Your Seat at the Table

[sebreathnach]

Why does one get that 'blah, blah, blah' feeling again? Obama believes that he is there 'to maintain the strongest military on the planet.' Given his appointments, an increase in ground forces by 100,000 and $850 billion being spent annually to the miliatry, Sarah Pallin can only become more attractive...Change????

[jokill13]

Transparency is vital and being able to comment, leave messages, and agree or disagree with the teams is wonderful. I am thrilled by this site.

[Elliesooh]

Very realistic and absolutely necessary! Go Obama and his transition team, Americans deserve a seat at the table-especially this table!

Ellie

[barbarabr53]

I am wondering what can be done to truly open the windows to government... While the policy to have materials shared from meetings with 3 or more reps of organizations, this seems to be a loophole for those who will puposely send only TWO representatives to keep the matters private. What can be done to make a more meaningful assessment of what should and should not be shared? Those wishing to keep private their business will most certainly have two reps at White House metings, not 3!

[PatsBlog]

The President-elect has stated that he intends to create new jobs. I think it is important to understand that the government cannot spend a dollar unless they steal it from someone else. Government is the most inefficient, corrupt, and mismanaged sector of society yet we want them to "solve" our economic problems. Government IS the problem. If they would stop regulating & stealing from the poor to give to the rich we'd be fine.

[bamagirl6811]

wahooo amen you tell em

[mslynn1000]

PLEASE let me keep my christian-based medical coverage. I don't want the "universal medicare". And PLEASE don't give amnesty to the millions of ILLEGAL migrants. ILLEGAL means ILLEGAL

[FistInTheAir420]

Since I would assume "Christian-based medical coverage" means praying when you get sick, I don't think illegel aliens will affect that right.

[elevensmiles11]

he is giving medical plan options, not forcing them on anyone. geez, did you even read mccains & obama's plans before you went to the polls???

illegal does not mean illegal, there are refugees in the US who petition the courts for refugee status. some are given and others not, illegal is a label, and far more complex than you can imagine. im not for the illegal entrance of the country, however i am not against the individuals. ITS A VERY COMPLEX ISSUE, you cant paint all with the same brush

[FairBolFL]

Elevens...."illegal does not mean illegal." Oh? What exactly does it mean then?

[elevensmiles11]

thats why the catholic church is keen on helping "illegals/undocumented"

[mchigubu]

mslynn1000, Remember everyone in this country is illegal except for the Natives or First People. Yes, illegal means illegal as long as that part of history is honored that this is a nation of immigrants. Only natives ought to give that label "illegal immigrant", lest we forget history!

[DaFAMOnDeck]

Excellent. For PE Obama. Can PE set aside some time to speak with ALL Democratic governors about what he expects of them? Today's news puts the Democratic party under a cloud and unnecessary scrutiny. We DO NOT want the voters to associate us with the same dishonesty, corruption, and abuse of power like the Republicans.Democratic Senators and Congress can also benefit from a pep talk from the PE. Blegojevich makes all Democrats look bad.

[fatmoleman]

Yeah more memebers from the CFR please!! More idiots from the FED that caused this whole mess please!! Go Obama and the change!

Like how could I have missed it all?

[xsleef]

Restore the Constitution!

[larrypsy]

Why Not

[TogetherinParis]

Inclusive means everybody. Inclusive means Rush Limbaugh. Inclusive means tobacco lobbyists. Inclusive means "The Obama Impeachment Committee" doubtless already organized and hard at work. You must go to them. They will not come to you. So go.

[foundobjectart]

Thank you for doing this. I have never felt so empowered in regards to the government.  This is change that will carry us through the really tough months ahead. Thank you for my chance to sit at the table.

[BeverlyJ1519]

wonderful if you are really going to open the meeting up to the US public and really solicit their comments on ideas. A very novel idea considering the last 8 years. If the money given to Paulson was to go back into the economy to banks so they can lend how come they are not lending but buying other banks that was not the purpose. I think someone needs to have a chat with him and the banks. bj1519

[khakuda]

We must start saving our money. Borowing to pay bailouts is going to drive this country under! Create jobs slowly - no mad rush for infrastructure - who's going to pay? China? They will own us - they already do! Mortgage rates should not be lower than 5%. Stop lowering the Fed runs rate! Go slowly - it's going to take years to get out of this mess. There are no quick fixes!

