Filed under: News, Politics, President Obama
It was an extraordinary sight, even by White House standards.
Two presidents at the podium in the White House press room, discussing Democratic infighting over a tax cut extension plan.
Then, an even more extraordinary sight: President Obama leaving, former President Bill Clinton behind to hold court with reporters for 20 more minutes.
"I'm going to let him speak very briefly," Obama said. "And then I've actually got to go over and do just one more Christmas party. So he may decide he wants to take some questions, but I want to make sure that you guys hear it from him directly.
Replied Clinton: "Thank you very much, Mr. President. First of all, I feel awkward being here, and now you're going to leave me all by myself."
Clinton endorsed Obama's proposal to temporarily extend all the George W. Bush tax cuts, including those for the wealthiest Americans. While Democrats are protesting that last item, Clinton echoed Obama's argument that the package also includes unemployment benefits and other tax breaks that benefit the middle class.
Both noted that Republicans will take over the U.S. House next month, and be in a position to dictate the terms of any revised deal.
"I think this is a much, much better agreement than would be reached were we to wait until January," Clinton said "And I think it will have a much more positive impact on the economy -- so for whatever it's worth, that's what I think."
Obama chimed in,"that's worth a lot!"
The two presidents also discussed how to deal with a Congress controlled by the other party, something Clinton experienced and which Obama will have to face next month.
After Clinton took a question on last month's Democratic election defeats, Obama announced: "I've been keeping the First Lady waiting for about half an hour, so I'm going to take off ...
Clinton said, "I don't want to make her mad, please go."
Source: USA Today
Kevin Eason is a freelance editorial cartoonist and Illustrator from New Jersey. His brand of satire covers news events in politics, entertainment, sports and much more. Follow him on Facebook.
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Source: http://www.bvblackspin.com/2010/12/11/obama-allows-clinton-to-hold-court-in-his-white-house/
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