CNN

Pres "O", you need a rest! The family has done there job! Rest!, and Thank You!

To the First Family:
Have a wonderful and safe vacation! I hope that you enjoy your time in Paris, France. Please continue to be a shining example of hope, class and idealism and ignore all the bitter naysayers out there. : )

@realist

Are you kidding, it wasn't just that the president was visiting his home there. It was officially the "Western White House". The tax payer footed the bill for all services provided when he was there.

The costs to the country of maintaining the White House and the Western White House are astounding when compared to a couple of trips by President Obama and his family.

Also you will note that they are incorporating these in to business trips. The president is our head of state he has to travel and meet with and socalize with other world leaders. His wife is a public figure now also and people request her presence and experience as well.

That's fine that they go on vacation but some of these comments are so syrupy sweet it's downright ridiculous.

I can just see it...If they did a story about them taking a crap together..
'what beautiful feces coming from such beautiful people! I am so proud of my President's crap!!!'

joy.

Pitiful, just pitiful......with our country in such a financial bind and we can barely feed our children they take off overseas to have fun, and unwind. What's going to happend when all the baby boomers start retiring in a few months? Who will pay then. I know I will be glad to see 2012 get here!!!!!!!

anni June 4th, 2009 4:06 pm ET
I'll stick with President Obama's values.
______________
Of course you will! YOU don't have any values! Other than gimme-gimme-gimme!

I'm getting sick and tired of you butt holes complaining about every time President Obama walks out the door of the White House costing tax payers money. If you had half a brain you would realize that 99.9% of his trips are in some way work related and even when his travel is for personal reasons, he is still the POTUS. I get the weekends off and I leave work at 3:30PM but this man is President even when he is in bed sleeping. When he goes home to Hawaii, he is still on duty as the POTUS. Get over it people. 90% of you nuts never complained like this until an African American went into the White House. Deal with it. You do not get to tell him when he can come and go. He is THE BOSS. DEAL WITH IT.

Ken in NC June 4th, 2009 4:40 pm ET
Also please note that they are not the first First Family to travel. It is part of who they are and what they do. They are the First Family of our country and they represent all American families.
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Please tell me when President Bush took his daughters abroad on taxpayer expense?

comme tally voov Madame: we we. Paris. France is beautiful this time of year. Have fun first family.

To Jon – it is not obama's fault, he just hasn't been able to find the location of the oval office.

By-the-way, what priceless gift did obama give King Abdallah? Wasn't it in the 70's or 80's that all the black pimps in movies were wearing gold chains? Do you think maybe Abdallah was trying to insult obama?

What spending more of the TAX PAYERS MONEY, Obama has NO RESPECT for the current economy.

As the rest of America suffers economically, Hussein Obama and his family are in Paris having a grand time at taxpayers expense. I hope they'll end up with swine flu.

Marc in Va

Nice...wishing death on the first family....

I guess that goes right in hand with the neo-con ideal of killing those that you don't agree with...

Paul from Phoenix,

Thank you for bringing this to light! I agree that the women are put into this position out of fear. They are repressed socially and educationally and how can one say the women CHOOSE to have it that way! They are terrified for their lives and the lives of their children.

Wake up people and get a clue.

That is so wonderful – flying two different planes just so we tax payers can have more of our tax dollars wasted! Aren't the obamas so stinking thoughtful?

Get real, people! Obama is giving this nation the BIRD! Nothing more, nothing less - and he's enjoying it royally!

Is this ANOTHER APOLOGY TRIP??? and how much of our money is being spent to bring the family along, too? Oh, and is the mother-in-law there, too? This must be his resolution for reparations.... run the debt up into the trillions and make them pay.....

Why the heck do the Obama daughters go to Paris on OUR expense? (AND don't tell me WE are NOT footing this bill!!!!!!)

How about Bo? Is he going, too?

This is becoming more and more a soap opera. Whatever happened to the presidency of the United States? You know - the one where the person elected to the highest office actually has some DIGNITY?????

Republicans are such sore losers and whiners. Whining for the next 8 years will not be much fun for you. Get a life. The POTUS and FLOTUS are representing the best of America. But you will probably never want to admit that. Change is sometimes difficult. I feel sorry for you.

The kids are out of school and they're going to spend the weekend with their dad while he's over seas. Not to mention First Lady Michelle has an engagement there. How exactly is this bucking a trend? It happens all the time. CNN you're reaching.

Dam!what's with all the hatin people are acting like the Obamas are the first family to go overseas hes not going to his ranch every other weekend u people are showing every body how hateful you all are keep it up.

matt June 4th, 2009 4:25 pm ET

Maybe the French will throw french fries at him when he says something stupid like blame America for the liberations of France
----------------------–

Why don't you try reading what you typed here to yourself again and realize just how uneducated and Sarah Palin-like you really are. Ignorant tool.

EVERY ONE of you Obama-haters can KOA...

...as hard as the President and First Lady have been working...

...to regain some moral, economic and patriotic certainty...

...that Dick and Lynn Cheney, GWB, Angelo Mozillo and the rest of the Wall Street Gang...

...Have totally destroyed...

...the First Family deserves whatever vacation they doggone well like...

...It's the least we can do for their service to this broken down, wreck of a country...

...that the low life conservatives rode into the ground...

Rick CT June 4th, 2009 4:06 pm ET

Anyone notice that the price of crude oil has now about doubled since Obama took office. No wonder his speech is receiving a positive reaction in the Arab world.
--------------------

Don't EVEN try it. The price of crude and gasoline always increases during the summer driving season and will decrease once the season is over. Nice try, but you obviously are suffering from Post Traumatic Bush Syndrome when gas was oh, over 4 bux a gallon?

