Obama tells press ‘good luck’ rather than goodbye

As President Obama left the White House press room for the final time Wednesday, he thanked the press corps and wished members “good luck,” rather than goodbye, something the internet quickly picked up on.

“Thank you very much press corps. Good luck,” Obama said. 

The last thing Obama said to the press corps: “Good luck.”

— josie duffy rice (@jduffyrice) January 18, 2017

Did President Obama just end his press conference with “Good luck”? haha. Nice way to drop the mic. #ObamaPressConference

— Dave Barabas (@Dave_Barabas) January 18, 2017

Media after hearing Obama say “Good Luck” to them. #ObamaPressConference pic.twitter.com/UXG9h3lna1

— ObamaDay (@DemsTalk) January 18, 2017

Obama: “Thank you very much, press corps. Good luck!” #shade

— Travis Waldron (@Travis_Waldron) January 18, 2017

During his final White House press conference, Obama highlighted the importance of the press as President-elect Donald Trump assumes control of the Oval Office.

“America needs you and the country needs you,” Obama said of the press.

“My hope is that you will continue with the same tenacity you showed us to get to the bottom of stories. Having you in this building … keeps us honest.”