[Elliesooh]

Great comment khakuda! We deserve this real president-elect Barack Obama---

[remoney]

Love this progress

[lparkerphd]

Great Idea -- what I am wondering about most is whether this will continue as time passes.

[nigelkingsley]

yes sir !!!! let's get down transparently !!!

aloha from switzerland - nigel kingsley

[JOHNNIEL1]

Refreshing,innovative idea!If this concept could be taken a step further,to somehow arrange a series of interactive webinars on maybe a "first come first serve" basis,to a limited numer of participants,to keep it practical,would be a great way to foster inclusion,trust and excitement!

[sunyalila]

I am loving the entire way you are doing things and feel it is transformative in itself. Bravo to your transparency, inclusivity, humanity, underlying unity, recognition of economic, ecological & global interdependence & your willingness and invitation to co-create outside the box. As difficult as times are, those I know walk a lot lighter & feel very encouraged & inspired by Barack Obama & team. Thank you for appealing to the best in us, trusting that, inviting creativity & welcoming change.

[sunyalila]

I am loving the entire way you are doing things and feel it is transformative in itself. Bravo to your transparency, inclusivity, humanity, underlying unity, recognition of economic, ecological & global interdependence & your willingness and invitation to co-create outside the box. As difficult as times are, those I know walk a lot lighter & feel very encouraged & inspired by Barack Obama & team. Thank you for appealing to the best in us, trusting that, inviting creativity & welcoming change.

[sunyalila]

I am loving the entire way you are doing things and feel it is transformative in itself. Bravo to your transparency, inclusivity, humanity, underlying unity, recognition of economic, ecological & global interdependence & your willingness and invitation to co-create outside the box. As difficult as times are, those I know walk a lot lighter & feel very encouraged & inspired by Barack Obama & team. Thank you for appealing to the best in us, trusting that, inviting creativity & welcoming change.

[tmprogram]

yeah they want u at the seat but they wont change anything unless it helps the power elite

[ChangeAgent23]

Thank you for opening the doors! I while have my 16 year old read the email notices and tune in to the President-Elect Weekly Address. We will both take our seat at the table. We appreciate the invitation.

[P1915]

This is a great idea. Kudos to the Obama administration and its goal to adhere to an open government.

[luvobamas]

Of the people, for the people, by the people. I never thought I'd see it in my lifetime. I'm all choked up.

[ScorpioVision]

I love what is happening so far! Keep it going.

[ScorpioVision]

Thank You!

[mamaprib]

Good going! This is why I volunteered for the Obama campaign from the very beginning: I think Obama gives us not only a different president, but a different KIND of president!

Counting the days till Bush's last....

[zdwade]

lol i love how people believe this bs. when barrack is done were gonna be in more debt, have more wars, and less freedom.

[taahira2003]

Take it as a compliment, President Elect, that some are angry and frustrated that you are not The President yet. If you need any help with reading, sorting, summarizing all that feedback you're asking for, I'm available! Sounds like a great Work-from-Home opportunity for those of us who want to conserve energy, would rather spend commuting time with our children, have disabilities, etc... Much love, honor and respect!

[GeeLew1]

I am very glad to have this forum and information about my government. I have never felt like the "powers that be" ever cared at all about real people. Love this--Love Obama--Love US

[claireifyer]

Would you post a running list of all team appointees, preferably with titles and birth dates or some minimal bio data. I think it would be helpful to have all this info in one place--updated at appropriate intervals. Thanks.

Claire Dobie

[repo9ers]

I think this is a great idea to interact and fine out what the average Americans things and allowing us to have in-put on the chance we are looking for in OUR Government. Thsnk You.

[jalenariana11]

This will work and be very strong because on one person cannot solve all America's problems by themselves. They need ideas and strong opinion which I'm sure you will get both from negative and positive people. Make sure this is put out to as many people as possible. This is brilliant.

[cwoodups]

Well let's have some live streams and some Longer video's .Please this one last one minute twenty six seconds. pan the camera introduce your self brief description then it's business as usual were just a camera and a teleprompter with a good or bad opinion. can i get a thumbs up people?

