Subject: G20 et al
From: "cosjbb" <[email-masked]>
To: "John Podesta" <[email-masked]>
Cc: [email-masked]
Date: Wed, 12 Nov 2008 20:44:20 -0500

John -- 
 
ABC News reported this evening that Albright and Leach are
"representing" the Pres-Elect at the G20 Summit.  I'm assuming that this
is a garble and that no one from Team Obama is thinking of attending the
Summit itself.  If I understand, Albright and Leach are being made
available somewhere in DC to meet w/ G20 delegations that want contact
w/ Team Obama; I've advised our communicators that this should be taken
as a reasonable and respectful way to relieve demand from foreigners.
 
On Summit, the Price/Tarullo channel seems to be working well.  Price
says exchanges have been extensive and good; clear understanding of
areas where Pres-Elect's options should not be foreclosed.
 
Separately, if you/Rahm want to pursue your ideas on autos, we should
talk soon, as it feels like Hill battle lines are hardening.  On that
subject, note below from today's Politico:
 
*	Unnamed aides say Obama wants "high-profile official" to oversee
reforms to auto industry. "President-elect Barack Obama wants a
high-profile point person to oversee reforms in the ailing auto
industry, according to members of Obama's transition team. Specifics
about the proposal remain unclear. But the transition team says Obama
suggested to President Bush on Monday that aid to the auto industry
could be coupled with the appointment of 'someone in charge of the auto
issue who would have the authority' to push for reforms." (Carrie Budoff
Brown, Politico, 11/12/08)
 
I'm in office this evening til about 9:45 if you want to talk tonight.
I'm scheduled to travel tomorrow w/ boss to NYC, but should be reachable
relatively easily.