Rancho Mirage residents and businesses talk presidential visit
Just outside the pink walls of the Annenberg estate at Sunnylands, some neighbors in Rancho Mirage await the chance to see President Barack Obama’s motorcade, impressed he chose to visit the Coachella Valley once again.
For some residents, it’s historic and an honor to have the president staying just blocks away from their homes. Others have mixed emotions.
“That’s nice he’s close by,” said Manny Lopez, of Rancho Mirage.
As local law enforcement officers keep tabs on the area, and road closure signs guide drivers through detours, some say the visit and it’s costs are an inconvenience.
“I think it’s a misuse of our resources for our local residents,” said
“I don’t think it’s entirely a vacation but it seems to be a very expensive way that isn’t too appropriate,” said Michael Barish, of Rancho Mirage.
We checked back in with Sabatino’s restaurant in the Pavilions shopping center. Last week, owners worried the presidential trip would keep customers at bay like it did in June when hundreds of people turned out to protest Chinese President Xi Jinping.
“People had a little trouble getting here but they worked their way around it,” said Sam Esposito, owner of Sabatino’s. “We really haven’t noticed a downturn. It really hasn’t caused any disruption at all. There aren’t any protesters like we had last time.”
Lopez expects the Commander-in-chief and staff will be back to enjoy what the Coachella Valley has to offer.
“I think they will. They’ll like the weather, the golf courses,” said Lopez.
“I’m very pleased. And he’s over here trying to take care of business and we’re just trying to keep our business going,” said Sabatino.
