Have we learned our lesson with Obama as president? Have we purged our guilt and come to our senses yet?
69
I thank Timothy Egan for such an honest, true, article that resonated with how I have felt about how our President, who was slandered, accused of things that are , if you have values at all, since day #1, you know- blaming and bigotry.
He chose public service based on his values, which are consistent with family life and at the Presidential level. He established values that he lived by- Service, Integrity, Honesty. Compassion.
I have heard so many times "ObamaCare" as if people now name and blame our shifting healthcare system, well, they should do their homework. It is actually a brainchild of the Kennedys who wanted to establish healthcare that reached out to all citizens in our country, it is their God given right to receive help and preventive healthcare. Starting something new, means initial shock waves.
I do not know how he kept such a professional, Presidential approach to all accusations, including what I say was racism, when his birth certificate was questioned in the early months of his work.
He kept his head down on work, and was following a long-term Presidential mess left , honestly, by a person who caused more war, in the wrong place-if you don't get it, look again at the history.
His speech at U. N. talks were brilliant;he didn't consider ISIS a state, it is not. Some prefer WAR- Bombing a group that does killing well on the ground.
He delivered one of the most outstanding speeches after Dallas. (he would surely be blamed if he had not!)
He chose public service based on his values, which are consistent with family life and at the Presidential level. He established values that he lived by- Service, Integrity, Honesty. Compassion.
I have heard so many times "ObamaCare" as if people now name and blame our shifting healthcare system, well, they should do their homework. It is actually a brainchild of the Kennedys who wanted to establish healthcare that reached out to all citizens in our country, it is their God given right to receive help and preventive healthcare. Starting something new, means initial shock waves.
I do not know how he kept such a professional, Presidential approach to all accusations, including what I say was racism, when his birth certificate was questioned in the early months of his work.
He kept his head down on work, and was following a long-term Presidential mess left , honestly, by a person who caused more war, in the wrong place-if you don't get it, look again at the history.
His speech at U. N. talks were brilliant;he didn't consider ISIS a state, it is not. Some prefer WAR- Bombing a group that does killing well on the ground.
He delivered one of the most outstanding speeches after Dallas. (he would surely be blamed if he had not!)
392
He's put up with more abuse than Jackie Robinson.
268
I wholeheartedly agree! I wish we could have President Obama for another eight years. Like the gentleman from Edinburgh said in a previous comment, it's just amazing that so many in our country don't appreciate what a great President he has been. To have had someone as intelligent, compassionate, articulate and charming as Barack Obama serving as our President for eight years has been an incredible privilege. Thank you, President Obama! And now, please God, save us from Trump.
502
Mr. Egan,
I follow and admire your comments and insights and I felt your column on the singular dignity and value of President Obama's personal conduct, ethics and example for his fellow citizens was beautifully expressed and eminently deserved. Well done
Jack
I follow and admire your comments and insights and I felt your column on the singular dignity and value of President Obama's personal conduct, ethics and example for his fellow citizens was beautifully expressed and eminently deserved. Well done
Jack
203
Mr. Obama has made the Presidency of the United States back into a position of integrity, intelligence, and honour. He can leave his office knowing that he has the respect & admiration of the world as a man, a husband, a father, as well as the Chief Executive. A superbly brilliant & humane job performance for which history will justifiably laud & honour him. BRAVO!
357
Mr. Egan,
Thank you for this article. President Obama is an example of a great man, husband, father, friend and leader. He will be missed deeply. I am happy to be alive while he is in power.
Thank you for this article. President Obama is an example of a great man, husband, father, friend and leader. He will be missed deeply. I am happy to be alive while he is in power.
303
I agree with this writer about Obama seeming to be a very good family man, and kudos to him! However it hardly seems necessary to throw mud (or worse) on specific other people, to make this point. And why was only one of the supposed presidential nominees excoriated, when BOTH of them deserve it? And how is race a pertinent point in all of this? Too bad Mr. Egan, you fell down with what could have been a very nice piece about our president's solid performance in a role that fewer and fewer males take care to perform: A front-and-center, hardworking family man. PS -- that's the only thing I like about him.
38
Barack Obama is a class act. The next President who follows him does not come close. It is a pity there is no third term in his presidency. His policy initiatives, domestic and foreign, will stand the test of time. As a country, we fared indeed well under his presidency.
313
While Mr. Obama's favorability in US is just slightly above 50%, his approval is much higher in the world stage. He's much more admired by the world than by his own country. While he shows how a world-class statesman is, the 2016 Republican presidential candidate is merely US-class showman. Soon we will find out how much we miss President Obama and his leadership.
348
Thank you, Mr. Egan.
Thank you, President Barack Obama.
Thank you, President Barack Obama.
160
Thank you Tim for writing what so many of us feel so deeply. We are quite fortunate to have lived through this experience: not just having the first black president but such an extraordinary human being in that role. Yes, we will miss him greatly!
220
Ever since the Dem. Convention speech in Boston, whenever Obama speaks, I drop everything I'm doing. A President, a first since many, who doesn't need a psychoanalytic therapist, and almost put Maureen Dowd out of a job.
The world needs this man at least 4 more years.
The world needs this man at least 4 more years.
257
I miss him already.
254
I think i've figured out why there's so much hatred and stupidity oozing out from under the rocks.
Remember late last year, when a lot of people started talking about how Obama's presidency was over, and he'd be a lame duck with no real power or even influence or even relevance from then on?
Well, not so much. The President's dead center in our politics still, and a lot of the screamers are screaming because they're still gittin' their tailfeathers kicked, and suffering from the ugly feeling that they'll be gittin' they tailfeathrs kicked right up till next January.
Enjoy the ride but buckle up, kids.
Remember late last year, when a lot of people started talking about how Obama's presidency was over, and he'd be a lame duck with no real power or even influence or even relevance from then on?
Well, not so much. The President's dead center in our politics still, and a lot of the screamers are screaming because they're still gittin' their tailfeathers kicked, and suffering from the ugly feeling that they'll be gittin' they tailfeathrs kicked right up till next January.
Enjoy the ride but buckle up, kids.
69
How could anyone not like Barrack Obama? As President of the USA, he did a great Job. He is also a very personable and decent family man.
Thanks Mr. Eagan your opinion piece incapsulates my own sentiments about President Obama. It is also a nice diversion from the negative political reports that continuously bombard us.
Thanks Mr. Eagan your opinion piece incapsulates my own sentiments about President Obama. It is also a nice diversion from the negative political reports that continuously bombard us.
105
Timothy Egan, thank you.
83
Agreed, the man is a class act through and through.
Which, to me, highlights by comparison how far off the rails with ginned up hatred and viciousness the right has veered.
Which, to me, highlights by comparison how far off the rails with ginned up hatred and viciousness the right has veered.
119
Wow Mr. Egan, BRAVO!
Thank you for putting this to words.
And true words they certainly are.
We are not worthy of President Obama!
He has done everything he possibly could to elevate the discourse, cut through the rancor, and legislate towards a more tolerant, progressive land.
Through it all he has been met with a fusilade of "You lie's" and congressional obstruction. And to top it off, he is wonderful husband, father and human being, despite it all. No, we were not ready or worthy of a president and a man as excellent and transcendent as Barack Obama. Think of what he could have done with a little help!
Thank you for putting this to words.
And true words they certainly are.
We are not worthy of President Obama!
He has done everything he possibly could to elevate the discourse, cut through the rancor, and legislate towards a more tolerant, progressive land.
Through it all he has been met with a fusilade of "You lie's" and congressional obstruction. And to top it off, he is wonderful husband, father and human being, despite it all. No, we were not ready or worthy of a president and a man as excellent and transcendent as Barack Obama. Think of what he could have done with a little help!
188
President Obama is a class act. To replace him with Donald Trump is a travesty.
143
There truly will be a great sadness in my heart when President Obama no longer is President of this country. He's the kind of man we should all be proud of. I will miss him and his family, and I will always remember him as a principled man who will remain forever in my most treasured memories.
169
While I agree with this column, it seems unnecessary to bring the presumptive Republican presidential nominee's name into the picture ( I don't like to type his name )
47
You absolutely nailed it, Ms Collins! This man has been the personification of class, dignity, and reasoned composure since his inauguration. Regardless the outcome this November, all thinking Americans (regardless of political stripe) will miss this intelligent, articulate leader. Hopefully, he has raised the bar his successors, but I doubt it.
81
So true, a truly great man. His opponents, who disdain him won't give him any credit in even these areas. So wrong.
100
I so admire Obama; if he could be voted in for another 8 years, I'd happily do so. It is clear that cool under fire is not what many Americans want; we reap what we sow and it frightens me to imagine Trump at the helm.
President Obama, thank you for being a wonderful president and for the hard work and dedication you brought. I hope that returning to private life gives you all the rewards for sacrifices along the way that you've endured these 8 years. I do believe he will be ranked one of the top 10 presidents of our nation. And all "while being black" and fighting an obstructionist Congress for most of those years.
President Obama, thank you for being a wonderful president and for the hard work and dedication you brought. I hope that returning to private life gives you all the rewards for sacrifices along the way that you've endured these 8 years. I do believe he will be ranked one of the top 10 presidents of our nation. And all "while being black" and fighting an obstructionist Congress for most of those years.
46
I think many with myself included will miss Barack Obama when he and his family leave the White House. That will be a sad day.
30
Excellent tribute to an excellent man, one who is the very best of us.
31
I'm going to need a power-washer to clear away the drooling sycophancy here.
13
Great column and true. People are really gonna miss his steady, no-drama presence. I disagreed with some of his decisions and policies, but I never doubted that he was a well-defended grownup who worked very hard on behalf of his country, the USA.
25
A Presidents first and most important job is to keep us safe. He has failed. His family life is irrelevant. His weakness as a leader of the Free World has produced a terror organization growing stronger every day.
13
Well said, Mr. Egan. Well said. A timely reminder. And a call to us all to rise again to our best, and not race to the bottom, under the most trying of times.
Amen!
Amen!
51
I am so proud that we were given the opportunity to prove to the world that we had the good sense to elect Barack Obama as our president. The man is a class act, no doubt about it. I will miss his sense of humor, his wry way of putting things, his ability to ignore vicious attacks by any number of people who will never rise to his stature. Mr. President, it has been a pleasure. Please know that you were admired, respected and loved.
235
Mr. Egan, thank you for your column, it is thoughtful and accurate. However, while reading it, I thought it sounded like an obituary/eulogy! Please do not make Mr. Obama's Presidency his swan song; I hopefully suspect that his greatest years are yet to come. He was a great President and will be a greater former President and private citizen! His presidency has given him a springboard to do even greater things for this country and our world. I am grateful we had a chance to watch this man in public action. And man, I can’t wait to see what he will do once he becomes a private citizen - I don’t know about y’all, but I’m excited!
266
I have nothing to add, but I too just want to say, in this public forum, I respect President Obama, and I am proud that he has been our president.
37
I just have to join in. Of course I don't agree with every policy decision, but the character of this man, President Obama, and his family is a model for all families whatever race, nationality, or anything else.
32
We can only thank those who recognize this man as the best President in our lifetimes. We owe him so much, and he is gone too soon.
28
Beautifully said. And so true. Thank you.
20
I admire President Obama's cool professionalism, but deep in my heart I voted for a black man who I hoped would get a little angry about poverty, inequality both financial and race, climate change and money in politics and slap someone upside the face and say wake up! He and his family have been wonderful ambassadors to the world for our country. President Obama has been a president to be proud of.
14
Let's not forget the wonderful man, husband, father, and human being Jimmy Carter was as President and still is today.
55
Amen!
24
One of the best columns I have read in the NYT.
32
President Obama is a true gentleman. He has endured endless personal attacks with grace and dignity. His family life is exemplary. How we will miss him!
36
The clothes he wore were traditional ethnic and not only worn by Muslims.
24
Thank you so much for writing this column. I have raised many of these points in discussions with friends and acquaintances, often in the context of Donald Trump's classlessness. Often people look at me with a blank stare, as if they hadn't noticed what a class act President Obama is. Enjoy it while it lasts, and brace yourself if Trump is inaugurated in January.
25
Thank you Tim for your usual wise insight. I am going to miss Obama and his wonderful family. I am 63 and consider him to be the best President of my lifetime. If anyone would have the right to be bitter about his disgusting treatment and obstruction by Republicans, he would have every right to do so. He has accomplished a lot of good things in spite of their pigheaded, racist obstruction, insults and refusal to address urgent national problems that have gotten worse with their neglect and indifference. He has continued to conduct himself in a dignified, mainly pitch-perfect manner. His Mama raised him right, which is more than I can say about the short-fringed orange vulgarian joker who wants to succeed him.
44
Every time I realize that President Obama's term in office is beginning to come to its end, I cry. He has been the most effective and human President our country has had in a very, very long time. I was over joyed when he was elected President, but now my heart aches at the thought of someone not of his calibre sitting in the oval office. We have been extremely lucky to have Barack Obama as our President. Thank you Mr. President for all you have done for our country. You will be missed.
48
Yes. Thank you for this. I so will miss this man as President.
7
"the only president to be heckled with “You lie!” before a joint session of Congress. "
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2016/02/08/senate-report-illegal-immigra...
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2016/02/08/senate-report-illegal-immigra...
16
I will miss Mr. Obama!
God speed, Mr. President
God speed, Mr. President
28
All I can write is that if some one asked me name one person you would like to have dinner with dead or alive it would be Barak Obama.
54
Oh, come on, Mr. Egan. Barak Obama has had plenty of failings. Off the top of my head, I can think of some doozies.
He took forever to get the promised dog after winning the election.
He took the side of Louis Gates before he backtracked with a beer summit.
He thinks he’s smart and sometimes shows it.
He talks in paragraphs when we mostly want tweets.
He fails to show the frustration we all know he must be feeling.
His White House is too leak-proof for good gossip.
He won’t give up on trying to take away our guns away.
He failed to take our guns away.
He doesn’t sing enough.
He doesn’t even act like he’s going to be sad to leave us and move back to Kenya.
He took forever to get the promised dog after winning the election.
He took the side of Louis Gates before he backtracked with a beer summit.
He thinks he’s smart and sometimes shows it.
He talks in paragraphs when we mostly want tweets.
He fails to show the frustration we all know he must be feeling.
His White House is too leak-proof for good gossip.
He won’t give up on trying to take away our guns away.
He failed to take our guns away.
He doesn’t sing enough.
He doesn’t even act like he’s going to be sad to leave us and move back to Kenya.
54
Bravo.
14
This is a masterpiece Mr. Egan. You could not have said it better!
6
We will miss him beginning January 22.
15
Barack Obama is a class act; America is privileged to have had him for 8 years as our first black President. His public and private lives embody the values his opposition claims to revere, yet he has been vilified, the victim of a political lynching by Repub Congress. Thank you, Barack and Obama, for your public service and enduring the slings and arrows of outrageous racists.
27
Great piece. Thank you for putting into words what I think of this man, father, husband and politician. Wish there were more like him.
22
Jimmy Carter was a nice guy.
So was Hoover.
So was Hoover.
10
He is a man of mystery. Who, really, is he? He is a Soros-Axelrod-Jarrett golem. He has never broken with the radical Communism of his youth. He has flooded this nation with angry young men who will kill our children. He wants to see the whole mess collapse. What is there to like about him, other than his pigmentation?
6
Well this is something you can actually blame him for. Reviving the dignity of our nation after Bush.
30
So, what?
You don't get a participation trophy for just doing your job.
You don't get a participation trophy for just doing your job.
8
President Obama, given the incredibly challenging circumstances under which he has governed, may ultimately be judged as one of the greatest presidents we have had in our history.
70
You can absolutely feel the love theFirst Family. There is no way its depth and sincerity could be posed or crafted for eight years in the light of such constant public scrutiny seeking to demean them. And imagine trying to follow in Mrs. Obama's footsteps as First Lady! I think much of the country is too late beginning to realize that they are superb national treasures. If Obama left office touring the country on a slow train there would be millions lining the route cheering and weeping their appreciation. Thankfully he has been our president steady at the helm in the midst of our national turmoil. We seem to be part of a massive global response to changes happening faster than societies can adapt to them
48
Thank you.
9
In what has been an eight year 24 hour a day witch hunt and political lynching of Mr. Obama that included baseless character attacks, blatant acts of treason committed by members of Congress that in any other era would have ended in speedy trial and imprisonment or death to the guilty parties, countless acts of flagrant disrespect from the ludicrously stupid (how many GOP senators are going to refuse to shake the man's hand?) to the stupidly ludicrous (wait wasn't the GOP the strict constructionists? I must have slept through a ton of law school as I missed all of these parts of the constitution roadblocking executive decisions every other president in history executed without so much as a peep), regardless of where one falls in their political leanings, grant President Obama the following: (1) Inheriting a monstrous mess, he is leaving our country far better than when he took office and should be credited for killing Bin Laden (had he not been grid locked he could have done more but that's my opinion): (2) Since he first became a presidential candidate, he has had more enemies searching for more dirt on him and his staff and family and they have found NOTHING(and you can bet that Isn't for lack of effort)-he and all he associates with are clean); (3) Yes he is the president but Obama has been shunned and humiliated on a world stage and managed to remain calm and dignified throughout eight years-never once losing it-he is what an American president should be.
110
Rudeness among the political class (to say nothing of the public) is unacceptable. But it's frightening that anyone conversant with the constitution or the idea of democracy would assert that being rude, disrespectful or uncooperative with a president is a "blatant act of terrorism". It's like some people act as if we were a 17th century monarchy where disrespect would earn you a visit to the Tower or the guillotine. Amazing.
3
This man of exemplary personal character and conduct can not be blamed for the current race divide in America. I believe that has been inflamed by both presidential candidates either provoking or pandering along racial lines. I only hope Obama's legacy is not too heavily tarnished by his endorsement of a scandal-ridden candidate whose dubious actions of Secretary of State under his watch will be mired in controversy for some time to come. The age of dignity and grace in the White House ends when Obama turns off the lights on his way out.
30
Please just stop. His collaboration with SoS Clinton is one of the assets, not the liabilities, of his career. You should notice that your attacks exactly duplicate Republican opposition work, and look for yourself at her record.
11
Naw, so far as the office of the POTUS is concerned, dignity and grace ended with the last Bushes after a long run with Ford, Carter, Reagan, and both Bushes (Clintons obviously not on this list). I would add the distaff side (only) of the Johnson presidency; LadyBird was a great lady of dignity and grace. There's little of that in our president, who took the opportunity during his first State of the Union address to sneer false and insulting accusations at Supreme Court justices in front of a nationwide TV audience and the assembled Congress. We have a president who seems to think the Executive Branch outranks the Legislative Branch and so he refuses to work with them, instead triangulating thru social media and news media. I won't list more, for fear of nausea. You who have him up on a pedestal, I just don't know how you can see him that way, when in fact his actions make him the most divisive leader ever.
12
The contrast between Mr. Obama and his political adversaries is stark, but more than that, increasingly alarming. It is not that the President has his critics, it is the nature and intensity, the reflexiveness and empty minded level of that criticism. More than that, it is the permission granted by a dangerously high percentage of Americans for those who oppose Mr. Obama to do so without even the veneer of substance. It has become permissible to accuse the President of the most vile motives, to question his dedication to this country, and to do so without the need to conjure even the most remotely rational hypothesis. Before his first term had begun, the leader of the United States Senate declared his main focus for the coming years would be to ensure Mr. Obama would never be reelected. It would be easy to argue that the animus directed towards the first black President is based upon the color of his skin, and I am certain, his race is an animating feature. However, I think the issue goes deeper. It's the growing number of Americans who are described as "low-information" voters. Motivated by anger, without the necessary understanding of, or interest in the world around them, they are easily manipulated by "leaders" offering simple slogans and obvious lies describing complex problems and solutions. Donald Trump is simply an extension of our collective and increasing (and culturally suicidal) fall from grace
80
The words class and dignity suffer extreme violence when applied to obama. His entire pretend presidency blindingly illustrates the antithesis to class and dignity. One has to wonder what ideology can prevent one's senses from reporting the disaster his presidency has been on every level. The most incompetent, feckless president in history is what Americans have endured..
15
HOW has his presidency been a disaster on every level?? Please enlighten the world as to why you are so convinced that we are worse off today than we were 8 years ago.
2
Saying it was a disaster over and over again doesn't make it so. Can you please provide some examples?
2
in other words, america's first black president?
I felt very deeply reading your opinion piece and though I've commented some of these things before I just have to express my gratitude to President Obama for remaining true, centered, and an example of how a good man operates in the world, especially under some of the worst challenges he's faced and a constant stream of disrespect from his detractors.
What I do know is that I will miss him being our President. I will miss his wit, comedic expressions, playfulness and tone. Above all that I will miss having someone steering the ship who doesn't pander, self congratulate, but instead feels empathy sincerely for those who are suffering and who feel a deep loss.
To think that we could go from wit to twit should Trump prevail is well, unthinkable. Trump has done his best to undermine this president and his achievements. He has questioned his birth, patriotism and resolve on our behalf. If Trump were even a third of the guy Mr. Obama is that might be acceptable. In truth, I think Trump knows he doesn't measure up and that is what eats at him. People who believe the world and everything in it revolves around them have little to offer but bluster and bullying. Trump could learn something from this guy.
So, we will be the lesser when Mr. Obama is term free. I think his family has sacrificed enough but we are very, very grateful.
What I do know is that I will miss him being our President. I will miss his wit, comedic expressions, playfulness and tone. Above all that I will miss having someone steering the ship who doesn't pander, self congratulate, but instead feels empathy sincerely for those who are suffering and who feel a deep loss.
To think that we could go from wit to twit should Trump prevail is well, unthinkable. Trump has done his best to undermine this president and his achievements. He has questioned his birth, patriotism and resolve on our behalf. If Trump were even a third of the guy Mr. Obama is that might be acceptable. In truth, I think Trump knows he doesn't measure up and that is what eats at him. People who believe the world and everything in it revolves around them have little to offer but bluster and bullying. Trump could learn something from this guy.
So, we will be the lesser when Mr. Obama is term free. I think his family has sacrificed enough but we are very, very grateful.
90
Egan’s letter is a bittersweet reminder that Obama’s departure is at hand. His time as President was challenged by a political class and ideologues who could not fathom the ascendancy of a people whom they once traded as property, their legacy of sacrifice manifest in the rise of a favorite son to whom they now had to address as “Commander in Chief”. How that must have chafed. But this was never about keeping score, or getting even. I doubt Obama took any pleasure in watching white Americans who could not approve of his election squirm uncomfortably in their parlor chairs while he addressed the nation from the well of the House; but it should be a reminder to us all that for all the faults of our nation, our institutions, including the rule of law, continue to endure and transcend the petty machinations of small minds of little men with limited vision. That they willfully abrogated the duties and powers of his office, and that he skillfully maneuvered through their gamesmanship, is a tale not unfamiliar to a constellation of minorities and immigrants who have come to these shores only to face endemic racism, bigotry, and institutionalized disadvantages - his story, once it is fully recorded, will almost certainly reflect a sad truth about state of racial politics in America, and what he had to do to overcome the barriers placed before him to effectively govern this great nation. This is only the beginning of the tale, not the end, of Obama's tenure as our American President.
87
Some people seem to have a double standard in how they judge Obama. I have always been bothered by sarcastic comments about Obama's job as a community organizer when he was a young man. He had a degree in law at Harvard, and could have gotten a very high paying job, but instead he chose work that consisted of helping others. As part of this work, for instance, he helped people in the community organize a tutoring program for school children. But his detractors speak dispairaging about that, while implying that Donald Trump's buisiness experience will prepare him to be a good president. It's not all about money!
94
President Obama has been a role model for our entire nation and an example of the best we have to offer to the entire world. His bust should be carved on Mount Rushmore. As we look to his potential succesors we can only pray they look to him as a worthy mentor. God bless President Obama and his family. They are a national treasure.
