CNN

[...] Gibbs declines to give cost for Obamas' NYC trip (CNN) – White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs on Monday would not disclose the total cost of President and [...] [...]

DT....where do you get your figures?......MichaelMoore.com or MoveOn.org?

It's a well established fact that Obama's gig was in the $170 million range. Both of Bush's inaugurations were COMBINED around 70 million. You are entitled to your own opinion...BUT NOT YOUR OWN FACTS!

Now I'm a Republican, but for crying out loud – you mean the RNC has nothing more to complain about than this? Get a friggin grip!

Wow, just wow...

Dem's fussing about Bush using tax payer money to go to Texas. Repub's fussing about Obama using tax payer money to go to New York. There's no difference, except the fact that Obama has only been in office 4 months and has spent more money then all the presidents combined on Bail-Outs and Government spending. Everything he does, he flies somewhere to do it. He needs to sign a bill, so he flies to Colorado, or where ever. He tells us, the American people not to waste money, yet he does the exact opposite. The only reason he waited till now to let GM file Bancrupcy was to get all his UAW buddies cushy deals. If we would have left them go under months ago, the UAW would have been screwed and lost millions.

Did everyone forget that Bush spent about 1/3 of his time in office on vacation? I could care less about a few hours ever-so-often to make sure the president is able to spend quality time with his to ensure that he is focused and well rested.

Not to mention this country is going through a difficult time, and the time to cower back in fear of living life to the fullest is not now. It is good to see this type of image out front; a strong man like the president and his beautiful wife the first lady out and about–living; not simply existing.

Haters (GOP) are everywhere. The man took his wife out for a weekend in NY. So what? If you could do it, you would to, I don't care what you say. All of our other presidents did the same kind of thing. It's just that since he's the first president of color, everything he does is under a microscope for scrutiny by all of you half wits who have nothing better to do, except hate. I hope they had a great time and I hope they stayed at the Waldorf Astoria! LOL! That would be classic fodder for the GOP to mull over!

GOP has really gone bankrupt with fat cats like Gingrich and Boss Limbaugh at the helm. The sad thing is the CNN pays attention for lack of any other sensational news to cover. That is why their rating has gone down. Therefore, CNN and GOP are on the verge of becoming extinct. That is great news!

I've been a Republican since Reagan and I didn't vote for Obama. However, I respect him as my President and as a father and husband. Being President is a 24/7/365 job. He is never really on vacation. Likewise Michelle Obama has to be on her A-game day in and day out for the next four years, without even a paycheck and probably very little thanks. I don't begrudge him a moment of family time, in fact I respect him for setting an example and a precedent. Put your family first, Mr. President. When all the critics have gone on to someone else, your family will be the ones who still matter. As far as those two planeloads of reporters, why the heck did they get a trip to New York? I think the man can swallow food without their scrutiny. There's where the waste lies! For the rest of you, SHUT UP!! Save it for the real issues.

would anyone take on the job of President ? for crying out loud...he DESERVES to take on trip whether or not it's on us !

What’s the problem with it? He can SCARE use to no end how we have to do something now before anyone can read the bills and how he inherited this mess, spend trillions of dollars and tell the people the government is out of money. So what is an extra 50k or so to go to the Opera when the USA is going to have to file bankruptcy just like the auto companies or sell our assets overseas? Go Big ‘O’ have fun with it. Maybe the media and all of us will wise up soon.

Absolutely the best way to help the economy is to stay indoors at all times, mope around depressed, never spend any money so that everyone goes broke.

If this is wrong, then I want to see all of the accounting for discretionary spending from the last six presidents.

Yeah, just one more thing for the Repugnicans to complain about... he should stay in the White House 24/7, I guess and not be allowed to actually live. Of course, Bush NEVER took pleasure trips. Why don't the sanctimonious sore losers shut the hell up... we're sick of it... and why don't you, the media, stop covering their constant whining???

Jason @ 5:09You are a stupid racist what does color have to do with it you stupid idiot!!!!

would anyone volunteer to take on the job of the President ? for crying out loud...I think he

And how many times did the taxpayer pay for trips to Crawford Ranch! Get serious and stop wasting the peoples time with this mocknews or mews It's demeaning to the people that are served by journalism. The Obama's are people and they are young enough to want to go out. Geez Louise, just because Dubya went to bed at 9 pm on New Years Eve cut President Obama some slack. If it's the cost of the flight that upsets everyone then let Rush Limbaugh pay for it with his windbag royalties. It can be his contribution to an economy that his neo-con cronies ruined!

Whats wrong with the GOP? Are you kidding me that are complaining about this? Do they think the American people are really that dumb to forget W's non-stop trips to Texas during a war?

I'm a Republican, but I think with the pressure and responsibilities facing this couple it's wonderful they took a date night whatever the cost.

Would President Obama's critics prefer for him to drag the country though him getting an ugly divorce as opposed to him investing in the first family, and fostering a healthy relationship? I think people need to give the man a break with all of the monumental problems he's presiding over he needs a little R & R. I don't want my president to be a hermit locked in the White house 24/7. He should get out among the people, which requires security. Did anyone mention how whereever he goes is good for the economy. Cnn please research on how any place he frequents sells out tickets. Maybe if Bill Clinton spent taxpayer money on dating Hillary Clinton when they were in office, Americans wouldn't have had to put up with being ridiculed by the world and 30 million dollar impeachment proceedings!

Gary's comment is:

President Obama and his wife Michelle are both young and full of life,
and they have been thru a long hard battle for the office of President.

I think a night out in New York is a super idea, and how General Motors has and effect on weather they have dinner and see a show
escapes me. For all the watch dogs and right wing folks you might as
well get comfortable, because President Obama is going to be in office for a long time, and you will have much to cover in the years to
come, so get ready. Rush Limbaugh, Newt Gingrich, and Sean Hannity are you getting all this down? By the way guys I love what you
are doing to the Republican Party, keep it up and there will be no party
left to join before too long.

The only point the Repugnicans have is that we wasted money on a private plane for the press. They are entertainers, and they should pay for their own travel.

As for the President, he is more than entitled to take a trip, and he can't fly commercial.

Unbelievable! The President cannot fly commercial, people. He is not in prison although sometimes I am sure it feels like it (like when he tries to go to a Broadway play) and every move has to be mapped out like D-Day so, if it can be arranged, I see no reason why the First Couple cannot attend events like this. I, for one, applaud the use of a less expensive means of transportation and trust that security arrangements met Secret Service criteria. If the press wants to hound away on this, then I say release figures for all such "travel" by Presidents. I would be interested in seeing exactly how much those many, many trips to Crawford cost.

Republicans seem to whine about almost anything these days. I guess that's what you do when your party is destined to wander the wilderness for the rest of eternity.

Tranparency – NOT
Change – NOT
UmBama has lied to you.

You republicans are so small . We Democrats didn't complain when Bush took the longest vacations of any President in History. Remember he was on a month vacation when 911 happened, chopping wood. Get over it and quit complaining, we have a mess to clean up after Bush!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Man the republicans continue to make themselves look like a bunch of whinny babies...

Didn't Bush have as many or more vacation days than anyother president?

The Cons are in a free fall grasping for anything they can, very very sad....

Maybe if some of these Republicans would take their wives on dates instead of over-priced hookers, the family value and morals of this country would be in a much better place.

Get with it, America... the President more than deserves a little vacation... Our last "President" spent most of his term on publically funded vacation.

One "date night" or a hundred or so trips home to Crawford?

The man works extremely hard and deserves a night out with his wife... and if the neocons want him to "set the example" why aren't they?
As funny as it sounds, I sure wouldn't want my president living in a cardboard box or riding a bike to work. That would be setting the wrong example don't ya think?
Yes, we are all in this together, but we need a leader who commands respect, honor and leadership. Hard to do when you're worrying about making it paycheck to paycheck.

Oh for crying outloud! STOP with the whinning already...geez!

Don't the GOP have better things to focus on like Rush????

So petty...grow up children!!1

"Obama's date night in NY.., heartless."

Obama has given more money away to hurting industry and US workers than I can wrap my head around. The RNC is crowing about the insensitiveness of Obama taking his wife out one a date in the face of American hardship. Well, car makers are not the only ones hurting. The Arts, fashion, music, restaurants and theater have taken huge hits in the last year. Each time the Obama's do something tons of people follow the example. By going on a single date and having dinner and catching a live show the Obama's will have helped thousands of people working in those above professions. Obama thinks big and has foresight. The republicans think small. That is why Obama is always one step ahead of them.

Those republicants didn't have a problem when Bush was running us into debt and still taking Airforce 1 to where-ever he wanted to go. They all need to shut up and stop being whiny babies!! This president cannot seem to get a break and don't anyone for one minute think it's only because of his politics. The repubs are very much UNAMERICAN!!! People in glass houses shouldn't throw stones!!!!

Our President and his wife going on a date in NYC is being compared to the CEOs of the auto industry using corporate megajets to fly to DC to beg for money???? Good Grief! He's the POTUS for God's sake!!!!! He has to be protected, he has to be safe, and he's on call no matter where he is or what he's doing, so what's the problem?

The Greedy Old Pfartes make me want to HURL!

