Already

In only his first full day Obama made strides towards some of the cornerstone goals he outlined during his campaign and transition. Here is a round up of his days activities:

After meeting with Chief of Staff Emanuel to go over the daily schedule, Obama placed calls to several key Middle Eastern leaders. Later on he met with his economic team, several members of Pentagon leadership, and finally the point staff on American affairs in Iraq.

As for policy issues, Obama is already moving on the economy, working to freeze pay for senior white house staff and push his $825 billion recovery package through congress.

Most impressive of all was Obama's swift move to follow through on his promise to close the Guantanamo Bay detention facility in Cuba. According to administration officials, executive orders are already being drafted to settle the matter.

It didn't take long for Republicans to knock on Obama's door. House minority leaders have already asked to meet with him to propose major changes to the recovery package.  More on that after their meeting on Thursday.

All in all, I'd say a very effective first day. Especially since he also made time to retake the presidential oath, putting any questions of legitimacy to rest.

Off to a fresh start, and 99 days left to prove his worth.

-Alexander Pagliaro