Obama Hosts Thanksgiving in Chicago

Written by Liane Jackson - CBS News

November 27, 2008 09:35 PM

President-elect Barack Obama is spending this Thanksgiving with family and friends at his home in Chicago. He also extended a holiday greeting to the nation Thursday morning. President-elect Barack Obama went to the gym Thanksgiving morning, burning off calories before his big holiday feast. He's hosting dozens of family and friends at his home this year. But he set the tone for this holiday Wednesday when he and his family passed out chicken dinners at a Chicago church. It's the 4th year the Obama's have helped the hungry on Thanksgiving eve. But the economic crisis has made tough times even tougher for many and that was the focus of Mr. Obama's Thanksgiving address to the nation. "It's going to take bold and immediate action to confront this and that's why I'm committed to forging a new beginning from the moment I take office as President of the United States," Obama said. Mr. Obama announced his economic team here in Chicago earlier this week. In the coming days, he'll name his national security team and other top cabinet positions, including Sen. Hillary Clinton as Secretary of State. Ending the war in Iraq and intensifying efforts in Afghanistan remain top priorities for the President-elect and Thursday, he acknowledged members of the military that have left empty seats at Thanksgiving tables around the country. "We honor and give thanks for their sacrifice and stand by the families who endure their absence with such dignity and resolve," Obama said. After his Thanksgiving meal, Mr. Obama intends to do his part to jump start the economy, squeezing in some holiday shopping. He says his daughters have their Christmas lists ready and waiting.

Last Updated ( December 01, 2008 07:04 PM )