ObamaBerry Clarified

After seeing reports that President Obama wouldn’t be allowed to keep his BlackBerry, or might be allowed to use an approved alternative device, it’s interesting to finally see in this New York Times report that Obama has actually been able to keep his BlackBerry, or a “more sophisticated, encryped variation.” Only a very limited number of high-level officials have Obama’s email address, and messages that Obama sends cannot be forwarded.

I do think it’s important for Obama to be able to keep in touch with his most important staff while he’s on the go. The article does make an interesting distinction between the ‘haves’ and the ‘have nots’–those select few who have Obama’s address will be able to ‘have his ear’ and reach the president in an immediate (and unprecedented) way. I think this input and quick feedback will be useful to Obama and help him lead in the way that Americans expect, with greater honesty, more openness, greater tolerance and more and better consultation.