Soaring costs for inauguration could break the bank for D.C.
By Leah Fabel
Examiner Staff Writer 11/18/08
Emily J. Reynolds/For The Examiner
Soaring costs expected to accompany huge crowds in town for the Jan. 20 inauguration of Barack Obama could stick cash-strapped Washington, D.C., with a record-breaking bill for services.
Security and capacity measures recommended by the District’s congressional delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton and others will almost certainly surpass the $15 million the federal government gives to the District each year to defray the cost of events, Norton said.
In 2005, with an estimated 300,000 in attendance, the second inauguration of President Bush cost the city more than $17 million, some of which was reimbursed with federal funds. This year, officials estimate nearly five times that many people for the swearing in of President-elect Barack Obama.
Police Chief Cathy Lanier expects to use an additional 4,000 police officers from all over the country in addition to her 4,000-member force, she said earlier this month. The city’s inaugural budget allows for only 3,000 extra uniformed officers.
“There will be an additional amount necessary to handle the unprecedented crowds, and I am now working with my colleagues to deal with that amount,” Norton said, adding “it’s an outrage to have costs incurred for federal events.”
Norton recommended to the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies the opening of private sites off the Mall, such as the Verizon Center and Nationals Park, to accommodate visitors without a ticket to the official events.
“There will not be even standing-room-only space on the Mall,” she said. “We have to throw away the old book on organizing the inauguration.”
Use of the Chinatown’s 23,000-seat Verizon Center could cost hundreds of thousands of dollars, according to Tasha Rios, a contracts manager for Plano, Texas-based Women of Faith. Rios’ group used the facility in July for a more than 12,000-person conference.
Basic rent, she said, cost her organization about $200,000. But it varies by group size, she said, and does not include expenses for staff, security, medical services, insurance and add-ons like the use of giant display-screens that would be needed in the event of an inaugural broadcast.
Verizon Center has blocked off Jan. 18-21 for “inauguration-related activities,” said spokeswoman Sheila Francis. She declined to offer details.
Northeast’s 45,000-seat RFK Stadium and the 10,000-capacity D.C. Armory have discussed a variety of events “mostly with third-party organizations,” said spokeswoman Teri Washington. In the past, the venue has hosted inaugural balls.
A spokeswoman for Nationals Park said no calls have yet come in requesting use of the stadium.
640 Comments
Reader Comments:
POSTED Nov 18, 2008
JAMES: "The Obama campaign raised millions and millions of dollars in excess of what was needed. The paid off Hilary's campaign debt, the bulk of which went right into her pocket; Obama, take the remaining millions and pay for the verizon center, DC armory, RFK and any other large space that is needed to watch the inaugural activities. After all WE DID IT!"POSTED Nov 18, 2008
JAMES: "The Obama campaign raised millions and millions of dollars in excess of what was needed. The paid off Hilary's campaign debt, the bulk of which went right into her pocket; Obama, take the remaining millions and pay for the verizon center, DC armory, RFK and any other large space that is needed to watch the inaugural activities. After all WE DID IT!"POSTED Nov 18, 2008
Concerned Citizen: "I agree with James. Headline on first page reads:"Inauguration budget buster, City struggles to pay for Obama's big day". On page 5, a headline reads:"Obama's tout their enthusiasm for involvement in D.C. area". If the last headline is accurate, then I believe as a tax payer that some of the greater than half Billion dollars that was raised for Obama's campaign should be sent to DC to pay for this event. Because of the current financial situation in the USA, I am even inclined to ask the executives (who got the big golden parachute rewards) of all the financial organizations that bombed and who are getting the "bailouts" to chip in - they can afford it. The other alternative is to downsize the celebration."POSTED Nov 18, 2008
Leni: "So, if this is the kind of impact the Obama's are going to have on DC, we are in for a lot of trouble. [“Both Barack and I believe that we can have an impact in the D.C. area, you know, in terms of making sure we’re contributing to the community that we immediately live in,” Michelle Obama, sitting next to President-elect Barack Obama, told “60 Minutes” interviewer Steve Kroft Sunday.]How about "contributing" to DC some of the campaign money that poured in... And while I have your attention...anyone explain why there hasn't been a funeral for Obama's grandmother..or did they have one and he just didn't go?"POSTED Nov 18, 2008
Leni: "So, if this is the kind of impact the Obama's are going to have on DC, we are in for a lot of trouble. [“Both Barack and I believe that we can have an impact in the D.C. area, you know, in terms of making sure we’re contributing to the community that we immediately live in,” Michelle Obama, sitting next to President-elect Barack Obama, told “60 Minutes” interviewer Steve Kroft Sunday.]How about "contributing" to DC some of the campaign money that poured in... And while I have your attention...anyone explain why there hasn't been a funeral for Obama's grandmother..or did they have one and he just didn't go?"POSTED Nov 18, 2008
LadyM: "Apparently spreading the wealth around is meant for all of us and not the Obama's. With their millions in excess after the election why not spread some of that around DC to help pay for his party. Oh wait, I remember, "Change", which is all the rest of us will have left after we have to pay for his inaugaration party. Wow, thanks Mr Obama, you're already making a big difference in DC!"POSTED Nov 18, 2008
Mc Cain: "Obama be as generous to the taxpayers as we are to bailing out the economy You speak of distribution of wealth? How about your campaign paying any additional charges over th alloted amount? Show us your really the Obama that was on the ads"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
steve: "2010 is going to be a banner year for the republicans"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
steve: "2010 is going to be a banner year for the republicans"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
sandalwood: "Isn't D.C. still over 90% black? Didn't they put Obama in the White House? Let them pay for it."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Gigi: "Why not give some of the remaining campaign money for the Inaugural and then if not enough, have people donate (especially Hollywood). The taxpayers can no longer afford this spending for pomp and circumstance."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
farker: "A prelude to what the inauguration of Obama will do to the entire country."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
TKSteve: "Now THAT's change I can believe in!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Jeremy: "You'd think that DC would be happy to have all these tourists visiting, spending money in DC. How many hotels are full to bursting already for that week? What are the tax revenues like?"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
william: "fiddle away Nero, Rome is on fire...."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
satchel: "It is illeagal for campaign contributions to be used for anything other than the election."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
satchel: "It is illeagal for campaign contributions to be used for anything other than the election."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
PaulKirk: "There will be no need for money any more as Nero will soon be here to collect all he can, and give it to the people, after taking his cut. DC will become a beautiful city. Think of how much money that will take from communities across the country where people work for a living. Hail Nero!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
MO Voter: "In these hard economic times Obama should lead by example and be sworn in at a private ceremony with one cameraperson to record the event, and only immediate family in attendance. Spending many millions of OTHER PEOPLES MONEY for extravagant parties is wasteful and sets a very bad example. It's something an overpaid head of a failing corporation would do."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
