Obama to lunch with Republican senators, dine with Democratic donors

[Bluebear]

These meals confirm that the President "has a lot on his plate". :)

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Good morning. A busy President Obama will start his lo-o-o-o-ong day on Eastern Time and end it on Pacific Time. On tap: a Rose Garden ceremony to honor small-business owners, lunch with GOP senators, a meeting with Giorgio Napolitano, the president of Italy, and a fundraiser for California Sen. Barbara Boxer.

Late yesterday, the White House signed off on a deal to repeal -- albeit slowly -- the "don't ask, don't tell" policy on gays in the military. That sets up votes this week in the House and in the Senate Armed Services Committee that could permit gays to serve openly in the armed services once a review has been completed. Currently, gays are permitted to serve only if they conceal their sexual preference. You can read the White House letter agreeing to the deal here.

This morning, the president will celebrate National Small Business Week by hosting a White House reception for award-winning business owners. White House spokesman Robert Gibbs says it's to recognize "the important role small business plays in our economy" -- and not a moment too soon, as USA TODAY's own Dennis Cauchon points out today in an eye-popping story about the decline in private sector wages.

The president then heads up to Capitol Hill, where he will join Republican senators for their weekly luncheon.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell's spokesman, Don Stewart, says the president requested the invitation, which his boss was happy to issue. "The Republican conference welcomes his visit, where they will have a wide-ranging discussion on the year ahead," Stewart said.

http://content.usatoday.com/communities/theoval/post/2010/05/obama-to-lunch-with-republican-senators-dine-with-democratic-donors/1

[aquart]

1. Goody. Let them eat oil.