HUH? – AT 10:03 A.M. ET:  This is completely inappropriate.  From The Politico:

UP FROM DOWN UNDER: Australia's prime minister is paying a visit to President Obama on Monday, but unlike during usual visits by heads of state, they're not scheduled to take reporters' questions after their meetings.

Instead, Obama and Julia Gillard "will deliver statements to the press in the Oval Office," the White House said in guidance to reporters. That's after they talk to each other about "the strong ties between the United States and Australia, our shared political and economic interests in the Asia-Pacific region, and our work together around the world, including in Afghanistan and as members of APEC and the G20.".

COMMENT:  Australia is one of our closest allies.  The Aussies have always been there for us, and without complaint.  And yet, Prime Minister Gillard is being relegated to a press statement.

Obviously, the reason for this is that Obama doesn't want to face reporters' questions.  The man who isn't there wants to be even less there.  But this is no way to treat the prime minister.  And yet, it is consistent with the way Obama treats our closest allies, especially those who have the nerve to speak English.  Maybe our president still bears a grudge about the British Empire.  Time to get over it, Barack. 

We hope Ms. Gillard is given a warm reception by members of Congress to make up for our fearful leader's lack of class. 

March 7, 2011