My take on the EPA regulation "reversal" is that the most important step in the betterment of America is Obama's re-election. The short-run payoff before the 2012 election (and the 2013 re-evaluation of the rules) on the improvement of the environment by these regulations decreasing emissions is relatively small. The electoral payoff for the president by moving to the center is much larger. President Obama campaigned on a pledge to bring the nation together and end the polarization and gridlock. He is keeping that promise. Besides, what choice did he have with the job growth numbers stagnant and the electoral clock ticking away? Some commentators have made the claim that the Republicans are forcing Obama's hand and the Republicans are setting the agenda. I think the voters will view Obama as a man of reason, who is pushing the nation forward while the Republicans act as a dead weight or an albatross around the public's neck. Herding the Republican mice is no easy task. Are they moving his way or is he diverting his march? It is a matter of perspective. I suppose one could claim that Obama is cynically manipulating principles for his own advancement. However, everyone knows that President Obama is a brilliant politician. The Democrats always field smart candidates, most of whom lose: Humphrey, McGovern, Carter, Mondale, Dukakis, Clinton, Gore, and Kerry were all very intelligent. Carter could not win a second term because among many other reasons he was literally spending time scheduling the White House tennis court time. Clinton, as president, did not have Obama's moral compass. I like to say that President is playing chess while the Republicans are playing checkers. (I like to play political dominoes.) To be the first African-American president (with a proud African name) was a colossal achievement and a historical breakthrough for the world. I am not a betting man, but I would still bet my last $5K that President Obama will re-instate the EPA regulations in 2013 after his re-election. Radicals (that includes Ralph Nader), progressives, liberals, and middle-of-the-roaders should keep their mouths fairly shut in criticizing Obama and let him work some more miracles such as the way he threaded the needle and enacted significant healthcare legislation. Even Sarah Palin is now talking about "corporate socialism" and is wondering where the Republican "Big Money" is coming from. If I had the ear of the President, I would tell him that it is not to early to think about an heir apparent, who will continue his legacy. Don't let this party end, Mr. President!
Sorry I pasted the wrong text. Let me try again.
I hope Maria is okay after the loss at the Open. She is resilient as well as beautiful, determined, talented and brilliant. She has enriched the blessings God bestowed upon her. Her sterling heart is what I appreciate the most.