CHAICH: "just print more money..."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
: "Sounds like a lot of tax money will come in too. A lot of Metro sales, taxes on food, hotels, taxis, general merchandise. DC will be fine. Stop begging for money"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Gonzo: "for the slightly over half of the country that voted for this man...be careful what you ask for...you just might get it"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Gonzo: "for the slightly over half of the country that voted for this man...be careful what you ask for...you just might get it"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Geno: "Change? Yeah right- more government hypocrisy. Here's one they won't have to worry about accommodating...I'll be working that day so I can pay more taxes to this giveaway government."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Mark: "Maybe there is a lesson in this, and the financial crisis going on, that we can't keep spending money we don't have. As obvious as the noses on our faces, yet we continue to talk of spending an additional trillion dolars next year. One million seconds=32 days; One billion seconds=32 years; One trillion seconds=32,000 years...think about it."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
10% sales tax: "Sounds like a lot of tax money will come in too. A lot of Metro sales, taxes on food, hotels, taxis, general merchandise. DC will be fine. Stop begging for money"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
10% sales tax: "Sounds like a lot of tax money will come in too. A lot of Metro sales, taxes on food, hotels, taxis, general merchandise. DC will be fine. Stop begging for money"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Char: "Obama, Pay it out of your millions of funds, especially the donations that came over the internet with no trace of where they came from. Ask your friends from "over the pond" to help out. Go spread the wealth around a bit."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Kevin in Chicago: "Let Obama's illegal, untraceable foreign campaign contributions pay for it."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Dan: "Whine, whine! DC collects all the hotel tax, parking tax, sales tax, wage tax for increased work forces, etc., etc. How can any enterprise claim its going to endure hardship from a large influx of customers. DC just has its hand out! Quit it, just quit it. We can no longer be foolish and accept these outrageous claims from gov. officials attempting to extort more and more money."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Linda: "Let Obama pay for his own affair. After all, he has millions left over from his campaign."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
americanpatriot: "After the expenses of Obama's Inaugural, if he is found to be one of the following: 1. An illegal Alien 2. A Kenyan 3. An Indonesian 4. A naturalized citizen Who will be paying for the Inaugural when he is deported?"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Hmmm?: "So, won't those 1.5 million people bring $$ into DC to help defray the costs of hosting them? Food, hotels, retails etc. will be booming."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
JJ Jones: "Well Obambi is certainly delivering on his promises. Things are CHANGING."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Robert: "Record crowds also mean record tax receipts from visitors who will be paying the Districts outrageous sales tax rates. I think the Federal Government should pay the entire bill... so long as it gets to keep any uptick in sales tax the district earns during that period. I suspect the mayor will say, never mind..."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
RobertKelly: "The best and least expensive thing to do would be to just arrest everybody as they arrive, and put them in tent cities with PA systems, and charge them $500 for room and board and three baloney sandwiches each. If they're so stupid to come to such a foolish event, celebrating the economic destruction of the country, then they don't deserve any better."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Taxpayer: "Raise my taxes to pay for the event, after all we the people are servants of politicians. I don't need the money so let us all be good little servants and pay homage to king Obama."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Cajun: "DC should whole heartedly go full bore for the inaugaration of our first Kenyan president. Who knows what country the next one will come from."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
mustang.freddy: "“it’s an outrage to have costs incurred for federal events.” But I bet they won't pass on the financial rewards of having 4 million visitors."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
PHILLY JIM: "kind of ironic that is sounds like obama will be causing financial problems from day one.. by the way, obama's campaign actually had the nerve to send out e-mails asking people to buy $30 commemortative t-shirts to help pay for his election win. so maybe he can start a bake sale to pay for the inauguration costs."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
PHILLY JIM: "kind of ironic that is sounds like obama will be causing financial problems from day one.. by the way, obama's campaign actually had the nerve to send out e-mails asking people to buy $30 commemortative t-shirts to help pay for his election win. so maybe he can start a bake sale to pay for the inauguration costs."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
tadchem: "With the proliferation of terrorism and piracy in the world, and explicit threats from those who hate us, it does not seem like a good idea to put over a million citizens, including our most powerful political figures, into a single public place."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
tadchem: "With the proliferation of terrorism and piracy in the world, and explicit threats from those who hate us, it does not seem like a good idea to put over a million citizens, including our most powerful political figures, into a single public place."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Heather: "They did NOT pay off Hillarys debt. If Obama really cared about the state of our economy he would use some of that money he raised to pay for it"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
GRANT: "the obvious answer is corporate sponsorship. Philly got corporate sponsors to help defray the cost of the Phils victory parade. Since the news networks were in the bag for Obama the entire election, i suggest we have "The Obama inauguration, sponsored by CBS, ABC, NBC, MSNBC, and CNN"."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
GRANT: "the obvious answer is corporate sponsorship. Philly got corporate sponsors to help defray the cost of the Phils victory parade. Since the news networks were in the bag for Obama the entire election, i suggest we have "The Obama inauguration, sponsored by CBS, ABC, NBC, MSNBC, and CNN"."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Associated Press: "In a related story soaring promises by the Obama administration will bankrupt the country. Leading economist predict that citizen's who are provided all the essentials from the government will have no incentive to work."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Watcher: "His Royal Highness and Chief Bugle Player Obama, the Tall One, has never been shy about spending other people's money to puff up his ego. You ain't seen nuthin' yet."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Tim: "I think it will be on every TV station. Is this the 1950s? Are there not enough TVs out there? Why do they need to go to DC to watch it on a bigger TV. Oh I forgot, it's Obama."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Jack Smythe: "Over a billion dollars was raised and supposedly spent by the Obama campaign. How much money do we need to spend (waste) to get someone seated in the White House? The job only pays $400000 a year. And there are too many issues and people struggling to be wasting so much money on ceremonies."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Ruckus: "We are in a Financial crises and these Bozos want to spend upwards of 20 Million $ on an event. Oh Boy--this is really going to be a Frugal Administration"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
