Obama Briefs Country on Hurricane Sandy

Matt Vasilogambros

President Calls Sandy a 'Big and Powerful Storm,' Warns Americans to Listen to State, Local Officials

  • “Do not delay. Don't pause. Don't question the instructions that are being given because this is a serious storm and it could potentially have fatal consequences if people haven't acted quickly," Obama said in the White House Briefing Room.

  • The president gave nods to first responders several times, saying he was “extraordinarily grateful for the cooperation of our state and local officials."

  • "I am not worried at this point about the impact on the election," Obama said. "I'm worried about the impact on families and the impact on our first responders. I'm worried about the impact on our economy and on transportation."

  • Both Obama and Mitt Romney have cancelled campaign events for Monday and Tuesday.