[COUPstroke]

The Seat at The Table ought to be a policy going forward, not just for the transition. These should be periodic meetings set up with discussion leaders, including lobbyists, that are documented and transparently available. Kudos for the germ of a great idea.

[midwestcharm]

Who is going to pay to review and maintain this? Taxpayers are broke and China won't lend anymore. The printing presses are smoking from overload. Good luck!

[walworth45]

Thank you. I am pleased that the Office of the President Elect is engaging the public in the dialogue regarding national issues. You have rekindled my excitement in government participation. I will allay any skepticism for now, and hope that you are cracking open the door to the initial stage of an interactive government, where everyone has a "seat at the table". Best of Luck.

[ojaielf]

Myhre

Please choose a Secretary of Agriculture who is an advocate of organic agriculture, for the sake of the health of the American people. Genetically altered foods, pesticides, and synthetic fertilizers have been proven to be dangerous to health.

[ciro9]

President elect Barack Obama needs to federally mandate long term loan modification's (interest) on behalf of "all Americans" with ARM Negative (minimum payment deferred (home equity destroyer) interest mortgage loans at a fixed by for 40 or 50 year's to spread out the payments. Leaving it up to the bank's to do this is akin to putting the fox in the hen house to protect them.

"The Change We Need" must come from the Federal government.

[marge201]

SO FAR SO GOOD AND MOST IMPRESSIVE. Bravo to Obama/Biden and the transition team. One thing that disturbs me, and please look into this, we are not an Islamic country and will never be an Islamic country. AIG, who got a huge "bail-out" or "loan" or "bridge loan," whatever it is, it is taxpayer money. And this company is promoting Sharia-compliant products???? THIS IS OUTRAGEOUS. (CONTINUED IN NEXT COMMENT)

[moonchild50]

I'm so happy Obama is going to be our president... I'm so happy Obama is going to be our president... For the first time in over eight years I have hope. I do believe this man has a good heart. I do believe this man is sincere. I do believe he is capable of initiating the change we so desperately need. I count the days, minutes and seconds until that morally bankrupt moron is finally "dethroned." Ordained by God to lead this country? Does anyone else have a problem with this?

[moonchild50]

I am so happy Obama is our president...I am so happy Obama is our president... For the first time in over eight years, I have hope. I do believe in this man. I believe he is sincere. I believe he is good at heart, unlike the morally bankrupt, soicopathic man who is at last "dethroned." Ordained by God to lead my ass!!!

[twanacannon]

I love what President Obama and Vice President Biden are creating for the people. I just read the infastructure plan to make sure schools, and hospitals have the proper internet connections. I am a Librarian in Atlanta, I would ask the transition team not to forget about Libraries. We provide so much help to the community with programs and the connection to the Internet. Please make sure that the Public Libraries have the latest technology to assist with the plan.

[tigersfamily]

Something HUGE our government MUST do: MAKE GAS EXPENSIVE by TAXING IT... Cheap gas in the US makes people want to drive relatively larger cars that are inherently less fuel efficient. Japan & many European countries have high gas costs and those countries' car companies are forced to design and produce relatively smaller and inherently relatively more fuel efficient cars. Detroits troubles are many: ONE BIG one is CHEAP GAS. Expensive gas ALSO ENCOURAGES ALTERNATIVE ENERGY DEVELOPMENT...

[barbarabr53]

This is a good 1st step in opening up the process. However, there appears to be a potentially large loophole. The requirements for public disclosure apply only to meetings where THREE OR MORE representatives of an organization participate. For those who do not wish their purposes or information to be disclosed, this provides a very easy way to circumvent disclosure and sharing. There should be another level of evaluation as to whether or not such meetings are including in this process.

[robynpaper]

Re: Health Care Reform ..... I am a primary care physician. Please consider the concept of incentives for patients to live healthy lifestyles. Obama stands for personal sacrifice and responsibility and this should be a model for encouraging Americans to take responsibility for their physical well being.

[luyimavn]

good

[FAYNESHA]

Wow! This is incredibly different.  I like this idea and I appreciate being able to know what you are thinking as well as the rest of the world. Hopefully, you will take our comments seriously and use them wisely. Thanks much.