Wonder how many of the soon to be unemployed GM dealership employees voted for Obama? I'd bet it's not the change they expected and while they're being laid off and wondering where their next pay check is coming from, it's good to see that Obama is having the time of his life at tax payers expense.

TM in CO June 4th, 2009 4:00 pm ET

Wow. We are having an economic breakdown and you have the nerve to fly to Paris France for 1 public event and then sightseeing "for a few days" at the taxpayer's expense? I cannot even afford to take a vacation to the next town over because of the economy. Please tell me why on God's green earth does the First Family get to travel and I get to help foot the bill? I voted for this man because I honestly believed he cared about the economic state of our nation and would lead by example. Yea Right!!
---------------------

What is wrong with you right wing idiots!!! Do you not remember that the Obamas are millionaires in their own right!!!??? That maybe, JUST MAYBE, they're spending their own money when they go over there? Even if they don't, you fools never yelped once when ole cowboy Bush went over to that there ranch in Crawford 77 times on TAXPAYER money..double standard?

Look, this man loves his wife ,children and Americia, it shows like a shining light! Those of you laying in a fetal position crying and wailing like neglected uncomforted babies...suck it up...dry it up ... grow up...and shut the He!! up. You will NEVERRRRRRRRRRRR controll the President with your insidious hatered and fault/witch hunting...NEVER!!!!!

Allen June 4th, 2009 3:45 pm ET

Wonder how much this is going to cost the middle class taxpayers?
------------------–

Funny, didn't hear you squawkin' when Bush when over to Israel to talk against our current President, wonder what THAT cost...funny how you idiots forget conveniently isn't it?

HAHA, all the people hating on this trip have no idea that this was an invite from France, something that bush did FOUR times with his drunk daughters. FYI the more you loons on the right cry and scream, the more the people with brains come into the light of the democrats, so I thank you. Obamas ratings on the rise, the economy looking up, the world respecting us again, moving from the ignorant red neck uneducated state of az, today is a great day for me...

They can afford it, they are millionaires, and he is the president on official business after all. Why do so many of these posts begrudge BO, because of his race? Of course that's the reason!! Some people can't stand the thought of a classy and wealthy black family, back to the cotton fields with 'em. You frickin' haters should put a sock in it. Enjoy, Mr. President and family, you earned it.

TO Marc in Virginia

Yes Air France has a flight back, and they have a seat reserved for you!

The complaints about the Obamas are coming from people who don't seem to even have their facts straight. I wonder if these folks expect the president to stay chained to his desk in the oval office. And
maybe Michelle didn't come along because the girls had school???

The comments that are especially laughable are ones like "I can't afford a vacation, so when is someone going to pay for me to go..."
The answer is because you aren't the President of the United States!! And, you can obviously afford internet access, so, maybe you could use it to find a job or two and pay your own way!

Get out of your helpless victim- in- a- recession mindset.

Realist...You are right, President Obama's Presidential salary is only $400,000 and he will not be able to afford it but do you know how much money he has made so far from his book(s) sale?

2007 Obama's made $4.2 million from book(s) sale
2008 – Close to $10 million
2009 – You bet is a lot higher, since he is now the President.

So do your research first before commenting.

Look at your own senators and congressmen and women paid vacation time along with their families and friends, then come back and make a legitimate complaint about President Obama's time with his family. FACT.

Kitty, Molly, Munchmom, Mich and Jon in CA and all the other sore losers~

How sad that you can't get past your own silliness.

Lisa in Laughlin, NV ~
I have an idea. Why don't you go get a law degree, work your way up a political ladder, giving up any sense of normal life in the process, present ideas that will make our country a better place, work 20 hours a day serving your community and country and organizing a presidential campaign for yourself, travel from city to city, shaking countless hands, kissing countless babies, win your party's nomination, run and win the presidency...after you make those sacrafices in your own life, we will pay for your trip to France. How does that sound?

Mich June 4th, 2009 4:46 pm ET

Flight to Paris………………$ 300,000.00
Trip to Euro Disney……..$ 5,000.00
Hotel room………………….$ 8,000.00
Food…………………………..$ 4,500.00

Fooling the amercian dum down population PRICELESS.
__________________

...uh oh... that's "American" and "dumb" to you, pal!

You should also site your sources... it would help with your anti-Obama talk.

@ Jon CA....... As McCain would say, "my friend" I do not know who "Cami" is. I am LacrosseMom. You Republicans are SO paranoid.

My goodness man, take a breath, go for a walk, relax.

Peace be with you, pal.

@ Mich who wrote:

June 4th, 2009 4:56 pm ET
To Mr. Obama

D-Day is something that happened in June,1944. And it was something we had to do. You don't have to say your sorry for the United States. the germans were shooting back at us. I know that you like saying were sorry for everything. But this time please don't.
______________________________________________________
Did you hear President Obama apologize for D-Day? Why do you GOPers always stretch the truth or even lie? By the way, sir, our Nation is not perfect we have made mistakes and will again.

Funny how non of the Republican Idiots had a problem with Bush taking the entire hillbilly bunch of bushes to Crawford 5 or 6 times a year. Or when the Idiot Cheney wanted to take one of his friends hunting to shoot them. Sounds like a double standard to me..

Pa Santigie June 4th, 2009 3:48 pm ET

As wonderful as this may seem, there will be someone out there griping about it.
______________________

You're right. The Republicans haven't realized that this griping is what's ruining their party for the sound minds within the party.

The louder and more ludicrous their griping, the better it looks for Democrats, President Obama, and it further validates the majority of Americans that voted the way they did in 2006 and 2008, and this will continue into 2010 and beyond.

Maggie June 4th, 2009 4:58 pm ET

I'm sure the obamas think taxpayers are just so great and generous.
What trash !!
______________________________________________________I Maggie, I sure hope you were able to get your trailer back up on all 4 supports the month, it sure looked a mess tilted.. Moron.

