You Never Forget Your First

CLEVELAND - President-elect Barack Obama's first ever press conference since he won the election went off without a hitch.

Well, almost.

Flanked by his V.P. Joe Biden and an impressive collection of men and women well-versed in economic issues (his advisory board), the young Illinois senator moved straight to the point of the gathering: the economy.

Obama outlined his plans to lift the nation out of the spiraling depths of the financial industry and made it clear that the economy is priority number one. He once again mentioned the possibility of another stimulus package but carefully noted that "I'm not the president yet."

The current president, lame-duck George Bush and first lady Laura will meet with Obama and his family on Monday for a tour of the sprawling White House. They also will discuss many key issues as is customary during the transitional period from one administration to the next.

Obama will take the oath of office on January 20, 2009.

Though very sharp and succinct in his remarks about the main issues, Obama had a couple questionable moments as well. When a reporter asked if he'd spoken to any former presidents for advice, he mentioned that he had spoken to every living president and wasn't going to have a Nancy Reagan moment and conduct a seance.

He later called the former first lady and apologized for the off-handed remark.

The other moment came about when asked about the type of dog his young daughter would receive once they take up residence at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Obama, who is the product of a White mother and Black father mentioned that they may end up with a "shelter dog" and they tend to be "mutts just like me."

A mixture of laughter and surprise filled the room.

I was impressed with Obama's quick move to address the economy as President-elect. He didn't seem the least bit nervous or intimidated by the enormous tasks he faces, which is a very good trait to have in his position. As far as the "controversial" comments, I felt that they may have been a bit ill-advised, though nothing Earth shattering. Still, this guy will always be under a microscope.

The good thing is, the comments didn't cost him any votes. Too late.