Has it ever occurred to you that the security required around President Obama is the DIRECT result of your ENDLESS RACIST DRUM-BEATING.

Threats against him have SKYROCKETED, thanks to Limprique and Co.

You managed to get someone riled up enough to shoot Dr. Tiller; leave the President the he!! *ALONE*!

Typical limousine liberal...do as I say...not as I do.

Give me a freaking break. Yes Obama is the President of our country. But he is still a husband and a father...he is ENTITLED to spend his personal time with his family for goodness sake. There was nothing that he or Michelle did to compromise his Presidency or our country. All the HYPOCRITES can sit down and hush up!

Boy oh boy, It must be a slow news day for the party of NO. Hey, you red states eat rocks. The man has the right to take a day off. More power to him.

Making this an "issue" is pure stupidity. The Republicans complaining might want to step back– otherwise someone might demand an accounting of the trips George W. and Dick C. took at taxpayer expense. Good gosh, the federal government (ie: taxpayers) paid for Dick Cheney's infamous hunting trip where he shot another man in the face. We probably also paid all the medical bills & a settlement with the guy who got shot.

And I think we ALL know we paid for 8 zillion trips for George to go back to the "ranch" to clear brush over & over & over.
It's a lot shorter trip from DC to NYC than it is to TX. And nobody in the security detail in NYC had to help cut brush & set fence posts either.

My mistake. Actually the Obama inauguration was $170 million.

The Republicans keep trying to throw stones from within their House of Glass.

This is petty. At least he WORKS; unlike our previous REPUBLICAN PRESIDENT who took more vacations than any president in HISTORY! Give me a break. Plus, after giving GM nearly $50 billion, a night night out with his wife is NOT asking too much!

Glad they got a night off to just enjoy each other's company. He is still married and that relationship takes work. His wife deserves to have some time with him. It has nothing to so with being Republican or Democrat. Bush deserved to spend time with his wife, as well, when he was in office. Too bad people have to be so petty about this kind of stuff.

When previous President's took "vacation", it was for a little longer than one evening. I understand the Presidents (ANY of them), need to take time away and it has to be on our dime, but at least don't burn all the fuel and expenses on a one night trip. I think that may be what has outraged some. It isn't the fact that Bush went to Crawford, Reagan to California, Clinton to Little Rock or NYC, or even Kennedy to Martha's Vineyard; it's the fact that they had the public perception on their side. What the Obamas did was completely normal in the world of presidential relaxation, it just was perceived poorly to go through all that for one night. And YES, I did vote for him...

Whereb were these NO voices when Bush went to Crawford continuously?????
And wasn't there a WAR on then?

The Republicans are really running on empty. Are they really complaining about this? Give me a break. But I blame the media more than the RNC for giving them the medium to do this non sense.

Considering what the guy does for a living, he deserves a night out wherever he wants!

I am a republican and I could care less if he goes out to a show. The problem that I have is with the double standard. If I use my company vehicle for personal use I have to pay taxes on it. I think the Govt needs to find out where they want to sit on this issue, A) the Prez like the rest of us has to claim this as income or B) none of us have to claim it as income.
That being said his timing sure could have been better. Pretty bad week for the lavish trip. But I am sure his schedule is tight.

this is for Jason his color has nothing to do with his ride because I'm sure he could do anything he wants, he has the intelligence to do it on his own, so color does not matter in this. I guess you are part of those other dummies out there as well, but we really know who the racist is on the page right Jason

This has gone beyond pathetic. The GOP need to focus on their party and see how they can emerge from the bowels of hell. All Presidents utilizes Airforce1 for leisure travel, so now the GOP wants to be concern about spending when they allowed the Bush Administration tanked the whole country. They surely didn't come to our rescue then.

What nerve!

Diane in P.C. – Get your fact straight ding dong. It was the Dems who deregulated Wall St. Talk to your buddy Barney Frank and Dodd.
Come on people where has all of the common sense gone!!!!!

Why not.....if we can give GM billions, we can surely afford a few 100k for the president..

Jason: Don't use words you don't understand you right winged nut case. Bush had very few leaders visit him at his ranch (500 days of vacation)...

Who cares?!?! Other than Gopers and conservative posters who are looking for ANYTHING (and the Rock said ANYTHING!) that would bring this man down.
As far as they are concerned, he is the target. Not helping people. Not making this country a better place. Not to build up this great nation but to tear down one man.
Oh! Obama went out on a date with his wife...how much is that costing the tax payer?!?!?!?
It's okay...I understand...you guys don't have anything else. No ideas, no solutions, no morals, no principles (TORTURE) all you guys have is a target...We will see you in 2010

Are these the same GOP intellects that had no problem with Bush using airforce 1 to fly around campaigning for McCain at the taxpayers expense? figures

Can't they get a break?

The pressure these people are under is extraordinary.

Obama is doing his very best to get our country back where it rightfully belongs.

I don't begrudge them anything!!!! The pressure must be enormous!

Bush did this, and Bush did that. I thought you Libs wanted to "CHANGE" from what Bush did. All the post on here are saying Bush did it, so it's OK if Obama does it.
What's it going to be Libbies? Bushes way or change?
Change that is killing us!

I wouldn't be surprised if some Republican didn't complain about Obama liking to be with Michele too much (do they know the word
"uxorious") but they are just making themselves look childish and stupid by complaining about the Obamas having a night our in New York City.

To the stupid and ignorant that wrote that the whote man ruin this country, I am positive that you are black. Let me ask you something mr. or ms. know it all and prejudice and everything that comes with it. Why are you always screaming white man did this white woman did that. I dont see you black self doing anything for this country. So shut up and go sit on a corner and do suck on something. You always have to play the race card, go get a life and a job. The only change that Obama gave us is the change in our pocket.

such a distraction!
just think about the thousands of dollars his visit is going to generate for the play they saw – not to mention a boost for the restaurant.

we'll take Mr and Mrs President in New York anytime they want to visit, and at ANY COST!

Who can argue that the president and his wife need time for themselves, to travel, take in a show, keep their lives somewhat normal given the life they've agreed to live on behalf of the often thankless job of running our country? No one likes wasteful spending, but time off, alone and on their own is healthy and needed for any married coupled – no one should be denied this. The opponents of the Obama trip should sit down, tackle some of the crucial issues this country faces and talk about ways to progress and solve serious issues – to talk about the trip to NYC is just ludicrous, find a real problem with an issue our administration is handling and make suggestions how to change or improve them. Frankly, this issue doesn’t even deserves the press’s time, they’re partly to blame for even given it space, both parties should be embarrassed – find a real cause to talk/report on.

Um, how many trips to Crawford did we pay for while our soldiers were dying in Iraq? Come on, Republicans. If this is the best you can do, Obama must be even better than all the election-year hype suggested.

This is downright silly. During his presidency, George Bush made 77 trips to his ranch in Texas on taxpayer money. Did the RNC complain about any of those trips?

And how many days of vacation did GW take during his years in office? More than any President of the United States before him. Wasted time and money flying back and forth to Texass. He wouldn't have the class to take his wife to a decent Broadway show. After all the extravaganses of the prior 8 years, and the elite right thinks they have the right to judge a husband and wife getting away from the kids and work for a few hours. Bush, Dick, Rummy and their accomplices looted, raped & pillaged, and these "Conservative" creeps think they can judge. Look it up in the your bible before you start accusing.

I don't believe that any president in history used taxpayer money for one night out with his wife.

But I guess Obama was celebrating this weekend that he would get to screw over the bondholders at GM, take over an auto company AND payoff the UAW all on Monday morning, with his mindless followers cheering him on and the media effectively neutered.

His next book will simply be titled "Audactiy".

My goodness. Can we all grow up? I did not vote for Obama but even I see the craziness of all this criticism. He is the President of the United States. The pressure he works under is crazy. He needs to get away from it for a while. I think taking his wife to a show on Broadway is wonderful. Wish I could have been there.

Republicans and Democrats, stop it. Stop it right now. I bet if we researched it, you would find where Republican presidents spent money too on this type of entertainment. We've got to grow up, focus on other things, and make sure that this country and this planet is viable for another century. Let's worry about Iran, North Korea, GM and other things rather than a New York trip to Broadway – no matter what it cost. In the scheme of things – pocket change – not billions, not trillions.

Republicans??

There are still Republicans out there????

How about that whole "cutting the cost" deal? Goober Gibbs never answers tough questions.

Big deal, they had a date night. Good for them! And if they DIDN'T go, exactly how many jobs would that have saved? Hmmm, let's see now.... ZERO!
Get over it.

It's funny how the Democrats rationalize and defend Obama's actions by saying "the Republicans/Bush did it too". I thought the whole point of Obama's campaign was "Change, we can believe in." Where's the change?

Also, for someone who wants us all to cut back on our carbon footprint, he seems to be saying "do as I say, not as I do." I'm sure he bought carbon credits to offset the three private jets for him and his entourage...or I should say, I'm sure WE bought carbon credits for him.

Remember you peasants: "Do as I say, not as I do. I am the ONE and I know what is best."

Well, the more the Republicans gripe, the deeper your collective political hole gets. President Obama's legacy will be he made tough decisions that no one else had the guts to make to get the horrible economy he inherited get back on track.

