Early Blair House check-in for Obamas unavailable

Posted: 02:10 PM ET
From CNN White House Correspondent Elaine Quijano
The Obamas had been hoping for an early Blair House check-in. CHICAGO (CNN) - President-elect Barack Obama will not be moving his family across the street from the White House early, despite his request to do so. Blair House, which incoming presidents traditionally occupy 5 days before inauguration day on January 15, is apparently booked in the early part of January.

An Obama transition spokesperson says the family initially “explored the idea” of moving into Blair House early so that daughters Sasha and Malia could start school on schedule. But the family was told there were previously-scheduled events and guests that could not be displaced.

“The Blair House, the President’s guest house for visiting dignitaries, is available to President-elect Obama and his family starting January 15, as is historically the case,” said Sally McDonough, spokeswoman for First Lady Laura Bush.

“As for any conversation, I don’t comment on specific conversations about transition details.”

The Obama transition spokesperson emphasized the White House has been “extremely accommodating” to the Obama family, adding that the entire process has been “smooth and friendly.”