Yesterday, Barack Obama got a close up look at his new stomping grounds for the next four years as he was given a tour of the Oval Office by President Bush in their first official meeting. The incoming president described his new office as “pretty nice.” First Lady Laura Bush took Michelle Obama to her new domain – the East Wing. Then, Laura and Michelle rejoined Bush and Obama to check out the private residence where the Obamas, along with their daughters Malia, 10 and Sasha, 7, will live. The Obamas also met with Coast Guard Admiral Stephen Rochon (director of the Executive Residence and the chief usher) in the Diplomatic Reception room.
Obama and Bush then met privately for about an hour to discuss more serious issues. Robert Gibbs, an Obama advisor, said the two talked about the proposed stimulus package as well as things troubling the nation such as the declining auto industry and home foreclosures. Despite their differences in policy, both men promised to work together to make sure the Obama administration was ready to take over when the time comes.
(This United States Congress image is in the public domain.)
While the men were chatting about national issues, the women were talking about their children. Laura knows from experience what it is like to be in the White House while raising two daughters, so hopefully she had some helpful advice for Michelle. While the Bush girls were older when their dad was elected president, remember that Jenna and Barbara also visited Grandpa George H. W. Bush in the White House when they were younger.
Of course, there were plenty of opportunities for photos, but it was just a day trip for the Obamas. They headed back to Chicago after the tour was over so Obama could take part in today’s Veterans Day observance
Barack Obama will be inaugurated on January 20th as the 44th president of the United States.