John Berman has been at ABC since 1995, and allowed to appear on television since 2001. He covered the 2008 campaign extensively, following John McCain and Mitt Romney during the primaries and then Barack Obama in the general election. He also spent more than 20 months chasing George W. Bush around the country as a producer from 1999 until 2001, earning the clever nickname, "Pain in the Ass," from our 43rd president. He is a frequent and sometimes welcome contributor to all of ABC's broadcasts.

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Mrs. Obama Comes Bearing Gifts

January 20, 2009 10:18 AM

One reason Michelle Obama might be so popular at the White House coffee this morning is that she brought gifts.

Abc_obama_bush_gift_090120_mi_2 From ABC's Sunlen Miller: "Upon arriving at the White House, this morning Michelle Obama presented Mrs. Bush with a gift.  It was a pen and journal for her memoirs."

The thing is, we all know what the gift is now, but Mrs. Bush might not! The eagle-eyed Ann Compton reports:
"Laura took the box inside but didnt open it ... she could be seen as she handed it to an aide." 

Gosh I hope she doesn't re-gift, because that would be embarassing!

Our DC crew reports that the gift appeared to come in a bag from the "Tiny Jewel Box," a tony store in Washington.

January 20, 2009 | Permalink | User Comments (51)

User Comments

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Subject: why are we spending so much money on this Inauguration?
Importance: High

Why are spending so much money on this Inauguration, this is the most money we have ever spent! When our economy is in a recession, borderline depression. When the government has to lend money to banks and car manufacturers, etc...When it is clear that we should be spending less..seems to me that Obama is not to a great start.. What government Einsteins decided, lets spend more money, and take more money from the working people, they can pay it back.

They (the government) act like they have a revolving credit card, spend, spend, spend... we can always pay it back later...actually the tax payers can.

Do you know how much money we are spending just on 5,000.00 porter pottys!!!! That’s right tax payers money straight to the crapper.. Obama way to bless America.. We wanted Change right!

Sincerely,

Cruz Family in Florida

Posted by: Melissa Cruz | Jan 20, 2009 10:23:32 AM

Melissa - Importance: High???

Don't really know how blog comments work, do you?? Just full of yourself, aren't you? Love to see your name in print??

Give it a rest.

Posted by: Sunil | Jan 20, 2009 10:33:41 AM

"They (the government) act like they have a revolving credit card, spend, spend, spend... we can always pay it back later...actually the tax payers can."

Enjoy your share of the ever growing "National Debt". They most certainly are!!

Posted by: fool's gold | Jan 20, 2009 10:35:25 AM

I would have to say that I agree with you Sunil, but I also realize some people are just never happy with themselves or for others. I am not gonna let those people win. Enjoy this day for what it means, whatever that may be.

Posted by: KayCee | Jan 20, 2009 10:39:05 AM

Bush spent 2x as much on his inauguration as has Obama. Check your facts.

Posted by: zbo | Jan 20, 2009 10:44:00 AM

There is one thing that you along with the whole world needs to celebrate--the peaceful transfer of power honestly acquired from the people. Complaining about money spent on this Inauguration, porta-potties included, is comparable to complaining that you are in good health. We are blessed today! Offer up a prayer of thanksgiving rather than petty observations and complaints.

J.S.

Posted by: J. Simmons | Jan 20, 2009 10:44:20 AM

I agree with Cruz. Most of us are without a job and most of us know the condition of the economy and look at all of the money that is being spent today. With our country in the shape it is today could this day been scaled back. If our new President really wanted change I agree with you he is not getting off to a great start. The Americans need that money to eat and keep warm while the fat cats in Washington are getting fatter and having one great party today. I wish I could afford to have a party! So great statement Cruz family!

Posted by: Depress American | Jan 20, 2009 10:47:16 AM

And the biggest spending took place the last 8 years. We had a surplus! Why all the whining about the cost of this Inauguration, when the majority of the money was raised by private donations, I donated! Why not whine about the fact that we are in this mess because of the last 8 yrs! Give it a rest, we have a new President, today we celebrate!

Posted by: try the truth | Jan 20, 2009 10:47:28 AM

A face in the Dark
Alight in darkness a face I can see.
He offers up hope for you and for me.
Proclaiming tis time we plant a seed.
In a garden devoid of bias and greed.
Together we join with one common soul. Unite all as one
to reach for a goal. A man he is made of flesh and bone.
Speaking words to be etched in stone. Reminding us all
that we can believe. Leaders that build, not just deceive.
Inspiring youth a new world to build.
Devoid of limits the past has instilled.
Ray of hope from mountain and range.
Promising hope for a future of change.
Leading us on a path paved with hope.
For our country to unite and cope.
Burden of power will prove his worth.
Words to be tested by deeds on earth.
Given the roots of greed all in power.
His seed we must guard hour by hour.
A voice speaks to leave us his mark.
Wise and inspired, a face in the dark.

Posted by: cjvwise1 | Jan 20, 2009 10:54:25 AM

A face in the Dark
Alight in darkness a face I can see.
He offers up hope for you and for me.
Proclaiming tis time we plant a seed.
In a garden devoid of bias and greed.
Together we join with one common soul. Unite all as one
to reach for a goal. A man he is made of flesh and bone.
Speaking words to be etched in stone. Reminding us all
that we can believe. Leaders that build, not just deceive.
Inspiring youth a new world to build.
Devoid of limits the past has instilled.
Ray of hope from mountain and range.
Promising hope for a future of change.
Leading us on a path paved with hope.
For our country to unite and cope.
Burden of power will prove his worth.
Words to be tested by deeds on earth.
Given the roots of greed all in power.
His seed we must guard hour by hour.
A voice speaks to leave us his mark.
Wise and inspired, a face in the dark.

