Barack Obama

The left should continue to feel free to criticize Obama, but in more nuanced, diplomatic and (dare I say it?) even respectful ways that don't serve the interests of the right wing. That isn't because people shouldn't ever be angry; it's about not undermining your own cause by letting your voice be appropriated. There are many legitimate ways to register disapproval and propose alternatives that don't also undermine the one essential guy now keeping the barbarians outside the gate.

Does Obama gyrate toward compromise and "New Democrat" positions? Yeah. Should people protest in mryiad ways? Of course. Should they allow themselves to become tools of those representing repressive interests? Nope.

Obama may be imperfect and unsatisfying, but he's not the enemy. Treating him like one only helps to ensure a never-ending parade of our true enemies taking more control over this country. In war, it is euphemistically called "collateral damage." Killing Obama politically is exactly the wrong approach. So don't get mad, and don't seek to get even; instead, get a move on.