Somber Obama Promises to Focus on the Economy

At Chicago press conference in the world-famous Hilton on Michigan Avenue the president-elect vows to take the financial crisis "head on" and get another stimulus package passed. Lays out his economic plan in opening statement. Read prepared remarks here. Mostly serious but a few attempts at light, Kennedy-esque humor. Takes 9 questions from reporters. Topics include his first 100 days, Ahmadinejad's congratulations, meeting with Bush, his Senate seat, his pending dog selection, the former presidents he's talking to and what he's reading. READ FULL TRANSCRIPT HERE. Later departs for the FBI building, and then the AON building for private meetings. Read pool report. HALPERIN'S TAKE: How the new guy did in his first post-campaign press conference.