JG@ think you got it wrong. The polls show it is the republicans with fical and personal responsibility. It is the dems who feel we who work need to elevate those who don't with our money. I take offense at handouts and my6 family was one who lost two jobs but survived on our own. I really think you need the education and read....don't depend on the liberal media for your facts.
Yes Obama is a millionaire. He became one partially because of Freddie Mac. Gee, that makes me feel good about him. He also wrote books about HIMSELF. Another unnoteworthy fact!

And here comes the Republican Idiots!!!!!!!

CNN is a joke...really...The President has official duties in Germany on Friday and in France on Saturday. In both places he will be visiting veteran hospitals. He will then fly home on Sunday. He is also having meetings with two countries, contrary to the constant thrashing of these two countries by Rep., he will have bilateral meetings.

Michelle Obama and his daughters will stay in Paris for a family holiday which under law will be paid for by the Obama family.

Missouri June 4th, 2009 5:07 pm ET

Not to complain BUT while most of us here in America are trying our best to conserve on every level–shouldn't the Obamas do there share?? Like flying over together instead of he flies over and all over and then we have the extra expense of Mrs. Obama and the girls coming later. Sounds wasteful to me!! But what do I know–never been to Paris and don't see it happening in this life time!!
______________________

So are you saying the school schedule must dictate the schedule of the President of the United States...or the other way around? Didn't you ever think that MAYBE there was a good, sound reason for this arrangement? Or, maybe you didn't really THINK about it first but rather REACTED.

I think the Obamas are doing great.. This is GREAT for America!!!

@ Marc in Virginia- -Maybe the Air France Flight could land on your house?

All you haters out there, get a grip. Find something real to complain about. Just be thankful we have a president and first lady we can be proud of.

Have a wonderful and safe trip.......

mark in virginia..........yes they do, air france will have a drone for you, so you can fly alone and then bam, bam....away you go.....that's what you wanted,didn't you?

as for the rest of you CONservatives, repugnant reptiles.....go suck a duck....hehehehe

I am very proud of our First Family. They are absolutely terrific!

Mich June 4th, 2009 4:46 pm ET

Flight to Paris………………$ 300,000.00
Trip to Euro Disney……..$ 5,000.00
Hotel room………………….$ 8,000.00
Food…………………………..$ 4,500.00

Fooling the amercian dum down population PRICELESS.

Mich on what being The President of the USA means.........CLUELESS

Ah, gay Paris!! I remember it well. I hope the Obamas have a wonderful time there. The prez needs some "down time." To all you making dumb comments about how much money he is spending, you only have to think back to how much Dubya spent on an unnecessary war.

Bush & Cheney didn't travel a whole lot because nobody wanted them there.

The conservative position:

When one taxpayer-supported family relaxes by supporting American culture and increasing goodwill with important allies, that's a waste of money.

When another taxpayer-supported family relaxes by clearing brush, that's just fine.

I think that just about says it all.

According to my calculations, i figure you whites owe a lot more then that, hope they have a ball. WTG OBAMAS!!!!!

You are so pathetic! Media itself (news?) and everyone who is trying to kiss Obama’s butt. Obama doesn’t care about us, Americans. Now, when he is a Pres for next 4 years, they just enjoying every moment of it and don't give a crap on our opinions. This is only beginning. Get accustomed! By the way I'm Independent.

Realist June 4th, 2009 5:05 pm ET

Wow MOI, you do not pay attention much to the civil unrest and work riots in France do you?

You're so right! We should ignore all the good going on there because there's a couple bad things. Well besides being France.

Let's meet up for freedom fries, and a nice glass of freedom wine, before you put on your freedom tickler.

Just remember:

Rule 7: "All animals are equal, some animals are more equal than others"

What a wonderful opportunity for the girls. They are such a beautiful family.

All the whining Republicans sound ridiculous. ALL presidents travel around the world. At least Obama will make us proud.

Mich June 4th, 2009 4:56 pm ET

To Mr. Obama

D-Day is something that happened in June,1944. And it was something we had to do. You don't have to say your sorry for the United States. the germans were shooting back at us. I know that you like saying were sorry for everything. But this time please don't.

I'm sure it will be a USA lovefest. Just like every time before. We have nothing to apologize to Europe about concerning WWII. Can't say the same for 100,000 incinerated Japanese.

You pathetic republiklans never worried about your tax dollars before.
Go sit in a coner and shut up............don't forget the dunce cap. The stupidity is insane.

Let the Obama's live life, A lot of complainers out there. You people complaining out there get over it and live life stop being Cheap! God Bless Obama's

Looks like the taxpayers might be replacing AirForce 1 pretty soon. Since Obama has become President the engines haven't had a chance to cool down.

What are the tiny minority of right wing nuts so afraid of?

You claim to be soooo religious, but you fear everything not like you!

I thought that "God did not give us a spirit of fear"...?

Why can't you stop "pointing out the speck in the eyes of others, and address the boulder in your own?

God speed President Obama and family enjoy your well deserved vacation.
"God will make your enemies your footstool..."

So Kitty @ 4:41 pm ... I take it it was okay with you when President Bush was spending all of your money??

Seriously I have never seen so many freakin sore losers in my life. You Republicans are pathetic.

And to claim the great Messiah is any different with mixing vacations with 'official business' (i.e. a 30 min speech) so the taxpayers pick it up, is a joke.

Realist, are you that much of an idiot and a moron that you don't realize that George too mixed vacations with official business. His daughters went with him and/or Laura quite often. Just like Chelsea did with Clinton's, Amy with Carter's and so on. Get over it.

Is TOTUS (Teleprompter of The United States) part of the first family as well?????I cant wait to see the pictures of TOTUS next to the Eiffel Tower.

