...... Obama as President is far better than Pelosi..... but these guys are running that risk with shenanigans like this. I can just picture the comments from the liberals had Bush and Cheney done the same thing.

Obviously Republicans don't eat. And it only makes sense...their eyes are too closed to read the menu and mouths too busy whining like children. And you wonder why people are fed up with these neo-con morons!

Chill on the 'they should be working' comments. I don't remember the oath involving the surrender of all future lunch breaks.

FOXnews will run this story over and over at top speed: OBAMA BOWS TO BURGER KING!

@ wondering, who said "Ok, so they got some burgers. Where are they jobs??? We need work!!!"

Right, because once you're elected POTUS and VP, you no longer require lunch in order to function...or food for that matter...just like Cheney, they begin with your heart, then move to your stomach and intestines and start replacing all your body parts with robot parts so that not only are you completely capable of functioning without food, but are also dependent upon the oil industry for their power supply and lubricants that keep their parts running smoothly.

I'll bet they've got fries on the menu next time.

Both these guys are down to earth. Biden rides the Amtrak, and Obama loves to go out for burgers. These are truely men of the people. Away with the blue-blood aristocrats.

Love it, I live in Arlington and can tell you that Ray's is a great burger, try their Steak House too, Ray's the Steaks. Hey people eat lunch, why can't they?

Thank You President Obama and VP Biden for keeping it REAL!!

How can some of you idiots complain about them not working all of the time. Obviously those making the comments are not working either, so since they are complaining shouldn't they get to work. I remember when Reagan went into a McDonalds, he didn't even know how to order. Who understands the average person better?

It's everyones part to stilmulate the economy, even the President. I new you (party of no!!!!!!!) would have something negitive to say. YOU can find a job if YOU really wanted to.

Who cares, where are the JOBS???????

It's a good thing this was reported, because I was worried SICK about what they had been eating. My fears can now be put to rest!!

shouldn't these guys be working ? c'mon it's a lunch break.. of course the tax papers are paying for the burgers, they are the government right now. i can't believe people are whining because the president and vice president are having a burger.

@ wondering May 5th, 2009 3:17 pm ET
"Ok, so they got some burgers. Where are they jobs??? We need work!!!"

Your horriific grammar aside, dude, do you NOT get a lunch break? I do. My boss does. My husband does. My son in school does. Everyone I know does. What? You won't let the President and Vice President have lunch????

Get a grip.

Mr President ... an occasional good, juicy cheeseburger won't hurt ... Much! Juust remember ... you also indulge in the odd ciggie every now & again. Try to keep both of those to a minimum or you'll be on a first name basis with your cardiologist.

"That's wonderful to see them being so down to earth… how refreshing!!!"

Someone hand me a barf bag, I've been drinking pure maple syrup. I just knew people would take advantage of this story. As if Bush weren't even more down to earth than Obama.

Mmm, yummy burgers! But I can't help but feel sorry for them since they can't sit down and eat in peace without everyone wanting to mob them or other people wondering "why aren't they at work" or "shouldn't they be working?"! Like nobody ever takes a lunch break? I'll bet some of you are eating a Big Mac right now while you're reading this!!

Down to earth, ehh
I work a block away and was headed to my client's. There were about 5 limos and 5 SUV's including a gaggle of police escort both at beginning and end of the entourage. Road was closed for this procession. I'm not buying it; looks more like a photo op and press deal. Not impressed. BO not a man of the people but enjoys the image which people have made of him.

He walks with Kings and world leaders ... yet hasn't lost the common touch. Class and grace personified.
If only he would stand up for weakest voiceless citizens about to be born!

Hold the ketchup, hold the lettuce, special order, don't upset us, all you have to do is let us serve it your way....

I love this story. Every once in awhile you find yourself smiling about American politics. I love it. !!!!

How dare the president and the vice president go to a burger place and get a hamburger. Do they not know the danger that put the country in, we could get attack. We would have no one the run the coutry, not only that they paid for it with our taxpayers money, in that they are paid by the goverment, and they dare act like everyday people.
We need a adminitration that don't understand everyday american people lives........................I JUST THOUGHT I WOULD SOUND A RIGHT WING. What do you think.

Hannity will be MAD on his show tonight.

To all of you who are asking "why these guys are not working", this president and the vice president have worked more in their first 100 days than the previous ones in the last 8 years. Furthermore, everyone is entitled to a lunch even during work hours. So get a life.

I'm pretty sure even those that work...wcmillionairre and wondering, often are able to take a break for lunch! Lighten up a bit.