It's tough cleaning up the mess of the repugnicans and Bush. The money Obama is spending on bailouts are drops in the bucket compared to what Bush's Iraqi war cost us, and the whole reason we had to bail out anyone was the fact the Repubs had control of 2 branches of government for almost 8 years and did nothing about shady lending and risky loans. Not one thing. It's like blaming the janitor when he shows up to clean a spill that a little kid made because the kid's parents never taught him right from wrong and he smashed bottles in the grocery store on purpose.

We are truly awful people. Such hypocrites we Americans have become; it is a shame. The President takes his wife on a date, and everyone moans about the cost to taxpayers. Boo hoo!

Maybe more of us husbands need to follow his example and take our wives out on a 'date night.' Of course someone will say, "Oh, but the government won't pay for my date night." Grow up. How many of you out there would take his job? Not me; I put up with enough crap in my little ole job.

What is wrong with you people? President Obama is doing an amazing job! Presidents go all over the Country, usually trying to raise funds for their party members. This President deserves a year off with all that he's accomplished in the months he's been in office. Just like Obama haters to make a stink about everything good about the man, his family, and the White House today. The stink should have come when Bush / Cheney were there are did everything humanly possible to put this Country into ruins.

Leave the man alone. He is still a person who has a need to feel normal from time to time. I applaude him for making time to connect with his wife and still be there for his family. That's more than I have ever seen from any other president. He likes trying to balance being down to earth and being a politician. Good for him to stay connected to his roots and not forget who he really is. I believe he would have taken a commercial flight had he been allowed, just probably not a safe idea. Just because he didnt jet off to Camp David it's an issue. Had he gone there no one would say a word. Give him half a break people.

It is unfair to expect the President to stay at the White House for the next four years and not go anywhere else, except on 'business". He's the President, not a prisoner of the American people, and should not be held hostage in the White House and only go where we say he can go. He's been dealing with the economic diaster fallout since taking office. We all knew GM was failing for weeks. He did all he could do to help them out, prior to this weekend. There was nothing he could have done, in their final hour, to help them. He's human. He needed a break. He took one. It's not like he flew to Monaco and celebrated. He went to NY to take his wife to theater. He deserves time to his family and to relax, just like the rest of us. This is something that is being blown way out of proportion, simply because GM went belly up, which is not his fault, nor anything he could have prevented, despite his trying.

Hey republicans! Go find us some jobs then when can talk about Obama's lunch later!

Just more whining from the poor little Gutless Obstructionist Pathetics. How much did it cost the taxpayers when Cheney shot that fellow hunter in the face? How much did it cost taxpayers every time GWB flew to Crawford Texas and back? How much has it cost the taxpayers to clean up after the Elephants (GOP) crapped all over the American people when they deregulated Wall Street, took us into a War in Iraq that has now turned us into a debtor nation to China and allowed Osama Bin Laden to get away with murder? Got any answers – Goppers? No – I didn't think so – the only answers you have are to hang tea bags from your head, and run around dragging your knuckles on the ground while grunting racists insults. George and Dick spent all your money, your children's money and your grandchildren's money long before President Obama even ran for president.

Your comment is awaiting moderation.
I’m REALLY MAD that we have to cover the cost of the media travel.

I’m writing my representatives to complain. WE DON’T OWE CNN AND FOX THEIR MEDIA PERSONNEL TRANSPORT. DID THEY NOT HAVE REPORTERS IN NYC?

My taxes are NOT going to pay for media expenses. If you can’t afford their travel, skip the propaganda on the blogs and tv for a week.

Is this for real? Personally, I am impressed that President Obama took the time to spend an evening with his wife. I don't think of any us can truly imagine what it is like to live in their shoes, and are we all always saying that dates with your spouse/significant other important to the relationship? If anyone needs a break from their day, it would be these two. And I don't think that national security is really threatened or the crisis with GM is somehow exaggerated by him taking his wife to New York for some fun! Shame on those who have nothing better to do than to judge him for tending to his marriage. We should all be that lucky!

And Bush took more vacation days than any other President in modern history! Give BO a break.

I don't have a problem with a date night, except that it was extremely poor timing and rather insensitive to all of those that are out of work and footing the bill. I don't see why they couldn't have planned it around an official trip. I know the Bushes vacationed as well, but I don't recall a "pretty woman" trip to NYC and I am sure that the Obamas will take several more expensive trips to Hawaii.

At least he was on a date with his wife. Wonder how many in DC can say that and while we are on the subject ..what is wrong with showing good values and quality time together. Wake up people pay attention to what matters

Bet ya a miilion bucks that if it was the CEO of GM doing something like this all of you here who say there's nothing wrong with what Obama did would be demanding that CEO's head.

But once again, it's only OK if their side does it.

Cheap Flights. Overworked pilots. The one in NYC said it all.
I know I will never fly again. I'm home now!

once again, more republican sensationalizing.

they are actually complaining about a man taking his wife out on a date, for goodness sake!

what sorry, sad lives they must lead.

at least he didn't buzz the city and scare the people again.
maybe he's learning by his mistakes.

Christina you dummy he owned it. I don't think Obama owns anything of value to this country, but a free ride because of his color!!!!!!!!

let's be real, president Bush stayed in Camp David and in Texas on vacation with taxpayer support, furthermore let jus cancel the security for all former presidents, all are multi-millionaires and can afford their own security detail,

Really GOP? THIS is the battle you're gonna fight?

I believe the President is on call 24-7-365. Where he is at should make no difference.

WOW.............. MORE whining, more criticizing by the GOP.......... what else is new?

Does the GOP realize that OBAMA can afford to pay for his own trip?

And that presidents are often GUESTS of restaurants and shows???

GOP= Grumpy Old Punks

i live in albany georgia and i cant tell you the number of times old eagle eye cheney came down here on the taxpayers dime to kill quail at a couple of plantations...RNC-where was the outrage...at least obama didnt hurt anyone else like dickey did

This is ridiculous! If I'm reading the article correctly, the Republicans think that just because Obama can't go anywhere without the Secret Service, that he should not go anywhere. And I'm sorry, but the show they wanted to see probably wasn't at the Kennedy Center. DUH!!!
I'm sure that the Obamas paid for their own dinner and entertainment. The costs beyond that are not in their control, because, again, the Secret Service won't let him go anywhere without a company of cops, and I agree with that.
Presidents need to get out of Washington and see the country and its citizens in order to keep in touch with what's going on. Unlike Dubya, this president actually likes being around common citizens. If this is the biggest thing that the party of NO can find to complain about, our president must be doing something right.

Matt: "Libtards….Here's the difference….When Bush went on vacation, the country was not experiencing record unemployment, bankruptcies by major American companies, North Korea preparing for long range missle launches, losing wars in Afghanistan….

Your President is AWOL. Suck it up."

No, W was on vacation while the country's economy was going down the tubes and didn't even take the time to read the intelligence briefing titled "Bin Laden determined to strike..." What time he did spend working in Crawford was spent getting us into a fake, costly war – the expense of which, btw, helped send the economy down the tubes – and in planning premature "Mission Accomplished" celebrations. You righties are the ones who need to "Suck it up."

Who paid for President Reagan's trips home to California? Who paid for W's trips to Crawford? WHO? I can't hear you!

Don't waste your breath with this B.S., our dear Republican friends (or whoever you are--)

This is stupid!!! How many times did BUSH fly to Texas to cut BUSH on his SPREAD?!!!!

Get a life!

Oh please! Bush went to Camp David at the drop of a hat and to me it was no big deal. Why can't the Obamas have a night out? Because it makes you jealous? Come on, he spent a bit of money in NY! You all should do the same – take your darlings out on the weekend and help simulate the economy while putting a smile on your face!

The "outcry" over this proves, once again, that the right wing has nothing.

Ok, here is my two cents. IF the moderators allows it.

First, I do not care how much it cost, this is NOTHING different than any other President going on vacation. They all spend OUR money.
Fine, it is part of the game, like it or not.

My problem is here, back when the big three showed up in Washington the first time, many Democrats, including some high ranking ones, along with Republicans threw total hissy fits over them using corporate jets. So, this is where it becomes hypocritical. Obama should have to foot part of the bill. Maybe not the secret service detail, but he should have to write a check for airfare costs.
Yes, I know Bush did it, so did Clinton, they all do. So that argument is a mute point. Obama should not get slapped by anyone because he does it, BUT, that does not make it right when he promoted CHANGE. Change my friends starts at the top.

And what about Pelosi and her government funded jet, that should come to a stop. She and any other congress person or senate person should have to fly commercial. They get government rates when they do anyway as long as it is business.

So, bottom line, this is nothing to throw pissy fits over, they all do it, but again,,,, change starts with the man himself.

I am a strong Obama supporter but I agree with our brothers and sisters on the right wing on this issue. There is something insensitive about a publicized trip to Broadway with all presidential-costs at tax payer expense in the middle of a recession. If for security reasons a lower profile/less-costly trip could not be arranged, then the Obama's should have shelved it for now. It is one of the sacrifices they should make for leading during a crisis.

Hey if the stock markets gonna go up like this, Obama can take his wife to Sandals Jamaica every Saturday, as far as a I'm concerned.

Did Lincoln pay for his ticket to Fords Theatre? Hey you guys in the media. Get a life. I bet you've comped a few tickets to events. Guess who ultimately pays for that? us.

