I thought it was a terrific speech

[pscot]

But we know he gives a great talk. I'm troubled by the fact that he still wants to give the Republicons way nore credit than they deserve, and that he still seems to pin his hopes on bipartisan cooperation. We know that Republicans idea of cooperation is winner-take-all. The question is how aggressively he's willing to go after what he wants. Unless he finds a way to inflict some pain on the Republicons, they will not deal in good faith. He needs to take his ideas to the country and rally public opinion. Failing that, all the good intentions in the world won't turn these ideas into legislation.

[FrenchieCat]

1. How agressive are you willing to go?

Why would you think that he can do this on his own....?

The whole fucking point is that we also have to make our voices heard
by congress....that's how legislation passes
It's ok to do this you know.....
Criticizing without end this President certainly
ain't gonna help this country achieve the goals
that hes outlined.

[pscot]

2. I know

He's only the President. What can he do? Leaders find a way to lead. Right now the whole damn coiuntry is like a masterless dog. People are ready to follow anyone who looks like he knows where he's going. The GOP resurgence last year was a triumph of noise over substance. Maybe he needs to hire a PR firm. If he fails to rally the couintry, the Repukes will steal his lunch money.

[FrenchieCat]

3. Perhaps we can spread the good word.....

instead of him having to hire a PR firm.

Perhaps we are the ones we have been waiting for....
he can only lead if folks will follow....
otherwise none of it matter.

[Samantha]

4. It was a terrific speech, especially the timing of the release

of the details on his position on several issues. He is being kind to Republicans because he knows some are terribly uncomfortable with the attacks on Social Security and Medicare, and it is to that small group that he strives to derive some support. He reached out to THEM.

Sam

[CakeGrrl]

5. The national polls already SAY that people want the government to work together

Couple that with the fact that the Republicans control the House, and how do you expect anything NOT to be accomplished but by bipartisan effort?

Unless a solid Progressive, filibuster-proof majority is installed in Congress, the President can't govern as if Republicans don't exist.