Statements and Releases

Readout On the President’s Calls to Foreign Leaders

This afternoon, President Obama spoke to President Peres of Israel to extend his congratulations to the Israeli people on their general elections yesterday. The President remarked that the Israeli people should be very happy about the democratic example they have set for the world. They had a good discussion, and the President complimented President Peres on his recent op-ed in which he reaffirmed his strong commitment to achieving a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Nomination Press Release - Assistant Attorney General

David S. Kris, of Maryland, to be an Assistant Attorney General, vice J. Patrick Rowan, resigned.

Governor Crist to join President at Fort Myers Town Hall Meeting Tomorrow

The White House announced today that Florida Governor Charlie Crist will introduce President Barack Obama at a town hall meeting in Fort Myers to discuss the urgent need for a plan to help American families cope with the severe economic downturn and lay the foundation for our long term recovery.

President Obama Directs the National Security and Homeland Security Advisors to Conduct Immediate Cyber Security Review

President Obama has directed the National Security and Homeland Security Advisors to conduct an immediate review of the plan, programs, and activities underway throughout the government dedicated to cyber security.

Readout on the President's Call to Prime Minister Kevin Rudd of Australia

President Obama called Prime Minister Kevin Rudd of Australia. The President and the Prime Minister discussed the current status of the fires across Victoria, Australia. The President offered his prayers to the people of Australia and his condolences to the victims. The President asked if the U.S. could provide assistance to the government and people of Australia to assist with the fire.

Obama Announces Economic Advisory Board

Washington (February 6, 2009) – President Barack Obama today signed an executive order establishing the new Economic Recovery Advisory Board. Modeled on the Foreign Intelligence Advisory Board created by President Dwight D. Eisenhower the Board will provide an independent voice on economic issues and will be charged with offering independent advice to the President as he formulates and implements his plans for economic recovery.

President Obama Announces More Key White House Staff

Today, President Obama announced three Deputy Associate Directors of the White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs: Jodi Archambault Gillette, Nicholas Rathod, and Michael Blake.

Statement from Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 2/6/2009

"On the day when we learned 3.6 million people have lost their jobs since this recession began, we are pleased the process is moving forward and we are closer to getting Americans a plan to create millions of jobs and get people back to work," said White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs.

Briefing Room