MishellO: "Typical rich socialist spreading our "wealth" but won't reach into his own pocket for his coronation. We warned you America, but the Main stream media wanted to make darn sure you didn't have all the facts."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Tom S: "So what? Whats the problem with having some fun before we give our money to the Big Three and Wall Street? Only losers pay for things themselves. And DC is the opposite of a loser city. Childish? Certainly. A loser? Never, baby! Besides "The Velvet O" (or "Jughead" as he is known among men) can just make it right somehow. He can talk us into wealth, just like he can talk us out of it. Right? Did I mention he is smart? I mean reeeeaaaally smart. I always have to emphasis that for the non-believers."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Paul: "D.C. should just apply to federal government for a bail out...."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Mike from Saline: "Obama is already started bankrupting this nation. What do you expect from the megalomaniac with a messiah complex?"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
chbeyer: "I am so overwhelmed with HOPE and prospect for CHANGE that I will send a donation to the Obama Coronation. I have an old monopoly set and will send all the proceeds direct to the lovely couple."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
funny days: "You're taking out your anger on Obama, when the inauguration process is normal. Did Bush scale back his inauguration for DC's sake? And, its funny that they say 'its an outrage to pay for federal events' - in DC, home of the federal government! why do they exist?"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Darryl: "Wow, this is just a symbol of what Obama will end up doing to the country."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
John: "I seem to remember calls, from the media and Democrats, for Bush to scale down his inauguration in 2004 because of the war etc. No would be a good time to put their money where there mouth is. This is obscene in the current economic climate."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
John: "I seem to remember calls, from the media and Democrats, for Bush to scale down his inauguration in 2004 because of the war etc. No would be a good time to put their money where there mouth is. This is obscene in the current economic climate."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Boogie Man: "It would be illegal for them to spend donations on the this. It isn't Obama's fault so many people want to see him take the oath. It would be along the lines of a VP nominee spending money on clothes. If that happened that would cause an uproar...oops I mean err look its a terrorist!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Bob: "More deficit spending. Get use to it for next 4-8 years if America lasts that long."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
TomOhio: "Just give the bill to George Soros, after all he bought the president-elect, now he can pay for the party"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
TeeKay: "So why can't the Obama-Biden team come off some of the millions they raised during the campaign to offset the cost. You know, kind of spread the wealth around..."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Sam: "Since Obama and the Democrat Congress will continue bankrupting the country why not start his term(s)with bankrupting Washington, D.C.? We can count on Congress bailing out D.C. with (for now) unlimited taxpayer debt."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
G L: ""Through him, with him, in him...In the unity of a partisan government, all the taxpayer's money is yours almighty OBAMA forever and ever" Sorry, I thought that was the new pledge of allegiance. Honestly is anyone surprised. We all need bumper stickers that read, "Don't blame me, I voted Republican!""POSTED Nov 19, 2008
G L: ""Through him, with him, in him...In the unity of a partisan government, all the taxpayer's money is yours almighty OBAMA forever and ever" Sorry, I thought that was the new pledge of allegiance. Honestly is anyone surprised. We all need bumper stickers that read, "Don't blame me, I voted Republican!""POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Sam: "Since Obama and the Democrat Congress will continue bankrupting the country why not start his term(s)with bankrupting Washington, D.C.? We can count on Congress bailing out D.C. with (for now) unlimited taxpayer debt."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Jill C Johns: "Make the inaugural event a private, smaller event. With the financial problems of this country, people losing their homes, hungry and cold, why spend so much money? Totally un-necsssary. Get real, the time for spending big bucks for fun, especially because this is all taxpayer money should be over."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Jill C Johns: "Make the inaugural event a private, smaller event. With the financial problems of this country, people losing their homes, hungry and cold, why spend so much money? Totally un-necsssary. Get real, the time for spending big bucks for fun, especially because this is all taxpayer money should be over."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Fred: "Go ahead and bankrupt DC. Let the greed driven, self important politicians feel the same pain that they have forced upon the people with their ludicrous taxation. How many of you fools REALLY think Obama is going to foot the bill for his own coronation? How many morons think he actually gives half a rip about us anymore? He got what he wanted and, like any other bureaucrat regardless of party, he will forget about the people and pay attention to the money and the shysters on the hill. Suckers!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
scumbag: "I love it, you moron Democrats bought into this guys garbage, now you're going to bankrupt a town for him...and he is going to allow that. He raised the most money ever from you a**holes, how about he put some of that money towards footing the bill for his Big day. He won't you know why, he doesnt really give a s**t about D.C, America or the people. Yeah we're really going to unite around this moron, he's not in office yet and this country hasn't been more divided since the 50's and 60's."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Fred: "Go ahead and bankrupt DC. Let the greed driven, self important politicians feel the same pain that they have forced upon the people with their ludicrous taxation. How many of you fools REALLY think Obama is going to foot the bill for his own coronation? How many morons think he actually gives half a rip about us anymore? He got what he wanted and, like any other bureaucrat regardless of party, he will forget about the people and pay attention to the money and the shysters on the hill. Suckers!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Bill: "Won't DC make it up in revenue, they tax everything, 10% restaurant tax alone should cover the bill."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Bill: "Won't DC make it up in revenue, they tax everything, 10% restaurant tax alone should cover the bill."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
SHW: "Sticking it to the middle class already"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Really?: "Everything Obama does gets blown out of proportion... You guys are pathetic! This is only a "prediction" and a lame one at that. We'll see what happens on inauguration day and if you have the courage to write about how DC survived and how WRONG you were. If you hate the guy... say so!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
itsallobamasfault: "Don't worry. Obama will waive his magic wand and fix it all. He'll just tax the rich more.....that is those that haven't already planned to leave the country. Hey Obama!...what are you going to do to explain the increased rate of businesses leaving the USA and taking their jobs with them? Who's gonna pay the tab that they would have? Are you gonna use Monopoly money?"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
TeeKay: "So why can't the Obama-Biden team come off some of the millions they raised during the campaign to offset the cost. You know, kind of spread the wealth around..."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
