Record Breaking Photo of the Obamas

New photo of Obama the night Romney finally decided to concede. It took him a really long time, probably because he had to write a concession speech that he pompously never wrote:

Obama's Hanukkah Message 2012

Michelle and I send our warmest wishes to all those celebrating Hanukkah around the world. 

This Hanukkah season we remember the powerful story of the Maccabees who rose up to liberate their people from oppression. Upon discovering the desecration of their Temple, the believers found only enough oil to light the lamp for one night. And yet it lasted for eight. 

Hanukkah is a time to celebrate the faith and customs of the Jewish people, but it is also an opportunity for people of all faiths to recognize the common aspirations we share. This holiday season, let us give thanks for the blessings we enjoy, and remain mindful of those who are suffering. And let us reaffirm our commitment to building a better, more complete world for all.   

From our family to the Jewish Community around the world, Chag Sameach. 

Obama's Weekly Address Dec. 8

Charlie Crist Becomes a Democrat

Crist (pictured with his wife Carole) tweeted: "Proud and honored to join the Democratic Party in the home of President @BarackObama!"

Charlie Crist signed the papers to change parties at the White House.

Crist — Florida's former Republican governor who relished the tough-on-crime nickname "Chain Gang Charlie" and used to describe himself variously as a "Ronald Reagan Republican" and a "Jeb Bush Republican" — on Friday evening signed papers changing his party from independent to Democrat. Tampa Bay

Shields and Brooks Dec. 7

Despite republican shenanigans, a deal on the fiscal cliff will get done. Also, David Brooks calls republicans vote against the Disability Treaty an embarrassment for the nation.

Obama's Schedule Dec. 7

11:45 AM	The President meets with senior advisors Oval Office Closed Press
12:20 PM	The President signs the Child Protection Act of 2012 Oval Office Closed Press

West Wing Week Dec. 7

I've seen photos of the dress Michelle Obama wore at the Kennedy Center Honors, but it's even more beautiful in video - at the 1:49 minute mark:

Obama Speaks on Extending Middle Class Tax Cuts Dec. 6

White House Press Briefing Dec. 6

Obama Family Lights National Christmas Tree 2012

Obama's Schedule Dec. 6

Times are eastern.

9:30 AM
Obama and Biden receive the presidential daily briefing.
11:30 AM
White House press briefing.
5:05 PM
The First Family attends the National Christmas Tree Lighting; Obama delivers remarks. LIVE STREAM

White House Press Briefing Dec. 5

Obama's Speech to Business Roundtable Dec. 5

Obama Speaks at Tribal Nations Conference 2012

Obama's Schedule Dec. 5

Times are eastern.


9:15 AM
Obama and Biden receive the presidential daily briefing.
10:50 AM
Obama delivers remarks to members of the Business Roundtable and answers questions.
12:30 PM
White House press briefing.
3:05 PM
Obama delivers remarks at the 2012 Tribal Nations Conference at the Department of Interior.

Fish Species Named After Obama

Etheostoma obama. That's a nice fish.

"We chose President Obama for his environmental leadership, particularly in the areas of clean energy and environmental protection, and because he is one of our first leaders to approach conservation and environmental protection from a more global vision," the researchers said. Aside from Obama, Layman and Mayden named the other darters after three presidents and a VP who are also known for making conservation a priority: Theodore Roosevelt (Etheostoma teddyroosevelt), Jimmy Carter (E. jimmycarter), Bill Clinton (E. clinton) and Al Gore (E. gore). MNN

White House Press Briefing Dec. 4

Obama's Interview With Bloomberg News Dec. 4

The GOP is still having math problems:

Tea Party Ousted Leader Dick Armey with $8 Million Parachute

Eased out with an $8 million payout provided by an influential GOP fundraiser, former Republican House Majority Leader Dick Armey says he has left a conservative Tea Party group, FreedomWorks, because of an internal split over the group's future direction.

A confidential contract obtained by The Associated Press shows that Armey agreed in September to resign from his role as chairman of Washington-based FreedomWorks in exchange for $8 million in consulting fees paid in annual $400,000 installments. More at AP

Obama's Schedule Dec. 4

Times are eastern.

10:10 AM	The President and the Vice President meet with governors at the White House to discuss the actions we need to take to keep our economy growing and find a balanced approach to reduce our deficit Roosevelt Room Press Information
12:30 PM	The President and the Vice President meet for lunch Private Dining Room Closed Press
4:35 PM	The President and the Vice President meet with Secretary of Defense Panetta Oval Office Closed Press