113
There have been times when I criticized Mr. Obama for not fighting back hard enough against his ignoble Republican opposition, but my criticism may well have been ill-placed. What would he have gained by deepening the bitterness of our national politics during the years of his presidential ascendancy?
In the end, what I know about this gentleman is very simple. I find him not only one of the most intelligent and competent of US presidents, I also find him one of the most lovable figures ever to have graced the global scene. My affection for him is profound and will be abiding. I will miss him immensely when he and his splendid family leave the White House.
In the end, what I know about this gentleman is very simple. I find him not only one of the most intelligent and competent of US presidents, I also find him one of the most lovable figures ever to have graced the global scene. My affection for him is profound and will be abiding. I will miss him immensely when he and his splendid family leave the White House.
237
Well said - I have felt the same since he first graced the political stage.
At times frustrated that he did not push back to the lack of respect shown to him by members of the opposing party - many of them. "My affection for him is profound and will be abiding. " Ditto for me. I feel a sense of sadness that we have only six months left to enjoy his thoughtfulness, his humor, his intelligence, his empathy and his joy. I am excited to see where and at what he will focus for the next phase of his life.
At times frustrated that he did not push back to the lack of respect shown to him by members of the opposing party - many of them. "My affection for him is profound and will be abiding. " Ditto for me. I feel a sense of sadness that we have only six months left to enjoy his thoughtfulness, his humor, his intelligence, his empathy and his joy. I am excited to see where and at what he will focus for the next phase of his life.
20
Excellently worded. I'm sickened at how much disrespect has been reaped upon our President and even the First Lady and even their children. No one president has ever experienced the ridicule that President Obama has had to contend with in his two terms in office. Yet throughout he has maintained his dignity. He is the bigger man.
136
This oft repeated meme that no one has suffered such ridicule is without basis in fact. Others were as despised and hated as much or more than President Obama. Nixon was loathed before, during and after the presidency. Reagan was mocked for his age, manners and views. Even Lincoln was characterized in the vilest manner the media of the day.
7
Nixon and Reagan deserved every bit of the criticism that went their way, particularly Reagan, who is at the root of much that beleaguers us today.
22
Oh, you're right about Lincoln, who William Seward called "the original gorilla."
The others pretty much earned it: Nixon founded the EPA and opened up China, but was a genuine creep from his early days as one of Joe McCarthy's henchmen. Reagan? Mr. Joke on the Radio about Bombing Russia? Mr. Iran-Contra, which helped fund fascist death squads?
They earned it.
But you are right about Lincoln. Know WHY he was hated so much? Increasing opposition to slavery.
Golly, I can't see any link there at all to the vicious hatred and ugly racism aimed at THIS President.
Golly, help me out: can you?
The others pretty much earned it: Nixon founded the EPA and opened up China, but was a genuine creep from his early days as one of Joe McCarthy's henchmen. Reagan? Mr. Joke on the Radio about Bombing Russia? Mr. Iran-Contra, which helped fund fascist death squads?
They earned it.
But you are right about Lincoln. Know WHY he was hated so much? Increasing opposition to slavery.
Golly, I can't see any link there at all to the vicious hatred and ugly racism aimed at THIS President.
Golly, help me out: can you?
6
I am a white man, married with children. Barack Obama is a role model for me as a husband and a father. To me his race is immaterial and non-relevant. He is simply a good and decent man. The attacks on this man are unmatched in my memory, which goes all the way back to Eisenhower. Perhaps Americans will one day appreciate his integrity, and his service, but in the current environment it is hard to imagine that day.
251
I'm guessing the day you can't imagine is coming next January - given the state of the presidential race. America's already missing this president - it's just a matter of time before most people will openly admit that.
18
I have watched some of President Obama's press conferences. I am always struck by his thoughtfulness, analyses and effort to give an honest reply to every question. There is never a throw away line or a frivolous response to a reporter. He can be angry or displeased to receive a "got you" question, but I have never seen him belittle the questioner." You should know better to ask that question" is the worst I have heard him say.
In contrast, some of our current leaders can not string together three thoughtful sentences on one subject with or without a teleprompter.
But, President Obama is attacked and slandered relentlessly by American politicians, American business leaders, main stream news papers and TV and radio broadcasters. I am sorry to say that even some of my friends say that President Obama has not done an honest days work in his life.
This is a strange world.
In contrast, some of our current leaders can not string together three thoughtful sentences on one subject with or without a teleprompter.
But, President Obama is attacked and slandered relentlessly by American politicians, American business leaders, main stream news papers and TV and radio broadcasters. I am sorry to say that even some of my friends say that President Obama has not done an honest days work in his life.
This is a strange world.
108
It is a strange world!! Against the hate..President Obama has shown love, compassion and dignity! He has been one of our finest Presidents!!! What a Mensch.
33
I have been waiting for well over a year for someone in the "liberal" news media to write this column. Our country will probably wait decades for another man or woman to bring this level of dignity, character, and class to the Oval Office.
Back in the 1990's, the Republican party impeached the President of the United States over a sex scandal and insisted that "character matters." As the impeachment proceedings unfolded, the leader of the impeachment charge, Newt Gingrich, was cheating on wife number 2 with wife number 3 to be. Wife number two had little right to be surprised, since Newt had cheated on wife number one with wife number two, before barging into wife number one's hospital room and demanding a divorce while she was being treated for cancer. Character matters, indeed.
I think what the Republican party is really so angry about is that Mr. Obama and his family are the real thing. Character and class, dignity, family values, honesty. It does matter.
It's long overdue for the mainstream news media to recognized this.
Back in the 1990's, the Republican party impeached the President of the United States over a sex scandal and insisted that "character matters." As the impeachment proceedings unfolded, the leader of the impeachment charge, Newt Gingrich, was cheating on wife number 2 with wife number 3 to be. Wife number two had little right to be surprised, since Newt had cheated on wife number one with wife number two, before barging into wife number one's hospital room and demanding a divorce while she was being treated for cancer. Character matters, indeed.
I think what the Republican party is really so angry about is that Mr. Obama and his family are the real thing. Character and class, dignity, family values, honesty. It does matter.
It's long overdue for the mainstream news media to recognized this.
226
This is America. People can disagree with Obama and it is not personal. I don't vote for presidents based on their family. I vote on how well the candidate represents my views on topics of critical importance to me. Obama does not represent my views. That he may have a wonderful family is his good fortune. But has little to do with his qualifications for president
17
I feel honored to have be able to vote for this fine man twice. No matter what has been thrown at him, he has remained a thoughtful and articulate gentleman, and I've been proud every day of the past nearly eight years that he has been the president of our country. Those people who put their politics ahead of country and who worked tirelessly to defeat everything President Obama tried to do have done our country a terrible disservice. We have them to thank for the barbarian who is to be crowned at their convention next week.
160
I fear that Mr Egan while either an Obama "fanatic, follwer" or just admirer is only offering a piece of the BHO story. I say this while the 44th POTUS has worked to be a good "father" he unfortunately I believe has failed miserably as a leader. I say that not from the right, left or center, but simply as an observer: before granting "sainthood" to BHO, I would suggest one read an op-ed from a Maureen Scott of Richmond VA, who considers BHO not as a "Saint", but rather as a "Demagogue", not a uniter as we all hoped in Jan 2008, but a divider, an "Architect of the decline of America and the epitome of a Demagogue" Track down the oped piece, read it & decide for yourself how the legacy of the 44th POTUS will be remembered.
11
Demagogue really? Simply put the man as a person and as President has been slandered more than any president I can recall all the way back to Eisenhower. His response to all of this continued abuse heaped on him by the disloyal opposition we can call the GOP is disgraceful. He has met that disgrace by being truly graceful himself.
I wonder, if Obama is a demagogue, where in our world is Donald Trump?
I wonder, if Obama is a demagogue, where in our world is Donald Trump?
9
As an observer, how does Obama compare with dubya? Many Republicans call Obama our worst president ever, but from the frequency with which he is mentioned, dubya never quite existed. I guess losing two wars at once, blowing holes in the deficit with unfunded giveaways of medicine, and dealing with an economic meltdown by throwing money at it rather than balancing the budget are positive achievements, at least compared to what Obama has managed to do.
6
President Obama will be remembered as the adult in the room that was filled with immature hateful right wing republicans. His election tore the scab off the deep racial prejudice that has defined many parts of America. There are those in our country that couldn't stand to see the President elected into the old boys white club that has been our government. Nobody is perfect but historians will document the unyielding distain that the right had for President Obama. Mitch McConnel et all will go down in history as small minded, jealous treasonous legislators who through their action of inaction tried to bring down our government.
21
I'd mention that while this is a good guy, he's also President against the backdrop of extreme right-wing nuttiness and indecency.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/12/05/us/despite-doles-wish-gop-rejects-disa...
And we WROTE that treaty.
Anybody want to point to where the President, or any Democrat for that matter, slapped a no-kidding war hero and disabled Senator (who was sitting there in a wheelchair) in the face like this?
61-38 vote, and we STILL couldn't pass this. Disgraceful.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/12/05/us/despite-doles-wish-gop-rejects-disa...
And we WROTE that treaty.
Anybody want to point to where the President, or any Democrat for that matter, slapped a no-kidding war hero and disabled Senator (who was sitting there in a wheelchair) in the face like this?
61-38 vote, and we STILL couldn't pass this. Disgraceful.
31
Sadly, the FACTS, however defined, delineated and all-too-often dismissed by "willful blindness" are not a critical issue in local, regional, national or even global awareness, perceptions, expectations, thoughts and feelings, judgements and decisions, and whether The President, other leaders, and a myriad of stakeholders do or do not not learn from them in a toxic, binary WE-THEY culture of complacency and cooptation. A different kind of WE is needed to enable the U of United and the S of geographical states, into states-levels and qualities of caring, humanity, service in which both reaching out, as well as inwards, are not just graphic signs...the devisive "other" is enabled by a silent US, then, now and tomorrow.The President is an all too easy target; a key issue is US, separate and together.
9
At this point I can't imagine the possibility that our next president will match the honest and exemplary character of President Obama. As a person, a father, and a leader he is everything I had hoped when I voted for him 8 years ago.
But what now...what is our UNITED States of America coming to?
But what now...what is our UNITED States of America coming to?
48
It will be interesting to watch his post-presidential "approval" polls beginning 100 days into the new presidency. How will he stack up against a Democratic president? How will he fare against a Republican president?
Legacy is not a line on the ground (of any color.) It is a process that grows and matures with age. I think his will be good when "Mr. Egan" in 2076, whoever that will be, writes about that president and compares him or her with Mr. Obama.
Hopefully, it will be a positive comparison.
Legacy is not a line on the ground (of any color.) It is a process that grows and matures with age. I think his will be good when "Mr. Egan" in 2076, whoever that will be, writes about that president and compares him or her with Mr. Obama.
Hopefully, it will be a positive comparison.
7
Barack Obama is all class, elegance, and honor and as fine a man who has ever held the office. I am so proud he is my president.
51
Good, except for the flattering words in regard to Reagan's actual presidency.
14
The contrast from Obama's brilliance and character to the psychopathic Republican nominee is a permanent stain on American exceptionalism.
40
I agree he's been a failure but he seems nice.
"If the words have sometimes failed him and us, the man, in his personal behavior, has not."
In addition to words let's add experience, policies, leadership, biases, pen and phone, and the inability to cross the aisle.
"If the words have sometimes failed him and us, the man, in his personal behavior, has not."
In addition to words let's add experience, policies, leadership, biases, pen and phone, and the inability to cross the aisle.
6
Since you apparently don't know this, here's a tip: your disagreement and indeed dislike is NOT the same thing as proof of failure.
11
It wasn't an inability to cross the isle, he was certainly more than able and did many, many times. The problem was there was nobody home on the other side. Just look at Congress' approval records for the proof.
17
Mark from Texas
"the inability to cross the aisle"
Please educate yourself on the filibusters executed by the legislative folks across that aisle. You will shocked to learn and note:
1. the # of filibusters since the USA was founded
2. more filibusters in one President's administration than the TOTAL for the entire rest of the history of the USA.
Then you can re-post something with your apology and retraction.
"the inability to cross the aisle"
Please educate yourself on the filibusters executed by the legislative folks across that aisle. You will shocked to learn and note:
1. the # of filibusters since the USA was founded
2. more filibusters in one President's administration than the TOTAL for the entire rest of the history of the USA.
Then you can re-post something with your apology and retraction.
11
President Obama is a total class act at a time when there are few of them to be found. He will be missed.
60
Mr. Egan, you have captured the integrity and decency of this president perfectly. If he had conducted himself any less than he has, his critics would have castigated him unmercifully. I proudly voted for him in 2008, 20012, and would gladly do so in 2016 if he could run again (but one wonders, why would he even want to if he could). I, like so many others, will truly miss Barack Obama when he is gone. And I can only pray that Donald Trump NEVER gets to cross the threshold of the White House as president.
65
An exemplary column, Mr. Egan, especially your descriptions of Obama's predecessors. I hope we don't go to the other extreme with his successor.
33
I have admired his presidency as a non American. He's a portrait of a leader.
67
BRAVO, Tim Egan
6
it's no coincidence that the worst racist in American public life in a generation follows the first black president. The Republican Party, no less, engaged in conspiratorial efforts to delegitimize the president and to obstruct his every effort. Nor is it surprising that the Klan and other white supremacist groups, the neo-nazis, nativists and militias have risen to Trump's acquiescence of their causes and even their unruly tactics.
One can only imagine what Mrs. Clinton will have to endure as the first woman president. But we can be pretty sure some old chauvinist pigs will show up in pink lipstick to trouble her administration as they have done to her candidacy.
Let us remember that the best of us, and the worst, all exist in this great nation. Whatever happens, the earth will continue to revolve around the sun.
One can only imagine what Mrs. Clinton will have to endure as the first woman president. But we can be pretty sure some old chauvinist pigs will show up in pink lipstick to trouble her administration as they have done to her candidacy.
Let us remember that the best of us, and the worst, all exist in this great nation. Whatever happens, the earth will continue to revolve around the sun.
47
To quote the Bard,
"He's loved of the distracted multitude
Who like not in their judgment, but their eyes."
"He's loved of the distracted multitude
Who like not in their judgment, but their eyes."
5
Try the quote tha starts "He who steals my purse steals trash," Iago.
2
I hope one day Americans will realize how lucky we were to have had Barack Obama as president. His words haven't failed us just because there has been a radical, right-wing minority determined to make us believe they have or a minority of Americans has decided we should all be armed to the hilt and be able to kill with impunity or because most Americans have decided police using lethal force in the line of duty is OK. President Obama has spoken out against our ridiculous lax gun laws and racism and hate. He hasn't failed us. Many of us have failed him.
69
Someday we will and that could start very soon after the next election if Herr Trumpf ascends the steps of the White House.
5
President Obama will be remembered as among the very best. His spiritual centeredness has shone bright during many bleak times when more ego-centered presidents would have paled. I, for one, will miss this president.
38
This piece brings tears to my eyes. I'm going to miss this great President very much. His dignity, kindness and thoughtful actions in the face of so much hatred is something we should all admire- regardless if what political party we may favor. Thank you Mr. Eagan for putting my own feelings of this man in an elegant essay.
80
This is a beautiful and s deserved tribute, it is the difference v between being a unrestrained id and a person of love, of seeing to find commonality rather than destroying the people who are different. He was maltreated by congress because of his race but he is the last person to say that. He is a good man and Michelle is incredibly restrained and supportive. An that cannot be esy because she is brilliant and loyal. Some day there will be a play about them. If it would not be torture for him I wish he had at least 4 more years with a decent congress. We so need that love and character at every level.
43
There is one untrue thing in this: "it is hard to argue that...."
The word "argue" should have been preceded by "persuasively". Because the arguments are made, like a flood. It doesn't take much effort to find them.
It may be many years before we know if and how the threats against this president and his family transformed in quality and scale.
More Americans than currently realize it will miss him after he's left office. (Heck, once the election of 2008 occurred, Americans started to bathe GWB with a more roseate glow - see the final months of approval ratings - which is shocking considering what was happening in those months. Now that it's Hillary vs The Donald, Obama is benefitting from this dynamic already.)
The word "argue" should have been preceded by "persuasively". Because the arguments are made, like a flood. It doesn't take much effort to find them.
It may be many years before we know if and how the threats against this president and his family transformed in quality and scale.
More Americans than currently realize it will miss him after he's left office. (Heck, once the election of 2008 occurred, Americans started to bathe GWB with a more roseate glow - see the final months of approval ratings - which is shocking considering what was happening in those months. Now that it's Hillary vs The Donald, Obama is benefitting from this dynamic already.)
11
Ditto that. While the man made some mistakes, mostly by trying to mollify unreasonable people, he didn't start any wars, he tried to defend the nation responsibly, and he tried to provide health care to more people. He and his family have more class than any other president in my lifetime.
79
I could not agree with you more. The two leading presidential candidates of this year's election pale in comparison - no pun intended. Say what you will about Barack Obama, one cannot question his dignity and his class - qualities sorely lacking from today's politicians, the so-called "leaders" of our great country. I look at Trump and Clinton with fear and loathing. God Bless America!
3
I know there are already more than 700 comments, but I feel compelled to add one more, even though it is probably not an original one. We will sorely miss this man when he leaves office, and that feeling will only increase over time. I don't know if we have ever seen his like before, and will certainly not see it soon again.
I'd just like to add, for a plethora of reasons, even though I did not agree with some of his policy positions and official actions, a heartfelt,"Thanks, Obama."
I'd just like to add, for a plethora of reasons, even though I did not agree with some of his policy positions and official actions, a heartfelt,"Thanks, Obama."
66
Thank you Mr. Egan for a thoughtful tribute to Obama, the man. In his personal behavior he indeed has been above reproach.
42
Nice nod to Kipling in first sentence paraphrase.. deserves a not, I think.
4
Kipling? He was a racist.
As usual, Timothy Egan has nailed it!
28
Too many bloggers just can't stop swooning over Obama's elegance and grace. That is so superficial. Now we're down to judging leaders on their good looks alone?? Is it too much for the voters to ask if the president can do the job instead of wondering how great he'll look on the cover of Gentlemen's Quarterly?
I remember a great old satire from Mad Magazine with the headline reading "If We Picked the President the Way We Pick Miss America." Mad was definitely on to something back in the late 1960's. Instead of an election how about holding a beauty pageant? (I bet Donald Trump would win Miss Congeniality)
I remember a great old satire from Mad Magazine with the headline reading "If We Picked the President the Way We Pick Miss America." Mad was definitely on to something back in the late 1960's. Instead of an election how about holding a beauty pageant? (I bet Donald Trump would win Miss Congeniality)
8
We actually swoon over his calm steady BEHAVIOR, and the stuff about his acting like a man, husband and dad.
If I may suggest, try to get the details right. Otherwise, it kinda looks like pure hatred.
If I may suggest, try to get the details right. Otherwise, it kinda looks like pure hatred.
23
Well, sad to say, we're not too far off. Misinformed voters (no, SNL is not a news source, folks), too much attention to looks, age, demographics, insane amounts of focus on the most trivial of things while overlooking or ignoring matters of far greater importance, voting based on who "is cool" or "looks like me"...the list goes on and on.
3
Yeah. Ummmm, this author never said anything about his physical appearance. So, yeah, um, what the heck are you talking about?
8
reggie says he's just dreamy
2
I absolutely agree. And we'll miss him more every day of the next four years. . .
20
Excellent piece, reminding us of how lucky we are to have him at this time, there is an adage that states, when you marry more than once, you can always tell which marriage was better. History will so Honor him. it is only a matter of time. God Bless the USA and God continue to Bless President Obama for being a phenomenal human being.
36
I was born in 1951. President Obama is the only president who I have supported 100%. And he may end up being the only one I can say that about.
42
Great writing. Honest and insightful too. Thanks for the enjoyable piece. We need more of this in America right now!
11
I see that some of us are so driven to fury by a column that simply says, "whatever else, this is a good man, a good husband, and a good father," that we're crawling out from under rocks and screaming the same old screams.
Here's the President's (he is, you know) Politifact file.
http://www.politifact.com/personalities/barack-obama/
I recommend comparing to any Republican who isn't John Kasich.
And while we're comparing on truth and decency, try comparing decencies to Trump, to Hastert, to Palin and her family, to one of the founders of the Minutemen, to Cruz and Huckabee and Jindal, to Ann Coulter and O'Reilley, and a long, long, long recent list of right-wing crooks, liars and criminals.
You want to pick on the man's actions as President, I'll help. Start with the coyness about drones, and the oddish approach to being "the most transparent administration in history." Don't forget the silly bit with the red line, or "if you like your doc."
Some of us can manage criticism based on reality. We don't need the nuttiness, the vicious little personal attacks, the lies about the record, the bizarre conspiracy theories.
And some of us have nothing else on offer. Why is that?
Here's the President's (he is, you know) Politifact file.
http://www.politifact.com/personalities/barack-obama/
I recommend comparing to any Republican who isn't John Kasich.
And while we're comparing on truth and decency, try comparing decencies to Trump, to Hastert, to Palin and her family, to one of the founders of the Minutemen, to Cruz and Huckabee and Jindal, to Ann Coulter and O'Reilley, and a long, long, long recent list of right-wing crooks, liars and criminals.
You want to pick on the man's actions as President, I'll help. Start with the coyness about drones, and the oddish approach to being "the most transparent administration in history." Don't forget the silly bit with the red line, or "if you like your doc."
Some of us can manage criticism based on reality. We don't need the nuttiness, the vicious little personal attacks, the lies about the record, the bizarre conspiracy theories.
And some of us have nothing else on offer. Why is that?
23
Egan's premise, "w/ Obama, the personal is presidential," is true only if by it he means that if Obama's family were in the Benghazi embassy on September 11, 2012, he would have sent in the troops.
Character isn't bifurcated. Personal/public character reside in an infinitely recursive loop
If it was not clear that Obama is amoral before the Ben Rhodes disclosure of Obama's Big Nuke Lie, it should be now.
“scientific revolution…requires…moral revolution"—Obama said at Hiroshima
A self-evident truth approaching redundancy. A bit rich coming from the man who unilaterally/fraudulently/existentially made an irrational, nuke-proliferating, legacy-driven deal w/ insane, apocalyptic signatories whose stated goal is our annihilation—Rhodes/NYT
After beheadings, Obama was forced by public outrage to up ante from containment—clueless at best—asymmetric warfare has no coordinates/requires only 1 consenting player
“We will degrade & ultimately destroy ISIL” he puffed…& then proceeded, rather expensively, to do neither. "Ultimately" was a dead giveaway of his true intentions. "Ultimately" controls still
After its Syrian genocide, a still incipient ISIS crossed Iraq's w. desert. A sitting duck. Massive air strikes then—as advised—would have cut it down by 75%, denied it Iraq/its atrocities/its unleashing globally.
A despot can do a lot of damage & a deluded one blinded by his own imagined brilliance will.
"Being President is entirely about character"
–"The American President"
Character isn't bifurcated. Personal/public character reside in an infinitely recursive loop
If it was not clear that Obama is amoral before the Ben Rhodes disclosure of Obama's Big Nuke Lie, it should be now.
“scientific revolution…requires…moral revolution"—Obama said at Hiroshima
A self-evident truth approaching redundancy. A bit rich coming from the man who unilaterally/fraudulently/existentially made an irrational, nuke-proliferating, legacy-driven deal w/ insane, apocalyptic signatories whose stated goal is our annihilation—Rhodes/NYT
After beheadings, Obama was forced by public outrage to up ante from containment—clueless at best—asymmetric warfare has no coordinates/requires only 1 consenting player
“We will degrade & ultimately destroy ISIL” he puffed…& then proceeded, rather expensively, to do neither. "Ultimately" was a dead giveaway of his true intentions. "Ultimately" controls still
After its Syrian genocide, a still incipient ISIS crossed Iraq's w. desert. A sitting duck. Massive air strikes then—as advised—would have cut it down by 75%, denied it Iraq/its atrocities/its unleashing globally.
