How much influence does the White House have on the nations tastes?
A. I don’t know how you would actually quantify that, but it is important in the sense that it’s such a symbolic gesture, the type of foods that a president eats. The Obamas are actually really good with their healthy-food initiatives, their organic eating habits and their kitchen garden. That’s making a powerful statement for families to start eating more healthy food. But Michelle Obama was quoted as saying life without junk food would be depressing. She emphasizes balance. So long as you typically eat healthy it’s OK to have French fries and ice cream as a special treat. I agree with that. You can’t ignore French fries the rest of your life. It’s just not going to work. Q. What would be the ideal meal to celebrate Obama’s birthday, from what you know about his eating tastes? A. Given the state of the nation and his declining approval ratings, I would probably go with some comfort food. He’s been quoted saying his favorite food comes from Italian Fiesta Pizzeria in Hyde Park. I would
