Earnest Defends Obama’s Schedule: ‘He’s Got His Own Airplane,’ Phone Lines

There are multiple unfolding crises all over the world, so President Obama‘s public schedule, including multiple fundraisers (not to mention a Jimmy Kimmel appearance that wasn’t), has struck many as odd and even tone-deaf. White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest defended Obama’s schedule today, insisting he’s getting things done because “he’s got his own airplane, he’s got dedicated phone lines.”

Fox’s Ed Henry pressed Earnest on Obama’s schedule during today’s press briefing. Earnest argued that despite attending fundraisers, a “significant portion” of Obama’s time will be dedicated to dealing with these crises, receiving briefings, and speaking with key players about world events.

He said, “The president, like most professionals, has the capability to deal with more than one priority at a time… He’s got his own airplane, he’s got dedicated phone lines, he has senior advisors who will be accompanying him every step of the way.”

Henry asked if they really have “no concern” about the president’s image as he attends Democratic fundraisers. Earnest insisted Obama will “be paying all necessary attention” to events unfolding in Ukraine and Gaza.

You can watch the video here:

[image via screengrab]

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Follow Josh Feldman on Twitter: @feldmaniac

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