Obama scales back 60th birthday bash over COVID surge

Washington — Former President Barack Obama has changed plans for his 60th birthday party set to take place in Martha's Vineyard this weekend, cutting down the event's guest list as the Delta variant drives a surge in coronavirus infections.

"Due to the new spread of the Delta variant over the past week, the president and Mrs. Obama have decided to significantly scale back the event to include only family and close friends," Hannah Hankins, a spokesperson for Mr. Obama, said in a statement. "President Obama is appreciative of others sending their birthday wishes from afar and looks forward to seeing people soon." The outdoor event was planned several months ago in accordance with public health guidelines, she said.