Obama With Bob Iger, Jim Gianopulos, & JJ Abrams At Peter Chernin Fundraisers; Jokes About Hollywood Democrat “Donor Fatigue”

THE PRESIDENT: Thank you, everybody. Thank you. (Applause.) Oh, we’re okay, guys. Sit down. Thank you. (Applause.) Thank you. Well, to Peter and Meg, I just want to thank them so much. Not only have they been longtime supporters, back when a lot of people couldn’t pronounce my name — (laughter) — but more importantly, they have supported so many good causes — most recently Meg’s unbelievable work on education here in Los Angeles. We truly appreciate it. They are not only great friends, but they’re great citizens. And for them to open up their home like this we very much appreciate. So give them a big round of applause. (Applause.)

Now, Peter gave a pretty exhaustive summary of what we need to do and what we’ve done, and I’m not sure I’ve got a lot to add. (Laughter.) And yet, I feel obligated to — (laughter) — since you guys wrote these big checks to the DNC — to say something. (Laughter.)

…So I want to thank you for your efforts. I appreciate what Peter said about donor fatigue. On the other hand, we don’t have time to be fatigued because we’ve got too much to do. And everybody here has been blessed in ways that require us to give something back.

President Obama spoke for 18 minutes, delivering a familiar speech focused on compromise, optimism about the future and the importance of electing Democrats. There was no news.

This was Obama’s first trip to Los Angeles since his reelection. He was here for fundraisers many times year, and told luncheon attendees that he understands if they are feeling “donor fatigue.”

The lunch event was outdoors in the Chernins’ backyard. Tables and chairs were set up in the grass, with cheery yellow roses and bowls of lemons adorning each table. A large, beige curtain cordoned off the yard. There were 11 tables with 10 guests at each.

In the crowd were current and incoming Los Angeles mayors, Antonio Villaraigosa and Eric Garcetti, as well as Congresswoman Karen Bass. Producer JJ Abrams was also spotted. Peter Chernin is an entertainment executive who worked until 2009 at News Corp. His wife is an education activist.

President Obama stood behind a podium near the house, speaking without notes to the small crowd.