I hate to say this, but NONE OF OUR PRESIDENTS

[nadinbrzezinski]

would be there, to welcome miners.

This is partially due to the nature of the job. US Presidents cannot do this. But here we are.

Good that the President of Chile can do this, and NOT get in the center of things either.

Oh and this miner, Mario Sepulveda, he is quite a character!

[Ozymanithrax]

1. Once everybody is out and out of the hospital, our President would invite them to ...

the white house.

That is the way we do things.

[awoke_in_2003]

11. have to agree...

screw the photo op- get these people checked out, properly fed, then the less important things can take place.

[Warpy]

2. It's going to be a long night in Chile if he's the second guy out

and yes, he's quite a character, very pretty lady waiting for him too.

It's nice to see he's in good shape.

[Clio the Leo]

3. I'm kind of bothered that the 1st couple is there...

.... esp. knowing that each miner was limited to three family members. If the Pres & 1st Lady weren't there, then five fam. members could have come.

Ah well..... the miners (so far) are thrilled to see them. All that really matters.

And of course doubtful (as you'e alluded) that the Pres. of Chile travels with as large of a contingent as Obama does everywhere he goes, and that makes a difference. "The President and 1st Lady were there to greet the miners ... and just off to the President's side, 50 secret service agent and the aid in charge of holding the nuclear football."

[nadinbrzezinski]

5. When hubby came home from patrol

the Navy also limited the number of people peer side.

[SugarShack]

4. Im proud of Chili, government put together the media production, totally open, and the first lady

is not a bit concerned about fashion. I'd love to see Michelle in a snow coat, not worrying about the next fashion statement.

They are real leaders. They are there for their people. And, I'm sure they will still get invited to visit/party with the president.

So unlike how the BP disaster was handled and covered up...and media blocked. And THEY'RE a third world country?

[Clio the Leo]

8. lol that is QUITE a fashionable snow coat.... and scarf

Just saying. ;)

Her makeup looks good too.

[Posteritatis]

6. I could see them there for something like this, but this is pretty unique. (nt)

[Pirate Smile]

7. The media here would crucify them for it. They would say they are making it about them and using it

for a photo op.

[nadinbrzezinski]

9. That's the other reason they can't

well unless you are a Republican, but we know modern republicans would be eating cake.

[Clio the Leo]

10. They'd be in the way.

A NASA team helped with this ... and the crew who helped develop the technology for the capsule are from PA. A little bit of the American President is there .... as is a little piece of you and I.

And the hearts and prayers of the world are with them.