A Note From the About.com Washington, DC Forum:
If President-elect Obama was sincere about cutting out unnecessary spending, especially in this time of economic crisis, he would curtail lavish expenditures on inaugural activities, demonstrate real leadership and be an example of what real patriots do in times of crisis. - MarilynI agree with you that with the current state of the American economy, it seems crazy to spend millions on the 2009 inauguration. With expectations of record breaking crowds to attend the inaugural events, the District has estimated its costs will be more than $47 million; Virginia expects to spend $16 million and Maryland $12 million. The costs are estimated to be higher than ever before. But it's not because the festivities will be lavish. It's because millions of Americans want to be involved. The biggest expenditures will be for law enforcement, communication, transportation and emergency services. With larger crowds, more security and services are needed. So, if you could convince everyone to stay home and watch the inauguration from their living room, yes, the U.S. government could save a lot of money. What do you think?
Comments
Just so you know I had a hard time finding the “leave a comment” button because of the links being so close to the last blog entry. Maybe thats why there’s no other comments?
I completely agree with your post and now better understand the expenses. That too might be why nobody else has bothered to leave a post!
The country is in a financial crisis at the moment; people are losing their life savings and homes because of the decisions made in the government, therefore Mr. Obama should stand by hid “change” promises about spending. He could have taken the higher road and acted as our founding fathers and left hollywood where they belong,out of politics. I am sorry he did’nt follow through with “change”.
cher
Also, thanks alot Mr. HBO-Bama for denying Americans the right to see the concert today on free TV, thats your brand of “change” right?
I voted for Obama, but not for this kind of inaugural stupidity. He claims to be all about change, but this is just more of the same wasteful spending and misguided priorities.
We have countless millions struggling in poverty, without adequate housing, food, or healthcare.
The inauguration should be quick, simple, private, and cheap, not just another excuse to party while those less-fortunate continue to suffer.
I agree, so many Americans are suffering while all they care about in Washington is what the O-Dramas are wearing! It makes me sick! Where are all the fanatics that thought he was searving up “change?” Please, lets hear from you?