OK people. President Obama is showing us that a marriage is work and he decided he wanted to take his wife out and show her how much he appreciates her. If someone told you because you have a certain job that you are not allowed to take your wife or family out would you be singing a different tune? It is so time for America to grow UP!!!

Taking the Presidential detail on a date is a total waste of taxpayers money. Obama wants people to bear the bad economy – why can't he walk down the street to a DC theater and support the community in which he lives. He was not elected to jet around the US or world for his own personal lifestyle.

Who care's about this....Let's focus on him wanting Government ownership of GM and Banks! Let's focus that he wants to destroy capitalism, and wants Federal control over banks, medical care, car companies and even replace CEO's of private companies!!! Media is too scared to actually cover the President with the worst most harmful goals in American history.
He and the media both think he is the King, not the president.

Stupid Bush had a year of vacation over his 8 years.

This is so ridiculous, it is not as if he headed off to FRANCE.

When are you kool-aide drinkers going to realize that the Obama's are "do as I say, not as I do" liberals? He actually believes he is above it all and he is "special"! He is a hypocrite of the worse kind and an arogent incompetent! Sure hope the "darling couple" enjoyed thier date night!!!!

Umm, would anyone care to calculate the cost of all that brush that president Bush cleared on his ranch while he was in office? So the president and first lady go to NY for a date. Isn't there any "news" to report?

what I dislike about the liberal argument is the same thing I dislike about the argument from my teenagers , "well, Lisa did it" and so on.

That is utterly ridiculous and often introduced and re-introduced by Obama and his minions whenever they can.
WALK YOUR TALK- OBAMA!
How can you justify this type of spending with your 1.4 trillion in new spending for this fiscal year. CHARLATANS

Did I miss something or did Doobyah not make a few vacation trips to Texas and it seems that he may have used the big AF1 rahter than a smaller plane.

The repugs need to remember that the sevret service dictates how the President travels as they are the ones directly responsible for his safety. What do they expect him to do, sit at home and stare at the walls?

This just further demonstrates how desperate and worried that they are getting. Perhaps some young hotshot investigative reporter should look into all of the trips that AF1 went on during the last administration. That might be a real eye opener. Also – calculate the daily cost of keeping it on the ground and ready to go during those trips. That would raise a few eyebrows methinks!!!

Okay, The President Obama is not our slave. Slave days are over GOP,RNC whatever you want to call yourself. No one said a word when President Bush was jetting off to Crawford Texas when the whole country was in crisis. President Obama should continue to wine and dine his wife as he did before he became President Obama.
Why doesn't the Republican party spend more of its collected brain power to help President Obama fix the mess that the previous President left him instead of worrying about what he and Michelle are doing on their down time. Maybe they should take a lesson from Obama and have a date night with their wives and they wouldn't be so anal.

This is what wrong with our country always in other people business let the man live & date his wife..if our republicans government can concentrate and get along with themselves we wouldn't be in this mess i suggest. Republicans get a life it will help the divorce rate to go down in our country

Ridiculous. Just because he's president doesn't mean he can't choose to go to New York to see a show if he wants to. If I wanted to see a show in NYC and I lived in DC, I'd probably take the train–but a) I have the time to do that, and he's president, so I think the faster the better for him and b) I don't need a slew of secret service agents and security everywhere I go. For god sakes, give me a break. He's human and he deserves a night out with his wife. I guess he must be doing a pretty good job if this is all the Republicans can find to whine about.

What is the big deal. Bush was always on vocation. I am sick of
this.........why are we talking about this? You want him to take the shuttle?

[...] picking up part of the cost of the Obama's trip to NYC over the weekend. They are being aided and abetted by a main stream media that is doing nothing more than whipping up ratings by creating a [...]

If the last many GOP presidents had scrupulously avoided spending a dime of taxpayer's money on some frivolities, this might be worth paying attention to. But they didn't. How much did Nancy Reagan spend to redecorate half the White House?

Typical GOP attempt at distraction from the real issues, which they don't have any solutions for anyway.

Top marks for effort, though.

I am a supporter of the President and I wish him well.
He does need to reign in his expenses, and I have believed this for all presidents. A president needs to set an example and expending tons of jet fuel and thousands of dollars to fly to a location for "fun" while the country is facing dire economic times doesn't do the job. He was wrong and should curtail these junkets until his time in office is over and he is back in civilian life.

George W. spent how many days at his ranch?

OK, you left wing idiots. Bush owned the only place he quote went on vacation to, and he hosted a lot of world leaders at that venue. Also, for any of you to say this was ok for a sitting President to rub it in half of Americans face that he is on the verge of be the first communist/socialist President we have seen should just go ahead and move to Venezuela! You are the same people that are ok with being bombed by terrorists instead of doing what we have to do to get info out of them to keep us save. Let’s just be real. This President will never be held to any standard just because he is dark skinned. Again, for you color blind nimrods you still haven't got a black president he half that means he is just as white as black, stupid people!!!!!!!!!!!

W spent 1 out of 3 days on vacation. Do you think spending that much time on vacation was free?

Anyone recall when W couldn't even bother to come off vacation for 3 days while an American city drowned during Katrina?

How much did that cost?

You clowns need better material. You reek of lame desparation.....

Boy, the Republicans must be desperate if this is the best issue they can bring up.

I would gladly have the tax payer pick up the tab for an occasional date for our President and his wife....

It is the $2 TRILLION DEFICIT that I find offensive.
It is the $750 BILLION PORK bill that he signed for Nancy pelosi that sickens me.
It is the $50 BILLION that we are given GM that is wasted because they are going bankrupt anyway
The $700 BILLION TARP waste
The PROJECTED $5 TRILLION in debt over the next 4 years that makes me think we need to impeach President Obama.
He has to stop blaming BUSH and take responsibility for his irresponsible financial policies that will cripple our country.
At this rate he will go down in history as the most irresponsible President in history and we'll be left with the bill.

Bush was always running off to his ranch for the weekend. How is this any different?

This discussion is very stupid. The government has deemed that the President should be under surveillance and protection at atll times. Therefore, the government picks up the tab for providign security for his outings.

If it were a Republican or Independent President, it would be the same application. He or she goes out to dinner, Uncle Sam provides the security. Enough already of the nitpicking.

The man and his wife deserve a night out! Leave them in peace.

Where is the sacrifice you have asked all of us for, Mr. President? I'm all in favor of taking your wife on a "date night" and I understand security is an issue with public transport, but maybe now is not the best time to be jet setting to Broadway. I live in St. Louis, and can barely afford to take a trip across the Mississippi River...

Look at the bigger picture, Mr. President.

Come on people! The man is human! First everyone says he did too much right away, now people are bickering because he took some time off. I didn't even vote for Obama, but I don't really care that he took a little weekend trip. You try running a country and see how long you can last.

If the purpose of this article is to criticize the presidet's weekend excursion, then maybe you should spell presidet's correctly

How did Bush get to Texas every few months? Ferry boat?

I feel completely mislead by the President. He talked to us about coming together and making a change but nothing has changed. All of your comments comparing him to Bush and how he isnt as bad doesnt make it better. Obama spent two years talking about how he was going to to be different and its been one huge lie. It doesnt matter if you are a Democrat or Republican he isnt doing what he promised and that is what is the most disappointing.

Hey people how about Cheney admitting there was no connection between Saddam and 911 terriorist attacks. Now That's some news or how come when King George is out about all he did for the first year was take vacations, and then led us to his lying war. Are we not worth more than that! Oh well continue on...keep the blinders on, and keep the hate.

Enough already. The Presidency is a job, people with jobs deserve days off. Ask General Motors, they are in the habit of giving people many days off with pay. In fact they, for many years, paid people for standing around not doing much of anything while at work. Let's poll all The Congress and see how many, on either side of the aisle gave up their weekend pleasures in lieu of General Motors well deserved bankruptcy?

I bet it cost as much as the photos over NY

For those of you who think the Obama's taking a weekend trip to NYC has any significance whatsoever please do us all a favor and follow through with that lobotomy you've hoped for. Better still, keep listening to Rush Limbaugh and watching Fox News. Hopefully you will be convinced to move to Utah where you can be with your friends all day long and the rest of the country can get back to reality.

Who cares what it costs this is Obama we are talking about. Can't believe you are even insinuating he can use our money unwisely. He won the election and he has the right spend trillions however he wants and his decisions should not to be contested.

What a tempest in a teapot! If the President of the United States wishes to take in a Broadway show with his wife on a Friday night so be it. He travels by jet and limo where ever he goes both for convenience and security. Perhaps the whining losers in the GOP would prefer he travel by bus, and now that I think about it, I'm pretty sure they would prefer that he sit in the back.

Oh, for Pete's sake! Can't the guy even go on a date without everyone having a cow?

Didn't Bush fly home to Crawford every night to feed his cattle and "cut brush?" How much did that come to over eight lazy years? How often did Cheney fly off to Iraq to run Halliburton operations there? Are they paying it off on the installment plan?

TALK about being petty! This occasion is absolutely no different than other trips taken by past Presidents...and at least President Obama is not hiding out at a Texas ranch for extended periods of time like G.W. did, while there are crises to be addressed!

