White House's Preferred First-100-Days Story Lines

Look out for these White House plugs next Wednesday

By Ambreen Ali, Newser User

Posted Apr 23, 2009 11:20 AM CDT

(Newser) – President Obama's savvy advisers may scoff at his 100th day as a "Hallmark holiday," but they're happy to tell reporters how to cover it. Politico lists what the White House is spinning:

Obama's not overambitious, just a promise-keeper—right down to that new pup.
His broader vision is unclear because it's so different.
He's in touch with the people.

He's tough on the bad guys, pirates and execs alike, and makes tough decisions.
He's Obama, not FDR, so don't expect "bold, persistent experimentation" to pay off so quickly.
Wait, he is FDR, and his aides are worthy of a spot in history books.
Not only can he keep his cool, but he defines the word like no other gym-going, ESPN-watching president.

[Quotes (1)]

Obama's team is spinning his ambitious projects by saying he kept his campaign promises, like that one about getting a new pup. (AP Photo)

President-elect Barack Obama waves to pedestrians across the street as he leaves a gym in Philadelphia last winter. Aides are pushing stories that emphasize Obama's cool. (AP Photo)

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White House aides are playing the game with relish, doling out made-to-order anecdotes and what-it-means analytical insights to help reporters write their 100 days pieces.
- Jim Vandehei and John F. Harris

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White House's Preferred First-100-Days Story Lines

Look out for these White House plugs next Wednesday