WhiteHouse.gov Officially Becomes PART of President Obama's Administration

[Esther Kane]

I hope everyone enjoyed their Obama Day!

I woke up this morning to some interesting news. If you haven't yet heard, the official website for the White House (www.whitehouse.gov) has been changed! And I'm not talking about just the photos!!

President Obama used the Internet to his advantage during his campaign. He continues to surround himself with the young and talented minds he needs to continue this venture. Hence, the overhaul of Whitehouse.gov. Now, mind you, these "abilities" aren't necessarily new, I mean the public has always been able to email the White House ever since there was a website but what's new is the ease of how these features can be found and used.

1) Ther's a blog called The Briefing Room that you can subscribe to - so check it out for your RSS reader.

2) Macon Philips, the director of the new media for the White House wrote, "The President’s executive orders and proclamations will be published for everyone to review, and that’s just the beginning of our efforts to provide a window for all Americans into the business of the government."

3) He also wrote, "We will publish all non-emergency legislation to the Web site for five days, and allow the public to review and comment before the President signs it." - Can you imagine? YOU and I have the opportunity to actually provide our insight and advice. It's about time!

As Mr. Philips writes, the idea is to increase Communication, make the administration Open and Transparent and encourage the public to Participate in the governing of this country. Just another sign that 2009 is the year the Internet finally makes it big with businesses big and small!