Presidential Perks

The Presidency is a big responsibility. But that doesn't mean it doesn't come with its own share of entertainment. The President has many perks including $400,000 annual salary, along with a $50,000 annual expense account, a $100,000 non-taxable travel account and $19,000 for entertainment. He also has the availabilities of Air Force One (he gets two jets, one personal and one for work), Marine One (a highly advanced helicopter), free stays at Camp David, the motorcade, and, of course, being able to call the White House home. ^[1]

The White House is equipped with everything the President needs. Not only is it a well equipped workstation, but has various machines to provide entertainment. The White House has a swimming pool, a running path, a movie theatre, a full kitchen staff, and a bowling alley installed by Truman. Each President has their own option of adding their own accessories. Johnson had a soda machine installed.

Table 3.2: Salary Growth^[2]

The Motorcade is a fleet of cars in which the President is driven. Most of these vehicles are incredibly tough. You want to know how tough? Well... let's start with the Presidential state car. The car is surrounded by military grade armor five inches thick (!) and the wheels are designed to resist deflation. The windows are also very thick to impede the passage of bullets. Inside...well luxury might be an understatement.

There are appoximately fifteen cars in the division. One limo holds the President, vans hold his staff, and heavily armed Secret Service agents are found in the SUV's. ^[3]

Motorcade^[4]

Camp David is another great amenity. Created by Franklin Delano Roosevelt in the 1930s in Maryland, it is a place where the President can relax. Activities include golfing, watching movies, going swimming, or doing other activities. The "other" activities are actually very important. Many presidents host foreign dignitaries at Camp David. ^[5]

The President is allowed free stays at Camp David^[6]

The benefits never stop....now we reach the famed airliner, Air Force One. This jet was created during President Harry Truman's administration. He gathered different pilots that could fly large Presidential aircrafts. It was under President Kennedy that a jet was used as the Presidential aircraft (a Boeing 707). These aircraft have been known as flying White Houses.  This jet is complete with a conference room, a dining room and living quarters. This three level plane also has highly advanced hardware creating a mobile Presidential office. Two of these jets were made; one was created for the President and staff; the other was made for carrying the rest of his staff. These two planes fly with the motorcade. The motorcade is transported by C-5 Galaxy planes. ^[7]

One of two jets the President and his entourage fly in. ^[8]

As you will discover later in this chapter, the President has a big influence on many parts of society. With relation to the commodities mentioned above, Air Force One was chose to be the name of a popular Nike shoe. In turn, artists and musicians have used the plane (and shoe) for inspiration. Enjoy!

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