Inauguration Spending (Obama, how much, lobby, politicians)

[Georgianbelle]

This inauguration is going to break all records on spending; they are even allowing corporate sponsors this year. How many people think spending this type of money in this economy is crazy. As the middle class suffers, Washington will party.

[urbanlife78]

It is all private donor money except for security. I do think candidates are spending too much to win elections these days.

[Georgianbelle]

I realize the money is donated, but wouldn't it have set a great tone to spend less? He could have really made people admire him by saying this ceremony would be low key because our nation is hurting.

[urbanlife78]

Nah, it is a national holiday after all, might as well go big, a president only gets one or two of these.

[theunbrainwashed]

Think of it this way, these people are buying last-minute favors from Obama

[Chava61]

Since it is the same president doing a 2nd term, I think it should be toned down a bit. All those private donors should give some that money to causes that need the money more than a fancy inauguration for 2nd term president.

[theunbrainwashed]

Originally Posted by Chava61

Since it is the same president doing a 2nd term, I think it should be toned down a bit. All those private donors should give some that money to causes that need the money more than a fancy inauguration for 2nd term president.

They should, but I really think this is some form of lobbying going on. All money donations (or favors like sports games tickets) to politicians, official campaign or not, is lobbying

[bcattwood]

Originally Posted by Georgianbelle

I realize the money is donated, but wouldn't it have set a great tone to spend less? He could have really made people admire him by saying this ceremony would be low key because our nation is hurting.

I think he cut down on the number of inaugural balls for that reason and people here just flogged it as a inconsequential gesture.

[Katarina Witt]

Originally Posted by bcattwood

I think he cut down on the number of inaugural balls for that reason and people here just flogged it as a inconsequential gesture.

Agreed. I heard there will be just one ball. But Obama is damned if he does and damned if he doesn't. He should do what he wants.

[Georgianbelle]

It is still the most expensive inauguration ever, so of course people are upset. I don't know if everyone realizes how much more in taxes they will be paying at the end of this month, but it is substantial for most middle class people.