Give me a break – the man hasn't had time to breathe since he's taken over this huge mess. I can't believe this is being scrutinized – look at all the vacation time the person who left him this mess took!

Again what has General motors problem has got something to do with Obama taking a break after slaving off for the people non stop for 4 months after the election. All president do this. It's hypocritical for them to judge him , when they did nothing of sort with Bush who spent only a third of his 8 years in office supposedely "doing" his job as president.
Or because this president is Black and you can treat him as slave. This republicans are becoming tranparent in their racisism. aren't they?

Love the moral equivalancy once again by the dope smokin' libs and all of you idiots who voted for him because he promised change and transparency, I hope you are getting a clue now, and you Al Gore believers, does it tell you anything? And joe@, of course he has to play the race card, stupidly play it, but play it nonetheless and then there are just the dope smokin', unemployed libs who use this as an excuse to attach republicans, conservatives and Bush. I guess the synapses are just shot and not connecting anymore.

Hey didn't you all vote for "Change". So what if it's taking all of the change out of our pockets. Let them have their date nite. It won't matter how much we whine about their dates, he's not going to "Change". It's just another thing thrown if our faces. All I can say is we are SOL if we think things will "Change" for the better.

Defending the President's 'date night' by comparing costs to previous Presidents is ridiculous. This is only part of the issue. I think what is bothering most of us is there are people in the United States that cannot even afford to put food on their table, buy their much needed medications, have no health insurance because they cannot afford it,losing their houses, cars and jobs and he spends thousands of dollars on a 'date night'. Something is missing in his priorities!!!!!!

White men worrying about a small trip to NYC when they have totally destroyed this whole country and other nations. Please shut up and go suck on a lemon. You people are pathetic! I laugh every time I see foolishness like this; due to the fact that white men have been running this country, spending, stealing, and lying for the last 43 Presidents and now all of a sudden a black man is in office and they are worrying about the debit this country is in and trying to blame him for it and anything else that is collapsing in this country. POINT YOUR FINGERS TO YOURSELF WHITE MEN, YOU DESTROYED THIS COUNTRY!!!

Only the stupid GOP PARTY (Grumpy Old Pricks) would find
a problem with the Obamas having personal time together.
At least he's human and treats his wife like the lady she is.
The Repubilcans don't have a clue how to treat a lady. They're
a bunch of old hags with not a brain in their heads nor anything
to offer the American people. Shut up and go away!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

that is SO funny... the republicans criticizing obama for a date while GM goes into bankruptcy... the republicans spent the last EIGHT years putting the ENTIRE country on the edge of bankruptcy, and that didn't stop W from spending half his presidency vacationing in texas !! the hypocrisy is laughable !!! you people just need to shut up..

To Peggy Ledbetter. Who's lying now? Obama has done nothing but lie throughout his whole campaign and now in office.

Get over it.

We're coming and in droves.

CHANGE '12

Libtards....Here's the difference....When Bush went on vacation, the country was not experiencing record unemployment, bankruptcies by major American companies, North Korea preparing for long range missle launches, losing wars in Afghanistan....

Your President is AWOL. Suck it up.

And - let's see - all the whining about Obama seems to overlook the freaking STOCK MARKET lately. And 8 out of 10 economists predicting the END of the recession THIS YEAR?

It's not working. Obama's not working enough. Waaaa waaaa waaaaa.

Wonder how much Rush Limpburgers spends on cigars and drugs?

Wonder how much the GOP REALLY spent flying Palin and family around and CLOTHING them.

Such complete soulless idiots.

The fact of the matter is that Obama is a walking, talking stimulus package. The GOP may make fun of his celebrity image, but where he goes – tourists follow. I bet you'll see a bit of an upswing in NYC tourism and Broadway ticket sales in the wake of this "date." Probably a pretty good return on the investment if you ask New Yorkers.

So to all the Republican cry-babies out there:

Did Dubya take all his trips to his Texas ranch (more vacations than any president in history) on his own dime? No? Then shut up...

Wow! What a stupid article. Obama is human. He is also the President of this country. He was "hired" to do a job. If he wants to take his wife to NYC for a date...more power to him. Because of his position, he can't take a commercial flight, he HAS to have the Secret Service with him, he HAS to have a certain "entourage" with him....he's the President of the U.S. for crying out loud. Let him have his date night. While there are certain disagreements over policy and management....there is a feeling he is doing something...... Aside from a couple of wars....what did President Cheney (oops, I mean W.) do over the past 8 years?

signed...... A Libertarian

lol, what? "They will have something to remember since they're going to be in prison a long time."

Also "TIME TO RESIGN."

Ha, so, you think President Obama should resign because he took a night out with his wife? You must be the kind of person that booed at McCain when he said Obama was a good person.

We taxpayers have footed the bill for personal travel for presidents for many years... along with the press corp and the Secret Service. Regan's trips to his beloved California ranch were "personal" as were Clinton's trips back home to Arkansas and W's trips to Crawford. How is this different? It is part and parcel of being the leader of the free world, you can't just hop on a train, plane or in a car and drive to NYC. As long as it doesn't become a common practice, I don't have a problem with it. Those complaining, how else would you suggest he travel for personal reasons?

You gotta be kidding me! How many times did Bush Jr. take Air Force One to Crawford for his many, many vacations? Should taxpayers have paid for that?

613,000 Americans laid off last week.

Obama's date night in NY.., heartless.

you can't be serious! The man can't even go on a date with his wife,. I’m sure on the weekend the republicans and the rest of Washington do things they enjoy. The President is still a human being with a wife and children. Why do he have to be talked about for having a LIFE outside the White House. GM was going to file regardless, what do that have to do with him going on a date. Stop hating on the man because he's taking care of business as the President, Husband, and father.

There are alot of things I could criticize the President over...cap & trade, healthcare etc...Taking the First Lady on a date...you have to be kidding me.

Whatever they can find to discredit the President of the US. Do they realize this is their president too? They can continue to try do so – they will not succeed. "The work Of Remaking American Has Begun" and there is nothing they can do about it! Either get on board or come up with viable solutions/suggestions. In other words, "put up or shut up".

He's on course and on target!

I understand the need for security to go with them, but why are we footing the bill for news media to go? Let those guys get their own ride and let their employer pay for it. I also understand that there is a place for them at the White House as well. Does the media pay to use that space? I don't think the tax payers should foot that bill either. I honestly think that having media so close to the Presdient doesn't get us any more accurate (less than accurate is what we always get.) news from the White House. Most news is twisted and convoluted at best and not just for this Administration. The news media doesn't operate with the same honesty and integrity of years past. And having them go on a trip right before GM files for bankruptcy isn't even an issue. GM (aided by the unions, who, in my opinion, have outlived their day) did it to themselves.

Scandalous! I herad that Obama has to have Sweet-n-low in his iced tea, and it costs $0.12/packet more than W's sugar. BFD people – get a clue. No one – no President has ever made it through a term without incurring some expenses for rest and relaxation. He's done more constructively in his first 100-days than Bush did in his 8 years. Where were we economically the second week in January? Where are we now? How did we get here? BUSH, people, get it? Bush was sharpening his ax in Crawford when his buddies were building their 4th and 5th homes on the profits they'd make over his 2 terms in office.

Let's face it – the lowest paid Major League position player makes about as much as the President.

President should also have his(her) own life.
Mr. and Mrs. Obama just did ordinary couple would do. the secret service was provided by the government and it is not by his choice.
i don't see there is anything wrong. there is no president should be in white house prison.

This is so ridiculous. What was The Obamas supposed to do in Washington. Cry, wring their heads, and draw all the curtains because of GM? What could he physically do?
He's the President of the United States, he has the hardest job in the entire world, he's not allowed to go away for a weekend.

Especially with Bush's vacation record, and while people were dying in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, Bush was too busy vacationing and telling Brownie what a good job he was doing.

Almost everyone needs a break, no matter how hard your job is.

Apparently, the only people that don't need a break are Republicans, whose job it is to whine about everything.

My God Republicans, it's going to take a lot of NYC weekends to equal the amount of spending you did on that little War in the Middle east. What was if for? Oh yes, now I remember – weapons of mass destruction.

Lot of NYC weekends to equal about a Trillion Dollars spent in Iraq.

But I guess all of that doesn't count now – does it now?

Looks like the bottom-feeders are out in full force on this one. It's sooooooo sad that 21% of this great nation are so ignorant.

The president has a right to a life with his family. Other presidents have had the same opportunities to chose how to spend their free-time. Bravo to the Obama's and I hope they had a wonderful time.
Slingers just want to put them down. But I think the president's job is hard on family and relationships and I applaud their dedication to do as they see fit in their marriage. His choices of entertainment are his and part of the job is transportation, security and staffing. We the people have chosen to protect every aspect of his security. This is part of it. He had a weekend big deal! He was back at work this morning!

I am a proud republican, and I didnt vote for him, but I want his administration to succeed and I think his family values are spot on!

CNN: It's no wonder your ratings are going down.......Let's do a story on how much all of Bush's little jaunts to Texas cost us the last 8 years. How much did his crazy war in Iraq cost us? Cripes the Gop will comparing the use of toilet paper between the Bush administration and Obamas next....and you'll do a news story on it no doubt!

