On the other hand, there's nothing that he needs to do that can't be done from anywhere in the world.
It may be the symbolism of it that matters.
On the other hand, the symbolism might be one of weakness if he leaves....
(How many hands is that?? :) Tough call, IMO).
It is the symbolism -- just as it was when Katrina hit and instead of going back to DC he went to California and here to Arizona to make speeches.. sometimes the job is all about symbolism.
I will be glad when he is back here, tho.