Obama consults with security team, speaks on stimulus, celebrates Diwali

President holds meeting on Afghan policy

WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama huddles with his national security team Wednesday, as he continues a series of meetings on U.S. policy in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

In the afternoon, the president heads to suburban Virginia with Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood to tour a highway project and tout the economic benefits of American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

Later, in an East Room ceremony, Obama observes Diwali, or the “Festival of Lights,” a holiday celebrated across faiths in India.

In the evening, the president speaks at an event celebrating the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate. The institute’s goal is to educate the general public about the role and importance of the Senate.