President Obama visits the 'Ellen' show

Torrance resident Mercedeh Ward was thrilled to learn that President Obama was going to be sitting alongside her favorite TV host. But the reaction from her friend was much more emotional. "I'm almost speechless that he's here."

Joy Davis is visiting from Dallas, Texas and was tearful about the prospect of seeing the president. " I have a lot of respect for him and what a hard, hard job he does and the sacrifices he gives up."

The women are among some 300 audience members getting up close with the commander in chief who flew into LAX today on air force one for the taping, set to air Friday. For these good friends, the once-in-life-time opportunity has special meaning. "It's like a dream... You never meet the president.... And Ellen... Two people that you really love... I'm very happy." said Pupac Parrish of New Jersey.

But others like Mercedeh ward just want to see the president and Ellen bust a move, " Ithink he is definitely gonna dance... And i'm gonna dance along with him... Absolutely."

Following their dance off, President Obama will then be whisked away to two high-dollar democratic fundraisers in hancock park. The first will feature a performance by John Legend with a ticket price up to more than $16,000 dollars a plate for prime seating. The second will set back attendees $10,000 per person.