George W. took 487 days vacation and flew AF 1 to "the ranch" 77 times during his presidency. GET OVER IT !!

Mr. President Obama can do what he want to do! When lying George was running the Country he did!!!

Give me a break. Bush took close to 90 days off during his first year in office, while still being paid...where were u guys screaming "elitist" back then. Yes, the president is paid by taxpayer money. For those of you who skipped college, there's a newsflash for ya.

Unlike the pathetic Bush administration at least he waited a few months before his vacation evening. But, in reality, he should have not done it for the time being with tax payer money. Especially after offering GM 30 Billion more to a failed company.

To sum up the leftist defense of this taxpayer funded trip: Bush, Crawford, Bush, Texas, Bush, W, Bush, ranch, Dubya, Bush, Crawford, Bush. Does that about cover it?

Two words from the endless campaign of 2006 – Present: Change. Transparency.

Asked in the White House briefing if there was any "precedent for the president and first lady to take an out of town date night..not connected to a…previous planned event," Gibbs responded: "You've got probably more researchers than I do."

Translation: "I know the answer is no, but I can't say that. So I will let you, the left-friendly media, decide whether or not this is worth pursuing."

Just another sign that Obama is out of touch with "Main Street America". Just think of all the unemployed middle class families that would love a date night, but have to stay home with their mac 'n' cheese.

Change you can believe in!!

Um....and how many trips did Bush take to Crawford? The answer is A LOT! That is a much longer trip. Let's see the Republicans stop taking any vacations, then we can talk...idiots.

Wow! The Republicans have nothing. Absolutely nothing. When President Obama takes as much vacation as Dubya did, then they can run their mouths.

It's all about perception. He would make such a bigger impact on the rest of the country if he started cutting back and sharing his cost savings tips. But this, "do as I say not as I do" attitude is what people have a problem with. Turn the head down in the White House and get out the sweaters like your good friend Jimmy.

O.K, all the Republicans that have been blasting the Obamas for the trip to New York; Where was all your complaining when "W" made all those trips to Crawford? Where was your howling when "W" went on his taxpayer-paid "farwell" tour of the very few countries he didn't hack off. From surplus to record deficit – where were you then?

Certainly the president will not and should not break a promise he made to his wife during the campain just because of some cheap shorts from republicans.George Bush spent alot more time in camp david and crawford than any president

As a Republican, I am embarassed that this is even an issue. Given President Obama's recent workload, a night out on the town, albeit NYC, is well deserved. C'mon folks, haven't we got anything more substantive to bicker over?

OMG, the Republicans have NOTHING to complain about, what a joke!!!!

I didn't know the Pres is supposed to be jailed in WH and/or D.C. for four years.

How much did George Bush spend when he was spending all that time in Texas? I have no problem with the Obama's going out for the weekend.

Too bad he didn't have a ranch in Texas to fly to...

I am a democrat and no I did not vote for bama. All of these other dems that are fawning all over him ( and I gather from these posts, a lot of them are women) make me sick. The man knows nothing about running anything, much less a country. I was very disappointed that my party fell for glitter show. According to the graphics it was mostly the yankee idiots that put him where he is.

They can't be serious?

Was it appropriate for George Bush to take a record number of days off for any president in history prior to 9/11?

This (non)news story is just political fodder.

Bush was on vacation more than anyother president, no one seemed to complain as the nation was more secure with him away. Why this is reported is unknown to me.

Obama works his tail off, compared to Bush who was on vacation a full 3 of his 8 years (fact). Where were the whining Republicans when Bush was AWOL so much of the time?

Obama deserved a break. It was nice to see. He should get out more often, as a matter of fact. The people love it.

The Party of NO strikes again...

This is simply more carping by the Republicans. All they do is complain! Obama has worked his tail off since taking office...he deserves a night out!

What did the frequent trips by bush to TX cost us? Bush was on vacation more than he was in DC....Obama has done more work in a few months than bush did in 8 years.....more distraction by those that benefit by the distraction

So...the president should show a little sensitivity to the corporate clowns that drove GM into bankruptcy? What kind of logic is that? Should every public employee who's salary is funded by tax dollars simply hunker down at home and quit living till the economy turns around. You people are crazy. As for statements like "he should do this on his own dime" – NEWS FLASH – he is...it's all part of his salary and benefits package. Some people just like to think their tax dollars are personally set aside for things they don't like...doesn't work that way numb-nuts...your tax dollars pay for the Prez's dinner, same as they pay for body armor in Iraq, or freeways in Oklahoma...

And will George W pay for all his trips to Texas? Yet's get real. Mr Obama is not going to spend the next four years in the White House. He is not under house arrest! Whenever he goes somewhere it is going to cost the tax payers. If he does not go anywhere it is gong to cost the tax payers.

Any Republican coming forward with the costs of Bush's 77 trips down to Crawford and back on his many, many vacations? No? Then they can shut the hell up.

Who cares? They still are a family and although the Presidency is a choice, we are the ones that said okay. He was up front about wanting to keep some normalcy in his life so naysayer's shut up! If we don't want a King then we shouldn't treat him like a King. A modest detail and arrangements could be made. Another thing – the President isn't GOD! GM going down wasn't going to change if he went to Kennedy Center or to to the darn Moon for that matter! The GOP, Dems, and America in general need to get on with shoring up the other real problems of the nation. Shoot, if I could get them to come out, they could come to my home in Maryland and chill for an evening! Wouldn't cost much, but I bet someone would have a stupid beef about Obama's hanging out with a common family!!

Geez, people ( i.e. mostly Republicans in the Congress and Senate). Haven't you got better things to do than worry about the President and his wife having a "date night"? It's not like they can actually have any alone time. The cost is dictated by security etc which would happen no matter if it were Republican, Democrat or Independant. At least they are role models for a good marriage unlike most people in the public eye.

I like to hear all you people claim he is entitled.
Bet that is how you think your life should be. You are entitled
Those Union leeches thought they were entitled see what it got them
They are HOPING to CHANGE jobs now.

I am a Democrat but must say that I think this underscores the arrogance of the Obama White House. At a time when millions of Americans are losing their jobs, he takes a taxpayer funded trip to New York for nothing more than a "date." And what about his vow for transparency? Why the big secret? Oh, right, if the taxpayer found out how much this frivilous trip really cost it might hurt the "honest Abe" image Obama has tried to portray. The truth is that Obama is just more of the same.

I love everytime that Obama does something arrogant all we hear from the left is "But Bush did" arrgument. Two things nitwits. Bush is not president and Obama is the one who claimed to run under a promise of resposible government.

Obama asked to be held to higher standard. Problem is that he is enjoying the power and the perks too much. He is arrogant and not in the least bit humble.

Blaiming Bush does not excuse Obama even if your simple minds can not get around that fact.

To all you negative loonies, the Obamas's can go any da@n where they please, i'll send the President my money to have a night out. You people are pathetic.

Who cares??? Didn't G. W. Bush take off 1/3 of his presidency?
Oops ...he was also OFF the other 2/3 as well. So what!!!

Well, if they want to point fingers, then lets point finger. Our previous failure for a President, George Bush was seen many times out playing golf and having a real good time, while scores of American men and women were DYING in Iraq. Now I think dying Americans are far worse than GM filing. They had poor greedy management that drove them down this path.
So if we want to make a thing out of our President going out with his wife. Then lets remind everyone that Bush had a great time play golf while people were dying, in a war we should have never been in, and the Bush started for NO good reason. So SHAME on Bush!!!!!!!

Hey, right-wingers? We have class in the White House, again. And, for all your complaining, the economy is showing signs of improvement. Have you noticed some of the important economic indicators of late. You right-wingers are pathetic. I bet you all feel grateful for the killer that whacked that women's health doctor at that church yesterday.

These Republicans are driven American crazy who cares if we pay for his date look what we pay for Bush...I hope President take his whole family on a cruise with my money he deserve it...The republican pary are coo coo birds

Petty GOP yet puts another nail in the o'l coffin

They are running out of feet to shoot!

It makes me laugh that he is getting critizised for this when Bush and previous presidents took days off during times of crisis and utilized the exact same resources.

Oh dear! A married man can't have a little fun with his OWN wife? He promised his lady this date since last year and I am sure he planned it with frugality and common sense on his mind too.

THIS is important ?? Give me a break. Is there anything the republicans can think of that might be a tad more worthy of their efforts.

The President and his lovely deserved a night out. I hope they had a great time and have more "date nights" to keep the marriage fresh and the stress levels low. GET OVER IT HATERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I challenge the Republicans to disclose **every** the costs of trip that every Republican Senator and Representative, as well as President Bush, took. And, I challenge them to disclose it **truthfully**.

People who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones...

@ Laverne June 1st, 2009 4:39 pm ET

The republicans argument is absolutely ridiculous! I wonder how many of them enjoyed fancy dinners and shows over the weekend without giving one single thought about GM.
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The taxpayers do not pick up the tab when we go out to dinner, and it does not run into the hundreds of thousands.

Wow....the GOP brings this up when Bush took more vacation days and trips than any other president...why didn't we juxtapose one of his trips with Obama's to see who really spent more money. The man wants to take his wife to a play and the GOP raises all of this hell? Please, find another bone to pick.

