Letters to the President #1461: 'Saturday preparations'

Reporter's Note: President Obama’s second inauguration is officially tomorrow, and ceremonially on Monday. At which point I will cease writing these letters. I’m sure we’ll both be relieved.

Dear Mr. President,

The weather seems to be a bit more cooperative for the inauguration this time than last. That’s a good thing. I’m sure that you and the other VIPs would be fine either way, but all those folks standing out on the National Mall waiting for the big moment have to endure an awful lot as it is, I’d hate to see them dealing with hypothermia on top of it.

I’m sure it is very exciting for you and your family. Personally if I were a re-elected president, especially in tough economic times, I would opt for a small ceremony in the Oval Office, maybe hold a nice dinner to raise money for charity, and then I’d get back to work. But that’s me. And frankly I imagine even if you wanted things to go that way you’d get a lot of pushback from fundraisers, advisors, and supporters who would be disappointed.

Under the circumstances, my biggest concern is just being able to drive to the office on Monday. We are, as you know, only a couple of blocks from the Capitol so I think I can come in only from the north on one open street. We’ll see. If I get into a bind I’ll give you a call and see if you can issue an executive order to open the way. Ha!

Anyway, I’m in the office working again on this Saturday. Pretty much standard fare with big events like this. If you have a moment, give me a call. Otherwise, the countdown continues: one letter for Sunday, and one for Monday, then that’s it. You’re on your own.

Regards,
Tom