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Obama Dials GOP Just to Say Hi

Prez-elect on charm offensive with key Republican legislators

By Gabriel Winant, Newser User

Posted Dec 17, 2008 9:10 AM CST

(Newser) – As Barack Obama readies a massive agenda, he’s been keeping key Republicans on speed-dial, the Hill reports. Though he seemed more comfortable with big crowds during the campaign, the prez-elect is reaching out to touch Republicans likely to be both adversaries and collaborators alike. “I think this seems to be a significant level of reaching out compared to other administrations, both Republican and Democratic," said one ranking Republican.

Obama hasn’t called every top GOP lawmaker, but his efforts do seem to be working. One ranking House Republican, Peter King, was so charmed by the president-elect that he promised not to take political shots at him. King notes that Obama had, in a voicemail, left his name “slowly, as though I would confuse him with somebody else.”

[Images (3)]

[Quotes (1)]

Sen. Judd Gregg, R-NH, checks his phone, Sept. 28, 2008, in Washington. Gregg received a call from Obama recently (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Barack Obama talks on a cell phone as he steps out of his vehicle to board his plane at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport, Monday, Nov. 10, 2008. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)

Barack Obama talks on the phone with a voter at the UAW Local 550 Union Hall in Indianapolis, Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2008. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

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I very much appreciate it. I think there’s not any question it makes a difference. It sets the right tone and it’s the way to get things done. - Senator Judd Gregg, R-NH

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Obama Dials GOP Just to Say Hi