Obama Inauguration: Bush Declares Emergency

WASHINGTON — President George W. Bush on Tuesday declared an emergency in the District of Columbia that will let the nation's capital tap deeper into federal coffers for Barack Obama's inauguration.

Bush said that an emergency exists and ordered federal aid to supplement the $15 million in federal funds already appropriated for the event.

White House spokesman Scott Stanzel said District of Columbia Mayor Adrian M. Fenty requested the emergency declaration on Jan. 7 because he decided that the crowds expected for the nation's 56th presidential inauguration would exceed the city's ability to protect the public.

If the extra money is needed, it will come from the Federal Emergency and Management Agency budget, Stanzel said.

In a statement, the White House said the assistance is available to the district for emergency measures to protect public health and safety.

Fenty and others have said millions could descend on Washington for the inauguration.

Comments

[SENATORCALLENBOWE]

THE CLASS OF THE NEW GENERATION WILL BE BREAKIN ON THE FRONT LINES :)P

[novene]

I don't get it. I think it is insensitive of obama to have such an extravagant bash when people are suffering, homeless. Why not give some of that money away to help people who have lost jobs, unable to pay their bills. I understand wanting to celebrate but my God, if it means to to put the country in more deficits , obama must have his show.

I voted for obama but I'm already disappointed in him. He said he would be for the people but it so seems like he basking in his obama mania. Does he think about the less fortunate. I really hope this is not the start of a disappointed administration to come.

[Hank10303]

First of all these funds are already budgeted for the event regardless of who won. Second of all we have worked hard for this day and his supporters want this recognition. Third of all what the government is paying is peanuts compared to what his supporters donated for his inaugural events. We now have a true world leader and we intend for the world to know he has the support of the most industrious, viable, richest and intelligent citizenry on the planet - AND HE IS OURS.

[achilles83]

Im' leaving Gainesville, FL tommorow and can't wait to be in D.C!!!

[Harmony1812]

Remember that you will represent those of us who can only be there in spirit. So go ahead, be overwhelmed, cry tears of joy and have a great time for us all.

[uvymopkq]

Maybe Berry could work a miricle.

[Grunty1]

You cannot even spell Rush's slurs correctly...

Obama won't be performing miracles, but he won't be intentionally cursing the nation like Bushco did for 8 years.

[AxelDC]

The emergency is that Bush is losing power, and will become the most discredited ex-president in history. He is less popular than Nixon, who was forced from office prematurely.

[DrJohnnySkeptic]

Another distraction of sparkling, shiny objects?

He's getting ready to do something before his reign of terror is all over.

[greatlardini]

Any Ed Wood movie makes more sense than the Dubya presidency.

[StillAmused]

... which makes this different, how, from the emergency that's existed in D.C. since November, 2000?

[LaurenMarie984]

6 MORE DAYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[aquarius2001]

and counting!!!! =) .......

[BlackYowe]

I am counting each one!

[proudloudlib]

Holding my breath. I actually wept this morning watching MSNBC's promo for the inauguration. Will I make it?

[SeriousBlack]

And look for him to seize permanent, dictatorial power on Wednesday in accordance with the act they passed a couple of years ago.

Just kidding (I hope - I wouldn't put ANYthing past that creep).

[Grunty1]

I assume you mean Bush? Wednesday would be too late.

[PhilipTaylor]

This is like the Berlin Wall coming down in America!

[MizLiz]

Geeze, I'm glad I'm not going to be there. Old ladies with bladder problems belong at home. Besides, we'll get a better view on HBO.

[suzc]

MizLiz I'm with you there, on all counts!!!!! I'm not fond of crowds any more anyway!!!! But I'll be glued to the set! I'm even excited to see what Michelle will wear (remembering the Jackie Kennedy wardrobe with affection)! I'm thrilled to have stayed alive long enough to see this day (I endured and engaged in civil rights marches in the 60s in Mississippi during James Meredith's Ole Miss days).

[BabsfromKansas]

HA! You just described me - but I'm in walking distance - I'm thinking about buying some Depends!

[Harmony1812]

It looks like all the port-o-potties are in one location, so I would encourage everyone to wear them even if your bladder is good.

[lorla]

Please spend the emergency money for more potties. I heard today on E.d Schult.z, that there are only going to be 5000. For 1 to 2 million there should be one on every corner. We will be standing for hours. Let us tinkle please.

That's President Obama to you.
BO/JB-08

[kennyfasugbe]

LORLA, I desperately envy your kind who is going to be there to see history happening LIVE. Kiss the grounds on behalf of those of us who would be married to our TV set. Our prayer for protection goes with you!

[lorla]

Thank you Kenny. I am hoping for the kind of magical day the Million Man March was. I was in Detroit, but the peaceful feeling was felt throughout the country.
I think we are going to have a special day, just like election day: gas was low, so we could take people to the polls without undo burden. The weather was 40 and sunny all day long. People waited hours in line...happily.
This whole election cycle seemed to be filled with fortunate circumstances. I do not see why this day should be any different.

[Harmony1812]

And spread them around better.

[uglyhumanbeing]

the angels are smiling upon our brother, the president elect.

[Graywolf48]

I don't think I'd call it a "Federal Emergency". I think a "Federal Relief" would be more appropriate. I know I for one am relieved Bush will soon be gone.

[trishthiel]

"Federal Relief" is perfect!

I have been looking forward to this relief for a long time!

[michyh]

Federal Relief, brilliant, and ( pun intended) thus, the need for more toilets.

[Harmony1812]

I like it!