I know it hurts some people deep down in their (racist) gut, to see a bi-racial President, educated in the best universities of America, and his African-American wife, equally bright and well-educated, and their adorable children, but that too bad, deal with it.

Find a candidate that is as intelligent and well rounded, to run against him the next time around. And in the meantime, stop blaming him the the ignorance, stupidity, arrogance and lack of foresight, of the last eight years, for a government, that gave us Katrina, a war we didn't need to fight, a SEC which let Wall Street make themselves rich, while ruining the economy, increasing the deficit ten times, what it was when Bill Clinton, left office. Deal with it, because this man, will be President until 2016. PERIOD!

It must be hard for some of you to have a president and first lady who actually is respected .

And to S Callahan the necklace you so much detest is called the King Abdul Aziz Order of Merit and I wonder whether you protested the same way in January 08 when GWB received the same as well?

I love the Republican automatons who come to this site and predictably spew the same trite drivel they get from the RNC and intellectually bankrupt fools like Limbaugh and Hannity.

Here's a novel idea for you rightwingers: have a thought of your own! Use actual critical thinking skills to analyze an issue rather than parroting the tired lines of others.

Here's a clue to help you with the novel idea: critical thinking requires considering the deficiencies in one's own positions and not just the views of one's opponent. If you actually took the time to do the latter most of you would be forced into silence!

Wow. You can really tell we're getting close to full moon. All the right wing crazies are out and foaming at the mouth. Their spelling and punctuation gets worse this time of month, too.

Can someone explain why all of a sudden the President of the United States has to curb travel for himself and his family? Why don't you all think that this President should be afforded the same vacations and travel that all Presidents before him? Since when have so many people kept up with the cost of a Presidents travel and security and what "their tax dollars" are going for? Face it people, whether you like it or not, President Obama IS President of the United States. He and his family WILL enjoy the same benefits as all other Presidents and their families have enjoyed. OUR TAX DOLLARS WILL pay for all of the travel and security that has normally been paid for all other Presidents and their families. You all can whine, b!tch and moan all you want, it just makes you look pretty, uninformed and jealous.

And on a side note, probably the same people who are complaining about the cost of vacations and travel are the same people complaining when they found out that President Obama is a millionaire in his own right. He and his wife earned their money by doing what other Americans do every day, work. And don't forget, like all other Presidents before him, he has a salary (from your tax dollars) that he can spend any way he wants. So, get over your jealousy and hatred. Why should he cut back on what he does and where he goes, Did George Bush?

May God bless you and your family Mr. President

Keep all of them over in France they share the same beliefs.......

Bon sois Obamas....have some fun while you are there. The bloody mess will still be here when you get back. The complainers will still be complaining, the liers will still be lying,and the rest of us will still be strongly behind you.

Bon Voyage!! Amusez-vous bien!!!!!

To Marc in Virginia, and Other Negative People,

Marc.......Your statement is horrific....Be careful what you wish......You have loved ones too......Don't wish on someone else what you don't want to happen to you.....I salute you and the beforementioned with a high five minus four.......

Well school is almost out and it's nice they can get a family vacation.
I am very proud that Obama is our President. He is a Celebrity.

So sweet.....Stay safe and have fun........IJN.......

The Obamas are ridiculous. Wonder if Air France has any flights back to Washington.

May God bless Obama family....

Gret wrote: And for those of you hating on Sarah Palin for commenting on Obama's economics, why don't we just use Alaska's thriving economy to speak for her economic creditials

Gret, honey, it's easy to have a good economy when you have a low population and piles of oil, duh! Some credentials. Have a nice day!

"HATERS"– Don't you realize that the more you complain or talk negative about our President Obama and his family, the more he continues to be elevated. I see him in office for 8 years. If Bush can be elected for 2 terms, then I know President Obama definitely will. Therefore, "HATERS" continue doing your job as we watch President Obama rise higher and higher. Thank You "HATERS" because if you can't stand him now, then you will need a straight jacket in order to deal with what great things are in store for President Obama, 1st Lady Obama, and their beautiful daughters.

Not to complain BUT while most of us here in America are trying our best to conserve on every level–shouldn't the Obamas do there share?? Like flying over together instead of he flies over and all over and then we have the extra expense of Mrs. Obama and the girls coming later. Sounds wasteful to me!! But what do I know–never been to Paris and don't see it happening in this life time!!

To those complaining about FLOTUS and the girls travel to France: are you aware that the Obamas are millionaires in their own right. If they wanted, they could take this trip even if they weren't the first family, so...

Wow MOI, you do not pay attention much to the civil unrest and work riots in France do you?

Does the President actually spend anytime in the US? Although, frankly, I don't really care where he is and the further away from the country the better off we will be.

Glad to see his children are curious about the world around them, unlike the bush daughters who were busy drinking. I think one of them finally came around and did some traveling to learn more about the vast similarities and differences around the world.

To those commenting on travel expenses, get real. Republican presidents and their families didn't stay chained to their desks/the white house in DC. I WANT the first family to have high visibility worldwiide. It only improves America's standing in the world.

I love the people using the 'Bush took the most vacations' mantra. He did log the most hours outside of the whitehouse but keep in mind this was at his home, which he owns, in Texas. Not exactly a vacation, and the cost was less than paying for him to be in DC (more security and personell is required in DC). There isnt a comparison here. In the end all Presidents do it, but to what extent and the timing is important. And to claim the great Messiah is any different with mixing vacations with 'official business' (i.e. a 30 min speech) so the taxpayers pick it up, is a joke.

You Repulicans are so stupid! Always complaining about spending e taxpayers money, half of you probably don't even pay taxes because you are to stupid to hold jobs! What about that idiot former president at the Olympics.....did you notice on most of the pictures he was clearly drunk!!!!!

