DC Quake Tremors Reach Obama on Vineyard

TOBY MELVILLE/AFP/Getty Images(VINEYARD HAVEN, Mass.) -- President Obama was playing golf Tuesday at the Farm Neck Golf Course on Martha’s Vineyard when the 5.8 earthquake hit the East Coast.

While the president did not actually feel the quake, many residents and vacationers on the island felt a swaying for about 15 seconds, including the White House press corps working out of a hotel in Vineyard Haven.

The quake hit at 1:51 p.m. Eastern time and the president, while on the golf course, had a conference call an hour later, according to Principal Deputy Press Secretary Josh Earnest. The call included DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano, White House Chief of Staff Bill Daley, National Security Advisor Tom Donilon, Homeland Security Advisor John Brennan, FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate, Senior Science Advisor for Earthquake and Geologic Hazards with the Department of Interior Dr. David Applegate, Nuclear Regulatory Commission Chairman Greg Jaczko, Deputy Homeland Security Advisor Heidi Avery and Deputy National Security Advisor Denis McDonough to discuss the earthquake and status of critical infrastructure, according to Earnest.

Per written statement, Mr. Obama was told that there were “no initial reports of major infrastructure damage, including at airports and nuclear facilities and that there were currently no requests for assistance.”

The president will be getting regular updates on the situation, the White House spokesman said.   

Copyright 2011 ABC News Radio

Full Remarks: President Obama Addresses Situation in Libya

JIM WATSON/AFP/Getty Images(MARTHA'S VINEYARD, Mass.) -- President Obama adressed the ongoing situation in Libya Monday from Martha's Vineyard, Mass., where he is vacationing.

Here are the president's remarks, in full:

Good afternoon, everybody. I just completed a call with my National Security Council on the situation in Libya. And earlier today, I spoke to Prime Minister Cameron about the extraordinary events taking place there. The situation is still very fluid. There remains a degree of uncertainty, and there are still regime elements who pose a threat.  But this much is clear: The Gadhafi regime is coming to an end, and the future of Libya is in the hands of its people.  In just six months, the 42-year reign of Moammar Gadhafi has unraveled.

Earlier this year, we were inspired by the peaceful protests that broke out across Libya. This basic and joyful longing for human freedom echoed the voices that we had heard all across the region, from Tunis to Cairo.  In the face of these protests, the Gadhafi regime responded with brutal crackdowns. Civilians were murdered in the streets. A campaign of violence was launched against the Libyan people. Gadhafi threatened to hunt peaceful protesters down like rats. As his forces advanced across the country, there existed the potential for wholesale massacres of innocent civilians.  In the face of this aggression, the international community took action. The United States helped shape a U.N. Security Council resolution that mandated the protection of Libyan civilians. An unprecedented coalition was formed that included the United States, our NATO partners and Arab nations. And in March, the international community launched a military operation to save lives and stop Gadhafi's forces in their tracks.

In the early days of this intervention, the United States provided the bulk of the fire power, and then our friends and allies stepped forward. The Transitional National Council established itself as a credible representative of the Libyan people. And the United States, together with our European allies and friends across the region, recognized the TNC as the legitimate governing authority in Libya.  Gadhafi was cut off from arms and cash, and his forces were steadily degraded. From Benghazi to Misurata to the western mountains, the Libyan opposition courageously confronted the regime, and the tide turned in their favor. Over the last several days, the situation in Libya has reached a tipping point, as the opposition increased its coordination from east to west, took town after town, and the people of -- of Tripoli rose up to claim their freedom.

For over four decades, the Libyan people had lived under the rule of a tyrant who denied them their most basic human rights. Now, the celebrations that we've seen in the streets of Libya shows that the pursuit of human dignity is far stronger than any dictator.  I want to emphasize that this is not over yet. As the regime collapses, there's still fierce fighting in some areas, and we have reports of regime elements threatening to continue fighting. Although it's clear that Gadhafi's rule is over, he still has the opportunity to reduce further bloodshed by explicitly relinquishing power to the people of Libya and calling for those forces that continue to fight to lay down their arms for the sake of Libya.

As we move forward from this pivotal phase, the opposition should continue to take important steps to bring about a transition that is peaceful, inclusive and just. That the leadership of the TNC has made clear the rights of all Libyans must be respected. True justice will not come from reprisals and violence; it will come from reconciliation and a Libya that allows its citizens to determine their own destiny.  In that effort, the United States will be a friend and a partner. We will join with allies and partners to continue the work of safeguarding the people of Libya. As remaining regime elements menace parts of the country, I've directed my team to be in close contact with NATO as well as the United Nations to determine other steps that we can take to deal with the humanitarian impact. We're working to ensure that critical supplies reach those in need, particularly those who've been wounded.  

