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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2009
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 OPINION 
24

Obama Neglects a Powerful Presidential Tool: Fear

Opponents' ability to criticize with impunity hinders the president's effectiveness

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(Newser) – Barack Obama has been praised for bringing a more conciliatory tone to the presidency after the with-us-or-against-us swagger of George W. Bush. But Obama’s preference for gentle negotiation and compromise leaves him less able to use an effective presidential tool: fear, writes Ben Smith for Politico. Obama has failed to make the impression, among conservative Democrats and Republicans alike, that openly criticizing him will have any long-term consequences.

And since Obama seems perpetually open to re-engaging with his most vitriolic critics, they've felt free to cash in on the short-term gains: publicity and leverage in negotiations. Blue Dog Democrats in particular have raised their profile by distancing themselves from the administration’s policies. As crucial moments on health care and climate change legislation loom, Obama would do well to crack the whip and bring members of his own party in line.

President Barack Obama pauses during a health insurance reform rally, Saturday, Sept. 12, 2009, in Minneapolis.
President Barack Obama pauses during a health insurance reform rally, Saturday, Sept. 12, 2009, in Minneapolis.   (AP Photo/Haraz N. Ghanbari)
President Barack Obama returns to the White House in Washington, Saturday, Sept. 12, 2009, after addressing a health care rally in Minneapolis.
President Barack Obama returns to the White House in Washington, Saturday, Sept. 12, 2009, after addressing a health care rally in Minneapolis.   (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)
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One of the few areas of agreement on the right and left is that both sides want to see more strength of leadership from him. There has to be respect—and fear. - Dan Gerstein, Democratic political consultant

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24 comments
VIEWING:
 
Rocket448
Sep 13, 09 4:11 PM CDT
I don't see that happening. After all, when reform passes, the GOP and the dogs will look like craven sell-outs. THEN it will be time to crack the whip, IMO. Reply
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+2
IN RESPONSE:
UrUndertaker
Sep 13, 09 4:39 PM CDT
Well considering that Bush ruled like a little emperor using fear tactics perhaps the majority of Americans are a bit tired of a terror code to see if we can eat breakfast. I love all the 2nd guessing done by the media and hyped by the Repubs who can;t deal with the fact they lost
Vote up! Vote down!
+4
IN RESPONSE:
limpl0uie
Sep 13, 09 4:22 PM CDT
Against what, though? If you say socialism or fascism then you, sir, are fairly unintelligent.
Vote up! Vote down!
+2
IN RESPONSE:
UrUndertaker
Sep 13, 09 4:37 PM CDT
jblitz, you couldn't push away from the table fat boy, what you going to push against? The chair where you got your big rear parked? Whats the matter? You afraid some uppity Negro going to have as good as health care as you? Your still mad cause your ol lady run off with a brother huh, just can't get over that can ya
Vote up! Vote down!
+2
IN RESPONSE:
QueenAlli
Sep 13, 09 4:37 PM CDT
Delusional.
Vote up! Vote down!
+2

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