President Obama and his family are going there for a D-Day observance at the invitation from France/ NATO – you know our allies. This is standard diplomatic protocol. So we U.S. tax payers are paying for this? Yes, of course and it's okay. So they are taking in French sites and culture. Sure, why not? From the GOP vitriol here...gee, his children get to experience another culture, learn history, et al...become better educated? Good, we could use some more intelligent people here in the U.S...I'm tired of being in the minority.

I have no problems with Presidents taking vacation at taxpayer expense as long as they send each American a thank you note.

So CNN!! What hapened in Entebbe. How many Elicopters did Carter lose????

Aaaaah, I'm so happy for the girls. There's nothing more important than "exposure". Every child should get an opportunity to be exposed to other countries and cultures. It's something they will always remember. Both Malia and Sasha will learn things they NEVER would have learned from a book. Exposure is the greatest BOOK OF LIFE.

I've traveled all over the world with my parents and it has made me more appreciative and accepting of others, and other cultures. It made me realize that there's MORE to my small world than I ever dreamed of. I also, met some of the most WONDERFUL people and has some of the BEST times of my life.

I hope the First Family enjoys every minute of this experience and I hope they get to ENJOY EACH OTHER in Paris without the media. They deserve it!

I'm sure the obamas think taxpayers are just so great and generous.
What trash !!

Hey "Realist"! Where did you get your information about France?
You probably get your info from Bush's Book. French people are much more happy than Americans; that is why you have so many Americans leaving there enjoying free Health care, free Education, low crime rate, "37hour work-week", etc.... If Obama get some tips from France, it can only be good for America.

I think Obama is doing all of this travel and spending to send a message to the GOP. The message is when you win elections you get to say how the money is being spent. You can cry all you want and even stomp your feet, but you have no say in this because you lost the election. You can thank Operation Chaos and PUMA for all of this.

Enjoy your vacation, Mr. President. The last nut-job that took office spent most of his presidency on vacation (even while our fellow Americans were drowing in Katrina). Enjoy your trip because you deserve it. It takes a lot of energy to fix this disaster that was created by the past administration. Relax and hurry back!

To Mr. Obama

D-Day is something that happened in June,1944. And it was something we had to do. You don't have to say your sorry for the United States. the germans were shooting back at us. I know that you like saying were sorry for everything. But this time please don't.

The number of uniformed, biggeted, jealous remarks on this blog over the President and his family traveling abroad is beyond the scope of reason. I pray that you are in a very very small minority in this country.

I had to post this here...

Islamic extremism or Jewish extremism or Christian extremism it doesn't matter. These are the three factions that lead to the discord. Only sensible moderates and centrists on all sides will lead the way to peace. The Obama administration would be wise to play to the Islamic, Jewish and Christian perspectives, and bring all three together for compromise and solutions. If compassionately shared there is enough land (including "holy") and resources for all. And if indeed one and all are humans there must be tolerance for all religious and non-religious views...and NONE are worth killing and dying over.

Guess he is going to apoligize to the french also and tell them he is one of them. I see that there are still some on here that just get a tingling feeling in their leg when they think of him. idiots

It's funny how some people call President Obama an elitist for going to Paris.....When the same people wouldn't even want to go to Europe themselves even they were offered a free ticket.....There's even McDonalds and Pizza Huts there now...Then again, why go to Europe when you can drive your massive SUV to Wal-Mart and eat fatty foods and gain 50lbs a week?

What, there's no Jello in Europe.....?

S Callahan:

You do recognize, don't you, that all presidents give and receive gifts when they travel? Valuable gifts received by a president, however, become government property, not the property of the president.

I must be psychic. I knew I would see post up here talking about "how much this is costing the taxpayer." You republicans are so predictable.

With so many beautiful, history, and exciting places in the USA = why are they vacationing in Europe at my expense – send the Secret Service, and other government support money in the USA.

WOW!!! bitter til the end all of you jajajaaaa

Poor little laura .. she stay home all this 8 yrs .. never never ever went on vacations with her daughters .... she kept in the basement netting for Bushie ....... and the girls went to church every single day.

Get real losers!! The Obamas have every right to vacation too ... just like you paid for Bush vacations ... you will also pay for Obamas vacations and the president after Obama ... and so on ...

Carter? What happened in entebi???

kitty, ib, realist et al (and others) The president made two million dollars this past year and a s a sitting president he makes 495,000 so what money of yours is he using to take the First Lady out or the First Family to Paris, when will you tire of being an idiot and speak honest statements even if you disagree

The bottom line is he thinks he is celebrity first and president second. And all the kool-aid drinking followers that worship him alongside Brad and Angelina without questioning (agree or disagree but do you really question, debate, or even get the facts) his policies just proves to him its working...

@ S Callahan

Would it please your senses if the President and his family just slept in a tent outside on the Whitehouse lawn? Do you begrudge everyone else around you who has more income than you do?

If not, you're just spouting sour grapes and being hateful.

If so, you're just spouting sour grapes and being hateful, but at least you're consistent.

Great! The Obamas are boldly living large like ROCK STARS while we average americans suffer through this economy like we don't have two pennies to rub together. That just pisses me off! You can bet I will do everything in my power to send these losers back to Chicago come next election. And for those of you hating on Sarah Palin for commenting on Obama's economics, why don't we just use Alaska's thriving economy to speak for her economic creditials. I'll bet there are thousands of Alaskans for every one of you brainwashed drones who will attest to the fact that she knows what she's talking about. Biggest mistake was that she wasn't running for President in '08. She would have turned this country's economy around for sure if she was in the Oval Office! Actions speak louder than words. I'm about ready to move to Alaska were people do have work and the economy is rockin.

President Obama enjoy your family. I know you've got somethings to do first but after that, enjoy your family. I love the fact that the haters don't get to you.......they are so pathetic.

