UPDATE UPDATE: MSNBC is reporting that at the time that the Obama family was denied early access to the Blair House, there were no other scheduled guests after all. Although the justification for turning away the President-elect given by Laura Bush’s spokes was the existance of pre-existing claims to the residence that had been scheduled in 2008, in reality those plans were made after Obama’s request.
UPDATE: The Obama family had to move into a suite at a DC hotel near the White House so that Natasha and Malia could start school with the rest of their classmates. No Reds for Laura!
The Bush White House denied the Obama family’s request to move into the DC transitional presidential housing ten days before the traditional January 15 date. The Obamas hoped to move into the Blair House on the 5th so their daughters could start at their new school on the first day of the semester, along with the other children. Laura’s Bush’s spokeswoman would not reveal the types of guests expected during the first two weeks of 2009, but a White House official did divulge that the Blair House was booked solid for end-of-administration “receptions and gatherings”
How rude! What a bunch of useless aristocrats. I mean I know W. has a sketchy background and a reputation for douche-baggery here and abroad, but come on Laura, step up! Sure you sold your soul and all that, but I refuse to believe you are completely dead inside. I believe that somewhere in there you are happy we have a brilliant President-elect with a vibrant family and every-day concerns.
I am still afraid to assume this transformational transition of power will occur without a hitch, and it would be really nice if Laura, her spokeswoman and whatever staff that’s in charge of easing the new first family’s move into the presidential lodgings, acted with empathy and etiquette. Set a good example for all of those disgruntled McCain-Palin voters by showing class and welcoming Barack, Michelle and their children to our nation’s capital.Work it out, sister and I’ll Fed-Ex you a carton of Marlboro Reds.
I found your site on Google and read a few of your other entires. Nice Stuff. I’m looking forward to reading more from you.
sad sad sad–she raised children didn’t she? (kinda) couldn’t laura imagine being the new pres kid on the block??
I don’t think it has anything to do with being classless and everything to do with policy. If the house is already reserved, then Obama should be denied early access. I highly doubt it’s anything personal.