President Obama began his first full day in office with a series of phone calls to Mid-East leaders. Shortly after 8 AM, Obama made his first call to the Middle East to Palestinian President Abbas. In the call it was reported that on one hand he spoke about the need for moving forward with the peace process, but also the need to make sure that Hamas does not attain new arms. Obama offered money for the rebuilding of Gaza, but only if goes through the Palestinian Authority. After speaking to Abbas, Obama called Israeli Prime Minister Olmert, Egyptian President Mubarak, and King Faad of Saudi Arabia. This was a clear message showing his support for moderate countries of the Arab world..

The President next attended the ecumenical pray service at the National Cathedral.

The President spoke to his White House Staff at their swearing in ceremony. At the ceremony he announced new ethics rules. White House staff were now forbidden to lobby the administration as long as Obama was President. There would be no pay increases as long as the current economic crisis continued. Obama also called for greater openess, telling his staffers not to classify material just becuse they can, issued an executive order to that effect.

President Obama met with the Joint Chief of Staff and the Ambassador to Iraq to discuss a new strategy for Iraq. He also met with his ecnomic advisors to discuss the current economic crisis.

Executive Order on Ethic

Executive Order on Freedom Of Information