A despot can do a lot of damage & a deluded one blinded by his own imagined brilliance will.
"Being President is entirely about character"
–"The American President"
8
Marian hits it out of the park.
The odd paradox of this fluff piece is Egan's attempts to distance Obama from President Obama. If this was just about being a good person and a father, Obama wasted 8 critical years of our time. And tax money.
The odd paradox of this fluff piece is Egan's attempts to distance Obama from President Obama. If this was just about being a good person and a father, Obama wasted 8 critical years of our time. And tax money.
1
Robert (out west) and Marion (New York City, NY) illustrate the fact that if you hate a man - any man or woman, Robert and Marion included I would guess - there are arguably truthful things you can say to denigrate them. But thank you, Timothy Egan, for rising above that and showing us a picture of the most presidential of presidents in my eighty years on this planet. Only Jimmy Carter and Harry Truman deserve to have their names mentioned in the same context.
1
Stunning. The best example I've ever read of the existence of a parallel universe.
30
I thank you Mr. Egan for this piece. It is a treasure. I shall keep a copy of it as a reminder of what a President of the U.S. should represent.
26
So will I. Yet, he will never get the credit he deserves from the oppressive Republicans.
5
Class, dignity, intelligence, commitment to what is the best in us and our county, modesty, thoughtfulness, strength of character - everything that defines the man defines the President. We will miss him, his humanity, his inspiration to all of us to be the best we can be - knowing that only fools expect instant solutions, that true progress, true change takes time and is often incremental, building on smaller then cumulatively big successes. Oh how I will miss his grace and humor...
39
I'm a conservative Republican.
I disagree with many of President Obama's policies, appointments and views..
But, I've always maintained President Obama is a role model for many.
He's a loving husband, caring father and devoted family man.
No one can morally question his character and loyalty to this great nation.
I disagree with many of President Obama's policies, appointments and views..
But, I've always maintained President Obama is a role model for many.
He's a loving husband, caring father and devoted family man.
No one can morally question his character and loyalty to this great nation.
52
This president never misses a memorial service he wants to politicize. Or a chance to demonize his opponents by creating flawed straw man arguments. This presidents foreign policy is an utter disaster, only maybe Cuba and Iran has a higher opinion of us than a few years ago.
5
E in Chicago, perhaps you don't often have the opportunity to leave the country, but I have traveled extensively during Mr Obama's terms in office. From Hong Kong to the Caribbean, Thailand to Europe. I've met people from China, Georgia, France, Costa Rica, St Vincent, Germany, England, Scotland, the Bahamas, Italy, Poland, Ireland and Spain in my travels. Almost without exception, they have great respect and liking for this President, admiration for his conduct in office and his role as a family man. The positive impressions of the US across the globe have gone up in this administration, unlike the comments I used to hear about George Bush. I am not sure which planet you live on, but you obviously don't get out much on this one.
5
Sigh. Those pesky things called "facts" that demonstrate how President Obama has restored the US standing in the world after the disastrous years of Bush.
http://www.pewglobal.org/2016/06/29/as-obama-years-draw-to-close-preside...
http://www.pewglobal.org/2016/06/29/as-obama-years-draw-to-close-preside...
11
We'll all miss Obama. Now we have to start supporting Hillary, this brave woman who will have to go toe to toe with the obnoxious bully Trump, and destroy him politically. Trying to compare her dishonesty (emails nonsense) with his (Trump U., sleazy business practices, thousands of Muslims cheering on 9/11, making fun of a reporter's disability, denigrating women and Mexicans and federal judges, sneering about reporters, inciting crowds to beat-up protestors and on and on) is a ridiculous media obsession with some mythical "balance." Can you imagine a Trump consoling survivors and victims of violence, dealing with International heads of state, showing up in all his pompous idiocy on our televisions daily to slander and lie about all who criticize him, while telling us how smart he is? The Notorious RBG got it exactly right.
27
not me, of course, HRC will be worse
4
As of January 2017, America's loss will become the planet's gain. No more Republican zoo, no more ignorant small right wing media, and, most importantly, no more term limits.
Unlike their GOP predecessors who slink away into obscurity beneath an eternity of dark clouds, Democrat presidents go out into the good Earth and put their diplomatic skills to work in the service of all humanity.
Yet, towering above Carter and Clinton, Barack Hussein Obama is a force for good that the world has hardly begun to reckon with. Still young, growing with grace and strength into the wisdom of age, the potential long hindered by America's Fools Brigade is limitless. His best days are ahead of him.
Your world welcome awaits Barack. It will be our distinct pleasure to work with you and Michelle for many decades to come.
What a gift.
Unlike their GOP predecessors who slink away into obscurity beneath an eternity of dark clouds, Democrat presidents go out into the good Earth and put their diplomatic skills to work in the service of all humanity.
Yet, towering above Carter and Clinton, Barack Hussein Obama is a force for good that the world has hardly begun to reckon with. Still young, growing with grace and strength into the wisdom of age, the potential long hindered by America's Fools Brigade is limitless. His best days are ahead of him.
Your world welcome awaits Barack. It will be our distinct pleasure to work with you and Michelle for many decades to come.
What a gift.
35
To the extent that the deterioration in race relations has anything to do with the president, it's pretty clear the damage hasn't been done by Obama, it's been done in response to him.
35
I agree completely. Thank you for saying it!!
9
President Obama is the most dignified president we have ever had. Frankly, we don't deserve him or his family.
20
An accomplished --- a stunningly competent --- rhetorician and a master of image-management, he succeeded in duping a whole nation, and quite obviously the NYTs readership. That shows the power of PR!
I always rather liked his style, truth be told. I can't say if it was him, or if perhaps it was the politics of his former pastor through him, but under him we have been brought to a present situation that does not, I don't think, reflect well on him. Yet few notice this.
How strange the Trump, crude, unpolished, but direct and clear, is despised. Yet Trump has done powerful and important things, not the least being that he has turned over the liberal applecart and brought a whole other dimension to our political world. I have my doubts about him but I am very thankful he has come along.
I always rather liked his style, truth be told. I can't say if it was him, or if perhaps it was the politics of his former pastor through him, but under him we have been brought to a present situation that does not, I don't think, reflect well on him. Yet few notice this.
How strange the Trump, crude, unpolished, but direct and clear, is despised. Yet Trump has done powerful and important things, not the least being that he has turned over the liberal applecart and brought a whole other dimension to our political world. I have my doubts about him but I am very thankful he has come along.
3
You must be listening to another trump. I have never heard him finish a sentence. Direct and clear? Oh --you mean he speaks in bumper stickerese?
9
By far the classiest president in my memory, if not the most successful.
But even then, he failed with class best by those totally without class...
But even then, he failed with class best by those totally without class...
15
Thank you Mr. Egan for such an accurate assessment of President Obama. I have to admit I shedded tears when I read this article. Someone recognizes the grace and class of this man. The narrative of hate and racial dog whistles directed at this president gave rise to the level of racial discord we as a nation are experiencing. I will miss President Obama and his family when they leave the White House.
30
Forget President Obama who is only an exemplary human being, Republicans will still find faults and denigrate God Himself.
14
Maybe what's infuriating the right-wingers about this column is that Egan's suggesting that by being a class act under extraordinary pressure, the President's simple example of staying a good guy gives the lie to the constant, ridiculous claims that he's done nothing to address the problems of the black community.
22
so what exactly has he done for the black community?
The President IS a good guy. Not unique, though - so was Bush, at least if not more, the loving father, husband, son as Obama. But with regard to the claims that Obama has "done nothing to address the problems of the black community" . . . .. what exactly has he done aside from creating divisiveness? Where/how has he tried to unite? What, other than creating more anger from both sides, did he accomplish racial divide, did he by publicly stating his opinion - before any facts were uncovered - in at least two police shooting cases? And - once those he accused were judged to be not guilty - did he ever apologize? Did he ever take responsibility?
5
Thank you for a most appropriate and well deserved article.
I have apologized many many times to this remarkable man, my beloved and deeply appreciated President, for the ingratitude of too many Americans who should celebrate our great good fortune in having had a model such as he has been for all of us. I shudder each time trump displays his vulgar egotistical narcicism, his ignorance and vanity, his lies and distortions as he galvanizes the worst evils in himself and in his minions. Not a cell in his pathetic bloated mini-brain is worthy of licking President Obama's shoes. Woe to us if trump succeeds as our next President. Woe to the world.
I have apologized many many times to this remarkable man, my beloved and deeply appreciated President, for the ingratitude of too many Americans who should celebrate our great good fortune in having had a model such as he has been for all of us. I shudder each time trump displays his vulgar egotistical narcicism, his ignorance and vanity, his lies and distortions as he galvanizes the worst evils in himself and in his minions. Not a cell in his pathetic bloated mini-brain is worthy of licking President Obama's shoes. Woe to us if trump succeeds as our next President. Woe to the world.
29
I am a man in my mid fifties, an educated historian and political scientist. I can say without a doubt that Obama is the greatest President in my lifetime. Period.
The possibility that one of the very, very best ever... could be succeeded by the *undoubtably very worst ever,* in the form of Trump, is beyond horrifying. It defies any even remote sense of logic that ANY American could hold Trump up against Obama, but it is happening. Even now, we hear that one of the major GOTP themes in next week's convention will be lots of Anti-Obama focus time...
The stunning, unreal double standard and irony of it all is breathtaking. Trump's convention promises to be unlike any other before it - as a vast portion of his own Party will not be showing up for it. When many in your own Party can't afford the toxicity of being in the same giant arena as you, you've got big problems!
The possibility that one of the very, very best ever... could be succeeded by the *undoubtably very worst ever,* in the form of Trump, is beyond horrifying. It defies any even remote sense of logic that ANY American could hold Trump up against Obama, but it is happening. Even now, we hear that one of the major GOTP themes in next week's convention will be lots of Anti-Obama focus time...
The stunning, unreal double standard and irony of it all is breathtaking. Trump's convention promises to be unlike any other before it - as a vast portion of his own Party will not be showing up for it. When many in your own Party can't afford the toxicity of being in the same giant arena as you, you've got big problems!
59
My first prayer, continuously and presently renewed, was that he and his family would emerge from his presidency unharmed and whole in spirit, still faithful to his nation of birth and his Christian faith of choice. God willing he will, they will.
18
Really, this bit of puffery on Obama? Now?
Obama has shown that he is the president of the progressive special interests to a fault. He has personally played a hand in weakening the rule of law in the country. His legacy in the city of Chicago is played out every weekend with murders in the streets and now we are seeing that legacy developing nationwide. He personally created the animosity between the Republican minority congress in his first term and paid the price when the roles reversed in his second term. He is arrogant, cocky and impervious to the normal political compromise that should keep our country moving ahead. Instead he demonizes opponents and uses Enronesque "smartest guy in room" tactics to fool the idiots in the crowd.
Is there no objectivity left at the NYT? At no time can I remember a similar piece on George Bush, who was and is a loyal and humble family man. I am sure Obama is a good father as well, but let's pay no attention to the house burning to the ground around him.
Get a grip and take off the rose colored glasses, their permanently pushing your eyes to the left. The time for this kind of piece is 2 years from now.
Obama has shown that he is the president of the progressive special interests to a fault. He has personally played a hand in weakening the rule of law in the country. His legacy in the city of Chicago is played out every weekend with murders in the streets and now we are seeing that legacy developing nationwide. He personally created the animosity between the Republican minority congress in his first term and paid the price when the roles reversed in his second term. He is arrogant, cocky and impervious to the normal political compromise that should keep our country moving ahead. Instead he demonizes opponents and uses Enronesque "smartest guy in room" tactics to fool the idiots in the crowd.
Is there no objectivity left at the NYT? At no time can I remember a similar piece on George Bush, who was and is a loyal and humble family man. I am sure Obama is a good father as well, but let's pay no attention to the house burning to the ground around him.
Get a grip and take off the rose colored glasses, their permanently pushing your eyes to the left. The time for this kind of piece is 2 years from now.
11
Puffery? "Arrogant, cocky and impervious to the normal political compromise" describes the GOP buffoon who brags, rants and will lead us all to destruction if allowed. You need to get a grip! I cannot imagine anything resembling empathy or consolation emanating from Trump so I'll reread this column from time to time to remind myself how lucky we've been these last 8 years. You have joined the blamers, let's hear what you have to say in 2 years.
20
Impossible to argue with a severe amnesic!
6
I am proud to have President Obama as our leader. He is a thoughtful, elegant, intelligent person, who represents the best in our country. It is unfortunate he was given a do-nothing congress, whose only purpose is to preach hate and discourse in this country. Had he had legislators who were not intent on getting rid of him a lot more positive things would have taken place.
31
Shared moments of national pride in my 68 years: Passage of the Civil Rights Act in 1964 and the Voting Rights Act in 1965. The Moon Landing 47 years ago next week. The addition of Title IX (outlawing discrimination based on sex) to the Civil Rights Act in 1972. Passage of the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act and establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency in the early 1970's.
And then there was a long, long drought until 2008.
The best thing this country has done in this century is elect Barack Obama to the Presidency and then doing it again.
And then there was a long, long drought until 2008.
The best thing this country has done in this century is elect Barack Obama to the Presidency and then doing it again.
57
Thank you for saying so well what I feel so deeply. I was so proud to walk precincts for him in my neighboring state in 2008 and 2012. And while my first election in 1972 had Nixon on the ballot, thirty six years later my daughter cast her first presidential ballot for Obama. That was progress!
1
Amen, brother. He's the most admirable man to occupy the White House in my lifetime. And in future years his qualities are going to become even more apparent, while all those detractors are going to be seen as the petty and pinched people that they are!
15
Absolutely!
President Obama is certainly the best president of my lifetime. He took office during a terrible crises, remained calm, and set America back on track, to the extent that Congress would allow. I believe term limits are best, but with the possibility of a Totalitarian government looming over us, I can understand why so many would like him to stay. It's a shame that we don't have Congressional term limits as well.
30
But the standards go even broader than himself and his family. Compare the number of indictments to members of his administration to those of his predecessor. I have to conclude he insisted on a much higher level of rectitude on his staff than prior presidents did.
24
The discussion of Obama's parenting seems odd. Haven't we been instructed by this publication and most of the media that fathers are irrelevant when it comes to raising children? This piece exhibits the typical patronizing hypocrisy of the left. To wit, we have an upper class white male writer, who clearly has benefited from "white privilege," giving his stamp of approval to a man of color. In other words, Obama is one of the good blacks because he acts like one of us.
5
Obviously, in my preceding post I meant to type Barack and Michelle, but no edit feature.
Truth alert.
And Obama acts like one of you because Barack Obama's biological mother was White and Obama spent as much time in a Black neighborhood as a child as a Wall Street exec driving a Bentley would after the light turns green.
And Obama acts like one of you because Barack Obama's biological mother was White and Obama spent as much time in a Black neighborhood as a child as a Wall Street exec driving a Bentley would after the light turns green.
I wish you read what you write before you send it.
18
The President is a class act all the way, and that holds for his family too. The fact that the GOP, which claims to be the party of family values, seemingly cannot see that is a stinging indictment of their worldview.
36
As someone who has seriously been an informed voter for almost five decades, President Obama is without a doubt the greatest president in my lifetime. We can only dream of what more he would have accomplished with an ounce of Republican cooperation. May he and his beautiful family continue to thrive now and after his time in public office comes to an end.
90
Obama is the greatest president of your lifetime?
So you were born yesterday? :-)
So you were born yesterday? :-)
4
I don't often agree with his policies, but if he was running today against either Hillary Clinton or Donald Trump, he'd have my vote. This editorial is spot on.
24
We could say the same about George W. Bush. He too held the Presidency with grace and dignity and led us through the terrible days after 9/11. I don't like Mr. Obama politically, but he is a decent human being and a good father to his children. His tone politically leaves a lot to be desired, but is par for the course these days on both sides.
10
While I did not agree with many of Bush's policies, I have recently been nostalgic for the relative dignity and decency he brought ot eh the office, and the Rpublican party. Telling that neither he, nor his father, will be speaking at the RNC this year.
6
He is a nice man and I have always respected Obama the man. But, after San Bernardino and after Orlando, he SPEEDED up the resettling of people from Syria. I said to myself, "Does he NOT read the news?"
Obviously his conscience is more important to him than the safety (or the wishes) of the American people.
Nice man to have a beer with but not one who should have been trusted with the levers of power.
Obviously his conscience is more important to him than the safety (or the wishes) of the American people.
Nice man to have a beer with but not one who should have been trusted with the levers of power.
10
Beyond the fact that he did no such thing, I am sure we'll all jist gosh-darn sorry that the President thinks this country should try and help at least a few genuine refugees.
You must be a Christian. The approach to charity's unmistakable.
You must be a Christian. The approach to charity's unmistakable.
8
Rohit, he did not speed up the process. The process of screening of Syrian refugees is more intensive than we do on any immigrants coming here. Canada has taken in a lot more and the early results demonstrate those people are not committing crimes there.
4
Even if this were true (and given how loudly the Republicans would have screamed at the mere inference of "more brown people coming into the country", it certainly isn't), it is precisely this sort of logic that might drive him toward such a decision.
It's absolutely disgusting that so many people are quick to buy the xenophobic narrative of 'dangerous refugees'. We did something similar in the 1930s, you may recall, with European Jews fleeing the rise of Hitler's Third Reich.
It's absolutely disgusting that so many people are quick to buy the xenophobic narrative of 'dangerous refugees'. We did something similar in the 1930s, you may recall, with European Jews fleeing the rise of Hitler's Third Reich.
7
Well, y'know, he's in good company. I seem to recall that Jesus polarized people a lot, too.
24
Please STIOP! Although Obama is African-American (his father was an African, not an American, as his mother was) he is not black, he is mixed-race. He was raised by his white grandmother. Too bad he plays up the 'race card'. Now, that's over.
5
He no longer seems to claim mixed race for the media reported, I believe, that on his census form he checked Black/African-American and declined any mix reference. That is telling I suppose.
4
Stop the madness. When has the US ever said someone who had a black parent wasn't black.
7
You say he plays the "race card". How exactly? Please provide examples.
6
I look at Barack Obama as a man who did some good things as president but who missed out on doing more good things by his failure to meet with members of Congress. Bill Clinton met with people on both sides of the aisle, and many of his accomplishments are due to his willingness to do so. Obama did not meet with either side - even when it was over lunch. (Check out the invitation by Maine Senator Susan Collins where the president came by briefly but would not sit down for lunch with the group.)
But I'll reserve judgment on Barack Obama until he has been out of office for a few years. Will he follow Harry Truman, who said of offers from corporations: "I turned down all of those offers. I knew that they were not interested in hiring Harry Truman, the person, but what they wanted to hire was the former President of the United States. I could never lend myself to any transaction, however respectable, that would commercialize on the prestige and the dignity of the office of the Presidency."
Truman also said, "You can't get rich in politics unless you're a crook."
So I'll wait to see if BHO becomes a multi-millionaire post-White House, or if he follows the path of Harry Truman or Jimmy Carter.
But I'll reserve judgment on Barack Obama until he has been out of office for a few years. Will he follow Harry Truman, who said of offers from corporations: "I turned down all of those offers. I knew that they were not interested in hiring Harry Truman, the person, but what they wanted to hire was the former President of the United States. I could never lend myself to any transaction, however respectable, that would commercialize on the prestige and the dignity of the office of the Presidency."
Truman also said, "You can't get rich in politics unless you're a crook."
So I'll wait to see if BHO becomes a multi-millionaire post-White House, or if he follows the path of Harry Truman or Jimmy Carter.
10
The Republicans did everything possible to take him down. He is no fool.
4
Truman also said, "You can't get rich in politics unless you're a crook."
So I'll wait to see if BHO becomes a multi-millionaire post-White House, or if he follows the path of Harry Truman or Jimmy Carter.
=============================
Funny you don't mention the path of the Clintons who have become multimillionaires post-White House - as Give Em Hell Harry said -"You can't get rich in politics unless you're a crook."
So I'll wait to see if BHO becomes a multi-millionaire post-White House, or if he follows the path of Harry Truman or Jimmy Carter.
=============================
Funny you don't mention the path of the Clintons who have become multimillionaires post-White House - as Give Em Hell Harry said -"You can't get rich in politics unless you're a crook."
1
He's already a multimillionaire. Sold two real good, popular books before becoming President.
By the way, you somehow forgot to mention Ronald Reagan's cashing in. Why IS that, I wonder?
By the way, you somehow forgot to mention Ronald Reagan's cashing in. Why IS that, I wonder?
1
I am an immigrant who has only read about past presidents. I did talk with many seniors over the past few years and almost all of them, regardless of race, gender and party affiliation have agreed on two things - he is the most presidential of presidents and that he brought dignity back to this high office.
53
Almost eight years of listening to those calling him names , changing the spelling of his name, complaining he didn't acknowledge a tragedy fast enough, and being mad a black person became President with Trump was probably the Frontrunner in causing it with his endless claim he wasn't born here.
The first time I saw him on the Oprah Winfrey show and how impressed I was how eloquently he spoke. What a breathe of fresh air that was coming from a politician. He turned out to be more than I expected as a President and his wonderful family. Much different than the Bush Family. It is and was such ashame how he and family were picked on right down to the clothes they wore. They are the epitome of what a family should be. It ashame many choose to be blind to see it.
The first time I saw him on the Oprah Winfrey show and how impressed I was how eloquently he spoke. What a breathe of fresh air that was coming from a politician. He turned out to be more than I expected as a President and his wonderful family. Much different than the Bush Family. It is and was such ashame how he and family were picked on right down to the clothes they wore. They are the epitome of what a family should be. It ashame many choose to be blind to see it.
39
What an exemplary man. History will give him his due. I will certainly miss him. God bless him
30
As an American living abroad, President Obama has made me proud to be an American.
But recently, when Singaporeans ask me where I'm from, & I respond, "the USA", there is often a steely silence. Some will say, (almost regretfully) "Oh, I thought you were from Canada." I know what's coming next . . . "Are you going to vote for Trump?" I respond, "no, absolutely not," & they relax a bit.
People here are astonished that America has nominated someone as narcissistic & vulgar as Trump . . . & sadly, I can't really explain it.
Anyway, I'm deeply grateful to President Obama for his grace, dignity & his many accomplishments (plus his admirable grit) when facing down attacks that sometimes bordered on treasonous.
Thank you, President & Mrs. Obama.
But recently, when Singaporeans ask me where I'm from, & I respond, "the USA", there is often a steely silence. Some will say, (almost regretfully) "Oh, I thought you were from Canada." I know what's coming next . . . "Are you going to vote for Trump?" I respond, "no, absolutely not," & they relax a bit.
People here are astonished that America has nominated someone as narcissistic & vulgar as Trump . . . & sadly, I can't really explain it.
Anyway, I'm deeply grateful to President Obama for his grace, dignity & his many accomplishments (plus his admirable grit) when facing down attacks that sometimes bordered on treasonous.
Thank you, President & Mrs. Obama.
62
A picture of Obama hugging my mother while campaigning in Iowa in 2008 still hangs on her fridge. In that you can see the difference between a politician working the ropes and a genuine human grateful to give and receive a hug. The quandary we find ourselves in as a nation is in spite of Mr. Obama's excellence not because of his failings. I wish the Obamas joy and happiness in their next chapter.
37
Yes, the Obamas have been a model family. In the face of gross and blatant racism and disrespect, they have maintained enormous grace and dignity. I am already in mourning that they will be leaving the White House. They are a class act.
79
Yes, incomparable grace and dignity, which, I am afraid, we are going to miss in the coming years. Never has any elected official been attacked so vilely, about who he is, with wild allegations about what he did - but did not - and was not. There's rooms for disagreement on issues, but it was rarely possible to discuss them rationally with those who were determined to destroy any success.
33
obama was mediocre at best
he was so joyously heralded bc of how bad his predecessor was
and now he is already missed in anticipation of how bad his successor will be
32
Remember, folks, the Times is simply picking things that represent different viewpoints, and not getting into whether they make the slightest sense.