GAL of HAWAI

Sorry you need to take it like it is. yes it is a new era and we all have the right to scrutinized the presidnet Actions. that was part of the base for his campaing so it goes both ways.

Openess and transparency and not they do not even release the cost of the trip. Obama promised us honesty. We had enough for the last 8 years. Where was he when GM went into bankruptcy over the weekend. He gave them our money. TIME TO RESIGN.

I think the average joe should be able to do the same and have the goverment foot the bill

In the middle of a deep recession when millions are out of work, it is totally wrong for the Obamas to go on a "date" to NYC at taxpayers' expense. They should be ashamed.

It is the normal cost of doing business. If you can't handle the expenses. Perhaps you should fuly reimburse your company for that last Christmas party, client lunch, or service appreciation gift you received.

Is this what passes for news these days?

Our President should be able to nurture a relationship with his wife. It is because of his service to us as President that he would be unable to do like you or I and just drive wherever, so of course the necessary protections and precautions must be at taxpayer expense. What, do you expect him to stay in and watch re-runs on television all the time?

Look in the mirror repubs! Leave the poor man and his wife alone for goodness sake's. He's done more work in 3-4 mos than Bush did in 8 yrs with all his vacationing. Who paid for that BTW?

Obama is pushing a cap and trade bill that will increase everyone's energy cost. He said he is trying to make a smaller carbon footprint. He then takes three that's three planes to NYC for a date night. Obama is like Gore " do as I say not as I do". Obama is a hyprocrite when it comes to the so called global warming.

If Reporters are complaining about the cost then they need to talk to the Reporters who went along for the ride. Every President has costs associated with his security detail. Bin Ladin would like nothing more than to take down a US President and Repukliklans would be happy to oblige by reducing security. What about the costs of dozens of trips to Crawford Texas and back from Washington DC? I guess Repukliklans didn't care about Bush's security spending.

I have to admire the Republicans for the sheer brazeness of this whining. Perhaps they have already forgotten Jack Abrahams and the golfing trips to Scotland paid for by lobbiest money????? How many of them have ridden that gravey train to all sorts of really nice resorts and we won't even mention good old "DUKE" and all the stuff he glommed prior to getting taken down for the antiques, trips and other "fringe benefits" that came his way. Republicans better watch out when they start slinging that kind of mud as there is quite a bit that sticks to them.

Thank you, Sharon.

Get back to me on the cost to the taxpayer of every 'vacation' Dumbo made to Crawford, Texas. Not to mention that Dumbo took more vacation time than any president. Lazy & stupid.

As for 'says cession' – do it . That "trillion dollars of your kids money" – you KNOW that came from the prior administration. Ya don't think, ya don't read, you don't investigate. Ya just accept the talking points doncha?

Geez and Moses - What else do Republicans have to complain about?

I've been around since Eisenhower, and this is the first time I've EVER heard anyone complain about the President taking a night on the town.

I think it's great that the world know that our President has a life beyond the White House. BTW - have Republicans added up the costs for the 60% of his time as President Bush spent vacationing in camp David and and Texas, and the cost to the American taxpayer while Bush fiddled with his bicycle?

Get a life - Repugnicans!

I understand that President Obama actually THREW AWAY ONE OF THE CREAMER PACKETS THAT CAME WITH HIS MORNING COFFEE!!!! Oh, my God, it's the end of the Republic!!! The terrorists have won!!! Run for the hills!!! I demand an IMMEDIATE investigation into this wasteful spending. Shame on you, CNN, why are you not all over this earth-shattering story???

This is absurd. If taxpayers paid for this President to take his lovely wife out, I'm happy to have contributed to the bill! He deserves it for all he's already done in only 4 months.

give me a break. Obama didn't run GM in to the ground. Are we all to feel guilty for spending any money on life's pleasures? The republicans sure are reaching on this one. . . .

Why weren't the Republicans screaming at the top of their lungs when Bush was flying back to Crawford whenever he felt like it?

Typical partisan hacks, the lot of them.

Where are the Critics?, Is every body on CNN pro Obama?

They should go for more outings, he is doing a splendid job, any time, we will pay for it.

bet it cost as much as the photos over NY

i think it is great, he has been busy trying to save this county, I think he should have a day out on the town with the wife.

I would like to know how he can spend tax payer money for "date" night. This is outrageous and we the taxpayers paid for that "date" night. How arrogant to spend this money when so many American people cannot afford "date" nights with their spouses.

Where were their complaints when W was chillin at his Crawford ranch while the world went to hell?

Wow. Attacking Obama for going on a date with his wife? Could the Republicans possibly look any more angry, petty, and out-of-touch?

It sounds like the Republicans could use some time out too. It must be very taxing to be constantly looking for nits to pick. Puh-lease!

I think all the presidents have taken plenty of trips on taxpayer money over the years. Just because he is the president, does that mean he is not allowed to have a personal life and try to spend a night with his wife. The office of presidency doesn't allow him to go out on his own for security reasons, so it seems to me we should give them a little latitude here.

If George Bush gives us the total profit for Halliburton and Blackwater in Iraq, then Obama should reveal this. By comparison, Obama's costs are nil!!!

What a joke, Obama the Celebrity Messiah President.

Now he's a wanna be New Yorker. I guess Chicago served its purpose. He'll become like the Clintons and model himself as a New Yoirker now.

This is his FIRST out of town with his wife. Give me a break!
W spent more time in Texas and Camp David than he ever spent in the White House. Where were the shrill Republicans then?
Our President deserves a date night with his wife and he can not just drive or take any public transportation.
I am sick to death of hearing this nonsense from the republicans.

Truth-bomb thrower: get your figures right. The last W inauguration cost more than Obama's by a huge amount - the GOP just conveniently didn't tell us about the extra security costs, etc. for W's little private partays.

So, what' you're saying is that it was OK for the GOP to spend money for security, but you didn't want Obama to have the same security? Perhaps the SS needs to pay you a visit to talk with you about your attitude toward presidential security, neh?

Excuse me but I bet if someone goes back and totals up Bush trips to Texas ranch in first 4 months, it just might be an eyepener.
Don't be so meanspirited prople. I know it gives the press something to talk about but get over it and move on to better times.

I think the Obamas have a right to do what they want on their own free time and I think it is great that they made the effort to see August Wilson's play. I plan to see it myself when I get to New York. There is absolutely nothing wrong with what they did.

this is dumb!!!!... whts wrong with spending time with his wife, getting away from a tough job??

All i hear from him is how we all need to sacrifice. I was at work all weekend. If he really wants any creditability he should lead by example. Saying one thing and doing another seems to be a trend. I voted for the man but wont again. Disappointing.

They will have something to remember since they're going to be in prison a long time.

I want to know what it cost to fly Cheney to his hunting trip so he could shoot his friend in the face.

I think he should be confined to the White House for four years. I was told it has a bowling alley. Why would anyone think a guy who presides over the United States – with virtually no responsibilities, and who probably clocks out early – deserves to relax with his wife.

The President can't walk down the street without costing the taxpayers thousands of dollars. What do you expect of him? Cut him some slack.

Wow, boohoo. You didn't see Republicans complaining about money when Bush went on vacation.

We have more important things in this country to worry about than Obama taking his wife to a freaking play, get over it.

I sure do not mind paying for this date. Just like I did not mind paying for Bush Jr for his Crawford trips and Bush Sr. to his beach house trips and Clintons to their trips and Reagons to their trips and Nixion to his trips and so on ......why should it be different for Obama?? ooohhh wait is it because he is ... you know ............ you know. ;op

He was working while he was there...HELLO

Would you actually want to get on a commercial flight with the President of US on it – I doubt it very much!!!

Yeah, thanks for the transparency in government. The same guy who said in the debates he would go thru the budget like a surgeon with a scalpel, but didn't remove any pork from this year's budget.

Now that he's kept one campaign promise to Michelle, maybe he could get around to Don't Ask Don't Tell before we get rid of all the Arab linguists?

We can't possibly be in a recession.. GM can't possibly be bankrupt if the USA has enough money for the Obama to galavant around in his private, tax-paid fun-jet... I am absolutely shocked that we are not calling for his resignation. Afterall.. If it were anyother office holder at any other level of government there would be an investigation. Don't blame this on the Secret Service...

What hogwash! Let them have some fun. Their trip has nothing to do with General Motors bancruptcy. The company brought that on themselves. We don't really expect the President and First Lady to get on the shuttle. I'd rather they spend my taxpayer money that way than getting additional weapons or spending it on war.

NO, WE should NOT pay for the Obama's "date night". I am sick of this elitist attitude from these people. If Michelle can buy "$450" sneakers, she can pay for her own date nite!!

GM and the Union leeches deserve what they got.
Dictator Obama is going to do whatever he wants, America be damed have you not figured that one out yet.

Obumbler's arrogance shows no bounds. And Gibbs is the fourth stooge.

I think the numbers should come out. Plus, we should see the total cost of all the trips Bush took and then we can demand that Obama does not exceed that amount. Fair enough for you?

It is human nature to focus on trivial things like this trip rather than big complex things that are too difficult for people, such as those posting here, to really understand. Health care? Education? Economic recovery? Foreign affairs? Too complicated. Spending money on a trip to NYC – now there's something to focus petty frustration on.

