An interesting look at what goes on when the next President moves in to the White House. From New Zealand's Stuff:
When Trump moves in: Shifting day at the White House
Ever wondered what moving day at the White House will be like? According to one expert, it's a bit similar to a choreographed ballet.
Move-in can't start until Inauguration Day
The president elect can't move in a minute before Inauguration Day, which is January 20. "We have to operate virtually from an off-site location and organise all the logistics there," said Bradley Blakeman in a recent interview with Elle Decor. Blakeman was former President George W. Bush's deputy assistant, and helped organise his move into the White House. "It's organised and they've got it done to a science. It's like a military manoeuver."
Everything is planned off-site
Since the sitting president moves out the same day the president-elect moves in, the moving process must be painstakingly planned away from the White House.
In a 2009 editorial, Slate.com reported that before Inauguration Day the president-elect's belongings are moved to a secure White House storage facility. It's the same space the White House uses to hold holiday decorations, antiques, and art not currently being displayed.
The President-elect is responsible for moving his own belongings
Just because you were voted in doesn't mean you get a break on moving expenses. The president-elect must arrange and pay for the transport of all his belongings and furniture. "[The incoming First Family] have to coordinate with the government and private movers," says Blakeman.
The Secret Service oversees the process, which usually happens the week before the inauguration. It provides an escort for the moving vehicles and screens all items before they enter the secure storage facility. But President Obama had to cover the transportation costs to get his items from Chicago to Washington D.C., and Donald Trump will have to cover the costs from Trump Tower to the White House.
Much more at the site - a fascinating look at something most of us do not even think about.
Tip of the hat to Bayou Renaissance Man for the link.
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