It's amazing. We have a real person in the White House, working his ass off for us and every other comment on this article is from a Republican with snide stupid remarks. Keep it up creeps. The more you deny the undeniable the more the people see the worthlessness of backing the party of "no".

Who Cares?

im a jalapeno and swiss fan with a root beer(depending on the quality of the root beer)... great choice... I would be upset too about the lack of fries in this establishment.

This is great
Real people

Did Biden order the Mc Hairplugs?

@ Ya May 5th, 2009 3:15 pm ET

What kind of burger place asks how well you want it done? It's either raw or cooked!

A lot of places ask how you would like your burger cooked. A lot of them will even print on the menu that they cook it to an internal temperature of 160-165 degrees which is medium well, and if you prefer it rare it will be at your own risk.

Great Obama and I just love Joe Biden's style. Throw in Michele and Jill and what a team. Too funny.

Good going guys.

"Shouldn't these guys be working?" – wcmillionare

Oh my you're right. They got lunch, and it cost them a whole $10 each. How DARE they!

And you guys wonder why people have given up on the right wing.

That's one more small business owner that the Obama adminstration helped. Wonder how much more business that visit was worth for them.

This is the kind of thing I like about our new leaders... they are not free-loaders! They are just like me. Working hard and taking care of their families and the world I might add.

It is so refreshing to have new leaders that are just regular people like the rest of us.

I love having educated people with a sense of humor, fair play and honesty in the White House. The last person there didn't do a very good job and left one big mess to clean up after.

Good for them! I'm glad they had a lunch out that they enjoyed.

After 8 years of nonstop scandals, Ive had a craving for a harmless presidential puff piece.

Its always good to take a lunch break on a workday. He is one of us.

Surprised Biden went into a confined and crowded space!!

Just a PR stunt with the swooning press.

Pres Obama and VP Biden attracted more people in their surprise burger run than the 50 or so preannounced Republican listening tour in the pizza place!!

My kind of man, jalapenos on a burger, yumme!

DANG, why do rich people always get the free stuff!! Hey Obama, hook me up with a double with cheese, catsup, lettuce, and mayo only. Thanks!

LOL @ all the "shouldn't these guys be working" comments. The last president took more vacation time than any other president, and you're giving these guys crap for EATING? Give me a break.

His generousity is truly beyond comparison! Unfortunately, the poor media probably had to decline his offer for a free lunch (misguided understanding of being unbiased). Now, if the business was smart they would have offered the reporters lunch on the house.

This president loves to get out once in awhile. I think it's great. He really is a man of the people. So far, people are happy he's out and about. They love it.

Kudos Mr. Prez, keep it up. You're doing a great job. Now about those fries...

That's so cute! I love photo-ops! They can do NO wrong can they!

John Holden - May 5th, 2009 3:15 pm ET

Now the question is whether Obama paid out of his pocket or the tax payers paid for those burger given to the public?

============================================================

No.......there is no 'question' about who paid.........good grief; the man can't even go out for a burger without haters complainin' and pointin' fingers......

This President is so down to earth, so common like the rest of us, us so uncommon for washington politics. I love him.

LOVE IT! How often with previous administrations would you see the president and vice president just hanging out and having lunch together . . . NEVER! Man of the people for the people!

Sure they should be working WC. They should be just like W and NEVER eat and just work 24 hours a day...oh wait...didn't W take like 8 weeks of vaca per year? lol

That's nice, but who paid for those burgers for the press? Taxpayers? Time and time again, Obama seems to not understand basic ethics and conflict of interest.

Cool.

John, if you read the article, the last part clearly states that Obama paid for his, Biden paid for his...

Ya, all places that cook their food on the spot should ask how you want your burger, not everyone wants the burger under the heat lamp that be at other fast food places....

I think Pres. Obama and VP Biden are really normal, likeable people.

Come on people, they have to eat sometime!! How much time do you waste while you at work? You aren't chained to you desk. Get over yourself. Hve a burger sirs, you deserve it.

He sounds presidential even when ordering a burger.

wcmillionairre at 3:11 p.m.: Were you raised to be an elohssa or do you have to work at it?

Lots of presidents are down to earth, I'm sure he separated the bottle water and rootbear with his hands. Who cares..... cause he really doesn't care about people, just his political party. The same can be said about the GOP, both parties serve party first.