Let's call the WAAAAmbulance for the GOP. They're clutching their pearls a little too tightly around their scrawny necks. Oh, and can we please see the bill for W's endless trips here and there? He was gone far more than he was in the WH.

Republicans make me gag. Junior spent more time on vacation than any other "president" in history. That was an eight year tab that the public will be picking up for a few decades to come. Cheney shot his buddy in the face. Did any Dems ask if the public picked up that hospital bill for the idiot with a gun? I bet Cheney didn't pay for it. The shallow, extreme, right wing garbage would be smart if they kept their petty, ignorant mouths shut. But we know what the key words there are.

You are one thoughtless and selfish poster. Your 4 posts are at best annoying, especially since they weren't very enlightning. Once is sufficient, the rest could have been omitted to leave room for other posters.

How many times did we pay for Dubya's jaunts to Crawford or Camp David? Good lord. We don't pay these guys enough money for all the crap they take for 4-8 years. Give him a break.

Let's compare the Obama's trip to the cost of flying Bush and his entourage to his ranch in Crawford, TX every time he wanted to get away. Typical of Republicans to criticize others when they themselves are guilty of the same or worse. This is but one of many reasons why they lost and LOST BIG in November; and thank God they did!!

Who cares? The Obamas are more than entitled to a night out and I hope they enjoyed it.

Considering the mess he inherited from GW Bush, Obama deserves a night out.

Give me a break. The Republicans are desperate and pathetic.

I wonder how many Americans could use some financial assistance with food,housing,medical costs or haow mant college educations would that nite out have paid for ? And are they paying the total cost of this nite out with their own millions?

CNN post!!!!

What Gibbs talking out the side of his mouth again? Obama your slick but not that slick you had November to January to take Mrs Obama to a play you just wanted to wait until you had the right transportation(an't jets grande) At least be honest about it lol.

What do you expect from these plunderers?! Remember, for the inauguration they blew through $70 million.....more than all of the four previous inaugurations COMBINED! No one should be surprised by the arrogance and extravigance of these people. They don't care because they expect the media to protect them and the public to be too dumb and uninformed to care.....and they're probably right.

Gibbs is such a turd

Wow! here we go again. President Obama works for the US Government. We pay him and he is entitled for the benefits!

He worked for 100 days. Wow. I was not allowed any vacation time for the first 6 months at my current job. Bush's first vacation was August of his first year, and he was shredded by the Dems for taking a vacation after only 7 months in office.

OK, so if the President and his wife are on a date, why does he need three plane loads of staff and reporters? I don't have an issue with the date and security detail, just the rock star entourage.

What happened to the transparency promised by the Obama administration? Guess things are getting pretty cloudy. That must tell you it cost enough we should be upset. But what about the Carbon footprint from the jet?? He shouldn't be flying around for a date, while telling us to cut back on pollution.

Why does it matter? He's human too, and an occasional night out isn't that big a deal. Its a check of alot better than Bush and his many months on vacation.

The rabid Reich wants President Obama exposed so one of their minions can go after him like they go after doctors that perform abortions.

Looks like the Secret Service is thankfully, devoid of republicans.

I think it is wonderful that the President is demonstrating what a good relationship looks like. Good for him and Michelle. They deserve it! I would rather have the President take an evening, get some relaxation, and come back to the job refreshed and ready to tackle all the many problems that he has been handed.
By the way, I would gladly gift him a night on the town as an act of gratitude for him taking on this job. Not too many of us could or would be willing to do the job at this time with all its complexities.

Obama doesn't care about the little people.

Laverne, I dont care if EVERY REPUBLICAN took a flight to New York, Dined and went to a show...as long as they did it on their OWN DOLLAR and not mine. You don't get the point because you're a typical obama follower, THROW AWAY THE FACTS AND GET PENTACOSTAL...

I recall seeing Bush at the ranch more than I did at the White House. I preferred he stayed there actually. A trip to NYC. What's the fuss about. You right wing knuckleheads expect the POTUS to fly on Airtran.

This is so ridicoulus! I have never seen a President so scrutinized before. I am so sick of the GOP....the longer they continue on this Obama bashing campaign the sooner they will completely implode. Pres. Obama cannot fly commerical, we need to keep him and his wife safe, so they have to use the Presidental helicopter and Air Force One when they travel, period. If they want to go on a small trip once in a while, fine with me! They deserve to have some kind of personal life. Pres. Obama has been working his butt off trying to fix what Bush screwed up over the last 8 years. He deserves some R&R with his lady. GOP leave him alone in his personal life.

Did anyone think to ask how much W owes us for trips to Crawford? He spent more time on vacation than any president I can think of. I do think it was ridiculous for President Obamato go to New York, especially given how things are, but I don't ever recall anyone in the GOP raising their voices over Bush going to his ranch in Crawford.

Why isn't CNN asking about the cost of flying to Crawford every weekend? Why do the press have to cover his every move and why aren't the media owners paying for their flight? There is no way they were needed. Who paid for their expenses while they were there?

Becoming president is not a prison term and America is a violent country which has assassinated presidents unlike other western democracies. Are the media and the Republicans going to complain when he goes on vacation? How many members of Congress flew home for the weekend and who apid for them.

The republicans are just jealous that people line up to see him every time he goes anywhere while they can't even muster up more than 50 people on their one and only "listening tour" in a strip mall.

Really Cnn has become a disgrace and more of a tabloid that a news source.

I bet TOTUS knows. And Sats Cession is absolutely right...Obama has been sooooo busy spending so much money, I AGREE, he needed a break from it. He needed to spend some money outside of his office, ya know, change the scene up a little.

He didn't go to see his friends in Saudi Arabia, How many times did bush go to saudi Arabia to see his buddies and how much did it cost the taxpayers?

Good.

The WH can release the cost when the shrub's office releases the TOTAL cost of all the trips to Crawford at 57K per hour.

He was there over 500 days of his term, over one year spent flying and vacationing in TX.

What was wrong with Camp David?

Hmmm... the Republicans want to know how much a trip to NYC costs the President when their guy ("W") started an unnecessary war of choice which may end up costing, oh say, around a trillion. Put in the balance, I'll take Obama's NYC trip any day.

Who cares! This little nit picking at every little thing is so childish! Do we even have to calculate the number of trips and vacations GWB took, why is this an issue. What does his weekend trip have to do with GM filing for bankruptcy, they were going to do that no matter where is was.

In over four months, he has taken one weekend off to visit his home in Chicago and now the man went to his daughter soccer game and then took his wife out to dinner and a play. You're going to complain about that, really?

Geez people, get over it! This is beyond dumb!

How much did it cost the taxpayers to fly W back and forth to his ranch for his many, many vacations (most vacation days taken by a president in history).

Who cares! If they find the time to go do something like this once in a while I hope they continue to do it. Keep up the awesome work Mr. Obama.

Whereas, it was ok for Bush to visit McCain for a birthday party while people were suffering from hurricane Katrina.

Find an issue GOP. But can you try a little harder?

Obviously they are embarrased of admitting how much this cost taxpayers....Gibbs is so nervouse looking on tv. Like a man who know's that he doesn;t know what he's doing...think about it for a seconds....ok, now you liberals got it...just took sometime to process

It isn't the Obama's fault GM is in financial difficulty. As a taxpayer, I'd rather pay for their date than bail-out a company mismanaged for years. I'm sure some of those GM executives gave themselves bonuses equal to the cost of their date, many times over.

Maybe the Repubs need some cheese with their whine.

Let's get the cost of slavery by America!

Funny criticism from the GOP when Bush spent most of his Presidency on Vacation. Including 9/11.

The cost is major but what about the so called "carbon footprint" when he treavels hither and you? He's carping about carbon footprints yet goes to "town hall" meetings (even after the election...nuts) and "dates". Was there a press plane on that date? If so didn't leave yet another gigantic footprint. I am now part owner of GM, I don't want to be part owner of the Presidant's social life.

Give it a Rest Republicans you are Being Petty. He is the President of the United States, we have Paid for all the Presidents Travels god you Republicans will stop at Nothing whats Next Bashing the Obamas Dog oh wait you did that already

In all fairness, the cost should be disclosed. President Obama promised transparency and this is an example of when it is needed. I don't care that he took his wife out, I think it is good for the President to support the arts and help the sagging Broadway theater scene. I find it funny the GOP is making a big deal about this, in light of Dick Cheney's comments about Al-Queda and Iraq.

Gibbs should ask TOTUS for the answer. TOTUS knows everything.

why didn't they take a few homeless people with them! what happened to SHARE THE WEALTH!!!!!!

straws anyone? nobody cried like a baby when bush took so many freaking trips to his ranch and golf trips. SHUT GOP's you all are desperate and your party is a dying breed. evolution ensures only the smartest survive!

The republicans argument is absolutely ridiculous! I wonder how many of them enjoyed fancy dinners and shows over the weekend without giving one single thought about GM. They will criticize this president over any and everything, so damn petty! President Obama must have secret service at all times and it is obvious why, read some the blogs on this post and listen to the republicans. His well being is always a constant concern. Get off his back, he has a family too!

Hey, get off poor Obama's back. The guy just spent a trillion dollars of your kids money...he needs to take a break and spend some of your dollars.