Clad in a navy suit, white spread-collar suit and red patterned tie, President Obama addressed reporters on the economic stimulus bill at a televised news conference in Washington on Monday.
Conservative clothing is standard among politicians, lawyers, business executives and the like. It is Obama's tie, however, that conveys the mood behind his message, one of authority and urgency. The light blue tie that Obama (as well as his running mate Joe Biden) wore during the 2008 presidential campaign suggested friendly, approachable tone. The red tie, commonly known as a power tie, is more declarative.
Monday's news conference is one of many the President will give over the course of the next four years. Here's an informal exercise: If you notice the color of his tie, you'll have an idea of Obama's demeanor before he begins to speak.