What protests? Obama town hall lacks outbursts from critics that lawmakers have seen elsewhere

What protests? Obama faces no town hall outbursts

PORTSMOUTH, N.H. — So much for those spontaneous outbursts that have dogged lawmakers home on August recess.

During a town hall-style meeting in New Hampshire, President Barack Obama did not get any the angry shouting that some members of Congress have received at health care forums. Instead, a subdued and supportive crowd asked questions largely about their own experiences with the health care system. Even the critics were polite when Obama specifically sought them out, asking for questions from “skeptical” members of the audience.

White House press secretary Robert Gibbs had said before the New Hampshire event that Obama was prepared for possible disruptions. But the protests occurred outside the areas.