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What they would do as first lady

Posted by Foon Rhee, deputy national political editor October 17, 2008 12:25 PM

The would-be next first lady offered intriguing answers when asked what their priorities would be in the White House.

Cindy McCain, in her op-ed in the upcoming issue of US News & World Report and posted online today, said she would emphasize volunteerism.

"If I have the privilege of residing in the White House, that is how I would view the first lady's role: as a chance to expand American opportunity, for the benefit of our country and the world. Americans are at our finest when we nurture the next generation and prepare a better world for all our children. I saw the potential inherent in our role years ago when I walked through the streets of Dhaka, Bangladesh, surrounded by terrible poverty and the devastation of a cyclone. The pain and desperation of those in Bangladesh and other poverty-stricken countries worldwide made it clear to me that Americans have a great and vital role to play.

"As first lady, I want to show the world that America is more than simply its government. By harnessing the best impulses of our millions, we can change the world through service and volunteerism," she added.

Michelle Obama said she would help struggling families, but since she has two young daughters, focus on being a good mother herself.

"I would work daily on the issues closest to my heart: helping working women and families, particularly military families. But as my girls reminded me in Denver, even as first lady, my No. 1 job would still be Mom. At 7 and 10, our daughters are young. If we move to Washington, my first priority will be to ensure they stay grounded and healthy, with normal childhoods—including homework, chores, dance, and soccer," she wrote.

"Our girls are the center of Barack's and my world. They're the reason he is running for president—to make the world a better place for them and for all children. For us, and for millions of Americans, that's what this election is about—making sure that America remains a country where everyone can fulfill their God-given potential."

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