3
Not !
This comment gets a NYT Picks?
1
I will miss President Obama, he has actually motivated me to continuously strive to be a better American.
23
Great piece Tim. Thank you for the human perspective and focusing attention on what is and will be a great legacy of this man...and his family.
14
I agree . A wonderful piece on a man who has despite the gate thrown at him,continued to lead with strength, dignity and humbleness. Not to mention HE is the coolest President ever...
5
This column is a perfect response to the significant minority of Americans (if they deserve to be called that) who are outraged at the presence of a black man in the White House. The personal abuse directed at President Obama will be regarded as a great disgraces in our history. Let us hope that it will not disgrace us in the eyes of the world, as will the haters among us be disgraced.
17
Oh, you mean the Obamacare that was supposed to tank the economy? The economy that was already in the tank when he first stepped into the Oval office?
Apparently you must not be invested in the stock market either. Or ever have to buy gas for an automobile. Or have ever heard of Osama bin Laden.
Apparently you must not be invested in the stock market either. Or ever have to buy gas for an automobile. Or have ever heard of Osama bin Laden.
12
Actually, I couldn't care less if Kennedy had affairs, whether Ronnie's family had issues, or about Lyndon's potty mouth. I don't care about Newt's affairs, either, Bill's cigars, or the number of ex-wives or size of fingers of our candidates, though I do care about candidates who bring up those private family issues, pretending they are meaningful topics when they are nobody's business.
I care about the direction they wish to lead our country.
I care about the direction they wish to lead our country.
4
I'm really enjoying reading all of the wonderful comments about our President and don't intend to read the negative one since I hear enough of them down here where I live. Just one suggestion for all fellow Obama admirers. I doubt t he has time to read comments like these. I think for those of us who haven't done so, we need to send a person not the to the White House. I intend to do that today, myself, as it is way past time.
10
Well...aren't you open minded
1
He and the First Lady have set an exemplary standard for all future holders of their respective offices. I hope we may see their like again.
30
Thank you. I loved watching Obama's speech to the Canadian parliament and seeing them all stand and cheer for him - even breaking out at the end for a chant of "Four More Years". How sad that he gets so little respect from some in our own Congress. I grant that they have every right to differ with him on issues but the clear disrespect some show diminishes them. I would vote for him yet again if the constitution allowed it.
50
I'm British.
I simply wish that more people with the undoubted qualities that Mr Obama has in spades were elected to office.
As another commentator earlier said "He is a class act.'
I will miss him when he's gone.
I simply wish that more people with the undoubted qualities that Mr Obama has in spades were elected to office.
As another commentator earlier said "He is a class act.'
I will miss him when he's gone.
37
This made me weep in appreciation of President Obama and for the waste of the last eight years. How many things could we have accomplished if he was not opposed at every turn by a craven Republican party?
We must build on his legacy. The time has come not only to vote for Hillary Clinton but to turn the House and the Senate Democratic again.
We must build on his legacy. The time has come not only to vote for Hillary Clinton but to turn the House and the Senate Democratic again.
26
In other words Barack Obama had class and kept his head when people tried to insult him for his skin color, his African heritage, his refusal to do or be what they expected. He's maintained his dignity and his honor which is more than many politicians can say even at the beginning of their political careers. We were lucky to have him as our president after the administration of W left us with such a mess. He persevered in the face of enormous opposition and disrespect. I'm glad to have been alive to see such a presidency.
37
President Obama would be the one American I would like to have a beer with and talk about God and the world. From a non-USA perspective, he has been the best President this country has had in a long time and he has raised the bar for Presidential behaviour and skills not just for US Presidents or heads if states.
8
"...when he begged us not to let hearts turn to stone when the world is a quarry of hate, he is at his best when the rest of us are at our worst..."
Mr. Egan that's a nice turn of phrase, in meritorious praise of the president, a decent family man.
In part our political dysfunction and acrimony in confronting issues of the day is that decency and intellectual reasoned discourse are devalued currencies. Vitriol, offensive words, confrontational speech, and braggadocio are much preferred. And not just in politics but in every socio-economic sphere.
Popular culture is awash in crude behavior and speech. Our conduct, public and private, reflects the same and can be summed up by pouting, the snappy wave of a hand, or the unfortunate "whatever."
Such behavior and mannerisms used to be regarded as sophomoric, unprofessional, revealing lack of class (which has nothing to do with economic status). Nowadays, awards are bestowed upon its pervasive depiction in our virtual entertainment reality. Politicians are rewarded with re-election. Scientists are prejudged to engage in collective intellectual fraud. The contempt for institutions is worn as a badge of honor, regardless of whether there is evidence to sustain it. And no one seems to feel responsible for anything, specially for themselves.
Mr. Egan that's a nice turn of phrase, in meritorious praise of the president, a decent family man.
In part our political dysfunction and acrimony in confronting issues of the day is that decency and intellectual reasoned discourse are devalued currencies. Vitriol, offensive words, confrontational speech, and braggadocio are much preferred. And not just in politics but in every socio-economic sphere.
Popular culture is awash in crude behavior and speech. Our conduct, public and private, reflects the same and can be summed up by pouting, the snappy wave of a hand, or the unfortunate "whatever."
Such behavior and mannerisms used to be regarded as sophomoric, unprofessional, revealing lack of class (which has nothing to do with economic status). Nowadays, awards are bestowed upon its pervasive depiction in our virtual entertainment reality. Politicians are rewarded with re-election. Scientists are prejudged to engage in collective intellectual fraud. The contempt for institutions is worn as a badge of honor, regardless of whether there is evidence to sustain it. And no one seems to feel responsible for anything, specially for themselves.
5
Truly a prince among those with no moral decency. We have been so fortunate to have such an amazing human being for a president. Truly an exception and exceptional.
18
Obama is a great father but he has been a horrible commander in chief. He has failed to keep Americans safe. Although our GDP has grown by approximately 15% during his tenure, our national debt has grown by more than 100%. He has been a complete failure on the two most important responsibilities of a president: national security and the economy. Thankfully, he will soon be able to spend all his time being a father and absolutely no time being a president.
10
Well, what you have written here RGV is foolish and false. Huge populations are shifting as the world struggles with millions of angry uneducated young men without jobs and the poorly developed cultures that create them. No president including Bush or Obama will be able to "keep us safe" from the types of global wars the world faces now. As for the economy, it was saved by Obama and brought down by Bush and Republicans. The economy is doing better than others and worldwide is actually envied. The Canadians chanted, "4 more years!" when our President recently visited. Thanks to Democrats, we will have at least 8 more years with a Democratic President and the stain of Reality Show Trump and Tea Party Pence will join such as Sarah Palin in history. They will be held up for ridicule as a reminder for many years that Republicans are failures and losers.
10
The national debt rose from about $11 trillion to about $19 trillion. i can check, but two times 11 wouldn't seem to equal 19.
Of course I am talking actual numbers, not Trump numbers.
Of course I am talking actual numbers, not Trump numbers.
2
@pugetsound: At some point, you have to stop blaming others and stand on your own two feet. Our economy is currently fueled by almost Zero interest rates not by any industry created in the last 8 years. This is the legacy of democratic "every body gets a trophy (home)" policies that gave loans to those who had no business applying for them, not by republican policy. If it makes you feel better, you can rewrite the truth, but I imagine you have problems in the rest of your life with finger pointing as well.
With eight years experience as President, Obama now belongs to the most rarefied club in the world. A great father, he has remained calm, thoughtful, hard-working each day of his Presidency; despite massive Republican resistance from day one to now. I never got the sense that Obama did not read and study the issues deeply. I will look to his leadership in the years to come.
59
Yes, the president has been an honest and decent man. He has worked to better the country, to address existential threats to the United States and to mankind. At the same time, his political opponents have been dishonest and indecent. They have worked day and night to prevent the president from improving the country and to drag us back into recession. With negative interest rates, and a crumbling infrastructure, they have blocked almost all attempts at public spending programs that would grow the economy. They have ridiculed established scientific facts; they have promoted corruption in politics by allowing unlimited and unregulated corporate money to buy elections; they have worked to promote religious bigotry; they have turned a blind eye to government sanctioned violence against minority communities; and, they have denied the president the legal authority that he sought to conduct a war against ISIS. And to top it all off, they are now nominating a hateful, ignorant, ill-mannered, draft-dodging, wife-abusing, dictator-admiring, prevaricating grifter to replace the best president we have had in a generation.
75
Please repeat your splendid comments on Facebook is you're willing. So well written and precise in its listing of the flaws and almost treasonous acts of the Republican opposition, after vowing as McConnell did to "make him a one-term president" and failing miserably. That seems to be McConnell's legacy, a decidedly negative and pathetic one as it's the only assertion he's made that can be truly measured; his others have been vapid paeans to his party's incompetence. Obama is will be up there with Lincoln, FDR, and Kennedy.
16
Amy Cohen says, "We have failed ourselves as a nation to have squandered the luminary intelligence, deep thoughtfulness, genuine decency of the man we were able to call our president for 8 years. "
I agree with your views on President Obama but do not agree that we failed as a nation because WE elected him twice regardless of the relentless drive by republicans and the conservative movement's attempts to discredit him. We believed what we saw and heard from him and voted our minds and hearts - not political propaganda. That makes average Americans very smart and should bring us great hope.
Maya Angelou said, "A person tells you who they are by their actions and words. Listen to them." We did with President Obama and we will again and will vote again for restored democracy in America.
I agree with your views on President Obama but do not agree that we failed as a nation because WE elected him twice regardless of the relentless drive by republicans and the conservative movement's attempts to discredit him. We believed what we saw and heard from him and voted our minds and hearts - not political propaganda. That makes average Americans very smart and should bring us great hope.
Maya Angelou said, "A person tells you who they are by their actions and words. Listen to them." We did with President Obama and we will again and will vote again for restored democracy in America.
39
How in heavens name can you pronounce Obama a "good father and husband"? Is that the criteria to judge or elect a president? His misjudgments, mistakes and miscalculations are what history will, correctly I might add, take into consideration when judging his place in history! For sure, getting along with Congress is much more important to a nation than getting along with one's children or wife!! It is not lost on many Americans that this admiration for the first black president from the liberal press is nauseating and will never change the facts that he was ill prepared and impotent to lead this nation to a better place!
9
The majority of us do not agree with you, Marie Seton, which is why we elected him - twice - and will be sad to see him go.
119
luckily for the country Obama has risen above this sort of rude behavior and yes, been an adult. An intelligent adult. How limited your own visions seems to be.
2
Getting along with Congress? My friend, have you seen the approval rating for the Congress? If Obama truly had trouble handling the legislative branch, I can only say the inability to find common ground was representative of the country's struggle as a whole rather than the failure of a single man.
10
OBAMA Has set a magnificent example as a caring, sincere and transparent leader. Though it saddens me, I fear that we will not see his likes again. From the first, I saw his loving interactions with his family and the great caring and affection he showed for all who encountered him. Even with the GOP who have lowered themselves to ever increasing infantile behavior for 8 years, Obama has engaged them with dignity, respect and unflagging good will. Even when called a "liar" during a State of the Union address, Obama maintained his presidential demeanor on fulfilling his duty to the nation first and foremost, despite personal insults. I see him sometimes struggling during press meetings or in town halls, to find the words that will will convey both his gravitas and his unwavering care for others. We have seen ample proof of the fact that Obama possesses both a first rate intellect, and profoundly humane, caring character. My hope is that his detractors will come to understand his kindness and brilliance.
58
I agree that Mr. Obama gets a man's principal role in life, that of a devoted and loving husband and father, perfectly but before we begin the deification let's not forget his purposeful and repeated lies surrounding the Affordable Care Act. While Mr. Obama has some wonderful qualities. among them a wonderful sense of humor, He has also been a deceitful and conniving politician.
12
I'll give you that "if you like your doctor, you can keep your doctor," was a fairly-stupid thing to say.
But I will betcha that you have zip idea what the PPACA actually says (or what "PPACA," even is), let alone that the President just published an article in JAMA (let alone what that is) that looks at its successes and failures and recommends some changes.
It's not bad that you don't know this stuff. It's bad that you won't find out.
But I will betcha that you have zip idea what the PPACA actually says (or what "PPACA," even is), let alone that the President just published an article in JAMA (let alone what that is) that looks at its successes and failures and recommends some changes.
It's not bad that you don't know this stuff. It's bad that you won't find out.
7
republican operative?
Couldn't disagree re lies, deceitful, conniving. I would fully expect that when President Obama says something factual, he has backup. One might not agree with that backup, and maybe it's at times flawed, but that doesn't make him a liar, deceitful and conniving. Those are personal characteristics that I don't see in him at all, based on what I've seen. And taking a step back, ask yourself how well you'd stack up having a spotlight on everything you say and do, and everything you've ever said and did. Most folks wouldn't look nearly so good and would have a heck of a lot more to defend.
1
I cannot recall a President I have admired and trusted more in my lifetime than Barack Obama. He is the 21st century equivalent of Abraham Lincoln. In 8 years as America's first black President, Barack Obama has given black Americans the hope, even the expectation that they can and should be equal partners in American society. The confrontations we are now seeing on a daily basis with Black Lives Matter and other expressions of a renewed civil rights movement are part and parcel of that expectation. America is now confronting the challenge of moving from formal equality as defined by statute to actual equality as defined by the heart. Only President Obama could have brought that about. It's about time!
99
I get that many (in here, most) like and admire President Obama, whether for his policies or personal nature or both, all of which is perfectly fine. But in a republic, it is rather distressing to see some of the level of emotional idolatry and hero worship with people expressing "love" and being moved to tears at his very image, or worse, wanting to allow him more tenure in office in spite of the constitution, almost as if wanting the banana republic "President for Life" power. He has some admirable traits (being human, some not so admirable as well) but he is a politician, not a monarch or a lama. Get a grip people.
14
same thing happened w fdr, thats why th Constitution was amended
but he was a good president
but he was a good president
1
You infer the unintended. When something is good you simply want more of it. It's a human reaction. These people are not mouton a coup or clamoring for a change in the constitution so as to elongate his tenure. They simply see a good man and wish, not demand, that he stick around. He's not not clamoring to stick around past his due time. He is loved because of god decency and for working tirelessly to in fact devolving into some "banana republic."
You don't get this? You are tone deft. You get a grip Sir.
You don't get this? You are tone deft. You get a grip Sir.
4
He is one thing we can "grip" when the world is coming apart at the seams and the Republican nominee offers us nothing of value. You say "get a grip". I say get over our hero worship and idolatry. Mr. Obama has earned it, every day and with every word and act. We will not see the likes of him again in our lifetime, if ever.
4
How true and how heartbreaking that we will no longer have him at the helm.
This, I could hope to pierce every heart in our great country, and the world, with these words:
"as we get older, we learn we don’t always have control of things — not even a president does. But we do have control over how we respond to the world. We do have control over how we treat one another.”
The golden rule: we are one human family, and we need to act like one. No man is an island ... what hurts one hurts all ...
This, I could hope to pierce every heart in our great country, and the world, with these words:
"as we get older, we learn we don’t always have control of things — not even a president does. But we do have control over how we respond to the world. We do have control over how we treat one another.”
The golden rule: we are one human family, and we need to act like one. No man is an island ... what hurts one hurts all ...
39
Thank you Mr Egan,..At last,.. a beautifully articulate acknowledgement of what many of us have been thinking about President Obama as we've watched him these past 8 years. In my lifetime, (almost 70) ,..I can't recall a president who I've been able to admire and respect so genuinely and consistently. He serves as a role model that cuts across all lines and he will be sorely missed.
No one will ever be perfect when it comes to being President or make every correct policy decision, and there will always be those who will angrily mis-characterize and distort his record and his thinking for any number of reasons, but when it comes to his family and his role has husband and father, even they, are finally left speechless.
No one will ever be perfect when it comes to being President or make every correct policy decision, and there will always be those who will angrily mis-characterize and distort his record and his thinking for any number of reasons, but when it comes to his family and his role has husband and father, even they, are finally left speechless.
60
From someone about your age, the only one who comes close in our lifetimes would have been Eisenhower.
3
It breaks my heart to think that Barack Obama's days as President are drawing to a close. It's hard to imagine how a man so measured, so thoughtful and so humble could -- possibly, perish the thought -- be followed by someone as coarse, crude, and self-interested as Donald Trump. Or even, for that matter, by Hillary Clinton (though I will go to the polls and vote for her without much enthusiasm -- because the alternative is unthinkable).
I am grateful to you for this tribute to our current President, whose accomplishments, both personal and professional, I fear may be forgotten in the Armageddon that could follow him.
He may have fallen short of our expectations -- not entirely his own fault, but due to the unprecedented opposition of racist opponents (who, for example, have actually have had the temerity to deny him his Constitutional right to appoint a Supreme Court justice!) -- but he is surely the living embodiment of grace under pressure.
I am grateful to you for this tribute to our current President, whose accomplishments, both personal and professional, I fear may be forgotten in the Armageddon that could follow him.
He may have fallen short of our expectations -- not entirely his own fault, but due to the unprecedented opposition of racist opponents (who, for example, have actually have had the temerity to deny him his Constitutional right to appoint a Supreme Court justice!) -- but he is surely the living embodiment of grace under pressure.
77
If you're going to bring personal class into the presidential equation -- you must want to eliminate HRC. Trump too, for that matter, although his sins have been as a private citizen.
But whether Obama is a class act or not has little to do with his job performance. While we'd like perfect presidential families, presidents that are a great father, etc., that's really not the criteria we judge them on. He insulted republicans. He call Isis the J-V team and has done little to check their outrages. He has refused to call Islamic terrorists what they are. He has shown more concern for his globalist view than the US. He has led the weakest recovery in US history -- and the actions that saved the financial system were initiated by Bush. Blacks have not prospered during his tenure -- nor has anyone else except the top 1%. He's done nothing for equality. At the same time he's bankrupted the coal industry, refused to allow a sensible approach to transporting oil -- the keystone pipeline -- and funded failed green energy companies with tax payer dollars. He's weakened our military.
On another post (assuming it gets posted) I've listed other failures. I'd love for someone to provide a list of his accomplishments -- no fair counting Obamacare though, as it was crammed down our throats, had a disaster of a roll out, and the expenses have skyrocketed. Likely to be overturned by a Republican pres.
But whether Obama is a class act or not has little to do with his job performance. While we'd like perfect presidential families, presidents that are a great father, etc., that's really not the criteria we judge them on. He insulted republicans. He call Isis the J-V team and has done little to check their outrages. He has refused to call Islamic terrorists what they are. He has shown more concern for his globalist view than the US. He has led the weakest recovery in US history -- and the actions that saved the financial system were initiated by Bush. Blacks have not prospered during his tenure -- nor has anyone else except the top 1%. He's done nothing for equality. At the same time he's bankrupted the coal industry, refused to allow a sensible approach to transporting oil -- the keystone pipeline -- and funded failed green energy companies with tax payer dollars. He's weakened our military.
On another post (assuming it gets posted) I've listed other failures. I'd love for someone to provide a list of his accomplishments -- no fair counting Obamacare though, as it was crammed down our throats, had a disaster of a roll out, and the expenses have skyrocketed. Likely to be overturned by a Republican pres.
11
Actually, Hillary is, in her own way, a class act as well. She's not so appealing, though.
President Obama has done his best to make you safer in spite of you and your colleagues constant attacks. You have no idea how bad things could be, thanks to him. Someday you will realize this is true.
President Obama has done his best to make you safer in spite of you and your colleagues constant attacks. You have no idea how bad things could be, thanks to him. Someday you will realize this is true.
15
You want accomplishments? Okay, 9 million private-sector jobs created since O took office during the worst economic crisis in 80 years, and net of the 4 million jobs lost in the first 8 months of his presidency (by contrast, W presided over the creation of 298,000 in his two terms). http://data.bls.gov/timeseries/CES0500000001.
W doubled the cumulative deficit, despite inheriting several years of annual surpluses. Reagan tripled the cumulative deficit (add Bush pere, and it quadrupled under 12 years of Republican rule. By contrast, the cumulative deficit has increased only about 50% since O was elected, even though he inherited the worst economic crisis in nearly a century.
No fair counting the "Affordable Care Act?" Why not? A Kaiser Permanente report a few years ago estimated that annually some 40,000 Americans died prematurely because they lacked health insurance (at a time when roughly 40 million lacked insurance). The Rand Corporation reports that the ACA has covered some 17 million uninsured million Americans, http://www.rand.org/news/press/2015/05/06.html. Do the math, Ralphie, the ACA is now saving some 17,000 lives annually. Thousands additional lives could be saved if the Republican governors and legislators would accept the Medicaid expansion offered to the states at no charge
There's lots more but the Times imposes a 1500 character limit. As to Keystone, just Google "game over for the planet."
W doubled the cumulative deficit, despite inheriting several years of annual surpluses. Reagan tripled the cumulative deficit (add Bush pere, and it quadrupled under 12 years of Republican rule. By contrast, the cumulative deficit has increased only about 50% since O was elected, even though he inherited the worst economic crisis in nearly a century.
No fair counting the "Affordable Care Act?" Why not? A Kaiser Permanente report a few years ago estimated that annually some 40,000 Americans died prematurely because they lacked health insurance (at a time when roughly 40 million lacked insurance). The Rand Corporation reports that the ACA has covered some 17 million uninsured million Americans, http://www.rand.org/news/press/2015/05/06.html. Do the math, Ralphie, the ACA is now saving some 17,000 lives annually. Thousands additional lives could be saved if the Republican governors and legislators would accept the Medicaid expansion offered to the states at no charge
There's lots more but the Times imposes a 1500 character limit. As to Keystone, just Google "game over for the planet."
24
1. Ralphie, the column's about the President's (he is, you know--show a little respect, as much as it hurts) behavior and decency.
2. No, Ralphie, you don't get to set the rules. We do count the economic recovery, because while the previous President (see how that works?) did start the bailouts and quite properly too, he also helped crash the economy in the first place.
We also count the PPACA--especially since, I bet, you don't know as much as what the initials stand for. Because no, it wasn't done in secret. There were, wossname, hearings and votes, and your refusal to pay attention doesn't mean it didn't happen.
And we count Dodd-Frank. And we count the Iran Deal. We count Cuba. We count getting bin Laden. We count at least getting the chemical weapons out of Syria.
And we remember the errors: the drones, the red line weirdness, maybe the goofed-up deal woth Boehner in 2010. See? We don't need to lie to ourselves. We don't need to parrot some fool like Rush. We don't need to scream "YOu lie!" Or pass around pix of watermelons and Presidents, then brightly say "But I'm not a racist!"
But tell you what. List the MANY reasons you're so proud of the behavior and achievements of the Right.
Start with Hastert and that Minuteman founder going to jail. Explain how proud you are of Cruz for begging endorsement from a preacher who wants gay people hanged. Tell us all about Christie and Trump's exemplary examples for kids to follow. Speak to us the wisdom of Louis Gohmert.
2. No, Ralphie, you don't get to set the rules. We do count the economic recovery, because while the previous President (see how that works?) did start the bailouts and quite properly too, he also helped crash the economy in the first place.
We also count the PPACA--especially since, I bet, you don't know as much as what the initials stand for. Because no, it wasn't done in secret. There were, wossname, hearings and votes, and your refusal to pay attention doesn't mean it didn't happen.
And we count Dodd-Frank. And we count the Iran Deal. We count Cuba. We count getting bin Laden. We count at least getting the chemical weapons out of Syria.
And we remember the errors: the drones, the red line weirdness, maybe the goofed-up deal woth Boehner in 2010. See? We don't need to lie to ourselves. We don't need to parrot some fool like Rush. We don't need to scream "YOu lie!" Or pass around pix of watermelons and Presidents, then brightly say "But I'm not a racist!"
But tell you what. List the MANY reasons you're so proud of the behavior and achievements of the Right.