[Rugosamum]

For the first time EVER in my lifetime

(65 years)this could be an opportunity for reasoned dialogue between the voting public and those elected. Finally an administration that seeks to serve, to innovate, and respond to the challenges that could destroy us as a civilization and as a species. Wow-we can finally admit right out loud that there's a 200 million pound elephant named Apathy in the room with us - may we succeed in changing its name to Agape (that's ah-guh-pay - not gaping)! Bless you!

[5525sdea]

By setting the example of transparency at the highest level of government, you will encourage increased transparency at all levels of government. Bravo!

[caraibesmix]

Transparency will build more confidence. This is certainly a great step in the real direction, an excellent idea and Policy. I am ready to be part.

God bless you

[yasabella]

Well Done! This is a great initiative and a further proof (if there was still any need) that President Barack Obama is a man of his words. We are confident that he's going to do everything he promised to and even more if it is in his power. He clearly loves and listens to his people. What a great President and what an amezing man!

[Annlesage]

proudmchnative

I think this transparency is great-I do hope you read the comments. In Michigan, we are in desperate straits. The banking industry caused the mess we are in and got handed 700 billion-auto industry didn't participate in "debt default swaps" and "liar loans" but the auto industry has been wrongly blamed and is asking for loans. The Commercial Jet issue was grand standing by some members of Congress. While you're transitioning; WE NEED HELP NOW

[Yousaidido]

This is great.  It begins to feel like a government of the people after all.

[19181970]

The taxpayers/or citizens and small business should received a credit card in the amount of $20,000.00 which could only be used to make purchases. This would bailout USA. What do you think?

[tsstally]

where are these transition documents and comments on same?

[120cubicinch]

I think it's time to stop bailing out any companys,no matter what and drug testing of anyone on public assistance would be a good start to change!!!!

[danmarkingson]

It is time to 'treat' those with mental illnesses so they can recover without the debilitating effects of neuroleptic drugs. It is time to listen to doctors like Peter Breggin, Joseph Glenmullen, Grace Jackson, Thomas Szasz. The pharmaceutical companies cannot continue to medicate a nation into oblivion. Let's return to the Moral Era of the 1800s; let's build Soteria Houses as Dr. Loren Mosher did in California in the 70s & 80s. We can eliminate mental illness w/o drugs! Yes, We Can!

[Nevadamary]

This is a wonderful idea! I was hoping that I was voting for change and not business as usual. So far I am very pleased.

[ccxsen]

This is awesome and such a marked change from what we have experienced from Washington for decades. In fact, it feels strange, but it's exactly what people in a democracy should expect. Keep it up. Some things may not work perfectly at first, but that's why we have erasers on the ends of pencils (and delete keys on computers)!

[sonofnapalm]

My question is this: Is Mr. Obama going to win the Nobel Peace Prize before or after BUSH leaves OFFICE? sonofnapalm Doctorate Emeritus per Dr. Jonas Salk NSA AGENT

[Lolagranola5]

I love this administration. I really do.

[Eklypz]

Transparency is key! Such a breath of fresh air and the secrecy and lies the last 16 years.

[sronhaar]

You are taking an important step in gaining our confidence. This is a great move. I finally feel I am a part of this government. Thank you keep up the excellent work.

[realtworeel]

I like the idea of the table. I would just hope that I could be taken serious about national and international security. I have the answer or a great breakthough that our govenment needs RIGHT NOW! It is terrorist proof and NOT a waste of your time to hear. Can I bring it to the table?

[doloresrogers53]

Congratulations on finally asking the American People what they want. For years we have heard the Washingtonians talk about "what the American People want" and none of them had ever spoken to an everyday American Person! As far as the change that has been promised, I am all for it and am very pleased with what I see for now. As far as an assertive transition goes, I do not see how the President-Elect can do more. He is not yet President but it is putting a formidable team in place to run with!

[204hanover]

The Greek inventors of direct democracy would be proud of Obama-Biden's efforts to reduce the "agency costs" of representative democracy by implementing a policy of transparancy to and input from the citizens, who pay the taxes and have to live with the decisions made by their representatives/ agents. Keep up the good work!

[h0pe09]

Yes, yes, yes, wonderful idea to let us have a seat at the table. What you do affects us all and we the people need to have our voice and someone who WILL LISTEN!

