Headlines from January 4th, 2009

President-elect Obama has tapped the Virginia governor to take over the Democratic National Committee. Wash Post: "Taking the DNC job will make Kaine an irresistible target in his home state, where critics have long accused him of putting partisan politics ahead of governing." Howard Dean steps down from the role Jan. 21. Permalink

Obama Arrives in Washington

The president-elect leaves Chicago for his new home aboard an Air Force presidential jet. Joined on the flight by Axelrod and Gibbs. Orders a cheeseburger on board, tells reporters: "I gotta say I choked up a little bit leaving my house today." Also says he's looking forward to being in Washington, but not necessarily living in a hotel for two weeks: "We kind of did that for two years." Read pool report here. Update: Crowds cheered on Obama as he arrived at the Hay-Adams Hotel. Permalink

Bush Senior Talks Up Jeb

George H.W. Bush says George W.'s younger brother would also make a good president. Tells Fox: "I'd like to see him run." But adds: "I mean, right now is probably a bad time, because we've had enough Bushes in there." Also says he's "impressed with (Obama's) style" and plans to celebrate his 85th birthday this year with another skydive. Permalink

Franken Appears Closer to Victory

Minnesota's Senate recount ends, with the Democratic challenger up by 225 votes. And Chuck Schumer decalres that Franken is the winner. Plus: Wash Post on how Franken looks like a winner, but not quite a Senator. Coleman still has legal challenges available. Permalink

Obama's Wife, Daughters Settle In to Their New City

Michelle, Sasha and Malia Obama arrive in Washington for the start of the Obama administration. They're staying at the historic Hay-Adams hotel for a week and a half. Barack Obama joined them Sunday evening. Read pool report here. WashPost: Obamas hope to stay in touch with Chicago. Local waitress: "He's not really leaving." Permalink

Authorities Brace for Inaugural Festivities

The largest-ever inaugural security operation will include 58 agencies and thousands of extra police, agents and troops. Four days of events in D.C. include at least 70 balls, concerts and other events. U.S. Park Police seeking military help. Permalink

Israeli Forces Seize Gazan Rocket Sites

Troops advancing into Gaza take over strategic areas, including sites described as rocket-launching facilities. Official: "There are several places we control now and will control later. If it will be needed, we are prepared to stay there." Attacks further divide Arab rulers, people. Mayor Bloomberg, NYC's police commissioner visit Israel to show support. Plus: Demonstrators protest against the Israel offensive outside Obama's Chicago home. Permalink

Obama Planning Busy Monday

On his first day in Washington, the president-elect will meet with top congressional leaders joined by Vice President-elect Biden. Later, Obama will meet with his top economic advisers, joined by future chief of staff Emanuel. Read campaign release here. Permalink

D.C's Doyennes Angle for the Obamas

NY Times: The capital's top hostesses hope to lure the new first couple to their salons. Sally Quinn: "Everybody wants to have them over." Permalink

Chicago Trib: Illinois Government at "Standstill"

The Blagojevich scandal has put key initiatives, legislation on hold in the Land of Lincoln. Lawmaker: "Absolutely, we're in a mess." Permalink

The Incredible Aging President

Boston Globe examines how commanders-in-chief seem to age so drastically in office. "For eight years in office, they age 16 years." Permalink

Burris, Senate Leaders to Meet Wednesday

Gov. Blagojevich's pick for the U.S. Senate plans to sit down with Sens. Reid and Durbin at the Capitol. Sen. Durbin: No plans to seat Burris. Meanwhile, Burris spoke Sunday at an evening prayer vigil on Chicago's South Side, and then addressed his own supporters. Update: Sens. Reid, McConnell to meet Monday in search of a bipartisan solution. Permalink