The Web Reacts to the Inauguration

Friday, January 23, 2009

by Claudine Zap

Inauguration Day Spurs Online Searches

Today, Barack Obama became the 44th president of the United States. And this left viewers filled with . . .questions. Americans turned from the Obama inauguration to their computers to find out the answers. The Buzz Log is here to help.

How much does the inauguration cost?
The pomp and circumstance surrounding the inauguration does not come cheap, and this could be the most pricey one yet. But because the events span everything from the official swearing-in, to balls, to D.C. security, Porta-potties and metro service, the price tag is still only an estimate. But the big number could top $150 million. The Presidential Inaugural Committee, which organized the events around the swearing-in ceremony, is estimated to be $45 million alone (paid for by private contributions).

Where does the vice president live?
Sure, Joseph Biden is moving into the vice presidential role, but where will he move? The address is not as famous as his boss's address of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. But the digs are nice if you can get them. Biden and wife Jill will be moving into Number One Observatory Circle. The residence is located on the grounds of the Naval Observatory.

How old is Obama?
Born in 1961, the 44th president is 47 years old. While Obama's election to the presidency certainly denotes a new generation of leadership, he is not the youngest leader elected to office: that honor goes to John F. Kennedy. Look-ups also included "list of presidents," "Obama quotes," "Obama swearing-in," and "inauguration day schedule."

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