I write this now as we are lounging and watching a movie.
Today was a good day. Our morning began with a lecture by Dr. Michael Genovese of Loyola Marymount. I was very impressed by his analysis of presidential power. He pointed out that even though a president is sworn every four years each one holds a distinctive amount of power. Despite these variations they are each expected to begin making immediate policy changes. Some Presidents have been more successful than others at making these changes because of elements entirely out of their control. The economic/international climate plays a huge part in making presidential power “elastic.” I was intrigued by his idea that Obama has been dealt “three aces” in this regard (the current climate gives him significant power and authority) and his idea that “the question is not will Obama have power, but will he be wise” and take advantage of his unique position.
Following Dr. Genovese we had a discussion with special agent David J. O’Connor. He was not just interesting but also very candid with us. I have had the opportunity to hear lectures from FBI and Secret Service agents before, but Mr. O’Connor’s speech was far different from my past experiences. He was open and honest and answered all rel event questions. He also did a brief historic overview of the Se cert Service which was especially captivating. He explained that the Secret Service was formed in 1865 and was signed into being by Abraham Lincoln. Ironically this occured on the day Lincoln was assassinated. Mr. O’Connor continued to explain that it was originally formed not to protect the president but to stop counterfitters. The Secret Service was not a part of presidential security until the shooting of JFK. He also told us of his role in the security aspects of the Inauguration and how agencies like the FBI and D.C. police are working together to prepare for next week.
We ended our morning session with a FANTASTIC presentation by Cal Thomas and Bob Beckel. Representing opposing political parties, Thomas and Beckel gave a balance and funny discussion of health care, taxes, and other issues. I am excited to read their column in Monday’s USA Today.
In the afternoon we had the opportunity to visit NORML. This is a nonprofit, public adversity group that “fights for the interests of the millions of Americans who smoke marijuana.” I was excited that we got such an interesting group to visit. The Executive Director, Keith Stroup spoke with us for well over an hour and answered all our questions. The experience of visiting the office and having a private meeting with someone so intelligent and passionate was very cool.
After our site with NORML we had our first time off in Washington. A few of us went and walked around the city and visited China Town. We had dinner at the unique, authentic Spanish restaurant La Tasca.
Since then we’ve just been hanging around and resting (thankfully). Special thanks to Mrs. Volkosh for the cookies!!! They were delicious!
And sorry it took so long for me to write this Dan.
Don’t forget to watch CSPAN at 9am tomorrow- Look for us!