[n2itiveone]

I am curious to know if it has occured to anyone involved in "The Big Three Bailout" to encourage them to combine their efforts,resources and knowledge to create and manufacture eco-friendly vehicles. The time is now and I can't stand the thought of our hard earned tax dollars providing a temporary solution to what is destined to fail. Without major change, we are wasting valuable time and money. The fact that the big boys used their demos instead of the jets for this meeting proves nothing.

[michaelevan111]

My question is regarding a meeting in which only 2 people from outside org attend. Is that a loophole to allow secret interaction? Or simply more realistic?

[cgfeminist]

I strong support this important step toward more transparency. I hope that this will continue through out all aspects of government. In seeing the video, I am concerned about the gender and diversity representation in these committees. I would hope that there would be full gender equality and proportionate representation from all diverse groups including out Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and transgender folks.

[TCTHETC]

Twenty-five billion for jobs via infrastructure improvement can only create your million jobs if they pay $25,000 each and zero dollars are spent for design, engineering, permitting, and materials. Looks to me like more hype or you really need to recompute. Even if you have the notion of a local match of 50%, the jobs created will only be essentially minimum wage jobs.

Good idea but the practicality doesn't match the rhetoric....again.

[quieth1121]

What an incredible concept! Listening to Main Street and all of us who made the small donations over and over because we wanted CHANGE. Now we are offered a seat at the table. Thank you. Great IT...keep it going.

[Namari12]

.. This is a really cool idea.

[RVGrandpa]

I for one, am thrilled that my wife and I both voted for BO. This display of leadership and caring for the people is justification enough. Those who would criticize the President-elect should remember that the Constitution calls for just one President, no matter how incompetent. God Bless the USA and God Bless Barack Obama.

[MischaV67]

Great idea for the process. Keep working this way. Make sure when we look around the table Americans can recognize themselves by those present, women and men, different cultural/ethnic and age groups. This table looked great. E. Goodson

[stanleyzimmerman]

This process means a great deal to me.  It's more than words or an idea if it is a fact. It is a real change in the Government I've known for 50 years. Congratulations!

[palsimon614]

It has occurred to me (as a business person), that for less than $450 billion we could incentivize people to pay off personal debts and perhaps mortgage past due debt by offering each of our 214,075,000 adult population (approx.) a stimulous check of $2280 ONLY to pay off some pre-existing debt. This would not only help debtors, but would also help banks and other businesses.

[christill28]

finally a reemergence of the principles that this country was founded on...

"and that government of the people, by the people, and for the people, shall not perish from the earth"

[chappien]

This is an excellent start for what will prove to be a very challenging presidency. To those who still need to skewer the present administration,"Get Over It and Get On with It"Let's stop looking backwards and begin to build a new reality which will change what needs to be changed, keep what needs to be kept and pray for the wisdom to know the difference. Chappie N

[speedmeisterp]

Thank you PE Obama Administration!! This is truly a rebirth of freedom and a valiant effort to give Americans representation in their government. Thank you so much!

[PKACONSON]

This is great for the CHANGE that is needed to put this country back on track.

With the "DETROIT THREE" on the hot seat in Washington, D.C., we suggest that the $10.0 Billion/month going to Iraq be suspended come January 21, 2009 and that money will help the Auto industry. Also, we need a level playing field in this country for all the car/truck manufactures where not one is in favor over the other companies.

We're behind Obama/Biden 100% for the next eight (8) years. A fantastic team indeed.

[christill28]

finally,.. a reemergence of the principles that this country was founded on .. "and that government of the people, by the people and for the people, shall not perish from the earth"...

[GladILeft]

Please answer me this. IS Mr. Obama part of any secret society?

[iquacker]

First of all, to Barack, Joe and your brilliant staff: BRAVO to you all! But more important: you are now in the process of throwing open the doors to a new, 21st century form of techno-democracy made possible by the internet. And once in place, no future government will be able to shut us out again. Thus, today, you have moved the great experiment of 'government of, for and by the people' much closer to perfection. The founding fathers would be very proud!

Thank you all...

