In Presidential Perks Gone Royal: Your Tax Dollars Are Being Used For Obama's Re-Election, the author takes us on a disquieting tour through the many hidden indulgences that have accrued to the office of President of the United States. These privileges, which Gray terms "royal perks" because he believes they are literally "fit for a king," cost the taxpayer billions of dollars annually—ironically far beyond what nations with royalty spend on their sovereign!

In recent years these luxuries and privileges have grown totally out of control, Gray reveals. What makes this needless waste of precious taxpayer dollars even more intolerable, he maintains, is the undemocratic re-election advantage they give the seated President, in this case Barack Obama. For example, the President is able to privately appoint his own assistants and independent Czars who act as de-facto "Assistant Presidents," report only to the President, and earn as much in some cases more than our elected officials. Among the most blatant perks is the President's ability to misuse Air Force One, Camp David and all the other benefits and trappings of the White House itself. Noblesse oblige benefits the President and his family are able to enjoy include the 24/7 availability of two projectionists, who regularly sleep in the White House in case the First Family wants to watch a movie; a highly paid dog walker always on call for the First Canine; the services of not one or two but five chefs on board Air Force One, and much more.

Politicians looking for savings to deal with the national debt crisis should perhaps start by abolishing the President. Barack Obama and his family cost the taxpayer $1.4billion per year, according to a recently published book. By contrast, the British Royal Family costs less than $60million each year.

When the President travels around the country on campaign, he is obliged to take Air Force One.

His party reimburses the taxpayer with the cost of a first-class air ticket per passenger - but this is far from the full cost to taxpayers. It also provides a President running for re-election with a national transport network which is unavailable to his challenger. Moreover, much of the money spent on Mr Obama's family goes to perks such as entertainment and household expenses.

For example, the White House contains a movie theater which is manned by projectionists 24 hours a day in case one of the family feels like a trip to the cinema. And even the Obamas' dog Bo costs the taxpayer thousands of dollars - his handler is reportedly paid over $100,000 a year.

Another huge presidential outgoing, according to Mr Gray, comes in the form of staff members who can be appointed by the commander-in-chief at his own personal discretion. 226 members of Mr Obama's staff are apparently paid over $100,000 - and the President can increase their salaries at any time.