I want to know how many of my tax dollars are going to fund this!

So that I can say.....

Have a nice time, Mr. President and First Family!!

har har har Country First Wood Chuck Slack Jaws!

To JIM C, uhhh...no they are not using their money. maybe you missed the whole thing about how as long as he does something 'presidential' on the trip we pick up the bill. Which is why he last trip to Vegas to raise money for Dems was picked up by the taxpayer because on the tarmac he discussed economics for 30 min. And you really think they can afford it anyway? Do you realize how much security and personell go with the President and his family? Do you realize his salary and their overall income levels? Its not fiscally possible for him to fully pay for it, maybe once (unless maybe he is racking up hundreds of thousands in debt, that is his fiscal policy). All presidents do this, but dont think you Messiah is any different.

Those Bashing Bush are certainly enjoying their 4.5% mortgage rates aren't they. This BAIL OUT WILL NEVER END!!! LET's Rescue California next!!! Then the Failing Newspapers!!! Then CNN since they suk.

@ S Callahan

Did you ever consider what a slap in the face it would have been for our President not to accept that necklace? That would have caused an enormous uproar around the world. Is that what you do when someone gives you a gift you

a. can't use or, b. don't like? If so, how gracious of you...

I was brought up to accept a gift wih a amile and a thank you, regardless of whether I like it or not.

And to those of you commenting on his "vacation" in France. He is, first and foremost, there to help commemorate D-DAY, which translates into "business". Staying there a couple of days longer is not a problem.

Flight to Paris..................$ 300,000.00
Trip to Euro Disney........$ 5,000.00
Hotel room......................$ 8,000.00
Food................................$ 4,500.00

Fooling the amercian dum down population PRICELESS.

And I quote – "Now we can't take our Corporate Jets and Just go to Vegas for the Weekend" well, well, well, double standard much? What a capital JERK Teleprompter reading Elitist!!!!

Have a wonderful time, Mr. President! You and your family deserve some pleasure amid the daily pains of your fishbowl-life office.

@ S Callahan June 4th, 2009 4:27 pm ET

I try not to be too critical of our President..but it has disturbed me since yesterday that he accepted the 'huge GOLD necklace..or whatever one calls it'…somehow it just smacks hyprocrisy to all those who just lost their jobs, their homes, are being forced to apply for food stamps just to feed their people. Maybe it would have been best to not publicze it. Now, off to Paris..when alot of families can't get enough gas to make it to the next town. I understand the office holds it's own spoils…but come on'…have some grace to those suffering.

–How exactly is it hypocritcal for him to accept a gift? I don't get your point in all of this. People were suffering while Bush was in office. Did you complain about his trists to Crawford every weekend? I doubt it very seriously. Add to that, we're having financial issues now because of what Bush did. Lay the blame of your issues where they really belong.

Maybe he is going to France to pick up some tips on socialism and to see what an awful country we can become? Whats their unemployment and tax rates lately?

PONTUS & FLOTUS,
Enjoy the weekend in Paris!

Hoping to visit this summer myself!

Obama is living high off our money. At least Bush worked on issues when he was in Texas. Obama thinks nothing of using three planes for a night out on NYC. Wonder how big his carbon footprint was for that little joy ride.

I am so sick of this Celebrity President I could Vomit! He has spent more in 6 months than in 30 years combined and the first board is bashing Sarah Palin? She is the GOVERNOR of ALASKA u morons – The Annoited One is only a Community Organizer Windbag!!!

Seriously? Republicans whining about OBAMA wasting their money? Did you not notice the last 8 years? It will take well over 50 to 100 years to recover from what Bush did to your country in 8 years, so shut up now!!!

Obama: "We all must make sacrifices....err....YOU all must make sacrifices for the betterment of our country and future......"

wanna bet that Disneyland Paris will be on the agenda?

Cant wait to pay for that!!

The Obama's are using their money!!!!! (sigh..republicans are one of the most uneducated critters)

It is clear from the comments that the Republicans are very uneducated and fully dependent on the government. Get out of your sorry butt and get to work. Probably next year you might afford a trip to Paris.

President Obama, enjoy your trip to Paris as long as you don't spend $400,000 of tax payers money on some stupid China that Laura Bush bought in January 09.

I guess spending OUR money for a date the other night was not enough. And you morans that support this president should be the ones footing the $81,000 bill. But NO we all have to pay for this!!!

Obama STAY out of our country – you want to control the world – move to another part of our world!!! Spend another country's money not ours!!!

There is absolutely nothing wrong with the President and the First Family doing this. Both the President and the First Lady had legitimate reasons to be in Paris anyways for the Anniversary of D-Day. They are both scheduled to speak and if they want to bring their daughters along (something the Bush's did with Jenna and Barbara, something the Clinton's did with Chelsea and something the Carter's did with Amy) then there is absolutely nothing wrong with that. They're entitled to do that.

Republicans, you need to stop whining and get over it.

god bless the first family.

@ Dallas Independent – thank goodness

If the First Family is getting under your skin so bad, stop being such a butt about it and move to Cuba. Get over it because they will be there for another 7 years and 8 months.

Also please note that they are not the first First Family to travel. It is part of who they are and what they do. They are the First Family of our country and they represent all American families.

@ Cami (who is really pschitzo "Mari") writes,

"No, Viva a man who doesn't forget that he is also still a husband and a father. VIVA FAMILY VALUES!!!"

____________________

Yes – what a great example by the President of the UNITED STATES. In such difficult economic times for the US – to be going on vacation to FRANCE.

Unnecessarily wasting tax-dollars .. and doing so in France. Next we'll here that he, being the effective Chairman of GM, just bought a brand new Mercedez.