TeeKay: "So why can't the Obama-Biden team come off some of the millions they raised during the campaign to offset the cost. You know, kind of spread the wealth around..."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
jimmy: "I will do my part by not coming. Or watching. Or caring."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Wow: "I can't believe how stupid some of you are; Firstly, blacks did not 'get' Obama the white house. Only 23%! of Obama's votes were attributed to blacks. You do realize that blacks represent only ~13% of the U.S. population, right? And as for this being Obama's affair, this is an American event, or is it that you are not American? For 8 years we have endured callow and offensive suggestions that anyone who dared criticize the Bush administration was anti-american, well I issue the same charge to you. You are unamerican! The people that will flood the streets of D.C. will do so because of love of country. If it were McCain with the same 'problem', I am sure the outrage would be a lot quieter. Do yourselves a favor, and shut the hell up for the next 8 years. Figure out how to repair the Republican party which you have destroyed with the sheer willful ignorance that is on display in this very comment section."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
: "George soros,msnbc and cnn, campaigned for him, they bought the election, let them pay for it."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Corey: "This 15 million is just a "drop in the bucket" as the Obamessiah says."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Dara: "Sounds like a bunch of anti-Obama whining and complaining. What would you be saying if the headlines read the same way but for McCain. If you say your comments would be the same you are liars."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
tothestars2: "Yeah Obama, share that wealth!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Nobamalover: "Didn't George Bush scale back his second inauguration because he thought it wasn't appropriate to have a big one while the country was at war? Now we have a war and a financial crisis and our President-elect wants to waste all this money just to feed his ego. This man has no class!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Nobamalover: "Didn't George Bush scale back his second inauguration because he thought it wasn't appropriate to have a big one while the country was at war? Now we have a war and a financial crisis and our President-elect wants to waste all this money just to feed his ego. This man has no class!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
dcnewbie: ""Soaring costs for inauguration could break the bank for D.C." I'm sure the Dems will make all of us pay for that too. If D.C. officials were worried about paying for it, then they wouldn't forge ahead with the grand plans."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Angie: "Wow! What a start to what's to come in the future months. Obama needs to stop this rediculous spending on things not NEEDED. Now those folks who voted for him are MAYBE starting to get a taste of what we who voted for McCain already knew."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
: "So many haters just get over it and let this man have his day. I didn't realize how sick in the head some people are because the country has been blessed with a Highly Intelligent Black man and now the Most powerful man in the world. He deserve a chance just like the Republican had for the last eight (8)years who clearly has screwed up this country. Get over it people and embrace because he is our President!!!!!!!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
maroo: "ha ha. Don't worry about it. You'll get a "bailout" (wink wink) [that means everybody will be paid off. okay, not everybody. democrats will be paid off.]"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
steve: "for you obama supportors- since the dimwits control confress u know the democrats i'm sure reid & pelosi will ask for funds from the phony $700 billion bailout $$ to fund your largets family reunion ever"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
sirius: "what a lovely thought."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
itsallobamasfault: "For Wow...who can't accept the racism of blacks in this election. Few can voice the truth and fewer accept it. Wow suggests that blacks didn't get Obama elected. When over 90% of blacks voted for Obama, that is simply racism. Yes. Blacks can be racist. Who says so? I do. Blacks scream and whimper over the slightest racist acts involving blacks as victims but don't have the dignity to be honest about black racism. Oh well...I guess that makes more us bad old white people racist eh? That's too bad."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
bunz: "Oh this is great! if anyone is going to the festivities...my cousins own the Irish Channel across the street from the Verizon Center! It's fabulous!!! all should go."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
bunz: "Oh this is great! if anyone is going to the festivities...my cousins own the Irish Channel across the street from the Verizon Center! It's fabulous!!! all should go."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Obama Should Pay?: "because of his poularity he should fit the bill? Are you crazy? How about this? Say the DC bean counters limit who and what goes on that day. Learn to live within your budget like we must do. Or perhaps they are just planning on being next in line for a government handout! Welcome to the future."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
sirius: "what a lovely thought."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
none: "I believe the collateral benefit that DC receives for every other political event occurring in DC far outweighs this cost. If DC doesn't want this, I'm sure any other city would be happy to accommodate the event; Considering the byproducts in business (eg hotels, shopping, taxes ....). DC needs to wake up to how to run a business, it isn't this event that is breaking the bank - it is their mismanagement."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Anonymous Person: "Obama should pay for the event himself then. If the crowd is expected to be historic, then take historic measures and have someone else defray those costs, not the taxpayers of DC. Taxpayers are already getting the shaft and bailing ridiculous things out, like AIG and their swanky parties. lets not have tax payers pay for an Obama swanky party either. Enough."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Anonymous Person: "Obama should pay for the event himself then. If the crowd is expected to be historic, then take historic measures and have someone else defray those costs, not the taxpayers of DC. Taxpayers are already getting the shaft and bailing ridiculous things out, like AIG and their swanky parties. lets not have tax payers pay for an Obama swanky party either. Enough."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Taxpayer: "In response to tadchem: "With the proliferation of terrorism and piracy in the world, and explicit threats from those who hate us, it does not seem like a good idea to put over a million citizens, including our most powerful political figures, into a single public place." These are all the people that will destroy our country, constitution and take away our rights (Obama supporters). Obama is against defeating terrorism so let him have his way. I don't think there will be a terrorist attack becuase they don't attack their supporters."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Dismayed: "Let the populace of DC, which benefits daily by the Federal presence, eat the costs. Their inefficient, corrupt government has given us a capitol city that is an embarrassment as compared to other major capitols. No sympathy here. Cut the bloated, overpaid and lazy workforce and you'll find the money."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Dismayed: "Let the populace of DC, which benefits daily by the Federal presence, eat the costs. Their inefficient, corrupt government has given us a capitol city that is an embarrassment as compared to other major capitols. No sympathy here. Cut the bloated, overpaid and lazy workforce and you'll find the money."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