I can't help it but smile, these men know how to steal the lime light.

wow I see even the little GOP jerks are in here. " Did he pay for it himself or did the tax payers pay for it" Ask that to George and Laura Bush Who spent $50,000 of the tax payers money for china. And who paid for that, Yep we did. And the Obama's desided to forgo the $100000 that they get for moving into the White house to be used for redecorating. Yep GOP they are using their OWN money. So stop with wise cracks and look at the guy who will bring us out of this crunch even if it takes buying a burger with his own money to do so. I bet you guys would also be the 1st to ask for your fair share too, is that right ?

Elmer Dudley, John Holden

OMG...someone get the drool bucket. You people eat this non news up like he's a freaking God...Oh what did I expect from CNN

Sure am proud of this administration. I too, LOVE this guy. Thanks, Mr. President, for making me proud of my country- Mr. Vice-President- the same to you.

Arizonan for Obama/Biden

They went out for a burger asked if anyone else wanted one and paid for it! to Elmer Dudley, John Holden and wcmillionairre, SHUT UP
Can you do nothing but complain!

even with the good feel article there have got to be killjoys – taxpayers did not pick up the tab and the pres & vp have been working very hard – also, if you listen to the news, more jobs will be lost before they start coming back. might help if you paid attention, read the entire article and got your news from several sources instead of just one.

Go Obama – keep doing the good job you are doing!

Wow, can definitely tell who the bitter Republicans are on this board when all they can say is "how come they aren't working..." Give it a rest already, everyone has to eat and I think that showing up in a small burger joint shows a very human non-elite side of the president.

You Republicans just have to find fault in everything, you're so pathetic.

wcmillionairre - May 5th, 2009 3:11 pm ET

Shouldn't these guys be working?

============================================================

What? You never take a lunch break???

I can see the Faux News headline now:

"World collapses around them as Obama and Biden eat lunch".

At least they chose a mom and pop burger joint instead of a corporately owned mega giant. Good on them.

Yes, the lord gets out to breath the same air as his serfs. Is this news worthy? If it is then perhaps it is the fact that the two felt it necessary to be seen in a burger joint. Why is that? Let's get over it..he's just a guy we elected to tell us what to do. So he eats meat...uh ohhhh...vegetarians unite.

Looks good and sounded good!

I can't wait to watch what the GOP talking heads like Limbaugh, Hannety and O'Reilly do with this. They will find numerous ways to turn this into a socialist, anti-American, communist screed.

Good for them. I like a good burger too, now and again!

It's nice to see a President pay for his food. I can remember other ones that would have to borrow from one of his employees or the restaurant would say on the house. Looked like a nice tip also

that is what we expect of a president? feel how it is to be on the main street too.kudos

Why is this in the news?

Dang wcmillionarre, even the President of the United States deserves a lunch break. Lighten up!

This is going to upset the Republiklans.....wait and see!

And this is NEWS, who cares, was Bill Clinton with them, he likes Burgers.

It's obviously staged. He wanted to look down to earth, and many people took the bait !!! He is once again marketing himself...

Great Job

I love our Pres and Vice-Pres!!

And, not only do they have food cravings like the rest of us, President
Obama thinks of the hardworking Press and offers them burgers, too!!

He defininitely has (and never will) forget his roots!! They are the same roots that most of us in the country have–truly a man of the people!!

He works so hard, we would be proud to have him as our LEADER!

Well, he's said he doesn't like being cooped up, and I can see wanting to just go out for a burger.

Excellent free advertising for a small business. Everyone who works for the president have always got smiles on their faces!!

John Holden: You need to read the whole article although it seems no matter what it is even a burger you can come up with some nasty ungrounded response.

To the poster who said "shouldn't he be working..." You get a luch break from work don't you? Just because a guy stops for a bite to eat doesn't mean he is not working! I for one am so glad to know that he eats and breathes like the rest of us. I think I'll grab a burger tonight too!

Kinda blow palin's elitist tag a bit, doesn't it. Now, and as we have been seeing, she and the GOP spinners were just lieing as much as possible, which I guess doesn't sit well with that christian badge she and they wear, or just put on when needed. I bet he paid for it with his own cash and no government cedit card was used so you can't say he's mis-useing tax payer money either. It's nice to have real people back in the White House!

Guess what GOP, America wised up to your washed up games. Try again in about 20 years when you learn to act human.

Wow, what a duo! Eating burgers just like the common man.
Somehow I no longer care about the $10 trillion deficit their out of control spending is going to add to the nations debt. From now on, they can do whatever they want and I will love them. Eating burgers won me over.

