Obama Vacation May Cost More If Family Goes First

If President Barack Obama sends his family on ahead to Hawaii while he stays in Washington to wrap up business with Congress, the taxpayers will be on the hook for tens of thousands of dollars, Keith Koffler reports on his White House Dossier blog.

Obama, who has been criticized sharply for scheduling a 17-day vacation during the country’s current economic mess, reportedly has said he may delay departure until Congress extends the payroll tax holiday. If that occurs, Michelle and Obama’s two daughters may go on ahead without him.

“But sending his family ahead of him could easily cost taxpayers an added $100,000, and possibly much more,” Koffler wrote on his blog.

“Last year, when Obama was delayed by Congress, Michelle left early for Hawaii, and the cost of her separate flight alone totaled about $63,000. This did not include related security and staff costs or the money for a cargo plane that may trail the first lady’s jet on such a trip.”

The move also puts the president at odds with one of his executive orders that instructed agencies to avoid unnecessary plane trips, Koffler wrote.