Secretary Clinton spoke today with her counterparts from leading nations of the coalition on all these matters, and I've directed Ambassador Susan Rice to request that the U.N. secretary-general use next month's General Assembly to support this important transition.  For many months, the TNC has been working with the international community to prepare for a post-Gadhafi Libya. As those efforts proceed, our diplomats will work with the TNC as they ensure that the institutions of the Libyan state are protected, and we will support them with the assets of the Gadhafi regime that were frozen earlier this year. Above all, we will call for an inclusive transition that leads to a democratic Libya.  As we move forward, we should also recognize the extraordinary work that has already been done. To the American people, these events have particular resonance. Gadhafi's regime has murdered scores of American citizens in acts of terror in the past.  Today, we remember the lives of those who were taken in those acts of terror and stand in solidarity with their families.  We also pay tribute to Admiral Sam Locklear and all of the men and women in uniform who have saved so many lives over the last several months, including our brave pilots. They've executed their mission with skill and extraordinary bravery, and all of this was done without putting a single U.S. troop on the ground.

To our friends and allies, the Libyan intervention demonstrates what the international community can achieve when we stand together as one. Although the efforts in Libya are not yet over, NATO has once more proven that it is the most capable alliance in the world and that its strength comes from both its firepower and the power of our democratic ideals.   And the Arab members of our coalition have stepped up and shown what can be achieved when we act together as equal partners. Their actions sent a powerful message about the unity of our effort and our support for the future of Libya.  Finally, the Libyan people: Your courage and character have been unbreakable in the face of the tyrant. An ocean divides us, but we are joined in the basic human longing for freedom, for justice and for dignity. Your revolution is your own, and your sacrifices have been extraordinary. Now, the Libya that you deserve is within your reach. Going forward, we will stay in close coordination with the TNC to support that outcome. And though there will be huge challenges ahead, the extraordinary events in Libya remind us that fear can give way to hope, and that the power of people striving for freedom can bring about a brighter day. Thank you very much.

Copyright 2011 ABC News Radio

Obama Interrupts Vacation to Be Briefed on Libya

The White House/Pete Souza(CAPE COD, Mass.) -- As opposition forces descended on Tripoli and the nearly 42-year reign of Libyan dictator Moammar Gadhafi crumbled around him, President Obama was asked about the situation there.

“We’re going to wait until we have full confirmation of what has happened,” he said as he entered Nancy’s Restaurant in Oak Bluffs, Martha's Vineyard Sunday evening.

Shortly after, the president issued a statement saying, "Moammar Gadhafi and his regime need to recognize that their rule has come to an end.   Gadhafi needs to acknowledge the reality that he no longer controls Libya.  He needs to relinquish power once and for all."

"The United States has recognized the Transitional National Council as the legitimate governing authority in Libya," Obama went on to say, adding that "the future of Libya is now in the hands of the Libyan people."
 
Nancy’s, one of Obama's “favorite spots on the island,” according to Josh Ernest, a deputy press secretary, was the second of three stops he and the first lady made Sunday night.  The president was greeted outside the restaurant by a throng of supporters and well-wishers chanting “Four more years,” and “We love you.”  The first couple went inside for a few minutes to see some friends, Ernest said.

When they emerged, they were holding hands.  The first lady was wearing a black top with spaghetti straps and a yellow and white skirt.  The president wore a blue, short-sleeved shirt outside dark khakis.

The first couple's next stop was at the home where Valerie Jarrett, a senior adviser, is staying.
 
Earlier in the evening, the president and first lady attended a reception at the West Tisbury home of Aileen and Brian Roberts, the CEO of Comcast, a parent company to MSNBC.

Copyright 2011 ABC News Radio

First Family Visits Vineyard Main Street, Bookstore

CJ Gunther-Pool/Getty Images(VINEYARD HAVEN, Mass.) -- On the first full day of his Martha’s Vineyard vacation,  the president made his first public appearance at a well-known bookstore, “A Bunch of Grapes,” in the nearby town of Vineyard Haven.

Just after noon, rumors started swirling that he might be coming.  Within minutes, mysterious men with yellow police tape appeared on Main Street, where most of the town's business are located. They blocked off access to the bookstore’s entrance. Shortly thereafter, the presidential motorcade made its way down the narrow street to the delight of the crowds that had gathered.

Dressed in a casual short sleeved blue shirt, the president emerged with his girls, Sasha and Malia. The crowds began to cheer and scream.  Washington, D.C., resident Virlynn Adkinson, who just this morning arrived for a week’s vacation with several friends, was thrilled to get a chance to see the president in person for the first time. She scoffed at the suggestion the island is known for attracting mostly the rich and famous.