What are the chances that the President and Vice President would ever have a photo-op in front of a poster for one of the weirdest sex/horror/drug films of the 1960s? But there it is..."Mantis in Lace." Go figure!

Yes July, they cover lots of things including Murtha's corruption with his nephew receiveing milllions in government contracts.

Someone has to report it. Glad we have FOX.

This is not a story....you should be covering the mouning debt. The media is wasting valuable resources here. Very sad.

Oh they are so down to earth and wonderful people-that's why they won't recognize the National Day of Prayer-right?

What is this–The Onion?

thes 2 crooks take from workng peopel and eat; theiy should be working

give it a rest....who cares?!!?

P and VP, you got my vote 2012, come to Atlantic City, NJ this summer. I will get you some White House Suub's, Bill Cosby loves this sub,

C'mon who cares if a burger feed came out of taxpayer money. EVERYTHING the govt does comes out of taxes, we all know that. But to feign some sort of indignation about it coming out of your pocket is absurd. That burger run probably cost you (personally) less than 1/1000 of a cent. Are you somehow tracking how each fraction of your tax cent is spent? Lol ... I don't even apply that level of scrutiny to my own budget

I can't stop laughing thinking about how CNN and every other news outlet would have covered this if it were Bush. Oh wait, it wouldn't have been news if this were Bush. It's only the Obamas that the media covers, like the British tabloids cover their royalty. You guys ignore the negative things he does but are sure to report when he bumps his head or eats a burger.

@ wcmillioairre "Shouldn't these guys be working?
---

Shouldn't you?

For five years CNN reported on deaths in Iraq, our soldiers accused by the Iraq government of atrocities, Bush's lack of popularity among our allies, scandals in the Bush admin, etc, etc. These were repeated over and over again on the CNN site.
Today, Sec of Def Gates is visiting our allies trying to reassure them that the Obama admin isn't going to throw them under the bus, our allies in Europe aren't cooperating with Pres Obama, the Iraq government wants to try our soldiers for a recent attack on civilians, and the Obama administration is being questioned about their strong armed behavior in various financial situtations. Several Democrats actions are suspicious. And what does CNN report. the Prez and the Vice Prez are having a burger together. How cute.

So what's next – will somebody follow them both into the bathroom to see if they take wizzers too?

Is the fact that the VP and the Pres eat food like the rest of us really news???

The prez likes his burgers ... when he came to our town, Casper, Wyoming, he stopped and had a burger at our great '50s diner. When you're built like him you can eat all you want, the lucky son-of-a-gun.

Ahh, CNN – a bastion of journalism! Not!

Yes, he's human. He has 2 eyes, ears, 10 fingers and toes. He has hair. He can talk – he even speaks the same language as us! How quaint! Look at that, he even eats the same food we do.

Don't you have other things to report on? I mean, there are other things going on.

Aim high!

Why is this news??

CNN has stooped to an all time low.

Amazing how the petty and small minded rethugs on this blog turned something light and fun into a negative. Well done repubs,that's why you guys LOST and will keep losing.

It's o.k. to go to a private business for a burger but please stay out of private business so you dont screw it up any worse. Let the big boys that have private business experience handle the economics of the situation and you continue to organize the community and lead your sheep.

President Cool eating a burger at an independent joint. My kind of president.

awesome.

Good for the president and vice president. Its so refreshing to see a president and vice president go out as normal people and have lunch. Well at least they didnt free load.

Great stab at the press. Over zealous boring reporters!!!!!!

You right wingers need to give it a break...the man needs to eat, he was at lunch and he paid for it himself.

My God you guys can't say anything positive about him...why don't you just shut the heck up!!!!

Wow ... the UH prez eating a burger ... biggest news of the day ... give me a break!

Way to go Mr. President and Mr. Vice President! I think I will have the same today. I love this new administration. They are so uplifting and promising. I'm glad we have a president who doesn't mind paying the bill.

Wcmillionarie.....Im sure you eat lunch everyday dont you?
the stupidity in some people amaze me.

I love these guys! I know this really isn't news but it's great that they get out and support local businesses. That place is going to gain a ton of business because of one stop by the pres and vp.

God bless our president and his beautiful family and God bless the United States of America!!

wcmillionairre May 5th, 2009 3:11 pm ET

Shouldn't these guys be working?
____________________________________-

wow ... you are so ........... bitter

How did they pay? With the taxpayers' money?

I know the business was elated for this visit, and President Obama was honorable to pay instead of accepting the offer not to pay.

I really like these guys–what a breath of fresh air. Smart, engaged, and real people too. Yes we can!

