Voting rights defense
President Obama writes letter to New York Times saying voting rights must be vigorously defended. The Times published the letter in response to an article in its Sunday magazine last month describing efforts to undercut or dismantle the protections of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Obama:
These efforts are not a sign that we have moved past the shameful history that led to the Voting Rights Act. Too often, they are rooted in that history. They remind us that progress does not come easy, but that it must be vigorously defended and built upon for ourselves and future generations.
Named WH communications director
Psaki is named White House communications director. Obama:
Jen worked on both my campaigns, she’s served in the White House, and she’s traveled the world as an adviser to Secretary Kerry. I fully trust Jen — and I am thrilled she’s agreed to come back to the White House as communications director.
Says Obama forced The Interview release
North Korea claims Obama is behind the release of The Interview. The country’s National Defense Commission releases a statement insulting Obama:
(Obama) is the chief culprit who forced the Sony Pictures Entertainment to indiscriminately distribute the movie, blackmailing cinemas in the US. Obama always goes reckless in words and deeds like a monkey in a tropical forest.
Resignation
Obama accepts McChrystal’s resignation after summoning the general to the White House. McChrystal releases a statement saying he is stepping down out of
a desire to see the mission succeed.
Obama says Americans should be grateful for McChrystal’s time in uniform. Referring to the Rolling Stone profile of the general by Michael Hastings, Obama adds:
The conduct represented in the recently published article does not meet the standard that should be set by a commanding general.
Robinson, Obama marry
After three years of dating Barack Obama marries Michelle Robinson at Trinity United Church in Chicago, Illinois. At the wedding, their first dance is to Stevie Wonder’s You and I. Michelle says that in Barack’s vows, he promises her a life that will be interesting. At the time she is 28 and he is 31.