After President Obama's remarks this morning on the tropical storm headed toward New Orleans, a reporter asked whether it's appropriate to continue campaigning. Obama did not answer the shouted question.
But the truth is, the question would be relevant regardless of the storm. For more than three decades, incumbent presidents have resisted campaigning during the opposing party's convention--no matter what party the president was a member of.
"By going on the road, Mr. Obama is bucking protocol. Incumbents usually stay home while the opposing party plots their defeat," the Washington Times reports.
"In 2004, President Bush kept a low profile while the Democrats were nominating John F. Kerry, although Vice President Dick Cheney did campaign during the Democratic convention. In 1996, 1992, 1984 and 1980, Presidents Clinton, George H.W. Bush, Reagan and Carter, respectively, laid low while the opposing parties’ conventions were held."
Today, the president has a full schedule--of campaign events. According to the White House schedule, "In the morning, the President will depart the White House en route Ames, Iowa. ... While in Ames, the President will deliver remarks at a campaign event at Iowa State University."
In the afternoon, the President will depart Ames, Iowa en route Fort Collins, Colorado. ...
While in Fort Collins, the President will deliver remarks at a campaign event at Colorado State University. This campaign event is open to pre-credentialed media.
Tomorrow, the campaign events go on for President Obama, even as the Republican convention continues in Tampa.
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