Start with Hastert and that Minuteman founder going to jail. Explain how proud you are of Cruz for begging endorsement from a preacher who wants gay people hanged. Tell us all about Christie and Trump's exemplary examples for kids to follow. Speak to us the wisdom of Louis Gohmert.
9
Repeal the 22nd amendment.
17
Yes!
1
In two years, maybe four, certainly in November, we will look back at President Obama and wish that the 22nd amendment had never been approved.
29
God bless you, Mr. Egan, for putting the President's grace and character front and center for all to see, as well as for contrasting it with the behavior of present candidates and past presidents. In no way has the First Family received anything like the respect they should have for grace under continual assault. Thank you for righting that egregious wrong just a bit.
638
Are race relations worse? It seems to me that they are just more out in the open. I hope we can improve matters now that we know how people really feel and have felt for decades.
331
Much of it is not out in the open because the activists and punditry (and social media jabberers) too often immediately excoriate anyone with a slightly different take and perspective, or who brings up inconvenient facts. Thus much is suppressed and, as a result, things are not moving forward.
2
Are race relations worse?
As a Black lawyer in Washington DC the entire Obama presidency, I can answer that in a single word: Yes.
As a Black lawyer in Washington DC the entire Obama presidency, I can answer that in a single word: Yes.
1
Agreed, the "perceived" race relations have gotten worst only due to the conceit that has been pulled back due to the election of the first black president.
3
I find fhe venom aimed at Obama utterly mystifying. To my thinking, he has been the best president in my lifetime ( 70+ years ). First and foremost, he is intelligent. He is proactive not reactive thinker. He is patient and tolerant with a solid moral compass.
The contrast between him and current candidaes is stark. Trump is a cartoon of a human being.
While I reject gross parisanship, it would hard to resist announcing that Congress would block every messure he proposed and yell "you lie" to his face.
The contrast between him and current candidaes is stark. Trump is a cartoon of a human being.
While I reject gross parisanship, it would hard to resist announcing that Congress would block every messure he proposed and yell "you lie" to his face.
451
I'm not super liberal about social issues, I think perhaps racism has been overstated a bit as a whole. But much of what I've heard in person, read online, and seen on TV directed towards the President has been deeply, unbelievably racist.
9
I concur. Best president in my lifetime. Age 69.
2
Obama isn't a reactive thinker?
How do you square that circle with Obama's earned reputation of "leading from behind?" The irony is the political left are so beguiled with Obama's careful deliberate ruse that they call Donald Trump, the most real, most dangerously off the cuff authentic candidate we've seen since Teddy Roosevelt a "cartoon" of a human being.
How do you square that circle with Obama's earned reputation of "leading from behind?" The irony is the political left are so beguiled with Obama's careful deliberate ruse that they call Donald Trump, the most real, most dangerously off the cuff authentic candidate we've seen since Teddy Roosevelt a "cartoon" of a human being.
1
My pipe dream - may it come to pass! - is that Hillary appoints him to the Supreme Court. He would be an even greater Justice than he has been a President.
88
What an idea! He would, indeed.
3
Put it simply, he is a Great President.
56
Amen.
23
That Obama is a good father and husband is completely irrelevant.
Obama's one lasting legacy: ISIS, and all it has spawned.
Obama's one lasting legacy: ISIS, and all it has spawned.
12
Please review the history of the aftermath of the 2003 Iraq invasion and its direct relation to the origins of ISIS before making such a statement. We've had enough of the disappearing of the G.W. Bush presidency.
6
Um, ISIS is Bush and Cheney's long lasting legacy.
6
Obama's legacy? Look farther back, sir, to March of 2003. The needless invasion of Iraq, destabilized an already perilous region, rife with political and religious divisions. Mr. Obama was not president then.
7
The thing I'm going to miss most about Obama is his mind.
26
Thank you, Mr. Egan !
I agree wholeheartedly.
I agree wholeheartedly.
23
It's a national tragedy that President Obama has not received the recognition he is due during his time as our President.
29
My thoughts and feelings, exactly. I will miss Obama the man, with his measured temperment, his critical thinking skills (so rare these days) and his big heart. A true President and wonderful human being.
32
Obama appears to be a magnificent, decent human being, father and husband. In this regard, he is a role model for every male in the country.
This hardly makes him an effective President.
He failed to recognize the ISIS threat (remember his comments about the JV?) and his failure to act, like Neville Chamberlain, to aggressively confront and destroy the enemy has created a nightmare of terrorism the next President will need to clean up.
His ramming through of Obamacare and his flat out lying to the country (if you like your healthcare you can keep it. Period.) and has contributed to the inability to get most anything done in Washington.
His lecturing at a police memorial in Dallas was in bad taste. Period.
The country, and the world, are worse off than before Mr. Obama became President.
This hardly makes him an effective President.
He failed to recognize the ISIS threat (remember his comments about the JV?) and his failure to act, like Neville Chamberlain, to aggressively confront and destroy the enemy has created a nightmare of terrorism the next President will need to clean up.
His ramming through of Obamacare and his flat out lying to the country (if you like your healthcare you can keep it. Period.) and has contributed to the inability to get most anything done in Washington.
His lecturing at a police memorial in Dallas was in bad taste. Period.
The country, and the world, are worse off than before Mr. Obama became President.
38
Wrong, disgraceful and embarrassing for Times to recommend these opinions grounded in distortion and petty grievances.
3
Not sure where you get your news. Please be aware that not leading us into yet another war in the middle east - with ISIS - is a good thing. You will never change the ideology of an extremist mindset. The US military has not been successful in the middle east, and I am glad Obama did not respond with war the way you require him to.
5
Have you forgotten the economic crash, the lying us into a war in Iraq that took thousands of lives and wasted 2 trillion dollars and led to the rise of ISIS that happened during the George Bush presidency? If not, then you can't really believe that last sentence.
3
I do hope something will change, and that the accorded time it usually takes (and should, I know) to take a true measure of a Presidency will be speeded up so that my allotted three-score and ten (now three years away) will give me a hint of history's assessment of this man's leadership. I believe that, as Egan writes so eloquently, that one measure will be the grace and intelligence with which he carried out his duties -- personally and professionally. Conservative Americans have been (and continue to be) unrelenting in their criticism and hate, disrespect for him and to the Office because he occupies it. His refusals to react or respond in any way in like manner diminishes their every attempt to insult, to damage and to ruin his ability to govern. And history, I know, will affirm this: that the foolish and failed Republican attempts to take down President Obama led directly to voter frustration and anger at government stasis, and to the Trump's destruction of the Republican Party.
52
Thank you Mr. Egan for again, and as usual, hitting an insight on the mark. My friends and I are in mourning over the loss of the Obama family as a model of familial grace and love. And I cannot fault President Obama in the least for the perception that race relations in this country have worsened. Perception is reality and for this increased perception we have so many to thank. Senator McConnell for stating from the start that his goal was to make sure the President had only one term, Fox News which has lied and denigrated its way into the hearts of people who don't know better. And we can't forget a Congress that has spent more time trying to overthrow Obamacare in spite of their knowledge that it was impossible to do so than...oh well, just about anything. And not so lastly, we have to recognize our potential hater in chief Mr. Trump who has made fearmongering and hatred his campaign advisors. It is not possible for one man, no matter how able, to counter the level of disgrace and shame that has been brought on this country by those that have courted the twins enemies of fear and hate. And now we face a future where our leader is either someone that the majority doesn't trust or the majority just plain dislikes. A prevaricator or a racist/misogynist. Is this our choice in 2016? Words cannot express how much I will miss the President and his family.
39
Imagine what he could have accomplished if the Republicans had met him half way...
90
Or what he could have accomplished if Obama wasn't lying through his teeth in 2008 about uniting both parties and ending politics as usual.
7
You mean the same Barack Obama who refused to meet with GOP leaders for THREE years? The same Barack Obama who as of July 15, 2016, over 140 Republican members of Congress and 21 Republican Senators have never met or spoken to one on one, face to face in person or by phone?
That Barack Obama?
That Barack Obama?
7
No, dear, we mean the ACTUAL President, not the invisible one in that famous chair.
2
This goes double for his handling of the Town Hall just yesterday or the day before. Anyone who missed it should try to watch.
26
Barack Obama has been exemplary in every way, and I don't know if I will ever see another president of his stature in my lifetime. What a sad state of affairs that a man as vulgar and selfish as Donald Trump even stands a chance to gain the same office. He isn't remotely worthy.
47
OK, Mary O, so think about it. Why does Trump, vulgarity, selfishness and all, have such a large following?
3
Mr. Xavier III: Because statistically, half of the population is below average. That number of followers seems large because Trump has given them a channel to abandon civility. Is that the kind of following our country needs?
4
just look at his followers to find the answer to that question.
2
Thank you for expressing so well what so many of us feel. President Obama has been a class act at every juncture, as a leader, a visionary, a consoler, a husband and a father. He has inspired me on every level, and I for one will hate to see him leave office.
49
"Barely a week ago, Fox News flashed pictures of a young Obama attending his African half brother’s wedding in Muslim garb — proof, Bill O’Reilly said, of the president’s 'deep emotional ties to Islam.'”
It's hard to believe the depths Fox and friends will go. Also, Obama was wearing Kenyan garb, not Muslim garb, whatever that is. But in their eyes, the same thing, and equally damning.
It was "Dreams from My Father" that sold me on Obama. I read it in the months leading up to the 2008 election and was deeply moved by it. I remember thinking what a good and decent man he was, as well as one helluva writer. I shall miss him.
It's hard to believe the depths Fox and friends will go. Also, Obama was wearing Kenyan garb, not Muslim garb, whatever that is. But in their eyes, the same thing, and equally damning.
It was "Dreams from My Father" that sold me on Obama. I read it in the months leading up to the 2008 election and was deeply moved by it. I remember thinking what a good and decent man he was, as well as one helluva writer. I shall miss him.
38
Thank you for this beautifully-written tribute. We will surely miss him next year and beyond, no matter who occupies the White House.
32
Barack Obama has erased the embarrassment of the Bush/Cheney years, and made me proud to be an American again. Thank you Mr. Egan for explaining the meaning of standards for those who may have forgotten.
72
Yes, simply put President Obama is an exceptional man and human being. We are fortunate beyond belief that he agreed to lead us courageously and intelligently through these potentially catastrophic years. We will also be extremely fortunate if he chooses to serve us in the future as an international leader. Thank you, President Obama and family for your service and fine example of being caring human beings.
67
President Obama's personal behavior have not failed him -- or us? Nor have his words. The critics will always be there, critics who would sound like gluttons with their mouths full buffalo wings uttering whatever words come to their minds. Despite endless provocation, Obama has never embraced a bitter tone or divisive words, He has never incited serpentine venom of race, class, religion or wealth among his supporters.
What worries me more than the endlessly foul-smelling trash coming from the lips of a current presidential contender is that, as a country, we no longer respect the qualities that Obama exemplify. For those who respect the man and the President, get ready for a long spell of acute nostalgia.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
What worries me more than the endlessly foul-smelling trash coming from the lips of a current presidential contender is that, as a country, we no longer respect the qualities that Obama exemplify. For those who respect the man and the President, get ready for a long spell of acute nostalgia.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
44
"Despite endless provocation, Obama has never embraced a bitter tone or divisive words..." Can I borrow this for open mic night at the Improv here in Washington DC?
Because I already can't stop laughing.
Because I already can't stop laughing.
2
You might do better than to cite the divisive words you seem to attribute to the President. I'd avoid the stand-up improve if I were you.
3
President Obama, the man, his style, his demeanor and all that he has accomplished has made me proud to be an American again... Has given me hope... Which is what he promised
33
Thank you, so well said!! I will miss President Obama and look forward to seeing what he does in the future.
30
Let's not forget the First Lady, also one of the best we have ever seen in that role. Just an extraordinary family.
75
Yes, Michelle Obama! Kind, gracious, generous, down to earth, intelligent, funny, accomplished, and so very stylish - she is a fantastic role model for both adults and children. We are privileged to have had her as our First Lady.
42
How long have you actually known Mrs. Obama?
1
A contemplative, reflective and eloquent a leader I fear we will not witness for a long long time. I am saddened and somewhat frightened in moving on without this man to look to in trust, despite any shortcomings.
32
Barack Obama is the product of mixed races, mixed nationalities. To me, he has always represented the best of all of us.
40
Yes, let us remember Barack Obama is black & white & a wonderful & articulate human being.
I wish we could give him umpteen more years in the Presidency !
I wish we could give him umpteen more years in the Presidency !
9
Let's not speak of Barack Obama in the past. He is alive. He has six months and more remaining in office. Let's make the most of this remaining opportunity to realize his hopes as President.
And I look forward with a real sense of joy when I think of a Barack Obama unleashed from the sick and suffocating straightjacket of Washington, DC. Jimmy Carter is of course a brilliant example of the good that a "retired" leader can do. So too is Al Gore.
And I look forward with a real sense of joy when I think of a Barack Obama unleashed from the sick and suffocating straightjacket of Washington, DC. Jimmy Carter is of course a brilliant example of the good that a "retired" leader can do. So too is Al Gore.
46
I am going to miss this president when he leaves office.
Why?
The calmness, his humanity, his essential decency, his intellect, his humility, his ability to be just one of guys.
Sure, he and his family live in the cacoon of the the White House and that's something his children will have to live with all their lived. They will do fine.
The ceaseless attacks on him and his wife, Michele, have been vicious and personal too many times. That has come to define Conservative Americans and Republicans.
With Obama in office the right wing nuts and the Republican Party have used racism every day as a basic strategy. Of course, it's not just racism. The old school grown up republicans are gone, replaced not with the updated decency of Msin Street, but with ideologues with multiple versions of an anarchic message.
Republicans like Eisenhower, Nixon, Reagsn and GHWB recognized the necessity and efficiency of Social Security. Now they lost their minds and Obama confounds them.
A congressman from South Carolina and a Supreme Court justice call him a liar
During State of the Union addresses. They refuse to tend to him the basic courtesies. The party of the imperial presidency and permanent majority has wrapped his presidency with dilly, dally, do litttle and delay.
Info not know where the racist Republican Party is going. It has allied itself with southern ideologues and broken from what was the Party of Lincoln.
Why?
The calmness, his humanity, his essential decency, his intellect, his humility, his ability to be just one of guys.
Sure, he and his family live in the cacoon of the the White House and that's something his children will have to live with all their lived. They will do fine.
The ceaseless attacks on him and his wife, Michele, have been vicious and personal too many times. That has come to define Conservative Americans and Republicans.
With Obama in office the right wing nuts and the Republican Party have used racism every day as a basic strategy. Of course, it's not just racism. The old school grown up republicans are gone, replaced not with the updated decency of Msin Street, but with ideologues with multiple versions of an anarchic message.
Republicans like Eisenhower, Nixon, Reagsn and GHWB recognized the necessity and efficiency of Social Security. Now they lost their minds and Obama confounds them.
A congressman from South Carolina and a Supreme Court justice call him a liar
During State of the Union addresses. They refuse to tend to him the basic courtesies. The party of the imperial presidency and permanent majority has wrapped his presidency with dilly, dally, do litttle and delay.
Info not know where the racist Republican Party is going. It has allied itself with southern ideologues and broken from what was the Party of Lincoln.
27
I remember how flustered I was with him when he would not raise up his voice to denounce the treatment he received from Congress. Then I did not realize the importance of what he was doing. Such a great exemplar for all of us. He listens. I wish we listened more and talked less. It is such depressing times. This does not seem to get any better. Here and abroad. We would hope for more leaders like President Obama. It would be such a different world.
18
Sad that Republicans, who talk character and morality while offering up Trump, have so completely missed the boat on President Obama. Despite their relentless assaults and insults, history will no doubt recognize President Barak Obama in the canon of America's greatest leaders.
36
Egan: "No matter what you think of Obama the executive branch, it’s hard to argue that Obama the human being has been anything less than a model of class and dignity."
Yes, Timothy Egan, you are spot on with this comment! Have been voting for a president since John Kennedy's run against Richard Nixon, and would have to rate Obama at the top of my list for "class and dignity." The ones coming close to him in class and dignity would be Jimmy Carter and Gerald Ford (and their spouses).
Yes, Timothy Egan, you are spot on with this comment! Have been voting for a president since John Kennedy's run against Richard Nixon, and would have to rate Obama at the top of my list for "class and dignity." The ones coming close to him in class and dignity would be Jimmy Carter and Gerald Ford (and their spouses).
29
Carter and Obama are the only great men to be President in my lifetime. I suspect that like Carter Obama will continue a life of service. Also like Carter the Republicans will do everything they can to smear him for the rest of his days.
27
The office of the presidency has fit Barack Obama like a tailor-made suit. His greatness & grace comes from within & has not been thrust upon him. He's the real deal. Whether he is beaming a disarmingly broad smile in a relaxed moment or tearing up while eulogizing families of so many victims of gun violence, his emotions are genuine, part of his DNA & not honed through years of acting. Few modern day presidents have inherited such profound despair and chaos in our country as Barack Obama from day one in office. While all presidents must contend with the countervailing winds of the opposing party in Congress, few have had to deal with such gale force destructive ones.
Racism in America preceded him in the White House and it will no doubt continue its ugly mission throughout the country when he leaves office. The election of the first African American president did however, pull the wound dressing off race relations in a post civil rights era America, revealing a particularly virulent infection deep in the bones and tissue of our country that has never completely healed. I suspect Barack Obama will continue to inspire us and work to right the wrongs of America as an activist post president. While the term "otherness" was used by his racist critics to create fear and suspicion about Barack Obama and the legitimacy of his presidency, I choose to think of "otherness" as setting him apart from the ordinary and into the realm of the extraordinary. Godspeed, Mr. President.
Racism in America preceded him in the White House and it will no doubt continue its ugly mission throughout the country when he leaves office. The election of the first African American president did however, pull the wound dressing off race relations in a post civil rights era America, revealing a particularly virulent infection deep in the bones and tissue of our country that has never completely healed. I suspect Barack Obama will continue to inspire us and work to right the wrongs of America as an activist post president. While the term "otherness" was used by his racist critics to create fear and suspicion about Barack Obama and the legitimacy of his presidency, I choose to think of "otherness" as setting him apart from the ordinary and into the realm of the extraordinary. Godspeed, Mr. President.
39
Class act. We are all going to miss him.
26
Oh how I will miss this man when he leaves the Presidency. The very best example of quiet, contained and exemplary leadership of my lifetime.
This from a White, late 50's male.
This from a White, late 50's male.
46
Mr. Egan - Thank you for that.
22
Thank you for your perspective. I couldn't agree with you more!
22
We have had another president, within my lifetime at least, who was up to the task as well as President Obama; and that was Jimmy Carter. President Carter was a decent, caring person who was also derided by Christian conservatives for his compassion to all citizens, albeit less so than President Obama.
24
When we judge the private lives of Presidents, we venture into the unknown. The praise for a loving husband and a dedicated father, based on what we know, would appear to apply equally to Obama and Bush. For reasons unknown, Obama's sychophants view his family life as model and Bush's similar family life as inconsequential.
8
If Bush had not been so careless with other people's children, he might have generated more goodwill.
2
I don't think that's true. I'm not a great fan of Bush's policies, but I've always spoken of him as an apparently loving father, husband and son. I think other of his critics recognized and admired those qualities as well. I also regularly defended him as (someone who seems to be) an idealist and a compassionate person. Again, I am no fan of his administration.
3
i would say your comment is for reasons unknown. I've certainly seen criticism, richly deserved, for his policies which have cost hundreds of thousands of innocents' lives. however, I don't recall reading anything critical about his relationship with his wife or children.
8
Seeing what's happened to this amazing president, and what could potentially happen if Trump gets elected, perhaps we'd be better off with two separate countries.
The racists and bigots can form their own union led by Trump. Fox News would be the state run media outlet for Trumpistan and the Confederate flag can fly high over Trump Tower as soon as they tear it down and rebuild somewhere along the wall protecting us from Mexico. Trumpistanians will be able to buy as many guns as they wish and carry them anywhere. Of course there won't be any crime since "those people" won't live in Trumpistan. The Retrumplican congress can choose to continue to do nothing in office except lower taxes to zero while quadrupling the military budget. Who needs clean air and water, or worry about the environment when climate change is obviously a hoax?
As for the rest of us--we'll go about the hard work of making an already great country even better.
The racists and bigots can form their own union led by Trump. Fox News would be the state run media outlet for Trumpistan and the Confederate flag can fly high over Trump Tower as soon as they tear it down and rebuild somewhere along the wall protecting us from Mexico. Trumpistanians will be able to buy as many guns as they wish and carry them anywhere. Of course there won't be any crime since "those people" won't live in Trumpistan. The Retrumplican congress can choose to continue to do nothing in office except lower taxes to zero while quadrupling the military budget. Who needs clean air and water, or worry about the environment when climate change is obviously a hoax?
As for the rest of us--we'll go about the hard work of making an already great country even better.
24
Am sure that if President Obama were given every support to implement his thoughful, genuine and compassionate ideas to improve economic and social welfare of the country, we could be in a much better situation. It was so unfortunate that the republican never wants to admit that President Obama has a very extraordinary skills plus a very extraordinary character that is needed to make this country great again..
19
That President Obama has been able to maintain his equanimity, grace, and good humor throughout the ordeal he has been subjected to by the right wing propaganda mill is one of the most amazing feats I have witnessed in my long life.
The two presidents who come closest to him, poise wise, are FDR and Lincoln, to my mind. They all suffered through blind hatred from partisans who desired to destroy or alter America. They all persevered and left American a better place for their being here.
Now, let's not squander his legacy by putting in a fascist demagogue at the White House.
The two presidents who come closest to him, poise wise, are FDR and Lincoln, to my mind. They all suffered through blind hatred from partisans who desired to destroy or alter America. They all persevered and left American a better place for their being here.
Now, let's not squander his legacy by putting in a fascist demagogue at the White House.
39
So much of what Egan writes could apply to Jackie Robinson, Sidney Poitier, and other black pioneers whose dignity rose above prejudice and, in the end, triumphed over the forces of hate that sought to tear them down.
19
Here! Here! He WILL be hard to replace in spite of what his haters say. History will be the final judge!
18
A depressingly large number of Americans lack the education if not upbringing to appreciate a man of President Obama's qualities. Thanks to many media outlets that promote tribalism, we've been set against each other. We are have become a house divided. A corrective is needed. There will be a point of no return. In spite of that, I expect this decent man, Barack Obama, to model the activism of President Carter when he leaves office. We'll need him.
19
True, the media (and social media) tribalism is much to our detriment, but, frankly, it is a bit condescending to claim a "large number of Americans lack the education...to appreciate" President Obama. One can admit he is intelligent (though, frankly the notion that he is far and above the brightest of all is without any factual basis) and a good family man, yet still not like his policy decisions or style. Education has nothing whatsoever to do with it (it's the old, "well people who support this or that are just stupid" school of thought).
For example - while he may mean well, he often comes off, especially to those who do not concur in some of his points, as lecturing and hectoring. The line "trying to wring something teachable" from this piece illustrates the point - he is not our father or pastor, there to teach or talk down to us "common" folk. He works for us, is a politician, an elected official. Yes, his personal family behavior is something to praise, but he has also demonstrated less character in his seeming petulant disdain for those who disagree with him.
For example - while he may mean well, he often comes off, especially to those who do not concur in some of his points, as lecturing and hectoring. The line "trying to wring something teachable" from this piece illustrates the point - he is not our father or pastor, there to teach or talk down to us "common" folk. He works for us, is a politician, an elected official. Yes, his personal family behavior is something to praise, but he has also demonstrated less character in his seeming petulant disdain for those who disagree with him.
8
Two words. Ronald Reagan.
3
The one whose kids didn't speak to him for years? Uh, no.
6
Two words on Reagan. Decent man.
1
Two words: Secret war.
7
Beautifully said, and nothing left to say, other than that I agree.