“I think there’s a perception it’s posh,” Adkinson said. “I think a lot of your middle class, average folks come here for vacation.”

As for those critics who think the president should stay at the White House working on the country’s economic problems, Adkinson wasn’t buying that. “He’s working all the time. He’s doing a little relaxing when he’s with his two girls, but for the most part he’s working. There’s too much going on in the country.”

When the president emerged from the store with his girls some 15 minutes later, he chatted and shook hands with a line of pre-selected, lucky folks who were chosen from the crowds to greet him. Many of them chanted, “Four more years! Four more years!” And then, just like that, he was gone.

Unfortunately, Adkinson and her friends weren’t as lucky but just getting to see him in person was enough. Laughing and giving her friends five, she said, “It was wonderful. It was fabulous.”

Asked if this made her vacation, she replied emphatically, “Yes!”

A Bunch of Grapes has been around for over 40 years. The family also visited there last year.  The White House press corps, coincidentally, is staying about one block away from the bookstore but that didn’t seem to deter Mr. Obama from making the trip.

Copyright 2011 ABC News Radio

Obama Begins First Full Day of Vacation

President Barack Obama receives a national security briefing from John Brennan, Assistant to the President for Counterterrorism, in Martha's Vineyard, Mass., Aug. 19, 2011. Official White House Photo by Pete Souza(WASHINGTON) -- President Obama's first full day of vacation on a 28-acre Martha’s Vineyard "farm" started with a National Security briefing from his counterterrorism chief John Brennan.

It appears from the official White House photo that they were sitting outside.

The White House has told the press not to expect any statements Friday, though of course that could change.

Copyright 2011 ABC News Radio

Obama Arrives on Vacation with Bo, Encounters Red Sox Baby

JIM WATSON/AFP/Getty Images(CAPE COD, Mass.) -- President Obama arrived in Martha’s Vineyard Thursday evening without the first lady and his daughters, who had arrived earlier on the island off the Massachusetts coast.

But the president was not alone on the Air Force One flight to Cape Cod, nor on the Marine One flight to the Vineyard.  Bo, the first dog, traveled with the president and will enjoy the 28 acres of the Blue Heron Farm, which the Obamas have rented for 10 days.

At the airport, the president greeted some onlookers and cradled a baby.

“I don’t usually hang out with Red Sox fans,” said the president, who roots for the White Sox.  The child was wearing a Red Sox baby outfit.

“Here, we’ve got two more,” said a woman who appeared to be the baby’s mother.  “He’s a triplet.”

The president will likely have to hang out with more Red Sox fans as he vacations in the baseball team's state.

It will be a working vacation for Obama.

The White House told reporters Thursday that the deputy director of the National Economic Council will travel to Martha’s Vineyard to meet with the president next week about his new jobs program.  The president’s counter-terrorism chief, John Brennan, is traveling with Obama and will work with the president on national security issues during the vacation.

The White House tells ABC News that the president won’t be pulling all-nighters working on his jobs plan and speech, which he will deliver after Labor Day.  But this will be a working vacation for the president, who has seen his approval ratings fall recently at an all-time low.

White House Spokesman John Earnest said on Air Force One on the way to island: “What the president is going to put forward in September is a package of new ideas that builds on the ideas that we've already been talking about for some time and some ideas that have bipartisan support, including patent reform."

Copyright 2011 ABC News Radio

He's Off: Obama Heading to Martha's Vineyard for 10 Day Family Vacation

TOBY MELVILLE/AFP/Getty Images(WASHINGTON) -- Fresh off three days of barnstorming in the Midwest, President Obama will spend Thursday morning at the White House in two closed-door meetings, first with his senior economic advisors in the Oval Office then with his national security team in the Situation Room. And then it's off for some R&R. In the afternoon, Obama heads to the island oasis of Martha’s Vineyard off the coast of Massachusetts, where he’s expected to spend the next 10 days vacationing with his family.

The trip -- the Obamas’ third consecutive to the Vineyard -- comes in spite of some criticism from Republicans and members of his own party that he remain in Washington to focus on the economy.

"We've got to be doing every single thing we can, every minute of every day to help the American people,” Obama told a crowd Wednesday in Alpha, Illinois -- the last stop on his bus tour.

White House press secretary Jay Carney has said Obama will continue to work on the economy even while he is away.

"I don't think Americans out there would begrudge that notion that the president would spend some time with his family,” Carney told reporters last week.

He added, "There's no such thing as a presidential vacation.  The presidency travels with you.  He will be in constant communication and get regular briefings from his national security team as well as his economic team.  And he will, of course, be fully capable if necessary of traveling back if that were required.  It's not very far."