ddlbb: "he's going to bankrupt the rest of the country. why not start it off right with washington d.c.? HOPE! CHANGE! YES WE CAN!!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Jimbo: ""Soaring costs for inauguration could break the bank for D.C." And in time...his policies will bankrupt the country. Somewhere...Karl Marx is smiling."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Jimbo: ""Soaring costs for inauguration could break the bank for D.C." And in time...his policies will bankrupt the country. Somewhere...Karl Marx is smiling."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
: "I'll do my part, by not watching,I'll give obama the same respect, coming together, let's all get along, just like they did for bush for 8 years, Mr bush you will be missed."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Awkins: "WTF? The money that D.C. has/had is from taxpayers. The Federal Government continues to take our money and asks us to sacrifice. Obama wants us to "spread the wealth around" and increase taxes. Well it's high time the Federal Government do with less, cut its costs, reduce the amount of wasteful bureaucracies and the worthless social programs and get out of the way of us hard working people so that we can live our dreams!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Yoicks: "Nobama, spare me some change. Wake up, America, this could be the start of something big -TAXES, TAXES, TAXES - TAXATION WITHOUT REPRESENTATION. Hope there's no rioting on Inauguration Day. Yuck!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Jack Sparrow, Aye: "Hey, no problem, the Messaih will simply waive his magic wand and the US taxpayer will cover it. Any chance that pig George Soros will kick in?"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Wow: "The stupid here is palpable (<---big elitist word I learned in public school). Please stop talking about how Obama must use the campaign funds to pay for this event. ITS ILLEGAL! Only your guy has the temerity to break campaign finance reform he created. Moreover, I wish you nation-traitors would just move out of the country. The people voted. Love em or hate em, he is your President, you should give him the same respect you gave Bush."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
roleki: "Oh, that socialist pig! How dare his inauguration cost the same as GW Bush's! Er, wait, what?"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Editor: "Wow, Wow -- it sounds like you are determined to keep those blinders firmly in place. All the morons who voted for Obama without knowing his stance on anything will soon be paying the price. Unfortunately, so will the rest of us who didn't treat the election like a beauty contest. Eight years? Please. In four years, we'll be sweeping this debacle under the rug."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Editor: "Wow, Wow -- it sounds like you are determined to keep those blinders firmly in place. All the morons who voted for Obama without knowing his stance on anything will soon be paying the price. Unfortunately, so will the rest of us who didn't treat the election like a beauty contest. Eight years? Please. In four years, we'll be sweeping this debacle under the rug."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
chic: "Yup - time for the obama's to walk the walk, and not just talk. They will NEVER use any of their own money for this. It will fall on those of us who have a job. As for us - 'Let them eat cake'!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
: "Well, that is great...Let's all party for killing babies, higher taxes, and oh I forgot...more bailouts!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
pomoc: "This is a Soros coranation he can take care of the bill this is chump change.Let's see now this will be the 4th or 5th country he has done this in right ,the US, Slovalia ,Greece,Mexico this is ongoing as we speak ,and of cource Hugo's play land .I wonder where his office will be in the White House, O ya the Oval office."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
miller: "the president-elect seems to forget that most of d.c. proper is inhabited by poor african-americans. if the district goes bankrupt funding the largest inaugural ever, aren't these people going to be most hurt by loss of critical funds for education, police, social services, health care for the poor? something to think about as he plans his moment, if he thinks about it at all."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Andrew Forest: "If Obama is "all about change", why doesn't he forget the WASTEFUL spending of TAXPAYER dollars on the event & have a simple ceremony. Maybe D.C. should "Bill" Obamas excessive money fund for the expenses ! ! What a "WASTE" of TAXPAYERS money ! ! ! When will it stop ?????"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
GG: "You're joking James? I received an email request for donations to the DNC, that they are broke and need a minimum contribution of $30 each person! The DNC will NEVER stop asking for our dollars!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Michael Hessler: "Charge all of them who want to be there more than enough Money to cover the costs and make a profit instead."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Michael Hessler: "Charge all of them who want to be there more than enough Money to cover the costs and make a profit instead."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Mr. Bubba Six Pack: "It is a good thing that so many people want to be involved in the inauguration. How to pay for the unprecedented participation is a good problem to have. Blaming Obama for the enthusiasm that surrounds his election to president is ridiculous."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Garland: "Radical Islam has accomplished a White House takeover. Send them the bill."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Schratboy: "How fitting! The "change agent," who apparently is delivering more of the same politics with all his insider choices for key positions, may as well bankrupt the City. After all, all his other programs are aligned to bankrupt the nation. On at least these things Obama is consistent."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Julia: "All I see here are a bunch of racists commenting. Get over your hate!!! Racism is fading fast, get used to it! Quit complaining about blacks, etc... America is only getting more diverse as time goes on. It's the future! Obama 08!!!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Wow: "Okay. About this spread the wealth around idea. You do realize taxes are a redistribution of wealth right? Did you send back your stimulus check? Will you send the next one back? This is why the republican party lost, because it relied of the lowest common denominator. It played on your fear, hate, and ignorance. How is requiring you to pay less taxes socialist? Real republicans sat out this go 'round, its time we rebuild our party back to its foundations. You idiots killed our party."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
McCain AKBAR!: "Obama will cover it with 85,000,000 "Yes We Cans""POSTED Nov 19, 2008
John Cesta: "Here we go again. Let's nationalize DC and give them a bailout. That's why BO is in charge."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
roberto: "ask fidel or hugo, they have this size of events on a weekly basis and they don't cost a dime"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Jack Sparrow Aye: "The kinda BIG SPENDERS be comin' to this shuck and jive show be the ones needin' 25 dolla, a GIQ, and a ride in the short bus to the polls. They be expectin' it all for FREE!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Janis: "Guess the Wall Street and bank CEO's aren't the only ones sucking up the taxpayer's dollars. And I sure as hell don't want to hear another word about the $$'s spent by AIG to have lush getaways after they got their "bailout" money!!!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
pucchi: "IF IT WAS BUSH IT WOULD BE OK, ANY COST."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
william sadler: "democrats have destroyed most major cities, philly, detroit, chicago, new orleans, so whats news about liberal democrats spending more of the peoples money, its just business as usual for democrats"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
daryl: "Let the leftist dimocrats pay for the anointing. They elected him, let them pay the freight for his "high maintainence soirees. If you can't afford him you shouldn't have brught him to D.C."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
