The Inauguration Ceremony itself costs the US Tax Payers approximately $1 million dollars. Inaugural Balls and associated parties cost into the tens of millions. Given the current fiscal situation, it seems frivolous to spend tens of millions of dollars, whether privately or publicly funded, for parties.

In 2009, MSN reported that "Obama's inaugural committee has raised more than $41 million to cover events ranging from a Philadelphia-to-Washington train ride to a megastar concert with Beyonce, U2 and Bruce Springsteen to 10 official inaugural balls. Add to that the massive costs of security and transportation — costs absorbed by U.S. taxpayers — and the historic inauguration will produce an equally historic bill."

Although much of the monies are donated by large companies, individuals, labor groups, and lobbyists, what image and values are we trying to portray to our nation as well as the world? We are on the edge of the fiscal cliff, so let's break out the champagne and dance the night away?

As a result of this election, Obama got to keep his job. He was reviewed by his country and won the right to continue on the path he set forth four years ago.
By signing this petition, you will tell President Obama that there is a job to be done, the time for celebration has past, and his most pressing role is to work within government to balance our budget, address defense spending, make good choices on social programs, taxation and spending.