Copyright 2011 aBC News Radio

Obama Set to Hit the Road for Bus Tour, Vacation

Official White House photo by Pete Souza(WASHINGTON) -- President Obama is preparing to pack his bags and head out of town, first to Minnesota for a Midwest bus tour that starts Monday, then to a seaside compound on Martha’s Vineyard, where he’s slated to spend several days with his family.

"The president's family is going on vacation. He's going to join them if he can," senior Obama adviser David Axelrod said on GMA.

While Axelrod appeared to hint at a possible change in the president’s plans, White House officials said later Obama still intends to “spend some time with his wife and two daughters in Martha’s Vineyard,” traveling to Massachusetts on Thursday.  

But itineraries can always change.

While criticism of a presidential vacation is not unusual, particularly from political opponents, Obama has faced increasing pressure -- some from within his own party -- to remain in Washington to take bold steps to address the lagging economy.

“Barack Obama is missing in action,” former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty said Thursday night, calling on the president to cancel his vacation and call Congress back into session.

Congress is out of Washington until after Labor Day, with many congressional leaders are engaged in fundraisers, campaigning and vacations of their own.

Obama has said Congress has the power to approve a number of economic measures that could immediately help create jobs. But he’s voiced reluctance to take the unusual step of calling them back to act now.

"The last thing we need is Congress spending more time arguing in D.C.," Obama said Thursday in Holland, Michigan.  

So while both sides of Pennsylvania Avenue allow the air to clear, Obama intends to keep sailing ahead.

The president’s whereabouts are “not a measure of working on the problem,” Axelrod said. “He is working on the problem all the time.”  

The president met at the White House Friday to talk about jobs with a selection of business leaders and CEOs, including those from Xerox, American Express, U.S. Bank, and Johnson & Johnson, officials said.

Copyright 2011 ABC News Radio

Politics of the Presidential Vacation

TOBY MELVILLE/AFP/Getty Images(WASHINGTON) -- It may be August, but with Wall Street's wild mood swings and the economy stalled, should President Obama really be headed to Martha's Vineyard for vacation?

White House Press Secretary Jay Carney defended the getaway, scheduled to begin Aug. 18.

"I don't think Americans out there would begrudge that notion that the president would spend some time with his family," Carney said.

But do we?

President George W. Bush was vacationing on his ranch in Crawford, Tex,. as Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast. Bush cancelled his vacation two days later but did not see the disaster zone until four days later, flying over it on his way back to Washington. Critics say it was a tipping point for his presidency.

His father, George H.W. Bush, didn't do himself any favors in the vacation department, either. When the country was knee-deep in a recession, he was photographed cruising around on his pleasure boat off Kennebunkport, Maine, and his approval rating tumbled.

And then there was President Bill Clinton. A day after shocking the nation by admitting to an affair, he left for Martha's Vineyard, his daughter Chelsea famously walking between her parents as they were whisked away from Washington.

But the man who perfected the presidential vacation during tough times may just be President Ronald Reagan. He spent a month vacationing at his Santa Barbara ranch even though the country was in a recession. However, the White House made sure the press corps only saw him one time that entire month, and that was when he signed the Economic Recovery Act outside the ranch.

When it comes to presidential vacations, reality is often trumped by the politics of perception.

Copyright 2011 ABC News Radio

The Bidens Head to the Hamptons; Obama's Summer Vacation Still a Go

Pete Souza/The White House(WASHINGTON) -- Vice President Joe Biden and his wife have escaped the heat and political squabbling of Washington to spend the rest of the week vacationing in the Hamptons.

Although the vice president’s official schedule says only that the Bidens are set to “visit Long Island,” they traveled to their annual vacation spot in Southampton earlier Wednesday and plan to stay through Monday.

The Bidens' vacation may be off to a bit of a rocky start, however. Striking Verizon workers reportedly picketed in front of their vacation home Wednesday, hoping to sway the vice president to listen to their cause. Tens of thousands of Verizon workers went on strike earlier this week following a contract dispute with the telecommunications company.

President Obama will follow his number two’s lead later this month when he and his family travel to Martha’s Vineyard for a little R&R. White House Press Secretary Jay Carney confirmed Wednesday that, despite the staggering economy, the president still plans to take his annual summer vacation.

“I don't think Americans out there would begrudge that notion that the president would spend some time with his family,” Carney said. Besides, he noted “there's no such thing as a presidential vacation.

“The presidency travels with you.  He will be in constant communication and get regular briefings from his national security team as well as his economic team.  And he will, of course, be fully capable if necessary of traveling back if that were required. It's not very far,” Carney said.

Copyright 2011 ABC News Radio