CLYDEB1: "HE PROMISED "CHANGE". THIS IS WHAT HIS ECONOMIC PLAN WILL DO. SPARE NO EXPENSE FOR A PARTY."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Taxpayer: "We are "haters" because we disagree with a Socialist and socialism in America? As far as a Highly Intelligent Black man being elected I thought Obama was elected"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Are you a fool: "Dude putting a entire city into the negatives is not good thing. Yet he talks about making things more affordable"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Steve: "Can't we just include Washington DC in the bailout?"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
jimz: "Instead of the people making the trip to DC - why not just send them a text message with all the words said and let them pay the per character charges that way DC won't have to spend so much money"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Country 1st: "Obama will send over 85,000,000 "Yes We Cans" to cover that."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Let the Good Times Roll: "I, for one welcome our socialist overlords, and am preparing myself for assimilation. Resitance is futile."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Emarr: "I think that the more people there that can witness Obama swearing to uphold the Constitution, the better an argument to impeach him when he determines he needs to Change it. FBO."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
JP the real Va.: "So why doesn't Bam Bam pay for it with the 200 million he got from over seas the source of which he refuses to disclose? They haven't seen anything yet it takes a lot of money to support a Kingdom."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
JP the real Va.: "So why doesn't Bam Bam pay for it with the 200 million he got from over seas the source of which he refuses to disclose? They haven't seen anything yet it takes a lot of money to support a Kingdom."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Ed: "What is with all the racist comments here? It is a shame that the bigots have such a platform to spew their hate."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Richard: "Inaugural or Coronation?"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Richard: "Inaugural or Coronation?"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
: "The hotels and restaurants will make a lot of revenue from the event. Why must there always be negative comments about something as historical as this. Please stop."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Publius: "Why should Obama pay for an inaugeration when no other president has done so? Just because he'll draw historic crowds because of his historic candidacy is no reason to penalize him. It's interesting to see all these right wingers defending their almighty pocketbooks, but when they lose, they go straight for the guy who's got all the coin and demand that he pony up because he's blessed with good fortune...sounds like the right is more for redistribution of wealth than they let on..."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
: ""How is paying less TAX socialist" Believe THAT when you see it, moron. Messaih gonna do a magic trick, bail out the UAW, send billions to Africa, and lower taxes Hey, the RICH will pay, right???"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
: ""How is paying less TAX socialist" Believe THAT when you see it, moron. Messaih gonna do a magic trick, bail out the UAW, send billions to Africa, and lower taxes Hey, the RICH will pay, right???"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Spinach Tiger: "Is this really a good idea? Aside from the money, the security issues are profound, and the crowds could be a target. After all, didn't Biden predict another "test"?"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
chiefpayne: "GOOD! I consider this a precursor to what will be happening under Obama's leadership. Enjoy the whirlwind you who voted for a Socialist have wrought."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
chiefpayne: "GOOD! I consider this a precursor to what will be happening under Obama's leadership. Enjoy the whirlwind you who voted for a Socialist have wrought."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Middletown, NJ: "When Bon Jovi hosted an Obama fund raiser at his home a few months ago, the Obama campaign never reimbursed the town for the extra security and police escort. Why would I expect him to reimburse DC?"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Frank: "Sorry to the dope that says "get used to it he is our President". No he is not. He can be yours but this piece of trash will never be MY president. Nor will I ever refer to him that way. To me I will always address him as "Marx"."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
anti-fed: "Tadchem, I think you've got it! Carry on!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Kathy: "The hotels, restaurants, trains and planes will all make money from this event. Come on, why can't there be more positive comments then negative about such an historical event."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
ClydeB1: "CHANGE IS COMING this is his economic plan at work"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Deacon: "####### ####### Not to worry about costs if major news media report the truth about Obama not passing a constitutional rule: Obama is not a NATURAL BORN CITIZEN. If the truth is told, there'll be no party. ####### #######"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
disenchanted: "Instead of having a coronation, why doesn't obama take some, most or all of the money and give it to those that could use it. A ceremony yes, but is it necessary for him to have a "I love me" so he can see his subjects adoring him. (remember his aide said he was ready to rule). Put your money where your mouth is obama. Do something for the people. This is beyond disgusting. Show some class James. For the record, obama DID NOT pay off hillary's debts. He told her politely to stick it."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Hillman: "Um, the Inauguration is a celebration of American democracy, regardless of who is elected. It has always been, and should be, paid for from taxpayer funds. Anything overtly political (like a DNC party) should be paid for by those throwing the event. But city-wide security and anything relating to the ceremony itself is a public responsibility."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
: "OBAMA DOESN'T BELIEVE THIS EXTRAVACANT INauGRATION ISN'T IN POOR TASTE- CONSIDERING THE STATE OF THE ECOMOMY AND PEOPLE JOBLESS, SOME HOMELESS DUE TO FORCLOSURE??"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Jack Sparrow Aye: "Maybe the Clintons will kick in, after all they and their lackies seem to be the real big WINNERS in this deal."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Jack Sparrow Aye: "Maybe the Clintons will kick in, after all they and their lackies seem to be the real big WINNERS in this deal."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
turner: "You all really think that the expense won't be offset by the economic benefit to the area? What are we talking here $30 million or so? Hotels 150 miles from D.C. are already booked. Restaurants will be filled. THis will generate returns 10 fold."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Drudge sucks: "Hey Drudge - where in the article exactly does it say that the inauguration could "bankrupt" DC?"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Drudge sucks: "Hey Drudge - where in the article exactly does it say that the inauguration could "bankrupt" DC?"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
M!: "He's partying while the country goes under; this is the personification of immaturity!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Carol: "Need to live within our means. CUT IT BACK to BUDGET!!!!!!!!!!! Lead by example Mr President."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Carol: "Need to live within our means. CUT IT BACK to BUDGET!!!!!!!!!!! Lead by example Mr President."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Latina: "LOL! I guess he is the messiah after all."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Traci: "Goodness - if D.C. really wanted to raise the money - rather than whine about it. USE THE INTERNET! ASK everyone to donate $1. The amazing thing about the OBAMA campaign program, was his utilization of the internet. Good Lord! Do what he did. Set up a YES WE CAN - website --- ask for $1.00 donations. Call Will.i.am- have him make a video again asking the stars to download the video - for $1.00 donation. This should raise about $100 million. STOP WHINING -- this is a money maker for D.C."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Catherine Love: "OK President-elect Obama, 'put your money where your mouth' is and spread the wealth - YOURS!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Catherine Love: "OK President-elect Obama, 'put your money where your mouth' is and spread the wealth - YOURS!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
