Some speech viewers may have realized for the first time that all this affects them personally --

[DeepModem Mom]

I think the President was using prime-time TV not only to rally support, but to educate. We forget that we are news/political junkies, and, therefore, a fraction of a fraction of a fraction of the American people.

I don't know if there is any way out of the frightening situation we find ourselves in -- given that a gang of crazies has enormous power in Washington -- but I'm hoping a few more people realize that we, as a nation, are in danger. AND, that the fallout from a default would affect them personally.

The President outlined the personal consequences in some detail: checks not received, higher interest rates, etc. That's a step. Whether it's a step away from the precipice, I don't know.

[babylonsister]

1. Amen, 'Mom, and such a delight to see you here!

:hug:

[DeepModem Mom]

5. Oh, my -- hi, b-sister!

:hug:

[maryellen99]

2. I am scared to death over what is going to happen nt

We are going to default. Thank god I have no more debt.

[elleng]

3. Yes, exactly. Good idea; necessary.

Me, I'm gonna watch The West Wing rerun, The Stackhouse Filibuster. Procedure, what else is new!

http://www.westwingepguide.com/S2/Episodes/39_TSF.html

[maddezmom]

4. not sure what is going to happen, but it sure nice seeing you around

tonight. :hi:

[DeepModem Mom]

6. Hi, mom!

:hi:

[CakeGrrl]

7. Agreed. The average person only hears MSM spin, if that.

And it needed to be made clear WHO was obstructing the process.

[tallahasseedem]

8. That is an important point...

that many aren't getting.

[graywarrior]

9. !

:thumbsup:

[femmocrat]

10. That was my impression as well.

He was talking to those who haven't been closely paying attention. I thought he did an adequate job in explaining the two approaches and the lack of progress so far. He also explained the dangers if no agreement is met.

It wasn't as fiery as his press conference last week, but more of a "lesson" giving background and possible outcomes of failure. He certainly came across as the one with the grasp of the issues, compared to boner.

[swilton]

11. I find the president's 'educational' approach patronizing

I would rather not go down the road of 'this is what is happening' which is to a great extent subject to interpretation - I would rather him say I know you people are suffering, I am walking in your shoes, and this is what I'm going to do about it.

[Merlot]

13. I'm the opposite - prefer the knowledge approach to the "I feel your pain"

I find the "i know people are hurting" approach to be patronizing. I prefer that he (or anyone) explain what is going on. Most people don't have the time or patience to follow issues. It's frustrating hearing the media spin and half truths and knowing that's what most people believe.

So, while I understand the issues and am up to date, I know there are many who don't and who only hear the stupid stuff. That's who he needs to talk to.

[tblue37]

16. Like GHWB's "Message: I care"? nt

[awoke_in_2003]

17. in order for the second point to be made...

the vast majority of the public has to be told what is happening- most don't know.

[pa28]

12. Agree. When consequences hit home the public suddenly gets interested.

President Obama needed to set the record straight; we are not really broke and the Republicans have actually manufactured a hostage crisis to get their way in what is normally a routine function of Congress.

Too many people out there somehow believe America is teetering on the edge of bankruptcy. They read very little news or make their judgments on a few biased scraps of information from Fox. Educating the public a little bit and explaining how they would be personally affected by a default event was entirely appropriate.

I suspect Congressional offices are going to be bombarded with calls and letters tomorrow.

[dana_b]

14. yeah - I agree

"debt ceiling" really doesn't mean much to most. Hell - I didn't know much about it before I came to this site. I do think the wisest thing that he did/said tonight was to appeal to the people to call congress. I do believe that the Repubs will be torn some new assholes by their constituents over this.

[lamp_shade]

15. Bravo, DMM. K&R