18
I feel so much regret when I think of the great compromises we could have achieved in this country if Republicans had been willing to work with the President instead of against him for the past eight years. The solutions we would have agreed to wouldn’t have been ideologically pure from either party’s perspective, but they would have been imminently practical and so much better than the lopsided legislation and executive interventions the President was left to enact without their involvement and cooperation. Perhaps the President’s greatest contributions will come after he leaves office. The lasting impression of his integrity may yet shape our thinking as a nation when confronted with the troubled times and administrations to come.
24
President Obama is a master politician. Perhaps the best politician in the past century and in time may be seen as one of the greatest Presidents in U.S. history. His two terms have had their share of serious flaws but also some significant accomplishments. In the final analysis, one can't help admire this president's leadership in the face of virulent opposition.
24
President Obama is a master politician. Perhaps the best politician in the past century
=================
He is such a "master politician" that while he ran the Democratic party, it lost 13 Senate seats and 69 House seats in Congress, and the results are even more staggering on a local level. Democrats have lost 12 governorships, 30 state legislative chambers and more than 900 state legislative seats.
Heckuva job for a master politician. Below the federal level, Democrats haven't been this weak since the 1920s.
=================
He is such a "master politician" that while he ran the Democratic party, it lost 13 Senate seats and 69 House seats in Congress, and the results are even more staggering on a local level. Democrats have lost 12 governorships, 30 state legislative chambers and more than 900 state legislative seats.
Heckuva job for a master politician. Below the federal level, Democrats haven't been this weak since the 1920s.
4
I don't really want to understand people who are so sunken in their hatreds or so blinded by their religion or so deafened by their listening to Rush that they cannot appreciate a class act when they see one.
In fact, they're so far gone that they can't even listen, or watch, or take the time to learn anything, or slow down the rush of fury for one second.
A lot of us loathed a lot of the things Ronald Reagan did, like Iran/Contra. But we tried to stay civil, and we appreciated at least his good humor and willingness to cut deals with his opposition. A lot of us thought (and think) Dubya's Iraq War was the stupidest decision in American history, but at least noticed the man's PEPFAR and his gracious, intelligent speech in Dallas last week.
What's the matter with you people?
In fact, they're so far gone that they can't even listen, or watch, or take the time to learn anything, or slow down the rush of fury for one second.
A lot of us loathed a lot of the things Ronald Reagan did, like Iran/Contra. But we tried to stay civil, and we appreciated at least his good humor and willingness to cut deals with his opposition. A lot of us thought (and think) Dubya's Iraq War was the stupidest decision in American history, but at least noticed the man's PEPFAR and his gracious, intelligent speech in Dallas last week.
What's the matter with you people?
26
Kudos to you, but, alas, many others refuse to this day to view any positive elements of opponents like Reagan or Bush, preferring to wallow in their political hatred for years or decades. Just read any day's comments in the Times.
2
Sorry and all, but there's a basic difference: us libber types mostly criticize what these people actually say and actually do.
We generally stay off the personal stuff, especially when it comes to families, and we certainly don't run around screaming that so-and-so is a closet Moozlim, or send out pictures of the White House buried in watermelons, or snarl "You lie!" at the State of the Union, or pass around vicious little "jokes," about the President's wife and kids.
And generally, when we say something personal--well, WE didn't put Hastert and one of the Minuteman founders in the slammer for molestation. WE didn't solicit in a bathroom and get nabbed. WE didn't profit off the Iraq War. WE didn't blather about "family values," then dump our wife on her deathbed. Nor did we defend the shabby likes of John Edwards.
And Trump and Cruz...my god. How in the world can you condone such lunacy?
That's on you guys: when are you going to do what you're always demanding that the President should do, and call YOUR community out? When's the Sistah Souljah moment due?
We generally stay off the personal stuff, especially when it comes to families, and we certainly don't run around screaming that so-and-so is a closet Moozlim, or send out pictures of the White House buried in watermelons, or snarl "You lie!" at the State of the Union, or pass around vicious little "jokes," about the President's wife and kids.
And generally, when we say something personal--well, WE didn't put Hastert and one of the Minuteman founders in the slammer for molestation. WE didn't solicit in a bathroom and get nabbed. WE didn't profit off the Iraq War. WE didn't blather about "family values," then dump our wife on her deathbed. Nor did we defend the shabby likes of John Edwards.
And Trump and Cruz...my god. How in the world can you condone such lunacy?
That's on you guys: when are you going to do what you're always demanding that the President should do, and call YOUR community out? When's the Sistah Souljah moment due?
2
"We generally stay off the personal stuff..." Were that but true. Yesterdays article on Trump's pending appointment of his VP nominee was classic - personal insults about the two men, comments mocking their appearance, age, race and sex ("orange hair", "old white guys" and such), their families, their faith (especially along the lines of judging whether or not one or the other was a "real" Christian), crude comments about Gov. Christie's weight (lookism and mocking the obese are supposed to taboo and insensitive, no?), and schoolyard name calling ("Trumpanzee", "Drumpf"). Please.
Politicians are fair game for all the criticism they merit though it should be civil - but please don't try to claim some moral high ground of "we're better than that" when so much ugliness is spread by people on all sides.
Politicians are fair game for all the criticism they merit though it should be civil - but please don't try to claim some moral high ground of "we're better than that" when so much ugliness is spread by people on all sides.
1
I did not vote for Obama. However as an American and just a human being I still cringe at some of the things that are said about him. I do not know his heart nor can I read his mind. Some of the things that he has been called should shame all Americans. I still feel that his presidency was wrong, It was based on the fact that he was the first black president and all problems would be solved just because he was in the white house. This doomed him from his first day in office. We need to pay more attention to substance than sound bytes and looks. Anger against anger should not pick a president. Our choices this year amaze me. I'm not sure I can choose between the two. I see nothing good in either one. We are a smart and caring people. We must do better because it seems like,in a presidential election, we leave our values at home and the most humane candidates are the first to go home. I pick candidates by the whole of their lives and how what they have shown matches what they say when they are running for office. In the case of this election, nothing matches on either side. We need a do-over while we get our heads on straight.
53
That's not anyplace close to why I voted for this President twice. The black skin was just a bonus.
2
I could not agree more whole heartedly with your view of Obama. He took the reins of office under some of the worst crises this country has recently faced & carried on with grace & determination. He is definitely the father he never had. I cringe at the constant barrage of criticism he faces from those on the right. He represents the very best this country stands for.
35
Obama, our first black president. Hopefully, not our last. Well done, Sir.
21
Thanks to the last 8 years of Obama's arrogance, incompetence and dishonesty, that hope has faded. Along with change.
(See what I did there?) :-)
(See what I did there?) :-)
2
DCBarrister, no one with a whit of intelligence would ever accuse Barack Obama of incompetence. You may disagree with his decisions, but never denigrate his intelligence.
5
Why so much hate? I feel sad for you.
2
Three words : four more years !
23
One word: Unconstitutional
2
Shame you didn't think of that, O Barrister, when the whole kidnapping and torturing people thing came up. 'Course, they was only suspected moozlims, so...
2
This is a noble man, and history will record as such how Barack Obama conducted himself in a way few of us could possibly attain. He will be sorrily missed. I so wish he did not have to leave. But I do know that he will take his future and his wisdom to greater places. He leaves the presidency, but will surely carry on as the statesman he is.
35
"You respect John F. Kennedy for his flair and wit, but wince at how he hurt his wife through numerous affairs. You admire Lyndon B. Johnson for his courage in civil rights, but are appalled at how bathroom-level bawdy he was in private."
We won't know went on in the Obama WH for at least 30 years, as it true with those above.
We won't know went on in the Obama WH for at least 30 years, as it true with those above.
4
Wrong. In this day and age you don't need to wait 30 years (or 30 minutes) for bad news to get out.
8
No, we knew about JFK and LBJ at the time, and we know enough about Obama to feel secure that history will only burnish his image.
11
We only know what we are allowed to know thus far - many things are still secrets, many lips still sealed whether our of loyalty or fear of reprisal. It does indeed take years, sometime decades, before more details emerge that presents a more nuanced and accurate picture than we are sometimes led to believe.
1
The man is a deep well of decency and grace. We are blessed to witness his time.
39
How classy was it to set up a program that sent thousands of assault weapons to the cartels? How classy to refuse to let Congress investigate this program, instead claiming executive privilege? How classy to have the only AG in history issued a citation for contempt of Congress? Obama should have been impeached, not Clinton. Obama has trampled on the Constitution and the separation if powers, the presumption of innocence, and has basically forced his agenda on our nation by executive fiat.
8
Your hate is showing!
5
@Wild, you must have loved the Bush administration. 2 big tax cuts skewed to the wealthy, while starting 2 wars, off budget and on a credit card. And that was just the start!
10
bush began th what became fast and furious
do some research
do some research
1
Obama has so much dignity, grace and humility combined with what appears to be the perfect marriage and family life. It's a testament to his character that he has managed to have such a stable, happy family life while doing arguably the most stressful, demanding and important job in the world.
Sadly, Obama's character, dignity, humility and perfect family are the polar opposite to what Hillary Clinton would bring to the White House, not to mention the vulgarities of Donald Trump. It's safe to say the next president will be a stark constrast in character and personal conduct to the present.
Sadly, Obama's character, dignity, humility and perfect family are the polar opposite to what Hillary Clinton would bring to the White House, not to mention the vulgarities of Donald Trump. It's safe to say the next president will be a stark constrast in character and personal conduct to the present.
16
I share the General opinion here but something is missed: Michelle Obama. She has to be in this picture!
30
Hi, Elsa!! She is, along with Mali and Sasha. The President has his arm around her.
5
Right on.IMO Michelle was the reason he was elected in the first place, she was such a powerful and approachable and sincere speaker she tipped the scales for him in 2008.
3
And Marian Robinson, her mother. But isn't this seemingly very effective 3 generation White House family also a credit to Barack Obama (and Michelle)? It is tricky to keep a household such as this in balance for 8 years in even a much less public and stress inducing situation. This is a beautiful and well deserved tribute! Thank you, Timothy Egan!
10
For almost 8 years President Barack Obama has made me proud. I always puff-up a little when he stands with other world leaders. He and First Lady Michelle are always charming and gracious were ever they go - a first class couple. I will miss them both very much.
42
"That peculiarly American religion, President-worship." --Gore Vidal
I think we all care a little too much about how a President carries himself/herself in private life. Why should I care that LBJ loved potty humor? He got important stuff done, plain and simple. Yes, Mr. Obama proved himself to be a good President, but that's because he was a good President, not because he stayed faithful to his wife. This same kind of thinking that places way too much importance on the personal life is what causes people to vote for the President they'd rather have a beer with and not necessarily for the most intelligent, effective option. Let us emulate the French in this regard. Personal life should stay personal.
I think we all care a little too much about how a President carries himself/herself in private life. Why should I care that LBJ loved potty humor? He got important stuff done, plain and simple. Yes, Mr. Obama proved himself to be a good President, but that's because he was a good President, not because he stayed faithful to his wife. This same kind of thinking that places way too much importance on the personal life is what causes people to vote for the President they'd rather have a beer with and not necessarily for the most intelligent, effective option. Let us emulate the French in this regard. Personal life should stay personal.
6
A person's private life is a reflection of his or her character. Having a strong, reputable character is one of the attributes needed for successful leadership. President Obama is a textbook example. Unfortunately, our current candidates don't come close to meeting this objective.
2
Thank you Mr. Egan. These ideas have been in my mind many times, with the desire that they might be expressed among people of good will.
28
This article is creepy.
It reads like the tribute articles to G.W. Bush.
It reads like the tribute articles to G.W. Bush.
10
Oct. 29, 2010: "The single most important thing we want to achieve is for President Obama to be a one-term president." Senator Mitch McConnell...
In declaring that one goal, the GOP, the party of "NO" diminished the country as a whole and led us to this sad moment in US history. I will miss President Obama terribly.
In declaring that one goal, the GOP, the party of "NO" diminished the country as a whole and led us to this sad moment in US history. I will miss President Obama terribly.
65
Ditto.
8
In recent weeks I have flashes of despair, followed by admiration as I think of a possible Trump presidency, and then listen to our president as he navigates the almost impossible job being our president. I am savoring every moment of his last months as our president. I want to soak up the pride and security I feel knowing he is our leader. I want to hold on to those feelings when he is out of office and I have to rely on these memories.
36
I've been making these exact same points to my friends and others for the last 4 months. Many of them get it, even if they are not politically aligned with Obama. It may pain them to agree but eventually they will put aside politics and look at the man for who he is and how well he has conducted himself. But some refuse to acknowledge ANYTHING positive about him which tells me they are either racist, seriously insecure or both. I'll even preface things by saying that "regardless of his policies..." or that "Reagan was also a very good President" but they give the hand and say, "I don't want to hear about it." Its a shame, because he really has been the best modern President of our lifetime. We are going to "miss him when he's gone."
55
I detest this man
2
For 2,731 days, President Obama has tried to listen to the better angels of his nature. We should all aspire to do the same.
45
I love President Obama for the great President, man and human being he is. He was the best we've had so far and his will be a hard act to follow. I would vote for him again if I could, but I think he needs a break from the abuse he has suffered over the past 8 years at the hands of the GOP led congress and senate. He deserves a rest from the abuse, mayhem and dysfunction of our government.
52
We and the world don't need words: we need action. You will never get that from Obama. You mostly get words. Reminds me of Woodrow Wilson, and the hapless Jimmy Carter.
Obama is an intellectual, and executive leadership is not an intellectual's strong point. He can't help himself, and I am totally convinced that he firmly, if not fervently, believes he is the greatest. He has no self doubt. Yet many things are worse, some much worse, than they were when he took office. How does he deal with them? He writes a speech. He pontificates. He condescends.
Sometimes you just want to shake the guy and scream: wake up! The world is not a nice place. Your reliance on mere words are read by most people as weakness. MLK could use words. You can't. That's not the job. You need to prioritize, tackle the big things....
If I did that I don't think he'd be upset. He'd just try to calmly explain to me that I don't see things in the right light. He'd use a lot of nice, attractive words. His gist would be that "we have done a lot, but we have more to do." Who is this "we" Mr. President? Don't you mean "I"?
Really, I couldn't argue with him. How can you argue with pablum? How can you argue with someone who has spent his entire life evading responsibility? In fact, he has been so successful at that, that no responsibility seems to be demanded of him.
Obama is an intellectual, and executive leadership is not an intellectual's strong point. He can't help himself, and I am totally convinced that he firmly, if not fervently, believes he is the greatest. He has no self doubt. Yet many things are worse, some much worse, than they were when he took office. How does he deal with them? He writes a speech. He pontificates. He condescends.
Sometimes you just want to shake the guy and scream: wake up! The world is not a nice place. Your reliance on mere words are read by most people as weakness. MLK could use words. You can't. That's not the job. You need to prioritize, tackle the big things....
If I did that I don't think he'd be upset. He'd just try to calmly explain to me that I don't see things in the right light. He'd use a lot of nice, attractive words. His gist would be that "we have done a lot, but we have more to do." Who is this "we" Mr. President? Don't you mean "I"?
Really, I couldn't argue with him. How can you argue with pablum? How can you argue with someone who has spent his entire life evading responsibility? In fact, he has been so successful at that, that no responsibility seems to be demanded of him.
10
Not true. He has accomplished many things, including NOT taking action in Syria that would have dragged us into another quagmire. He governed during a time of extreme opposition to everything he proposed yet he has kept us safe, rescued the economy, and provided health care for people who could never obtain under our old system. And don't forget the action he took when he killed Osama Bin Laden.
5
In the first place, see the part at the start where the writer says that whatever you think about his politics or what he's done, you have to admire the way he's behaved as a man, a father, a husband?
That tells you the article's about what kind of personal standard he's set. Sorry your hatred runs so deep you can't see that.
Second: your "argument," about his ability as a speechifier and writer. Your claim that he's bad with words is just plain stupid. Or, so sunk in hatred that you've made yourself deaf as a post. And yes, I DO know more about the matter of words than you. By a country mile.
And third: your claim that he ain't never done nuffin', which I put that way because chances are, you hate the guy partly because he's black. In any case how one could get the notion that he's done nothing--well, it's just crazy.
Bail out the economy. Economic stimulus.
Obamacare.
Dodd-Frank.
The Iran deal on nukes.
Reconciliation with Cuba....
There's a long, long list. Of achievements with which you disagree. That's fine; but bellowing about how he's done nothing is just silly.
That tells you the article's about what kind of personal standard he's set. Sorry your hatred runs so deep you can't see that.
Second: your "argument," about his ability as a speechifier and writer. Your claim that he's bad with words is just plain stupid. Or, so sunk in hatred that you've made yourself deaf as a post. And yes, I DO know more about the matter of words than you. By a country mile.
And third: your claim that he ain't never done nuffin', which I put that way because chances are, you hate the guy partly because he's black. In any case how one could get the notion that he's done nothing--well, it's just crazy.
Bail out the economy. Economic stimulus.
Obamacare.
Dodd-Frank.
The Iran deal on nukes.
Reconciliation with Cuba....
There's a long, long list. Of achievements with which you disagree. That's fine; but bellowing about how he's done nothing is just silly.
7
You reveal too much of yourself and nothing that could possibly satisfy
the requirements of honest historical analysis.
Nothing should frighten us more than hotheads at the wheel of our
future.
the requirements of honest historical analysis.
Nothing should frighten us more than hotheads at the wheel of our
future.
7
I think that his example has made me a better person. Still flawed, but better.
17
One sentence for him: He deserves our respect.
35
In a few weeks we have to put down our dog Peyton due to a cancer in the knee.
Meanwhile, he goes about his day, with resoluteness.
We in turn savor every moment with him as gift.
This article reinforces our experience, nothing is forever, enjoy the present.
Meanwhile, he goes about his day, with resoluteness.
We in turn savor every moment with him as gift.
This article reinforces our experience, nothing is forever, enjoy the present.
13
Thank you, Mr. Egan, for saying it better than many of us could have articulated our feelings toward this President. I'm going to miss President Obama come next January. The United States of America has had many good and decent presidents in the past, but Obama is the first saint to have occupied the White House.
27
Last year, we struck up a brief conversation with some British tourists at the next table in a Lisbon restaurant. They remarked about President Obama being such a fine man and they expressed serious concerns about the possibility of a Trump candidacy. "Don't worry," we assured them. "He's never going to get that far."
14
Mr. Egan ignores that both current candidates' characters are flawed
4
This article has nothing to do with current candidates.
16
Thanks for your spot-on piece, Mr. Egan. This good man, duly elected twice, has fulfilled his oaths of office. This American will always be grateful for the gift he gave us of the best of his abilities.
29
Well said! This is such a wonderful article on our president!
Thanks for posting this!
Thanks for posting this!
16
Thank you for your column; I wholeheartedly agree. What we are witnessing is a healthy family that has prioritized togetherness, communication, love and commitment to each other; parents to kids, spouses to each other, generation to generation (Obama's mother-in-law resides with them.) It IS indeed a family and a couple that exudes joy and comfort in each other's company. It's a beautiful thing, and would be impressive no matter what the circumstances are, but even more so after 8 long years in the White House.
18
Nice, and accurate, words about Barack, the man, who tried his best in a hostile quasi-racist environment not of his making, to be the president of all people, even those ignorant and prejudiced and unwilling to give him the benefit of the doubt. Although I have some gripes (him not punishing, jailing, the greedy Wall Streeters that cause the market's crash; and not bringing Cheney and Co. to justice for lying to the american people and invading Irak for no reason, and the beginning of an unending misery, and Jihadism filling a vacuum of power we are still paying dearly with blood and treasure), Obama has shown the wisdom of restraint when spectacular assaults and destruction (ISIS-related) were taunting him into impossible carpet-bombing-like response. Obama is a decent man, hated by an irrelevant and hating G.O.P. establishment...that to this date has been unable to come to grips that a black man is better, and more capable, and more empathetic, than all of them put together. What a difference from the "Ugly American", vainglorious Trump, claiming legitimacy until a wise judge uncovered his true image, an irresponsibly unpredictable bully, a 'faker'.
27
As an American, today, we can all stand proudly behind these words and this man, President Barack Obama. Not just because what has been said here is true, but because history more than any one person will bear witness to this truth. Thank you, Mr. President.
23
Thanks for this column. One more thing we'll miss: He's President Cool.
21
114 million Americans gave up on finding work during the Obama presidency, 1 in 4 Black kids are malnourished in America as of 2013 and over 3,000 Black youth have died in Chicago from gun violence in poor Black neighborhoods since 2010.
But man that Obama sure is cool!
No seriously liberals. Seriously.
But man that Obama sure is cool!
No seriously liberals. Seriously.
6
There is no doubt that significant problems exist in this country and Obama has not solved them. What exactly that has to do with the point of this column I do not know. Moreover no President, not even our greatest, has left office without leaving behind very very significant problems, so the your sentiment could be attached to the presidency of Roosevelt, Lincoln, or even (if one considers him great) Reagan.
It is worth noting, however, that Obama has delivered health care coverage to 10 million people, presided over a significant economic recovery without the slightest help or aid from a Republican House (indeed, with the House taking every possible action to thwart whatever he proposed), and that America is now at full employment, although of course the pay of many of those jobs is not what one would hope. Despite a constant drumbeat of Republican demands that he become further entangled in war in the Middle East, he has walked a fairly skillful line that has deprived ISIS of over 40% of its territory and will likely result in its being driven completely from its so-called Calliphate (Obviously it is still capable of individual acts of terror, sadly.). Obama is one of the more popular Presidents in history in this, the last year of his presidency.
The point of this piece is that Obama the man is admirable. That doesn't seem an illegitimate point to make about a president, even if one is a conservative who, like you, utterly despises him as president. Seriously.
It is worth noting, however, that Obama has delivered health care coverage to 10 million people, presided over a significant economic recovery without the slightest help or aid from a Republican House (indeed, with the House taking every possible action to thwart whatever he proposed), and that America is now at full employment, although of course the pay of many of those jobs is not what one would hope. Despite a constant drumbeat of Republican demands that he become further entangled in war in the Middle East, he has walked a fairly skillful line that has deprived ISIS of over 40% of its territory and will likely result in its being driven completely from its so-called Calliphate (Obviously it is still capable of individual acts of terror, sadly.). Obama is one of the more popular Presidents in history in this, the last year of his presidency.
The point of this piece is that Obama the man is admirable. That doesn't seem an illegitimate point to make about a president, even if one is a conservative who, like you, utterly despises him as president. Seriously.
9
That is attributable to a do-nothing obstructionist Congress.
3
So much dignity and grace under unprecedented scrutiny and assault. In fact, amazing grace.
22
Thank you for expressing so well what I feel! No where has racism been more evident in this country than in the verbal abuse and misrepresentations of President Obama!
22
President Obama could have been the leader this fluff opinion piece describes, but the damage the man has done to this country is shameful. He has done nothing for race relations, and created more of a divide within this country than I have seen in my lifetime. He is arrogant, and narcussistic but, yes, full of charisma, and charm. Sending his own girls to elite private white schools while the black communities get no school choice. Their communities continue to digress further into poverty, crime, and distrust of police. He does nothing! Oh, he speaks so eloquently, chastising us on race relations as their cities become war zones, no jobs are to be found, crime and murders are rampant. . He has done nothing for their communities!. But, let's get back to how wonderful, classy, well dressed, articulate, and all the other unicorn, and fairy dust observations the white elite liberals like to focus their attention. Footnote: I'm not a Trump supporter.
6
What is it about Texas that nothing penetrates its atmosphere of political blindness, arrogance, oil and dust that makes it so unattractive? I'm not a Trump supporter either.
14
As your embittered, darkened, heartless, antagonistic and substance-free demonstration here proves, the divide is created by you and those that agree with you, not the president.
3
Ted Cruz isn't really an improvement over Donald Trump. For one thing, the Senator has said and done things that should have him chased down the street by dogs--much of it aimed at this President in very ugly ways indeed.