[Dianabe2]

Fabulous. It will be very interesting to see how this works. It will raise expectations even higher from Americans, but I'm guessing the Obama-Biden team is up to the task. I look forward to being involved. We ALL have a responsibility to help fix the issues we have in front of us. I echo others' sentiments about Barack getting involved with the auto negotations and other pressing financial issues. There is a vacuum otherwise.

[ultnergy]

Sunshine and transparency are great. I suggest equality for all, not just for most but for ALL. Gays must have the right to marry each other. Marriage equality now!!!! Free the second class citizens now!!!! We believe in this chance. Yes, We can!!!!

[pattiruben]

Who's listening with the 'power' to make a change? Mr. Change: Exchange health care with community service. I'm willing to give of my educated time for fine health care. My friends in their 60's will join Peace Corp in exchange of secured Health care. Another? Teachers that proves their ways by producing prolific students that proceed to college, should not be taxed. What fine masterful educators we would attract. Incentives for hard workers.... Who's listening?

[AuthorClaudette]

I am so pleased with the "Seat at the Table." The most important thing we as supporters can do for the transition team is to be here when Obama calls needs us. We can and should be self-motivated to provide our input. Our seat at the table allows us to continue our participation. Everyday, I am more convinced that the two years I spent supporting Obama, was the right choice. Yes, friends we hired the right American!

[mchigubu]

Yes, transparency leads to real change! This is awesome, and keep up the good spirit! Post more to keep us educated! We love it!

[pa6xylly]

i don't think this can be echoed enough. we love transparency!

this is the change many of us voted for. and keeping us educated is the best precedent you can set for future elections.

[Swinginparty]

Of course this may not work but it is exactly what I would do if I were president regarding EVERY Issue.

I would solicit ideas from the people - Not just real world experts (or worse special intrest groups).

This country's greatest assest is the ideas of it's people.

I love the trying.

[buckpruetz]

I don't think the Obama Administration is doing enough input into the auto company request program. Don't leave it up to Nancy Pelosi or you will be sadly disappointed. It's time for President-Elect Obama to step forward and take charge of this veering ship.

[WVGaryT]

As a retired GM UAW tradesman I agree. I'm looking for new leadership here and what is needed is to step out and lead in this highly unusual situation. Fellow Americans look at us as pampered and overpaid. When millions of dollars broadcasting a sporting event are made and these same Americans know that thier favorite player is making millions,I don't hear any objections. The American automakers were in the same position. We only wanted to recieve our fair share. I don't see any difference.

[Lolagranola5]

I would love for W. to just step down right now and for Obama to take over, but I don't think that can be done...in a legal sense, I mean. Unfortunately, W. is still the pres.

[bdl108]

You are completely correct, but keep in mind that Obama is respecting the fact that he is not President yet, that there's only one administration at a time. Unfortunately, we have another month and a half of Bush.

[ptypn]

buckpruetz,

As President-elect Obama has stated on numerous occasions, "there is only one president at a time"! President-elect Obama can't step up and take charge because that's what PRESIDENT Bush is for! On Jan. 20, 2009, then yes, I do expect him, "to step forward and take charge of this verring ship".

[andst513]

I just hope that the Obama administration puts conditions on the auto companies to make them move to 100% electric vehicle production with in 5 years as a condition of their bail out.

[Arwydd]

This is fantastic! And incredible. You all are clearly living up to our expectations. Since when has the American public had so much of a voice in our government? It's empowering.

[gvazgirl]

I am glad to see this. I and many others will be watching. Thank you

[iphotografu]

A transparent government? What the heck? How are we supposed to get used to that? But...but....we still don't know who sat on the Energy Commission with Dick Cheney!

Way to go, Barack Obama. Honest government....wow, what a concept! :D

[alexander52051]

Thank you Barack Obama! Imagine a US President interested in what THE PEOPLE have to say....It's so crazy it just might work!

[cherylplanert]

Excellent idea and policy. I applaud you, for trusting the American public, for seeing us and for listening.

[dangerdan23]

Good idea, but talk is cheap. The lack of assertiveness in transition is disappointing. The Bush administration is still raping the environment, wasting the bailout funds for their banking buddies, and fiddling while Rome burns. You need to project a progressive agenda that I worked and donated money for. PS use your surplus funds to pay off Hillary's debt, I am not donating more to pay for her attack adds, I've got food banks that need my money now.

