Away but not away.

The 1950s and 60s pop/rock singer Connie Francis had a hit called “We’re on Vacation.”  It started out, V-A-C-A-T-I-O-N, we’re on vacation in the summer time.  One of my favorite Connie Francis tunes.  Especially when it was played when high school was out for the summer.  Free at last!  I loved it.

Which brings me to this point.  President Obama and his family are on vacation in Martha’s Vineyard, Cape Cod.  Certainly a lovely place to escape.  However, the entire world knows where the president is.  His staff knows where he is.  Every conceivable communication device is with him along with needed staff.  Which means he is really not on vacation.  He is absolutely linked to the Whitehouse and the Whitehouse is linked to him.  It’s like he never left.

So, what is the fuss about him being on vacation?  Would it be better if he went to a Motel Six in Arlington Virginia?  Or across the street in Blair House?  It’s all the same.  He is connected.  He is just seconds away from any crisis.  He’s wired.  He’s plugged in.  He’s got his Black Berry.  What else could he want?

Nonetheless, at the same time the entire Congress has left Washington as well.  All on vacation.  Some hosting Town hall meetings.  Some hosting conference calls to constituents.  Some fishing, hiking, camping, sailing, etc.  All on vacation.  All away from Washington DC.  And, away from our present economic turmoil.

George W Bush had more time off during his first term as President than Obama.  More than Clinton.  More than president Reagan.  So what’s the big deal?

Any complaint by detractors is just P-O-L-I-T-I-Cs.  In the summer time.  Woo Haw!