I Almost Went to the Lincoln Memorial Today…

President Obama visited the Lincoln Memorial on Saturday, one day after Congress had agreed on a budget that kept the government running. (Source: NY Times)

A Quick Hello From the Tourist in Chief

Just hours after reaching a deal to avert a government shutdown, President Obama paid a brief visit to the Lincoln Memorial on Saturday — presumably to highlight that it, and other national monuments, were open for business.

Mr. Obama bounded up the Lincoln Memorial steps before a cheering crowd, shaking hands with surprised tourists atop the monument.

“Hi everybody,” Mr. Obama said. “I just wanted to say, real quick, that because Congress was able to settle its differences, that’s why this place is open today and everybody’s able to enjoy their visit. And that’s the kind of future cooperation I hope we have going forward. Because this is what America is all about: Everybody from different places enjoying those things that bind us together. It is wonderful to spend time with you guys, I hope you have a great time.”

Then, ignoring questions from the reporters assigned to follow him, Mr. Obama descended the stairs slowly, shaking hands and chatting with tourists. He was back at the White House 30 minutes after he left, arriving home just before 3 p.m.

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