Yes, this is kind of strange. Some critics of Barack Obama say that China’s Hu Jintao showed disrespect towards Obama by not wearing a black-tie. If that is true, Jackie Chan can be put into that category as well.

We can go back to the first state dinner by Obama, held for Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, to see the alleged disrespect shown as well. On the other hand, Mexico’s Felipe Calderon was with the program during his state dinner.

It looks like these state dinners are not the type where an establishment puts up a sign “No Shoes, No Shirt, No Service.” It might be a formal, black-tie affair, but the guests are never turned away.

No black tie here

Jackie Chan doesn't even bother with a tie

Bill Clinton goes for black, but skips the White House's preference for bow ties

Singh skips the tie during Obama's first state dinner

In India, the President skips a black tie at a state dinner on his behalf. The real question is if Singh has only one style of suit

Finally, a state dinner guest gets the memo. This is Calderon of Mexico.