And yet somehow, our President invited the little...Senator....to fly to Dallas on Air Force One. A small piece of class, but far more than would ever have entered Ted's mind.
By the way, the Prez' speech explicitly addessed exactly the people who guys swear he never addresses.
We have a real prob in this country with hatreds and ignorances such as yours. Don't mind the disagreement, but gee whiz, the dumb...
And yet somehow, our President invited the little...Senator....to fly to Dallas on Air Force One. A small piece of class, but far more than would ever have entered Ted's mind.
By the way, the Prez' speech explicitly addessed exactly the people who guys swear he never addresses.
We have a real prob in this country with hatreds and ignorances such as yours. Don't mind the disagreement, but gee whiz, the dumb...
10
The late Jim Murray, L.A. sports columnist, said of the great Joe Louis, "He's a credit to his race... the human race". President Obama honors the whole human race with his personal example and great dignity. He, too, is a credit to the human race.
The words and actions of those who show him no respect demonstrate who they are: a disgrace to the human race.
The words and actions of those who show him no respect demonstrate who they are: a disgrace to the human race.
767
As a Black lawyer in Washington DC, and a 13th generation descendant of slaves and sharecroppers with a degree in American History, I remember my father fondly. Joe Louis was my dad's hero.
To compare Barack Obama to Joe Louis is one of the most insulting things to me as a Black man and my racial heritage I can think of. When will White liberals stop insulting actual Black heroes and icons by patronizing us as young Blacks with these inane, over the top equivocations of your well behaved, biracial con artist with people who actually made a difference in the Black community?
To compare Barack Obama to Joe Louis is one of the most insulting things to me as a Black man and my racial heritage I can think of. When will White liberals stop insulting actual Black heroes and icons by patronizing us as young Blacks with these inane, over the top equivocations of your well behaved, biracial con artist with people who actually made a difference in the Black community?
7
You find giving credit to Obama for anything "insulting."
Childish petulance.
Childish petulance.
2
No Lew, I find giving credit to Obama for everything "insulting."
Especially because he hasn't really done "anything" worthy of it.
Especially because he hasn't really done "anything" worthy of it.
2
Thank you for restoring the dignity, the intelligence, the courage, the eloquence to the Presidency of the United States. Thank you for "setting the example" in the best sense of the phrase.--Tom Reilly, Brookhaven, Georgia
15
Perfectly written and I didn't vote for him
5
Thanks, Tim, no one could have said this better than you!
6
When Obama beat Hillary to become the first African-American president, I admit to being sad that we had not elected the first female president. But now Hillary gets another chance and I have to admit the Obama administration was outstanding and the Obama family has been exemplary. We have every reason to be proud of his Presidency.
I am now, once again, looking forward to the first female president. This time the Democratic party as a whole is supporting Hillary and I believe that we are so blessed to have both Obama and Hillary Clinton in our party while the poor Republicans have to make due with the likes of Donald Trump and Mike Pence. Thanks to Obama and his family for doing great work for our country.
I am now, once again, looking forward to the first female president. This time the Democratic party as a whole is supporting Hillary and I believe that we are so blessed to have both Obama and Hillary Clinton in our party while the poor Republicans have to make due with the likes of Donald Trump and Mike Pence. Thanks to Obama and his family for doing great work for our country.
28
It seems as if you are too fixated on demographics (first female president, first black president) simply for the symbolism they represent. Both as individuals may (or may not, depending) be fine choices, but the choices should be based on their qualifications and abilities, not the color of their skin or sex.
3
I do agree that they should be elected according to their abilities and not the color of their skin and their gender, but I can't help but notice that each is a first. If there were better candidates around I would have voted for them. There weren't. To say I am too fixated on skin color and gender is to make a value judgment of your own. How do you measure fixation and how much is too much.
As I strongly implied, I believe both are more qualified than the Republicans Trump and Pence -- and a whole lot more opponents as well. Does being thrilled about firsts make me to fixated? Not in my opinion.
As I strongly implied, I believe both are more qualified than the Republicans Trump and Pence -- and a whole lot more opponents as well. Does being thrilled about firsts make me to fixated? Not in my opinion.
Thank you. I share these thoughts. And I had begun to worry about the NYT and why coverage of this remarkable President is not front and center as a source of pride.
18
Thank you! So well said and so true!
11
Well said, Mr. Egan. Kudos to you and to President Obama who has made me proud to be an American. . He has brought dignity and grace to the White House and demonstrated to the world that we can get it right sometimes, if not always. Thank you, Mr. Obama!
19
Barack and Michelle Obama are the finest our country has to offer. I miss them already.
18
I thought this column was about Obama.....
4
Great column, Mr. Egan - thank you! The dignity and honorable life of our current President, by comparison, makes the possibility of The Vulgarian acquiring the title, all the more horrifying!
17
Thank you, Mr Egan.
10
I happen to be a lawyer with a degree in American History, so I have to rain on Egan's parade.
History remembers US presidents in the inverse, not the converse.
Popular presidents for non-presidential reasons (e.g. JFK) fade in the national consciousness and are recalled for peccadilloes, not prestige or prominence. The Kennedy Era of "Camelot" is mostly ceremonial, like the hazy memories of Ronald Reagan riding on a horse.
Presidents who were abysmal failures and wildly unpopular enjoy a cessation of bad faith and criticism...as Americans by nature are forgiving of the flawed. Hoover, Nixon, Carter and even George W. Bush are held in higher post-presidential esteem if you need examples.
Presidents whose accomplishments defy traditional categories stand on their own. Washington, Adams, Jefferson, Lincoln, FDR--presidents who literally saved this country or helped create it. They have legacies that endure.
Barack Obama is far closer to Nixon than Washington.
Barack Obama is far closer to Carter than FDR in terms of accomplishments.
Barack Obama sang happy birthday to one of his kids, therefore we should dust off the hammer and chisel and head to Mount Rushmore?
Are you serious?
History remembers US presidents in the inverse, not the converse.
Popular presidents for non-presidential reasons (e.g. JFK) fade in the national consciousness and are recalled for peccadilloes, not prestige or prominence. The Kennedy Era of "Camelot" is mostly ceremonial, like the hazy memories of Ronald Reagan riding on a horse.
Presidents who were abysmal failures and wildly unpopular enjoy a cessation of bad faith and criticism...as Americans by nature are forgiving of the flawed. Hoover, Nixon, Carter and even George W. Bush are held in higher post-presidential esteem if you need examples.
Presidents whose accomplishments defy traditional categories stand on their own. Washington, Adams, Jefferson, Lincoln, FDR--presidents who literally saved this country or helped create it. They have legacies that endure.
Barack Obama is far closer to Nixon than Washington.
Barack Obama is far closer to Carter than FDR in terms of accomplishments.
Barack Obama sang happy birthday to one of his kids, therefore we should dust off the hammer and chisel and head to Mount Rushmore?
Are you serious?
16
For someone with a degree in American history, you seem unable to produce more than a mishmash of conjecture and personal bias, not an objective view of Obama.
Your enmity toward Obama has been coarse and loud over the years.
What you have offered is nothing more than the same right-wing emotional and divisive nonsense that demands that Obama will never, ever, under penalty of mockery and against all metrics, be given his due.
Your enmity toward Obama has been coarse and loud over the years.
What you have offered is nothing more than the same right-wing emotional and divisive nonsense that demands that Obama will never, ever, under penalty of mockery and against all metrics, be given his due.
11
Let's use another standard. Barack Obama has made it possible for me to take pride in being an American again.
6
The article was about class and dignity and I wholeheartedly agree. He was also human, in the best sense, repeatedly showing compassion for his county and its people and the world as a whole. Even toward his enemies.
But, you’re right. It’s hard to measure up to the four-term Roosevelt who steered the country out of the Great Depression and through the Second World War, in which the evils of German Nazism and Japanese Imperialism were very easy to articulate and fight.
However, President Obama did lead this country out of its second worst economic disaster and has kept this country largely safe from foreign-born extremism.
Oh, if you want to compare approval ratings, I'm guessing he'll be at the DNC in the flesh, unlike George W. Bush, so I suspect he'll be held in higher esteem than any of your examples after he leaves the White House.
But, you’re right. It’s hard to measure up to the four-term Roosevelt who steered the country out of the Great Depression and through the Second World War, in which the evils of German Nazism and Japanese Imperialism were very easy to articulate and fight.
However, President Obama did lead this country out of its second worst economic disaster and has kept this country largely safe from foreign-born extremism.
Oh, if you want to compare approval ratings, I'm guessing he'll be at the DNC in the flesh, unlike George W. Bush, so I suspect he'll be held in higher esteem than any of your examples after he leaves the White House.
6
I miss him already.
25
6 in 10 Americans don't.
Sincerely, one of the 6.
Sincerely, one of the 6.
4
Odd that the Times would highlight a comment arguing that Obama is in "denial of his white heritage" because he doesn't remind others that he is 50% white, and then suggesting that all of this means that Obama has been h a "divisive figure" who has "not been a good father to our country."
It would seem to me that this kind of comment is mostly provocative, an effort to "stir up the pot?" of controversy-- as if we didn't have enough controversy already?
The only times I've ever heard Obama speak about his own race have been times when he's acknowledged that race in this country means how others see you. If you look black, you are black. It doesn't matter that you grew up with white grandparents. If you look black, you will be treated as if you are black. Similarly, if you have an unusual Muslim last name, your American heritage will be question. It doesn't matter that your name came from a father you hardly knew...
Race in this country is about you are perceived. Not who you are.
And personally, I think comments that amount to emotional provocation based on no facts, logic, or insight shouldn't be highlighted. The world is filled with this kind of thing.
We expect something better from the Times.
The only comments I've ever heard
It would seem to me that this kind of comment is mostly provocative, an effort to "stir up the pot?" of controversy-- as if we didn't have enough controversy already?
The only times I've ever heard Obama speak about his own race have been times when he's acknowledged that race in this country means how others see you. If you look black, you are black. It doesn't matter that you grew up with white grandparents. If you look black, you will be treated as if you are black. Similarly, if you have an unusual Muslim last name, your American heritage will be question. It doesn't matter that your name came from a father you hardly knew...
Race in this country is about you are perceived. Not who you are.
And personally, I think comments that amount to emotional provocation based on no facts, logic, or insight shouldn't be highlighted. The world is filled with this kind of thing.
We expect something better from the Times.
The only comments I've ever heard
15
Unprecedented attacks on whistleblowers, death by drone warfare done extrajudicially for US citizens, green lighting offshore oil exploration on the Atlantic coast, lying to the American people that the Gulf of Mexico would be 'better than ever' after the BP crude oil disaster, making prejudicial comments of cases before they come to trial, aligning himself with black nationalist hate groups, executive orders that go beyond his legal authority, with this record who cares if he sings happy birthday ?
14
Thank you - this guy gives a great speech, but in the end he's just a corporatist.
Can't wait until the Democratic Party is rebuked for its corporatist policies which are harming basically anyone who works for a paycheck. Maybe it will then have an opportunity to reform itself.
Can't wait until the Democratic Party is rebuked for its corporatist policies which are harming basically anyone who works for a paycheck. Maybe it will then have an opportunity to reform itself.
2
Amen.
Really.
Really.
3
Agree 100% that Obama has acted with absolute integrity, character and ethics. I'd point out that it's not just ONE potential successor that highlights this so clearly for us, but BOTH potential successors. I think that was missed here.
10
That our first Black President was a family man, loved his wife & daughters, drove the Republican Party crazy. "What," these zealots of "family values," cried, "it can't be, a Black man lived a life where "family values" we're not trite political euphemisms but honest rules of the road for a father and mother and their family!"
484
Barack Obama isn't Black.
It shocks the conscience that White liberals just gloss over that fact and go blazing off on these wild praise binges...all premised on a fallacy.
It shocks the conscience that White liberals just gloss over that fact and go blazing off on these wild praise binges...all premised on a fallacy.
Exactly. The 'family values' party back Trump? The mental gymnastics required to make that leap defy sanity.
I will miss our president and his family immensely. And I will keep my head buried in the sand pretending they're staying in the White House forever. President Obama, you rock!
35
We have been blessed.
19
It is so interesting to read the responses to this piece focused on the despair at the prospects of a Trump or Clinton presidency. Obama will truly be a difficult act to follow, but let's not get caught up in the doom and gloom of end times fear. We are blessed to live in this country and have seen incredible changes and forward movement in so many areas. Enough with the fear. Let's focus on the positive, the enormous opportunities we have now and will continue to have, and let's encourage our friends and family to do the same. We are all blessed to live in this great country.
4
Will, you just said a mouthful.
Barack Obama will be a difficult act to follow.
Which is why the Obama presidency is a failure.
After GW Bush, America needed a President, not an actor.
Barack Obama will be a difficult act to follow.
Which is why the Obama presidency is a failure.
After GW Bush, America needed a President, not an actor.
2
And yet, the screams of what a disgrace he is fill our feeds. I do admire President Obama and his family.
18
Thank you Mr. Egan for sharing with us the truth. Historians will agree with you. It is better that we acknowledge excellence when alive and well, standing before us.
We as Americans should be proud that we have elected such a one as Barrack Obama... TWICE... to the office of the U.S.Presidency. He represents our collective higher aspirations.
We are facing a stark alternative in this years election.
May our higher natures be expressed at the polls as we choose a new president, just as Obama has done consistently throughout his public service to our nation.
We as Americans should be proud that we have elected such a one as Barrack Obama... TWICE... to the office of the U.S.Presidency. He represents our collective higher aspirations.
We are facing a stark alternative in this years election.
May our higher natures be expressed at the polls as we choose a new president, just as Obama has done consistently throughout his public service to our nation.
27
We are so fortunate to have experienced the leadership, warmth, dignity, the intellectual power, and the sheer poetry of this good man. I fear that we will not see his like again.
31
Firstly, I feel blessed that I emigrated to the U.S over 40 years ago and then had the priviledge & honor of having President Obama be my President.
Secondly, I have always assumed that what Republican leaders feel towards the President is hatred. Yes there is that. But mostly I now believe, it is jealousy and fear. They fear the guy's intellect.
That is why they refuse to let his court nominees be voted on. They believe if they let that happen, he, Obama, will then have his picks shaping our world for "too" long.
And the thought makes them shiver 'cause they could not live with that. It would be a thorn to their sides all their lives..... reminding them how much better than them Obama was/is.
Secondly, I have always assumed that what Republican leaders feel towards the President is hatred. Yes there is that. But mostly I now believe, it is jealousy and fear. They fear the guy's intellect.
That is why they refuse to let his court nominees be voted on. They believe if they let that happen, he, Obama, will then have his picks shaping our world for "too" long.
And the thought makes them shiver 'cause they could not live with that. It would be a thorn to their sides all their lives..... reminding them how much better than them Obama was/is.
31
When I think about his leaving office--and I try really hard not to do so--I well up. History will acknowledge this truth about him: he will be among the great men of this century.
25
We will miss him and his beautiful family and most of all the world will miss him. Thank you Mr. Egan for this excellent piece.
25
The opposite of class and dignity.
A petulant child who blames others for his refusal to compromise. Fashions everything as a false dichotomy and if you aren't on his side you are either evil or stupid. Example - the Iran Deal. It was either that or immediate war. Well no. We could/should have pressed the sanctions. They were working. (Of course, now we know the Administration didn't negotiate with the Iranians as much as it manipulated American public opinion about who was in charge in that country.)
Then there are several instances where Mr. Obama didn't do the right thing. Attend the world leaders march in Paris on 1/11 following Charlie Hebdo. Not attending Mrs. Reagan's funeral. Holding a golf tee time with a retired basketball player minutes after reports of one of our countrymen being beheaded at the hands of an ISIS savage.
Then there are the two consecutive WAPO Pinocchio Awards. Class? Dignity?
Please!
A petulant child who blames others for his refusal to compromise. Fashions everything as a false dichotomy and if you aren't on his side you are either evil or stupid. Example - the Iran Deal. It was either that or immediate war. Well no. We could/should have pressed the sanctions. They were working. (Of course, now we know the Administration didn't negotiate with the Iranians as much as it manipulated American public opinion about who was in charge in that country.)
Then there are several instances where Mr. Obama didn't do the right thing. Attend the world leaders march in Paris on 1/11 following Charlie Hebdo. Not attending Mrs. Reagan's funeral. Holding a golf tee time with a retired basketball player minutes after reports of one of our countrymen being beheaded at the hands of an ISIS savage.
Then there are the two consecutive WAPO Pinocchio Awards. Class? Dignity?
Please!
10
President Obama's many virtues are reflected in the various groups who despise him: these include Neocon-Republicans across the board, but especially those from southern states; the various religious groups who want to see our Constitution changed into a religious document, so that their prejudices about abortion and sexual orientation can be enshrined as the laws of our country; and the entire leadership of the Likud party in Israel.
18
We Americans have had the good fortune to have had seven and a half years with this man as our leader. He’s an incredibly intelligent, thoughtful, wise, considerate and deeply caring human being, who is also a loving husband and father. I am grateful for the time we’ve had and the time we still have left with him at the helm. Thank you President Obama, for your grace under constant pressure.
I do wonder what could have been. The possibilities we had of tremendous progress under his leadership had he not met with blatant racism, palpable hatred, and endless obstruction. I am sad that those in elected office don’t seek the higher ground, the better path, the way forward toward a more perfect union. Instead they spew their bitter venom, which is now infecting greater swaths of our citizenry. What might this country look like now if they had set aside their selfish political agenda – Party First, Country Second -- and instead concentrated on bettering our nation? Thank goodness we have a President who has always been Country First.
I do wonder what could have been. The possibilities we had of tremendous progress under his leadership had he not met with blatant racism, palpable hatred, and endless obstruction. I am sad that those in elected office don’t seek the higher ground, the better path, the way forward toward a more perfect union. Instead they spew their bitter venom, which is now infecting greater swaths of our citizenry. What might this country look like now if they had set aside their selfish political agenda – Party First, Country Second -- and instead concentrated on bettering our nation? Thank goodness we have a President who has always been Country First.
29
From the great Chan Lowe prior to the 2012 election when Newt and Romney were the front runners in the GOP:
"Here's a man who never cheated on his wife, is raising two beautiful daughters, is the paragon of everything you profess to hold dear, and is a Christian just like you to boot.
What do you have against a guy who would rather spend the people’s money trying to find you a job fixing the nation’s broken roads and bridges than use it to further fatten the wallets of the already well-fattened? Or who simply wants to provide decent health care to families like yours whose kids may have never seen a doctor unless they were dragged, in extremis, to the emergency room?
Scripture says St. Paul was traveling along the road to Damascus on a mission to persecute those unlike him when he fell to earth. When he got up, the scales dropped from his eyes and suddenly the truth was revealed to him."
"Here's a man who never cheated on his wife, is raising two beautiful daughters, is the paragon of everything you profess to hold dear, and is a Christian just like you to boot.
What do you have against a guy who would rather spend the people’s money trying to find you a job fixing the nation’s broken roads and bridges than use it to further fatten the wallets of the already well-fattened? Or who simply wants to provide decent health care to families like yours whose kids may have never seen a doctor unless they were dragged, in extremis, to the emergency room?
Scripture says St. Paul was traveling along the road to Damascus on a mission to persecute those unlike him when he fell to earth. When he got up, the scales dropped from his eyes and suddenly the truth was revealed to him."
17
A mensch, that's what Obama is, and
how he would grin at that.
Term limitation created to stop another FDR has hurt
the US immeasurably. Imagine even Bill Clinton with 2 lively terms, not 1 and 1 lame-duck term. Then think of Obama with 2 or 3 lively terms before a lame-duck one.
And think of FDR out just before WW!!.
A mensch is a human being at his or her full potential.
We shall not see his like again soon, one fears.
how he would grin at that.
Term limitation created to stop another FDR has hurt
the US immeasurably. Imagine even Bill Clinton with 2 lively terms, not 1 and 1 lame-duck term. Then think of Obama with 2 or 3 lively terms before a lame-duck one.
And think of FDR out just before WW!!.
A mensch is a human being at his or her full potential.
We shall not see his like again soon, one fears.
21
I'm his age with an 18 year old, and so in a funny way I feel a certain bond with Obama: like we were friends, or could have been, in high school. I got married about the same time, and made decisions about my career about the same time ... so yeah, I feel a deep closeness to him ... I've even started going to the gym more because of him! But hey, I'll never have his gifts, but I feel blessed he's shared them with all of us. Especially me.
18
So Pres. Obama's parading around the the country and deceiving citizens by telling lie after lie in order to get his agenda items passed is considered the "model of class and dignity" to the left. If so, your candidate, Mrs Clinton, is the classiest politician in American history!
8
Oddly enough, your Mr. Trump has been declared Liar of the Year for 2015 by Politifact, based not on a single prevarication but on his collected works of fiction. Mr. Trump is bound to win this year's title too.
Mrs. Clinton appears to be nowhere in contention for what you appear to think is a prestigious award.
Mrs. Clinton appears to be nowhere in contention for what you appear to think is a prestigious award.
7
How can we possibly go from the most intelligent, thoughtful and amazing President to the most vulgar and dangerous Donald Trump? I have to believe our better angels will prevail, and Trump will not be allowed to bankrupt our country ( or the world) as he has bankrupted the lives of the many he has touched in his numerous failed businesses. Barack Obama is the epitome of presidential and has improved our standing in the world. Dangerous, vulgar Donald will make the US the laughing stock of the world, but our country's welfare is no laughing matter.
15
A rare blend of humility and brilliance; an organic unity and balance between his public persona and private life; always at ease while dealing with the world outside or his inner self, that sums up the person and the president Obama.
32
Mr Obama has been and continues to be a class act of whom, as Americans, we can and should all be proud. Unfortunately, only half of Americans recognize the fact.
35
Future biographers of President Obama should store the following words of Timothy Egan in the same safe-deposit vault where they keep the family jewels:
"He’s a model, without asterisk for race. It’s a hard thing to go nearly eight years as the most powerful man in the world without diminishing the office or alienating your family. He’s done that, and added a dash of style and humor and a pitch-perfect sense for being consoler in chief.
As we saw again this week, when he took the deep breath for us, when he begged us not to let hearts turn to stone when the world is a quarry of hate, he is at his best when the rest of us are at our worst. "
"He’s a model, without asterisk for race. It’s a hard thing to go nearly eight years as the most powerful man in the world without diminishing the office or alienating your family. He’s done that, and added a dash of style and humor and a pitch-perfect sense for being consoler in chief.
As we saw again this week, when he took the deep breath for us, when he begged us not to let hearts turn to stone when the world is a quarry of hate, he is at his best when the rest of us are at our worst. "
25
These constant attempts by The Times and other like minded liberal media outlets to paint Obama as some sort of savior who is just not accepted or understood by those evil Republicans is, in a word, disgusting. The story is always the same. Obama is perfect. He has wonderful ideas for America. But his opponents are bigoted, and unwilling to accept the perfection of his plans. Poor Obama. He has to deal with a right wing Congress which opposes him at every turn. And then there's that darn Constitution, which prevents him from implementing his vision for America by executive order. This is not a monarchy, no matter how The Times would have it be for this president.
11
You appear to be another right-winger in total denial about how much deep and persisting damage President George W. Bush did to your great nation. The GOP set its agenda immediately after Obama's election: No co-operation, even in the best interests of the US, then enduring the deepest financial crisis since the Great Depression. The goal was not to repair the economy but to make Obama a one-term president.
Then, as the GOP House leader admitted, the GOP went after Hillary — again — with nothing more in mind than to cripple her election campaign.
As an example of GOP blindness, I'll point to your criticism of Obama's use of the executive order. In fact, he has used EOs far less than his predecessors, going back at least to FDR.
Obama has used 147 EOs; George W. Bush 291; Saint Ronnie 381.
Then, as the GOP House leader admitted, the GOP went after Hillary — again — with nothing more in mind than to cripple her election campaign.
As an example of GOP blindness, I'll point to your criticism of Obama's use of the executive order. In fact, he has used EOs far less than his predecessors, going back at least to FDR.
