Incoming presidents usually stay at Blair House in the five days preceding inauguration, according to The Caucus. President-elect Obama and Mrs. Obama asked to arrive a few days early, so that Malia and Sasha could start their new school on time. But Blair House, it appears, is already booked.
It remained unclear who on Bushes [sic] guest list outranked the incoming President.
It's not a public schedule," said Sally McDonough, spokeswoman for First Lady Laura Bush, in refusing to disclose who was staying at Blair House. "It's not a question of outranking the Obamas. Blair House will be available to them on January 15."
A few hours later The Caucus updated with a clarification from a White House official:
receptions and gatherings" by members of the outgoing Bush administration..."don't make it it suitable for full-time occupancy by the Obamas yet."
A transition official explained that the Obamas are exploring their options.