Governors take stock of Obama

It seems the Governors like what they see in the Prez-elect:

No one could remember a meeting quite like this.

President-elect Barack Obama met with the nation’s governors Tuesday to hear their tales of economic pain – and won some points by telling Republicans in the room that he welcomed disagreements, “so feel free,” one participant recalled.

“He said, 'I don't know you as well, let me get to know you, give me a chance, you might be surprised how helpful I can be,’ ” said New York Gov. David Paterson, a Democrat who recounted Obama’s words to the Republicans.

“He said, ‘I’m a good listener, and I’m a better listener when people disagree with me,’” added West Virginia Gov. Joe Manchin, the outgoing head of the Democratic Governor’s Association.

The gesture went over well with the GOP executives, many of whom were getting their first chance to take the measure of the new president up-close, including two who may challenge him for the White House in four years.