Posted by: cjvwise1 | Jan 20, 2009 10:57:10 AM

I feel this is a day to celebrate, who cares the cost, if Washington didn't spend the money on this, it would be something else. Besides donations were made for this event long ago. Our country needs a celebration in the middle of this dark time economically speeking, we need a little celebration, to helpt lift our eyes to the brighter days of change. So, everyone, look ahead to the future, to the change, and to the hope Obama brings, leave the negative stuff behind.

Posted by: RMOONCAT | Jan 20, 2009 11:08:58 AM

I agree with you completely Melissa Cruz. Because the people that are not working or actually working at a minimum wage don't care because it really does not affect them for those who work hard for their money and are still paying school loans because they wanted a job that pays. But I didn't think of it as to yea I want a future for my kids and will go to school for a good paying job to just have my taxes taken from me to support those that do not want to work and like you said $5,000 toilets. This is the change we are getting that those that voted for this president wanted! Once they are elected you really see the true person!

Posted by: Basia | Jan 20, 2009 11:23:30 AM

FYI, it was reported in the news this morning that the majority of the costs are being paid for by rich donors. It is not coming out of the Treasury. So relax, it is not coming from money that could be used to bail anyone out..., unless, of course, the rich people would like to engage in bail-out philantropy.

mf

Posted by: mf | Jan 20, 2009 11:31:05 AM

First of all this mess we are in was not started because of Bush. It had started with Clinton. Bush came into presidency in a recession as well. For those who are trying to blaim this on our last president "GET YOUR FACTS STRAIGHT". Watch in the next year or even two how bad it is going to get. And what is funny is the Mrs.' comment on how she is finally proud to be an american. I voted for the one that actually was in the service who was fighting for our country fighting for the Americans that are proud to be here.

Posted by: Basia | Jan 20, 2009 11:31:15 AM

FYI...The money from the treasury is going toward paying for some rich guy to put his kid in Summer Camp!

But our money is going toward what it really is supposed to right!!!

These idiots make me laugh!

Posted by: Basia | Jan 20, 2009 11:34:55 AM

THIS IS THE MOST EXPENSIVE INAUGRATION IN HISTORY! MORE THAN BUSH EVER SPENT!

Posted by: jaon | Jan 20, 2009 11:37:48 AM

It is sad that people are so jealous or petty that they look for flaws before there are any. This is a very special day, and as said by many, alot of the money for this event was raised. If you are complaining about the economy you need to look at the president that is leaving. Obama should not be persecuted for today's celebration. I am sure all these people whining cannot come up with solutions to fix the economy. After today Obama has four years to fix the mess that Bush has placed us in for the past eight years. He should at least have a day of celebration because he has a very long and hard road ahead of him to find solutions. So to all the complainers-maybe that is why you are unemployed, you spend to much time whining and not looking

Posted by: Sweets | Jan 20, 2009 11:39:33 AM

whether we like it or not Mr. Obama is our new President! Let's sit back and watch and pray that this will be the "Change" we are hoping for.

Posted by: Philip | Jan 20, 2009 11:41:31 AM

This has to be the worse feed!!!! It keeps freezing and when I try to get back on, I have to watch that damn Audi commerical. At least Audi, it getting something out of this

Posted by: Norn | Jan 20, 2009 11:46:25 AM

The bailout money the government is giving banks, AIG and possibly the automakers is obscene. It would be far better to give every citizen over the age of 25 $500,000.00. That would certainly stimulate the economy and it would save millions from losing their homes. The U.S. is in for a rough ride economically regardless of who is getting inaugurated this morning. Although my candidate lost the election, I wish Obama well and will be praying for him.

Posted by: Dee | Jan 20, 2009 11:50:34 AM

This is what is wrong with our country. Can't we all begin anew with a true sense of purpose. It is time for all of us to again "be our brother's keeper". Let's work together to make this a country of people who care! If you are not part of the change you will be part of the problem!

Posted by: Becka | Jan 20, 2009 11:52:14 AM

I think there are two sides to this coin. I mean if you really think about it, people are making money with all the business booming in DC today. There are two million people there and you don't think they're pushing money through the economy as we speak? But of course we are in a troubled time and the economy is hurting so I do see both sides. We should concentrate on the meaning of today and the new freedom we really have in front of us. Because in all reality what is unattainable now? Lets stand a proud people today as Americans and enjoy the fine face of our accomplishments!

Posted by: Kat | Jan 20, 2009 11:53:18 AM

Stop the complaints!!! Be happy and encouraged for CHANGE Today is a new day The Obama's are a blessed family
and he rasied alot of money for this day. This is his day and he going to make the next 8yrs our best years be patient and know that a CHANGE has come what ever you want in life now is the time to go get it. If you don't have a job apply for one its not his fault your not working lets not play the blame game we are all in the same situation but we don't have to stay there thats the most important part "we fall down but we get up" be blessed and trust God for he knows our needs be and stay POSITIVE Good things hapeen for happy people CHANGE starts with SELF the power is in you....

ME

Posted by: Mechiel | Jan 20, 2009 11:53:47 AM

The Porta Potties that cost $5,000 are for you Melissa, and any other person who may show up. And I welcome the wealthy contributions to help our nation celebrate. The people who are complaining obviously didn't vote for Barack to begin with. So I say those people need to turn off the TV and not watch. They can save money that way. Quit feeling sorry for yourself Melissa Cruz. If you had a more positive attitude, you might get farther in life.

Posted by: kathy | Jan 20, 2009 11:54:54 AM

This is a day in history...never before has the US elected a less-experienced Pres.

Posted by: Ken Mueller | Jan 20, 2009 11:55:11 AM

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