Says she has never heard Obama raise his voice.

Obama wants those around him to challenge him. No 'yes men'.

Asked about cage match between her and Rahm

President wanted to make sure energy from campaigning transferred into WH. But also wants order and organization.

He is good about including junior staff in meetings, etc.

She is thrilled to have this opportunity. Humbled by it. Also scared.

Work is exhausting.

About tea parties - Obama wants to move away from that rhetoric. Small segment trying to scare people, especially elderly people. (applause)

Protesters underestimating the American people.

Thousands of meetings going on without disruptions.



Asked if there was a 'black table' in the cafeteria.

She said many don't have time for lunch.

How many of 300,000 resumes WH received were seriously considered? She said many of them. Lots of talent to consider. Still constantly looking for new people.

Lobbyist influence - So many talented people who didn't lobby, this has not been a problem. Made a few exceptions. Trying to work around lobbyists now.

Question: Will prez call blue dogs in and threaten federal funding for their districts?
Answer: She knows there is lots of frustration. Obama is not one to punish or act in anger. He is counting on us to put pressure on our reps. Works best when we pressure, rather than the prez applying it. We should organize our bloggers and work hard o get this done.