General Discussion

Let's say this first: I think Obama is one of the greatest Presidents in our nation's history. Ok? I love the guy.

But I was torn, and still am, on the Obama presidency. It was clear to me, some schmoe with a keyboard, that the Republicans would never compromise, and would attack him nonstop, fabricating scandals, etc., instead of working with him in the style of earlier years. Remember when the parties fought each other, but ultimately compromised and came together as necessary to keep the government running?

Obama kept trying to work with them, even when they kicked him in the teeth. In a way that was good, because I think his term has effectively proved that the Republicans don't believe in working together with other parties. He showed real class, and kept to the high road.

On the other hand, giving in to them seemed to only empower them. Why weren't Obama and other Dems calling out Conservative lies long ago? Why is a phrase like "fake news" only now being used? Of course if Obama had started throwing out Executive Orders, it could have created a total gov't shutdown as the Repubs fought back, so where's Captain Hindsight when I need him? But still, almost three years to repeal DADT?

I hope he has also shown that incremental change doesn't work. Fighting so hard for minor changes which can be easily reversed by the next administration is not an effective strategy. I dislike the word, "revolution," but certainly we need big, dramatic changes.

Then there's his record on protecting whistle blowers. At complete odds with his campaign promises. I do remember cheering when he called whistle blowers "...the best source of information about waste, fraud, and abuse in government," as well as "such acts of courage and patriotism. . . should be encouraged rather than stifled." Kudos for pardoning Manning.

And why didn't he pardon Siegelman? Have I been misled on his story? Please set me straight if so.

But enough of that. I hope Obama has proven that the Republicans won't compromise. He did a great job under obstructionist conditions (probably saved our nation from financial meltdown). I hope he enjoys retirement, then comes back and speaks up. And not to say, "impeachment is off the table."