From Bob Novak’s Column:

Obama traveled in an SUV, at first alone and later with his family. No reporter ever entered the SUV, and Obama never visited the bus containing the reporters. One scheduled press availability was trimmed to 10 minutes.

A footnote: Obama’s aloofness contrasted with Bill Clinton, accompanying Sen. Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign in Iowa the same week. At the Dairy Treat in Nashua, Iowa, the former president whipped out $60 and bought malts for reporters following his wife.

This is one of the things that will be interesting to see. Part of the extended campaign season that will work against Obama and other newcomers is that arduous and prolonged schedule. People like Clinton, Giuliani, McCain & Edwards will be able to sustain themselves. Even though Giuliani hasn’t been at the center of a national campaign he HAS enough experience being in the public spotlight and on the go 24/7. Obama on the other hand doesn’t and in his Senate bid he did not face the kind of challenges in the state campaign (his opponent left because of a sex scandal and his replacement had no shot) that others have had to endure.

With a wife, young children & the potential for racial assaults it will undoubtedly create a strong sense of isolation in him during a storm of constant attention. Meanwhile those who report on campaigns want access and if they don’t get it, well, it tends to skew their reporting.

I’ve actually notice lately a difference in reporting of Sen. Obama while he is out on the trail than when he was sitting in the Senate contemplating a run. Same with Sen. Clinton. Her press relations seem to be going up and his down. Is access playing a role?