Do any of those with negative comments have any evidence to back up their idiotic remarks? Obviously we pay for the President's trip as he went to the middle east as our representative. The First Lady will be at Normandy representing our country.
Any costs beyond that are reimbursed from PERSONAL funds. So the Obama's will pay the cost for their daughters and the "date" was only partial funded by tax dollars. The Obama's have a right to some form of a normal life considering the responsibilities that they BOTH carry.
Those of you who can't handle this need to move to Alaska with your ridiculous friend sarah palin.

What's with the Obamas' affinity to France? They've been there multiple times in just a few months. Aren't there other countries that have a higher priority right now?

Enjoy!! you deserve it!

And thank you for representing the American family.
May God bless you.

the right-wing blind frothing hate that is in these comments is very disturbing. how do you people look yourself in the mirror?

Do you all realize that the only reason we know about every single move the Obama's make is because of the 24/7 news cycle and the fact that the media loves them.

President Bush traveled so much more (taking vacations) then President Obama, it just ridiculus to be complaining about this.

Please quit trying to apply the BAU, lousy DOUBLE STANDARD to THIS First Family. You wonder why Black folks see racism in everything? Well, here's a perfect example. And don't tell me it's really because of the economy. Not after Bush spent money on the Iraq war like a drunken sailor for the past 8 years. (With no consequences at all, I might add.)

Frankly, as much as I like the President, I wish the media would report on him a little less. That way, we wouldn't know everytime he coughs, sneezes, laughs or smiles... I mean, I knew there was going to be the FISH BOWL affect for DAMN....

This is to funny, as many vacations George Bush took as president they are complaining about the Obama's meeting up in France.

People are so bitter (yes I said bitter) about their lives they will find anything to complain about, lol

LacrosseMom, Reality King

Not sure how your remarks are even relevant. CNN and MSNBC have continued to deliver their own slant in favor of Democrats. This is a fact that I cannot even deny. MSNBC so much so that I'd swear they were sleeping with the Persident's relatives or something. I can barely bring myself to watch NBC in any form anymore.

I often find information on Fox that I have to really dig for on CNN. Sure the information is usually not so kind to Democrats, but I'd rather make an informed opinion, than just a biased one. At least I can be honest about it.

The GOP may use "family values" as their justification for bigotry (aka gay marriage) but the Democrats know how to live it. When did Bush ever show this kind of affection for his family? It's amazing how the GOP kids get pregnant out of marriage, get busted for underage drinking, etc... and the Dem kids are focused on education and service to community. It's a sham that the GOP thinks they have the moral authority in this country and another reason why they can never control again.

@ Paul from Pheonix

Uhhhh . . . I consider myself a feminist and there is absolutely nothing wrong with what he said. Please stop the ignorant comments . . . please.

Hopefully the Republicans will get an uler because of this!!

Say family values.....Yes!

I try not to be too critical of our President..but it has disturbed me since yesterday that he accepted the 'huge GOLD necklace..or whatever one calls it'...somehow it just smacks hyprocrisy to all those who just lost their jobs, their homes, are being forced to apply for food stamps just to feed their people. Maybe it would have been best to not publicze it. Now, off to Paris..when alot of families can't get enough gas to make it to the next town. I understand the office holds it's own spoils...but come on'...have some grace to those suffering.

He used to be proud of his Christian faith, as a regular church-goer, caring for the suffering of American people, right now.

Maybe the French will throw french fries at him when he says something stupid like blame America for the liberations of France

Never any complaints from the Rethugs about how much money Bush wasted traveling on his "vacations" while he was in office. Obama gets slammed for going to NYC to see a play. Wow, such hypocrites. At least when Obama and his family travel, he gets diplomacy accomplished at the same time. Too bad he angers the haters out there because he has so much charm and presence wherever he goes. He knows how to speak to a crowd, that's for sure. We should be very proud of him and Michelle, indeed.

Lebanon, will be Poland this time around. But instead of five years: You will have 25yrs.

CNN lost the the Battle, America lost it's Country.....

I believe the taxes me and a few of my friends will pay over our lifetimes can cover the vacation portion of this trip. Consider it gladly paid for. He's the President. Michelle is First Lady. Live with it.

More money wasted....are we surprised???

Like Pelosi said, every expense at taxpayers' money must be opened to public. Let's do it for all current and former presidents. Let's compare who spend the most for vacation!!

at least the day of "FREEDOM FRIES" is long gone...boy was THAT a joke!

You stupid morons that's critizing the President and the first family need to shut the hell up!!. All first familes travel around the country, you didn't seem to complain when the clintons took chelsea with them around the world, and I'm not bashing the clintons, it's just the President can't do one darn thing without you idiots complaining.

ENJOY MR PRESIDENT AND FIRST FAMILY YOUR PARIS VACATION!!

And keep him away from D DAY before he says were sorry for killing so many germans.

Mr. spend this ,and spend that. WAKE UP people he is going to drive your country to the poor house. But I guess the joke is on me to I voted for him. I WILL NEVER MAKE THAT MISTAKE AGAIN.

Wait just a cotton pickin minute here...as part owner of GM and other bailed out taxpayer funded expenditures, I demand to get to go on a vacation to Paris. I want to travel with my children and mother and fly upon a private jet and stay in the best accomendations. We all know that isn't likely to happen.

Just for the record, I am not a dem nor a repub so I am not not whining. I am simply a middle of the road taxpayer who is sick to death of hearing about all the luxuries the Obamas are indulging in. He was the one who said and I quote..."We ALL must make sacrificies....somehow having Earth Wind and Fire come and perform for you and spend thousands to see a play and have dinner and to fly to Paris for a few days. (why didn't Michelle go with him now to save on the extra plane)? I say practice what you preach!!!!

Another opportunity to pounce on President Obama CNN; you're starting to resemble FOX.

@ Jon in CA who said:

Valentines Dinner in Chicago…

Dinner and Play in NYC….