?: "No mention at all of what the city plans to take in during the event. I'm no Obama fan, but won't the city rake in millions on hotel tax, gas tax, etc.?"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Gary: "Why not have the Obama campaign reimburse them?!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Steveo: "HA HA HA HA HA! Now that's funny. Almost as funny as barry saying he was all for change and then went and hired all clinton people. So much for change. HA HA HA. let the good times begin."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
green: "There's going to be riots at this inauguration. I would be surprised if this doesnt' turn into a melee."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
antonio: "Just another stupid scare headline from the Obama-hater headline makers...why not look at the real corporate thieves in our midst, and let the country enjoy a great party for a great reason?"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Taxpayer: "Wow, we are giving Obama more respect then the liberal whack-o's have gave President Bush in the last eight years. The "nation traitors" voted for Obama becuase Obama does not support the Constitution. Why will he not provide proof he is eligible to be President of America? Is it because he has something to hide? Where is the change he promised to bring? Does this come from all the old and tired Clinton staff he is re-appointing to office? This is not change it is the same old socialist ideas. He believes socialism has not EVER worked because the right socialist has not been in charge. We will see in the next FOUR years how bad our country will be screwed up because of his "spread the wealth" philosophy and his betrayal of Israel and support of Islamic ideals. Be prepared to have Sharia law implemented in America. BTW they behead sodomites, they don't allow them to parade in the streets."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Sara: "To all of you haters out there, remember that this entire COUNTRY is has over $200 trillion dollars in the hole. Obama won this election fair and square so is he suppose to forget his inaguration? Sorry that Obama is more loved than John McCain. Do you hear any of the Hotels and restaurants complaining. They are going to get thousands of dollars come January."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Interesting: "First of all campaign funds by law can only be used for.....campaign. Secondly, the people of the United States of America choose Obama as our leader and should be able to celebrate as they see fit. Thirdly, there were some people of color that voted for Barack (just because he is African American). Let celebrate the historic event in our history without becoming so racially polarized."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Eric / Boston: "This titanic coronation could be the first and last hurrah for an administration that ushers in a new era of depression and socialism."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
lorraine: "you kool-aid drinkers voted for this flim flam obamaman. 'hope & change'? Oh sure! 52 million delusional voters were really suckered."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
blo: "If you think even one red cent of Obama campaign money will go to defray DC costs, you are truly out of your ever-loving mind, drunk on the kool-aid."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
blo: "If you think even one red cent of Obama campaign money will go to defray DC costs, you are truly out of your ever-loving mind, drunk on the kool-aid."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
James McDaniel: "Seems like an extreme waste of money. Just don't ask for some of the $770B taxpaper bucks if the party continues for days."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Don H.: "Hmmm... There were a million plus there on October 4, 1997 and no one was worrying about security... What is the difference?"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
ALPHABAMBI: "People have to be idiots to stand a mile away in freezing cold to see a president sworn into office. You'd think something important, like a Pink Floyd reunion, was taking place. Am I wrong?"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Dave-o: "CHANGE! It's all DC will have left when the Obamessiah is done with it."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
marc: "How about lets just grab a cheep conference room at the Holiday Inn, invite family members only and call it a day. cost $500."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Mike: "The Obama campaign should shoulder some of these extravagant costs. At a time when this nation is in financial straits and running trillions of dollars in debt I would opt for a less costly alternative. Use technology (internet, TV, etc) to insure that everyone who wants to view the inauguration has the opportunity but scale down the public spectacle. I would rather see the money used to help the citizens of Washington D.C. rather than spent on an inauguration ceremony."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
JWH: "If Obama were the true reformer and breath of change he claims that he is then he would be humble and say something like "Come on, my fellow Americans. I am a mere man, here to serve the citizens of the US. I nor any many is worth this kind of expense and hoopla. There will be no inaugural event this year." No chance. He is a narcisist, race baiting, man who quite frankly concerns me. I pray to my saviour that I am wrong and he helps our nation but something in my spiritual conscious concerns me..."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Rob: "and you think this guy is going to save the country and help you get a job??? I'm perplexed to say the least! In this terribly deficient financial time, explain to me why is this OUTLANDISH PARTY even necessary? Its not Obama's fault if all those drones want to come, but it IS his responsibility to NOT have the party and save some taxpayer dollars. I mean, COME ON already. Stop with the SPENDACRATS!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Carolina Kelly: "I completely agree about Obama's supporters helping defray the costs for DC. As one of those Obama supporters who sent $25 every other month to help his campaign from Day 1, I would again gladly contribute money to help with the costs of SECURITY. I see no problem in Obama supporters donating whatever they want/can in order to ensure a secure and problem-free inauguration day. James, you made a very good point, but Obama didn't pay off Hillary's bill. He personally paid around $3,000 out of his personal pocket, but he emphatically stated that no donated money to his campaign went to Hillary. I believe that because Hillary hardly went out and campaigned for Obama the whole time. She was ticked he didn't pay off her big bill. :)"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