Megalomania at it's finest.....guess townhall season is over for now..

I love my President and Joe too....they are so down to earth.

Like I need the news to tell me democrats freeload... LOL

Why does the media cover this?

Let the hateful comments begin – first it will be the haters that believe the President should never take time to eat when we have so many problems to solve. Next it will be PETA because they have to put in their two cents on everything. So bring it on haters... let's see what you have.

I for one think it's refreshing to see our nation's leader enjoying a juicy burger for lunch.

Now I'm yearning for a burger .. my prez is so cool!

OMG! ... I am loving this! I can NOT stop smiling.

I can NOT stop LAUGHING thinking how the GOP and Fox News cover this jajaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa

Ok, so they got some burgers. Where are they jobs??? We need work!!!

Well done president Obama. Nothing wrong with going out for a burger. You are human too.

They are exceptionally well experienced at sneaking around.

What kind of burger place asks how well you want it done? It's either raw or cooked!

Now the question is whether Obama paid out of his pocket or the tax payers paid for those burger given to the public?

He truly is a man of the people

Man, you just can't beat press like that. Looks like he's a good tipper, too.

yes I'll take a big mac for myself, and the vice prez will have the fish sandwich, and give me 12 happy meals for the security detail. Great to see that the President is human TOP that GOP !!!!!!

awesome....its a great burger joint.

I LOVE THIS GUY!

I can't help it I love these guys. Not only would I like to share a burger with them (Shades of W) I feel totally confortable with them running the show(definately not shades of W)

Watch that waist line Mr. President!

Shouldn't these guys be working?

Regardless of your political leanings, you gotta love these guys.

That's what i like about my President he's so down to earth, who doesn't want a good burger sometimes.

That's wonderful to see them being so down to earth... how refreshing!!! Hey a burgar sounds good right now...off I go.. see ya

But Barry, you ARE freeloading... you're freeloading on the financial booty you've stolen from the next five generations of Americans, people who have not yet been born , nor their parents NOR their grandparents.

It was Teddy Roosevelt who warned of highly educated criminals.
"A man who has never gone to school may steal from a freight car; but if he has a university education, he may steal the whole railroad."

And one of my favorite TR quotes:
"Behind the ostensible government sits enthroned an invisible government owing no allegiance and acknowledging no responsibility to the people."
DON'T RE-ELECT ANYONE IN 2010.

Sure, why not, Burger story, Date night, Puppy Palooza. Step rigt up, all it costs is your freedom, bit by bit.

How about a story on the fact that as this president seeks his empathetic judge, he simultaneously is pitching for complete financial control over our education system, as well as mandatory work camps (Im sorry, service camps) where our pride and joys will be forced after college to attend, and be groomed based on ability and aptitude fand then the govt will work with them on what the best carrers suit them.

He also commented yesterday how he wants to reshape our economy so that young able and smart people would not go to the financial markets so he will cap their income and force them to redirect to public or green jobs.

But back to the real story of the day, I think he and Biden are on their way to Baskin Robbins. They are buying nutty buddies for all of the press, come one guys, and just like everything else in his utopia, ITS FREE, we'll just have our children and grandchildren pay.

These are true leaders who are in touch with the average americans and eat what they eat (well... every once a while).
I am sure their purchases are also stimulating these small businesses and the economy as a whole.

Great leaders lead by example.

lol yes the press would write something about that....

what burger joint dont have french fried? i would be upset too

I wonder if the miss's will be giving their hubbies grief for going to fast food joints.

Wish I was there!

That's my Pres! first class all the way!

I knew I liked Joe.

That's a real burger, jalapenos and all.

Poor man can't even accept a free hamburger because he knows some sicko in the press is gonna twist into an illegal campaign contribution!

He's our president people, cut him some slack like you did all the other presidents.

LOL, what fools..I'm surprised Biden has enough intelligence to even place the order .

This is what passes for journalism these days.

What kind of message does that send, scarfing down greasy, fat-laden beef? These two are just plain sorry and I can't stand them and I can't wait to vote for someone else next time.

These two cannot be doing this together! As disappointed as I am with Obama so far, I will confess he is 100 times better than Nancy Pelosi..... god forbid something should happen to both Obama and Biden while they are on one of these jaunts!

They must have been Turkey Burg's. Two right-Turkeys! Just taking a break.

Ya Gotta love a good cheeseburger. LOL OH NO were paying. lol ahahahaaa.

Good for them.......they need to have a little fun.

This is news?

I wantz a burger too!!! ;-D

Very very slow news day.