Family trip to Paris…..

Gee, glad the American taxpayer can fund their glamorous lifestyle. It's not like we're having any financial problems or anything in this country.

VIVA LA SOCIALISM!!

No, Viva a man who doesn't forget that he is also still a husband and a father. VIVA FAMILY VALUES!!!

This is too much for the Republicans to handle....ha ha ha!!!

@ "Reality King" whatever....... So true! CNN, please be careful ....... we do not want to have to switch to MSNBC.

ONE Faux News station is enough!

Michelle and daughters Malia and Sasha on a private sightseeing tour in France for a few day is an expense private and payable by the Obamas" ......Watch America you cannot support freeloaders even if it is the first family......."""""""'===========

Jon in CA June 4th, 2009 3:59 pm ET

Valentines Dinner in Chicago…
Dinner and Play in NYC….
Family trip to Paris…..
Gee, glad the American taxpayer can fund their glamorous lifestyle. It's not like we're having any financial problems or anything in this country.
VIVA LA SOCIALISM!!

You're right Jon, only white presidents get to spend extravagently like Nancy's $200,000 -in 1981 dollars- china set. You puh-poo Obama for giving the Queen an iPod, saying its not grand enough, and then turn around and say this.

You know what, Jon in CA? Do us all a favor. Unscrew your head, and in its place please install a 13" television that only receives Fox News. It would be an improvement.

I'm happy for the girls and Michelle is an excellent ambassador for our country.

For those of you who are going to complain about the cost of flying them over there, G.W. Bush read 186 books in his last 3 years in office. That equates to a minimum of 1 book a week! I'm going to go out on a limb and say that I doubt he is a speed reader. So, between the 77 trips to his ranch (not counting the additional trips to Camp David and Kennebunkport) to clear brush, and the many hours spent reading, just remember that we were paying him while he was doing these things instead of working for us.

I wonder what any of my bosses would have said if I had brought a book to read while at work. I doubt I would have been collecting a paycheck at the end of the week.

I've no problem with providing for the safety of our President and his family. This goes for any of our past presidents, as long as they don't abuse the privilege. However, perhaps spending "OUR" money in the United States would be more prudent in these economic times?

Have a safe trip.

Let me check if I have this correct – the Republicans think it is ok to spend taxpayer money for Bush to take more vacations than any other President to clear brush at the ranch he no longer lives at in Texas, but it is not appropriate for Obama to take his wife on a date or his children on a nice vacation.

I'll stick with President Obama's values.

Anyone notice that the price of crude oil has now about doubled since Obama took office. No wonder his speech is receiving a positive reaction in the Arab world.

The right wing nut jobs are so jealous of the Obama's, they can't stand it. Have a wonderful vacation Obamas.

Nice. Wish I could afford to go to Paris, well its on my things to do before I die list lol.

Wow. We are having an economic breakdown and you have the nerve to fly to Paris France for 1 public event and then sightseeing "for a few days" at the taxpayer's expense? I cannot even afford to take a vacation to the next town over because of the economy. Please tell me why on God's green earth does the First Family get to travel and I get to help foot the bill? I voted for this man because I honestly believed he cared about the economic state of our nation and would lead by example. Yea Right!!

Hmmm...

i 'really' expected more of CNN. The fact the article never mentions that the President of the United States will be speaking at ceremonies comemorating WWII events is troubling as it seems you purposely lead people to believe he is stopping in France to shop and eat.

C'mon CNN. we REALLY DON'T need another Fox.

Valentines Dinner in Chicago...

Dinner and Play in NYC....

Family trip to Paris.....

Gee, glad the American taxpayer can fund their glamorous lifestyle. It's not like we're having any financial problems or anything in this country.

VIVA LA SOCIALISM!!

Private sounds good to me. Personally, I don't care what they do in Paris.

Enjoy the rest of your vacation, Mr. President.

This is wonderful–I hope they have a blast! CNN, why did you not give us the opportunity to comment on the Sarah Palin article? If you had, I would have commented that she still cannot put a coherent sentence together.

Oh brother, more taxpayers' money at work. This family is really getting under my skin! With people out of jobs, and pending increases in taxes for us lurking in the near future to pay back this man's big spending ideas, this family takes a Parisian vacation! Wouldn't we all like one?

That is awesome! They will have such a great time there, and the fact that the first lady is doing work while there is so good for our country. She is like a rocl star and loved so much, I am so proud of her...

"I reject the view of some in the West that a woman who chooses to cover her hair is somehow less equal, but I do believe that a woman who is denied an education is denied equality," President Obama said.

Um, all you liberal feminists out there...did you miss this quote? If a GOP member had said this, NOW would have gone berzerk, calling it insensitive and saying that many women in the Middle East do not "choose" to cover their hair, they do so out of fear of stoning.

I don't even know what to say about this comment, and every woman in America should demand to know if this comment means that Obama will be using woman's rights as political chips to be traded for any agreement reached.

As wonderful as this may seem, there will be someone out there griping about it.

Oh boy........ more fodder for the GOP's criticism of the First Family!!
I hope Mrs. Obama and her lovely girls will have a wonderful time! God bless you!

And to all the GOPers who will start posting critical comments I say.......

George W. Bush traveled 77 times to his ranch in Crawford, Texas, each trip cost .......... $226,072. The total for the 77 trips:

$17, 407, 544 Million. All presidents and their families travel the world, its part of the "job" of representing the United States of America.

a beautiful family enjoying a beautiful city....doesn't get any better than that!!

God Bless President Obama, VP Biden, the First Families and "Bo"

Wonder how much this is going to cost the middle class taxpayers?

YES!!! Yess!!! Something else for the Republicans to whine about....I LOVE IT!!

I am glad that Michelle and the girls are going to visit my hometown.