David: "Have Barack Hussein Obama use the millions he raised during his campaign to pay for it. Or charge admission."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Babsie: "Will the Three Wisemen be there? One should have gold with him!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Rob: "and you think this guy is going to save the country and help you get a job??? I'm perplexed to say the least! In this terribly deficient financial time, explain to me why is this OUTLANDISH PARTY even necessary? Its not Obama's fault if all those drones want to come, but it IS his responsibility to NOT have the party and save some taxpayer dollars. I mean, COME ON already. Stop with the SPENDACRATS!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Hmmm: "All that extra money Obama still has in his war chest ought to be used to finance this party"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Joe: "James and Concerned Citizen, You two are SUCKERS! If you think Obama would give you 2 cents, then you are fools. It is a one-way street with Democrats...you give...they take! When will you ever learn?"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Jenny: "Here's an idea...If you want a seat...PAY FOR IT!!!!! And put a surcharge on the hotels, restaurants, etc. If you want to BE part of history, save your money and PAY YOUR WAY!! Oh, pardon me, I'm still thinking like a Capitalist, I have to put my Socialist hat on!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Wayzom: "It is funny to watch all the losers whine. America has completely rejected the principles of the republican party. If the republicans were still the party of fiscal conservatives this would not have happened. The republicans threw out any semblance of fiscal conservatism and became the big spending, big debt party whose only allegiance is to the religious right. DC claims great financial hardship with every inauguration. Large crowds are what you can expect when you have a President who most Americans voted for and support."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
bryon: "james....that is a very constructive comment....i am from the conservative right and I take it you voted for Obama....he is going to be a our new President....we have to support that....with that said....he ran on a platform of Change we can believe in....if he fails to recommend that money be used for those purposes....then you basically were duped....along with the other 67 million... that is a lot of money that was left over and accountablity is lost since he forfieted public funds!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Annie: "Let the gluttony begin! This man has raised millions of dollars, much of it from 'suffering Americans' harmed by the 'failed policies of George Bush' and much more from secret, unnamed sources outside of the country. He has enough money to pay for his opulent 'coming-out' party. He doesn't object to 'spreading the wealth' of Joe the Plumber, so he can spread his own wealth and finance his own self-aggrandizement statement; or is this one of those 'let them eat cake' moments? The leadership of D.C. should act like adults and place a limit on money that is spent for these things in order to prevent bankrupting the city. I'm sure that Junior has never been told 'no,' but perhaps he needs to learn that word while he is learning the number of states in the Union. BTW, has his snarling wife discovered more reasons than one to be proud of her country yet?"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Annie: "Let the gluttony begin! This man has raised millions of dollars, much of it from 'suffering Americans' harmed by the 'failed policies of George Bush' and much more from secret, unnamed sources outside of the country. He has enough money to pay for his opulent 'coming-out' party. He doesn't object to 'spreading the wealth' of Joe the Plumber, so he can spread his own wealth and finance his own self-aggrandizement statement; or is this one of those 'let them eat cake' moments? The leadership of D.C. should act like adults and place a limit on money that is spent for these things in order to prevent bankrupting the city. I'm sure that Junior has never been told 'no,' but perhaps he needs to learn that word while he is learning the number of states in the Union. BTW, has his snarling wife discovered more reasons than one to be proud of her country yet?"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Hey Morons: "The article states in several areas that they will go over budget on this event. The past few days in the "news" it's been noted that DC is in the same boat as NYC - can't you people draw a conclusion? It spells bankruptcy."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
David: "Let him pay for it with all that money he raised. Or maybe charge admission. If not I'm sure pelosi will try and bail out DC. And to think this clown is not even a natural born American."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Lyn in Georgia: "If Obama truly cared about the people in this country, he would scale down this charade and have a semi-private inauguration. Spare the country/DC more debot. However, as we have previously seen, Obama wants a "coronation"!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Lyn in Georgia: "If Obama truly cared about the people in this country, he would scale down this charade and have a semi-private inauguration. Spare the country/DC more debot. However, as we have previously seen, Obama wants a "coronation"!"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Carl: "Obama isn't president yet and the squawkers and complainers are in full volume. Instead of seeing the increased participation in the political process and celebration of American citizens as a wonderful opportunity to be part of history (especially after 8 years of hell for many of us) these complainers only worry about there little plans and designs. Quit crying and figure it out. You should have anticipated this and planned ahead."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
He's Not MY president!: "He needs to fork over some of those illegal monies he got from online donations. AND I am going to start selling t-shirts that say "He's not MY president" just like all you crazy libs have been doing for the last 8 years. This guy is scary. I fear for this wonderful country."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
HAHAHAHAHA: "What do you get when all them black folks show up in a single spot?"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Jim from Long Island: "What's with all of this talk about taxes coming into the city? Have we already forgotten Pres-Elect Obama's base is the impoverished and crime ridden? Are they really suddenly going to spend a thousand dollars on a DC hotel room, a few hundred bucks on food, take in the sites, visit the museums, etc.? It's sad to say but I suspect these people will celebrate in the best way they know how: a good old fashioned race riot."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Wow: "Wow. Lynn has got to the most ill-informed person thus far. I bet you cried on November 4th, huh? Lynn he can't privatize a public event. And please stop with the 'coronation' malarky. BTW What the h3ll is 'debot'?"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
David: "Charge all the people that voted for him, they can pay for his "coronation." Think of the 45+ million that did not vote for him. But hey, he gives great speeches."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Fritz: "ROTFLMAO. The fool is not even in office and already he is going to break DC. I am going to enjoy all the Crack Hos lamenting voting for Obama the next four years. Americans deserves the Politicians they elected. Soros and Obama are going to live like kings and the poor will still be poor and the stupid will still be stupid. Lonf live King Obama. He is going to make me rich."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Wow: "He's Not MY president!: He is your president. But make and sell the t-shirts. You can setup a shop very cheaply at cafepress.com That's what the dems have been telling you for years, debate and protest is the American way."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Bobc: "This is getting ridiculous! All this money to run for a political position, and now this. If our politicians were serious about our economy, they would stop these lavish festivities, stop voting themselves a raise, and get a handle on the costs of running for elections. Wouldn't it be nice to see a lot of them say, I won't be taking a salary this year?"POSTED Nov 19, 2008
DFNObama: "POSTED Nov 19, 2008 : "So many haters just get over it and let this man have his day. I didn't realize how sick in the head some people are because the country has been blessed with a Highly Intelligent Black man and now the Most powerful man in the world. He deserve a chance just like the Republican had for the last eight (8)years who clearly has screwed up this country. Get over it people and embrace because he is our President!!!!!!!" --------------------------------------- He might be YOUR president, I didn't vote for him so he is not MY president. Enjoy the chittlins and Kool-Aid."POSTED Nov 19, 2008
Wow: "Jim from Long Island: Obama's base is the young and college-educated. Which leaves you out of the loop. They don't have eno