Obama Makes Surprise Visit to 2012 HQ

President reportedly was escorted into the office, inside the One Prudential Plaza, via an underground tunnel

President Barack Obama, before heading to a series of fundraisers in Chicago on Wednesday, made a surprise visit -- his first -- to his Chicago campaign headquarters.

The president reportedly was escorted into the office, inside the One Prudential Plaza, via an underground tunnel.

The White House said Obama wanted to show his appreciation to his campaign staff with the visit but the White House kept the moment private. Reporters traveling with the president were not allowed to witness the visit by Obama, who has insisted he is focused on governing, not campaigning.

"The people who are working in Chicago, and have been for the better part of the last year, have been focused on his reelection, have ensured that he’s had time to focus on his duties as president of the United States. So this will be an opportunity for him to swing by the office, to say hello to the staff that’s been hard at work there and to thank them for their efforts," said Principle Deputy Press Secretary Josh Earnest.

Obama's recently-resigned Chief of Staff, Bill Daley, will serve as co-chair for the Chicago-based campaign.

Contact Us