C.Hollister

[markusvonroder]

Dangerdan, your input might be welcome, but nobody made YOU the president-elect's boss. Adjust your ton accordingly, will you?

Some people (for instance probably the nearly half of the nation who voted for the other guy ;) are delighted about the president-elects restraint. This will go a long way towards bring the nation together and gaining support - which is a prerequisite for achieving ANYTHING at all.

Obama is not here to please you personally.

[jalin001]

I think I speak for many Americans who are banking on "change" this time around. Your Round Table discussions is certainly a step in the right direction. My family and I will pray for all of you on a daily basis -- all of us, actually -- "things" are really bad!

[luciditynow]

looks beautiful in HD

[donotswallow]

you need to clean your windows

[sent2null]

revolutionary, a fresh change.

[jesuslsmetal]

read everything? i came

[crookedtool]

Good stuff!

[DLock04]

I realize that many YouTube users tend to most irrelevant and destructive comments to videos on a regular basis.

I would, however, encourage whoever runs the approval of comments to resist the easy temptation to approve only those comments that support the ideas presented in the videos from ChangeDotGov.

We've taken issue with lobbyists and political interest groups censoring constructive criticism in the past on their clips. Obama Transition Team, please do not fall victim to this practice.

[norlforman]

Very good and encouraging.

[Blacksun1942]

Obama you are a visionary

[BellaBKNY]

This is amazing! Barack Obama is Changing the way presidents will interact with the people :)

[Rosannasfriend]

comments are allowed here now?Cool!!

[blackmasterpeice]

MAN this is one OUTSTANDING Administration we have elected this is Democracy in action. I've never felt so involved in my govermnet in my life.

[OneoftheImmortals]

FANTASTIC!!!

[ronmamita]

Why do you block posting video responses to this video?

Please allow video responses; you can choose to filter videos before is is posted; but since you allow all to post text why not videos? What is your reasoning?

[CindyPDX]

This is a fantastic idea! Well done! Keep up the awesome work!

[wikum3]

Wow that's a bold move. As anybody who's seen The West Wing will know - often, controversial stuff is brought up in these meetings.

I guess the Obama team have faith in the public's ability to join the discussion without shouting or getting upset.

[norlack89]

wow. incredible

[zackwolk]

Let Me In.

[ANTHONYTYME]

great job*********

[321liftoff]

I'm really happy with the fact that the currently forming Obama Administration is already dedicated to living up to their promise of transparency. More than that, hearing what the office of Public Liaison is doing, and that they're actually reading our posts means a lot to me.

[kw7777777]

Actually communicating with the American people is a great idea and very refreshing. So far I'm pretty happy with the transition. I really hope Mary Beth Maxwell gets the Sec. of Labor...that would be a great hire...she is uniquely qualified.

[TheQuestionMan]

I really appreciate seeing all this. It makes the Political process seem more real to me and less arbitrary.

Thanks you

QM

[razorflown2]

The more transparency in government, the more I trust it.

- I did not vote for Obama

[chairde]

I like open government like this. It's a pity that we have to wait until Barrack Obama takes the oath.

[2102apples]

HD now, and amazing, unlike any president in history to share with the public like this. I think I already see change.

[billionaireby16]

Thank goodness that you all are allowing comments... I would highly suggest that you all start responding to people who actually submit ideas to you... I've submitted ideas to the Transition Team everyday for the last month and haven't gotten ANY feedback....

[dsgspm]

this is revolutionary and historic. what a brilliant team obama has put together

[mrapplecomputer1]

nice job

[pikespeaklosangeles]

Yes, very nice indeed.

[msoakbluffs]

Thanks for allowing the American people to be involved in the change by providing us a seat. This is the first time that I feel like I know the President elect personally and it is a great feeling. I have so much confidence in Mr. Obama/Biden administration. Although it didn't take a Washington D. C. minute to bring the United States Of America to a state of chaos, in my opinion it's going to take two terms of Obama/Biden administration to at least allow America to began the healing process.

[FAYNESHA]

Very impressive.... hopefully, just as useful in getting our comments off the shelf and

becoming a real way to make a difference.

Thanks for the opportunity.