Obama has used 147 EOs; George W. Bush 291; Saint Ronnie 381.
6
Well said.
You should probably read the article you're commenting on.
7
Thank you for stating what I have thought for years. In the face of unspeakable hostility (think Mitch Jiminey Cricket McConnell) and false accusation (think The Donald), President Obama has acted as the only adult in the room. I will miss his maturity come January 20, 2017.
29
As a nation, we will miss this man and this President. Enough said.
26
The consistent racism exhibited by the type of coverage by Fox News over the course of eight years of the Obama presidency has revealed the low journalism of Fox. This President has endured more racist, albeit subliminal in most instances, comments and lack of respect for the office by mostly white Americans that is has become a national disgrace. Fox News and the likes of Limbaugh, O'Reilly and others has been a disgrace. How these fools even are provided a forum for their vitriolic comments never ceases to amaze me. It is time for a national boycott of Fox News and talk radio. They are not serving our democracy in any constructive way.
24
Fox News bombards republicans with racial and political hatred 24/7, and has the unintended consequence of bringing about the slow motion destruction of the Republican Party.
Obama has shown us that love will keep us together, hatred will tear us apart. The Republican Party is tearing itself apart.
Obama has shown us that love will keep us together, hatred will tear us apart. The Republican Party is tearing itself apart.
15
"He’s a model, without asterisk for race. It’s a hard thing to go nearly eight years as the most powerful man in the world without diminishing the office or alienating your family. He’s done that, and added a dash of style and humor and a pitch-perfect sense for being consoler in chief.
As we saw again this week, when he took the deep breath for us, when he begged us not to let hearts turn to stone when the world is a quarry of hate, he is at his best when the rest of us are at our worst. "
To future biographers of President Obama: Store away these words of Timothy Egan in the same bank vault where you keep your family jewels.
As we saw again this week, when he took the deep breath for us, when he begged us not to let hearts turn to stone when the world is a quarry of hate, he is at his best when the rest of us are at our worst. "
To future biographers of President Obama: Store away these words of Timothy Egan in the same bank vault where you keep your family jewels.
8
Unfortunately Mr. Egan's piece will serve as testament to the truth in the adage that "you don't know what you have until it's gone". Regardless of your political views it would be difficult to find a greater example of the "American Dream" that also reminds us of how far we have yet to travel as a society. I remain hopeful that his presence will be felt far beyond his days in office.
13
I am so happy to have lived these years with this magnificent president. "Magnificent." I repeated that as tears came to my eyes watching his address in Dallas this week. Magnificent.
19
All the wretched and pathetic little boy GOP members of Congress and their cowardly and anarchist media prostitutes at Fox combined, don't have the intelligence, decency, and courage that Obama has.
19
'You respect John F. Kennedy for his flair and wit, but wince at how he hurt his wife through numerous affairs.'
Well, gosh, maybe you do. I have no respect for JFK, not just for his louche behaviour, which Egan rather plays down. 'How he hurt his wife', as if it were merely a matter of rudeness? JFK drugged and date-raped an intern - her name was Mimi Alford - and passed her around to his aides for oral sex. Rather like he passed Marilyn Monroe to his brother. He shared a mistress with a Mafia moll!
As a president as well, he falls far short of the usual idolatrous portrayal; the bullet in Dallas obscured his actual record, and turned his 'legacy' into a pile of woulda-coulda-shoulda. He is conveniently dead, so we can put any words we like into his mouth and say that if he'd lived, he woulda pulled out of Vietnam, been braver on civil rights, ended the Cold War, distributed the loaves and fishes. In reality, he was an unreconstructed Cold Warrior - not a minus, since in those days everyone was, and the USSR and China were a real threat and Soviet Communism and Maoism were bad systems. But also a bungler - he inherited the Bay of Pigs plan from Eisenhower, but it was his choice to go through with it; and the Missile Crisis, often touted as his moment of triumph, was actually a piece of scary recklessness that was saved by an under-the-table deal to withdraw missiles from Turkey. (Khruschev, who didn't have to face an election, let JFK have the PR victory.)
Well, gosh, maybe you do. I have no respect for JFK, not just for his louche behaviour, which Egan rather plays down. 'How he hurt his wife', as if it were merely a matter of rudeness? JFK drugged and date-raped an intern - her name was Mimi Alford - and passed her around to his aides for oral sex. Rather like he passed Marilyn Monroe to his brother. He shared a mistress with a Mafia moll!
As a president as well, he falls far short of the usual idolatrous portrayal; the bullet in Dallas obscured his actual record, and turned his 'legacy' into a pile of woulda-coulda-shoulda. He is conveniently dead, so we can put any words we like into his mouth and say that if he'd lived, he woulda pulled out of Vietnam, been braver on civil rights, ended the Cold War, distributed the loaves and fishes. In reality, he was an unreconstructed Cold Warrior - not a minus, since in those days everyone was, and the USSR and China were a real threat and Soviet Communism and Maoism were bad systems. But also a bungler - he inherited the Bay of Pigs plan from Eisenhower, but it was his choice to go through with it; and the Missile Crisis, often touted as his moment of triumph, was actually a piece of scary recklessness that was saved by an under-the-table deal to withdraw missiles from Turkey. (Khruschev, who didn't have to face an election, let JFK have the PR victory.)
6
Remember "Mona Lisa does not impress me?"
In recent history, the only other president I can think of with so little personal baggage is Jimmy Carter. Obama still has the edge on him though. He's run the gamut almost 8 years now. Surviving both personally and politically. Not an easy thing to do. There's a reason you see young presidents gray in office. I don't think it has to much to do with age.
9
Mr. Obama has done all of this while faced with a cynical political opposition that knows only how obstruct, insult, lie and tear at the fabric of our civilization while pandering to human selfishness.
14
While I agree with most of this, as I read it I began to be reminded of something Chris Rock said, commenting on how some folks want credit for things they should do: "I take care of my kids." Rock's reply was simple: "You're supposed to."
Here, lurking in the kind (and very true) words about Obama, is feeling that being a great, humble man/father is somehow special because (assuming by the tone of the article) Obama is a Black man. Therefore, his beautiful love affair with his wonderful wife (coming soon to a theater near you!), his loving moments with his daughters, which are, sadly, not the norm in the Black community, where some 60+% of kids are in single-parent households, is deserving of praise by itself.
Funny, I don't remember this kind of sentiment after Bush H. or W. left office (lots to hate about the "Bushes," but all agree, they were a decent fathers/husbands).
So why is Obama's "model of class and dignity" special? If he were White, would this column be written? Forgive me if I don't think so.
Here, lurking in the kind (and very true) words about Obama, is feeling that being a great, humble man/father is somehow special because (assuming by the tone of the article) Obama is a Black man. Therefore, his beautiful love affair with his wonderful wife (coming soon to a theater near you!), his loving moments with his daughters, which are, sadly, not the norm in the Black community, where some 60+% of kids are in single-parent households, is deserving of praise by itself.
Funny, I don't remember this kind of sentiment after Bush H. or W. left office (lots to hate about the "Bushes," but all agree, they were a decent fathers/husbands).
So why is Obama's "model of class and dignity" special? If he were White, would this column be written? Forgive me if I don't think so.
6
If he were white, no one would be asking for his birth certificate. If he were white, he would not be subjected to racism - direct or subtle. If he were white the discussions on Fox would be very different. If he were white, there would probably be a level of decorum and respect that is at least accorded to the Office of the President, if not the man himself. Few people would tolerate such undignifying and unjust treatment with a magnanimous attitude. This is why this article had to be written.
The issue most people have with Bush is leading the US into an unjust war and the horrendous economic downturn, both of which have nothing to do with race and everything to do with policy.
Clearly there's lots of work to be done with regard to race relations, particularly as many choose to continue in willful blindness refusing to acknowledge the stark reality that is America. Also, as they say, haters are going to hate regardless.
The issue most people have with Bush is leading the US into an unjust war and the horrendous economic downturn, both of which have nothing to do with race and everything to do with policy.
Clearly there's lots of work to be done with regard to race relations, particularly as many choose to continue in willful blindness refusing to acknowledge the stark reality that is America. Also, as they say, haters are going to hate regardless.
6
I suppose there's no legal way to get Barack for a third term, is there?
Sigh.
Well, maybe Hillary will appoint him to the Supreme Court. (I wonder if Clarence Thomas' head would explode if that happened.)
Sigh.
Well, maybe Hillary will appoint him to the Supreme Court. (I wonder if Clarence Thomas' head would explode if that happened.)
18
I will truly miss the President Obama come January. When I see and hear him talk I feel a sense of calm, a sense the country is in good hands and that we will not do things that will get us in trouble. When I heard Clinton talk this week about the killings and last night about the killings in France I felt the same way. When I hear Trump talk I feel scared at what will come, asked last night about Francs he said he would ask congress to declare war!! War on what country? Did we not learn from Iraq? In the end the thing I most respect about President Obama is he never sunk to their level. From day one the GOP has tried to marginalize him and lie about him. He never took the bait.
14
I will miss this president greatly. I'm grateful for what he has done though feel we need more steady and thoughtful leadership ahead. I don't remember a leader with a stringer internal compass. I am 42
5
I greatly admire this president, something I have not been able to say for decades.
We are ALL going to miss him. Even the bigots and the fools that disrespected him.
He has brought the ugly racist side of the GOP and our society to the surface so that the whole world can see how racism is a disease that requires constant vigilance.
And--he has driven the GOP to the brink of insanity.
We are ALL going to miss him. Even the bigots and the fools that disrespected him.
He has brought the ugly racist side of the GOP and our society to the surface so that the whole world can see how racism is a disease that requires constant vigilance.
And--he has driven the GOP to the brink of insanity.
8
Well said. A minor adjustment? The president didn't drive the GOP to the brink of insanity. They did it themselves and to themselves.
1
I agree with all that is said here. I will profoundly miss President Obama and wish he could serve 4 more years.
10
The only Presidential candidate in my lifetime I could vote for without holding my nose.
6
After reading this much-needed and heartfelt, well-expressed tribute to Obama, I went back and re-read the headline: "With Obama, the Personal is Presidential." I didn't get it when I first glanced at the headline before reading the column. Now that is a creative headline--a writer's headline!
As Egan demonstrates every week in his column, words really do matter! But sadly this is an impossible concept to get across to people like Trump and the GOP-tea party-right-wing minions, who delight in being crude, rude, and a bunch of mindless goons.
So now Hillary and Trump are neck-and-neck in the presidential race, according to the latest media horse-race poll. I will vote for Hillary on the basis of policy and a yuge fear of the inexperienced, blow-bag Trump and what a majority GOP in office could and would do to this country, world, and planet.
But Hillary--and yes even Bernie--are no Obama (for many of the reasons mentioned in Egan's column). And like Jimmy Carter, Obama will be better treated after he leaves office. My guess is historians will have a lot more positive things to say about Obama than he has heard while in office, especially about his temperament, personality, and dignity under continual crises and unceasing duress.
So thanks Tim for this positive column about Obama, it couldn't have come at a better time. And thank you Obama for your intelligence, balance, dignity, and wit. You will be missed. President Trump, really???
As Egan demonstrates every week in his column, words really do matter! But sadly this is an impossible concept to get across to people like Trump and the GOP-tea party-right-wing minions, who delight in being crude, rude, and a bunch of mindless goons.
So now Hillary and Trump are neck-and-neck in the presidential race, according to the latest media horse-race poll. I will vote for Hillary on the basis of policy and a yuge fear of the inexperienced, blow-bag Trump and what a majority GOP in office could and would do to this country, world, and planet.
But Hillary--and yes even Bernie--are no Obama (for many of the reasons mentioned in Egan's column). And like Jimmy Carter, Obama will be better treated after he leaves office. My guess is historians will have a lot more positive things to say about Obama than he has heard while in office, especially about his temperament, personality, and dignity under continual crises and unceasing duress.
So thanks Tim for this positive column about Obama, it couldn't have come at a better time. And thank you Obama for your intelligence, balance, dignity, and wit. You will be missed. President Trump, really???
6
I am personally humbled by President Obama and his family. They have endured endless attacks and criticism, and they carry on with love, compassion and wisdom.
6
It’s an old observation that insurrection by the oppressed mostly happens not when their oppression is at its worst, but when it is easing up and things are starting to get better. It’s then that the oppressed are most embittered. Things are not getting better fast enough. And besides, they now sense weakness in their oppressors. The French and Russian revolutions are often cited as examples of this rule. One might also apply it to the increase of race conflict in America just after the decisive Civil Rights legislation and outlawing of segregation in the 1960s. That present-day racial tension roughly got started when the US elected its first black president fits the pattern and may to some extent be explained by it.
2
By his presence as a “liberal” African American, many revanchist Americans have not just opposed him but vilified him personally. Some have accused him of not being an American. Whatever he proposed, they rejected; health care, gun control, infrastructure, the right of gay Americans to marry, immigration, passage of fast track trade authority (to move US influence into the Chinese geographical orbit), Family Planning, the opening of normal diplomatic relations with Cuba, an international agreement to curtail Iran’s nuclear weapons program - and the list goes on. Case by case he was met by constant negative hateful sclerotic rat-tat-tat response from the far right. Return to the America of 1776 they insisted. Yet, he kept coming back; like a lawyer never giving up or giving in. This made them all the angrier. He will go down in history as one of our great American Presidents. This will make them all the more angry.
www.InquiryAbraham.com
www.InquiryAbraham.com
10
As a conservative Republican, I will grant you that President Obama has been a model of personal behavior, and that Donald Trump is a crass boor. If I had the opportunity to have one of them in my house for dinner, I would choose Barack Obama over The Donald, emphatically, even if Obama had never become president. While I find very little to praise about the Obama Presidency, you have found one area where I can praise him. We should have presidents who affect the kind of personal class that Obama has evidenced.
Yet, even in this, the pervasiveness of liberal hypocrisy is immediately obvious to any educated person. Bill Clinton single-handedly destroyed any expectations among the public that a president should maintain even a modicum of personal class, decorum, or even simple decency. Clinton had an intern providing sexual favors to him in the Oval Office. He lied under oath about his profoundly inappropriate relationship with an intern. And he settled a sexual harassment lawsuit for almost a million dollars. Amazingly, given what a train wreck Trump is, Trump has never done anything near as bad as what Democrats defended in Clinton. And now Democrats want to elect to the presidency someone who enabled, aided, and abetted all of Bill Clinton's offenses, someone who trashed the women whom Bill Clinton abused.
As with all things in this election, it is a choice of the lesser of two evils, and again, the Clintons are the greater evil.
Yet, even in this, the pervasiveness of liberal hypocrisy is immediately obvious to any educated person. Bill Clinton single-handedly destroyed any expectations among the public that a president should maintain even a modicum of personal class, decorum, or even simple decency. Clinton had an intern providing sexual favors to him in the Oval Office. He lied under oath about his profoundly inappropriate relationship with an intern. And he settled a sexual harassment lawsuit for almost a million dollars. Amazingly, given what a train wreck Trump is, Trump has never done anything near as bad as what Democrats defended in Clinton. And now Democrats want to elect to the presidency someone who enabled, aided, and abetted all of Bill Clinton's offenses, someone who trashed the women whom Bill Clinton abused.
As with all things in this election, it is a choice of the lesser of two evils, and again, the Clintons are the greater evil.
5
While Obama has several shortcomings, I completely agree that he is a man of great dignity, compassion and class. And that's why the GOP despises him. He is a model for all presidential hopefuls. If only there were other candidates this election cycle who had a tenth of his character and intelligence.
10
Thanks for the article
I think Americans all across the political spectrum should ask whoever succeeds Obama to uphold similar standards of behavior.
I hope he has codified what is presidential going forward
W failed, Clinton failed
Let's burnish the office of president with decency. I'm ok with disagreements on policy but not character
I think Americans all across the political spectrum should ask whoever succeeds Obama to uphold similar standards of behavior.
I hope he has codified what is presidential going forward
W failed, Clinton failed
Let's burnish the office of president with decency. I'm ok with disagreements on policy but not character
5
We, as us citizens, should be allowed the privilege of having this man stay where he is for the foreseeable future.
7
We are a republic with a constitution, not a monarchy. One man rule, however, benign one supposes it to be, is offensive.
2
I am an old, white, Jewish man, and it brings tears to my eyes to realize that this brilliant, thoughtful, articulate leader will no longer be president after the coming January. He is, in my humble opinion, a true American patriot, whose judgment I trust completely. America and the rest of the world will truly miss him.
29
Why can't President Obama do a "Taft" and be nominated to the Supreme Court when his term is finished as long as the unthinkable does not occur (Trump presidency (note lower case))? I cannot think of anyone more qualified, suitable, or deserving.
5
Great article. This election cycle should remind us how much we are going to miss this man. Eight years as president and no scandals, personal embarrassments, questionable ethics or bad behavior (from him OR his family)...we can be certain that the next four years at least will be different, sadly.
5
This column and the comments below inspired me to write to the President today, which I have often done, to thank him for his service, and to thank him for his unfailing humanity and compassion.
Thanks for the reminder Tim of what a truly wonderful man we have in the White House. I just cannot fathom a man like Trump succeeding this shining light. He is a man filled with rage, hatefulness, pettiness and divisiveness. With Trump in office we will have no hope--just meanness. Why can't more of my fellow Americans see that?
Thanks for the reminder Tim of what a truly wonderful man we have in the White House. I just cannot fathom a man like Trump succeeding this shining light. He is a man filled with rage, hatefulness, pettiness and divisiveness. With Trump in office we will have no hope--just meanness. Why can't more of my fellow Americans see that?
10
Really.
Is everyone forgetting his classless and shameful unprecedented blaming his predecessor for his own ineptitude.
We can also discuss the trampling on the Constitution or the extortion of federal funds to anyone with an opposing opinion.
Anything but class.
Is everyone forgetting his classless and shameful unprecedented blaming his predecessor for his own ineptitude.
We can also discuss the trampling on the Constitution or the extortion of federal funds to anyone with an opposing opinion.
Anything but class.
7
Bill -- Really?
You are just repeating tripe you heard somewhere, all of which is non-factual and a perverted interpretation of what happened. At the point that he finally did put the blame where it belonged it was long after he tried - unsuccessfully through no fault of his own - to build bridges, and gracefully take on the tattered mantle he was handed. There was non-stop blaming of him for what he was given to deal with, and for what the obstructionists refused to help him fix. You have rewritten history.
As for trampling the constitution - that is clearly hyperbole and a matter of opinion. When a leader gets no support for doing what is right, sometimes they do have to take the responsibility to do the best they can on their own. That is called being principled, having courage of convictions, standing up for justice against what essentially is tyranny of the mean and hateful.
You are just repeating tripe you heard somewhere, all of which is non-factual and a perverted interpretation of what happened. At the point that he finally did put the blame where it belonged it was long after he tried - unsuccessfully through no fault of his own - to build bridges, and gracefully take on the tattered mantle he was handed. There was non-stop blaming of him for what he was given to deal with, and for what the obstructionists refused to help him fix. You have rewritten history.
As for trampling the constitution - that is clearly hyperbole and a matter of opinion. When a leader gets no support for doing what is right, sometimes they do have to take the responsibility to do the best they can on their own. That is called being principled, having courage of convictions, standing up for justice against what essentially is tyranny of the mean and hateful.
5
I venerate this man; a model human being and a great statesman. I pray that Clinton gets elected so that Obama can be appointed to the Supreme Court. He is a beacon of reason and kindness in a modern day reprise of pre-World War II chaos.
8
We will soon be moving from a president with tremendous character to one of two characters, either one of which is far more of an embarrassment then presidential.
Hear, Hear!
Perhaps it is a measure of Mr. Obama's personal qualities that the uber-conservative press has never really mounted an offensive against his moral or inter-family behavior. Their lack of attention to this suggests that, in this area, they have reversed the old adage - if they can't say something bad, say nothing at all.
Perhaps it is a measure of Mr. Obama's personal qualities that the uber-conservative press has never really mounted an offensive against his moral or inter-family behavior. Their lack of attention to this suggests that, in this area, they have reversed the old adage - if they can't say something bad, say nothing at all.
4
This is the best article that I have ever read about President Obama. Your choice of words are touched my heart! I to will also miss President Obama, not just him but his entire family. I will always love and pray that God keep protecting and blessing our President Obama and his entire family. Thank you as well for writing such positive and loving words.
3
This says it all about the hypocrisy of Republicans: They detest Hillary for being, in their words, dishonest. They detest Obama, who, by any presidential standard, including their beloved Reagan, is exceedingly honest and virtuous. Yet, if one were to say Republicans hate Obama because he's black, it is playing the "race-card."
The "family values" Republicans need look no further for a pillar of the family than Obama. But no. Republicans, even Evangelicals, want Trump, the modern day Barabbas.
The "family values" Republicans need look no further for a pillar of the family than Obama. But no. Republicans, even Evangelicals, want Trump, the modern day Barabbas.
9
If only he could be President again, darn it. It makes me so sad that such a fine man, thinker, and soul has been treated so badly by half the country because he is black or a Democrat. Thank you for pointing out what we are all going to be losing in this next election if Trump prevails. Mrs. Clinton must not let us down, the bar has been set very high.
4
In response to some of these comments regarding Obama's presidential legacy, I have only one comment: Please vote. Vote in the midterms. Urge and harangue your friends and family. It is more important than anything anyone can say. What Obama could have accomplished is painful to contemplate if he'd had a Democratic Congress. I won't torment readers by listing them.
8
Obama is a man of grace and dignity, no doubt. Unfortunately, the Presidency of the United States is a blood sport, and you have to have the stomach for it. Obama does not. He's too dignified to get his hands dirty, that's why nothing has been accomplished. Having a president who is like the British Royal family, doesn't get the job done. Yes, he waves with a smile, makes inspirational speeches, and is so dignified he is above it all, but that results in a government out of control. We need someone who doesn't run from hand to hand combat, because this country is in the worst shape it's been since before I can remember .
2
Beautifully said Tim. He has always conducted himself with class, and has guided all of us with wisdom and compassion. So much of the dislike for him had nothing to do with him, was aimed rather at a straw man, which made those Democrats in 2012 who ran away from him seem so absurd in retrospect. Remember Allison Grimes running for senate in Kentucky and refusing to say whether she voted for Obama - and then losing resoundingly to a very beatable Mitch McConnell. We should all be happy to be associated with this president, and certainly he will have a big and positive impact on the election in November.
10
Some one I know left her husband for a new fellow. Within a very short time she found that the new fellow fell far short of her expectations, in part because her expectations were so high based on her experience with her husband's kindness, good nature and level head.
I wonder if, like my friend, we take President Obama's intelligence, discretion, and character so much for granted that we assume whoever is next will begin from this baseline.
Like my friend, we'd be wrong.
I wonder if, like my friend, we take President Obama's intelligence, discretion, and character so much for granted that we assume whoever is next will begin from this baseline.
Like my friend, we'd be wrong.
5
Class acts, sadly, are not playing well in our Kardashian culture. What bothers me most is the sheer meaness of his Repubican counterparts. They just cannot say anything nice about the man, and there is a lot of nice to say. You can disagree with the President's policies and still say, at the same time, he and his family are role models for the best in family values. But no, they can't say that---instead they nominate an individual who makes a mockery of the family values they so admire.
11
"No matter what you think of Obama the executive branch, it’s hard to argue that Obama the human being has been anything less than a model of class and dignity."
I agree with this statement. But you can get real important fundamentals wrong, and still have class and dignity. I think the president is weak on foreign policy, and given the growing frequency of terrorist attacks his disengagement policy appears to be failing. I also don't think he gets what makes a strong economy. But, he is a dignified person.
Do democrats really value class and dignity? Whatever president Obama has, Hillary Clinton does not have it.
I agree with this statement. But you can get real important fundamentals wrong, and still have class and dignity. I think the president is weak on foreign policy, and given the growing frequency of terrorist attacks his disengagement policy appears to be failing. I also don't think he gets what makes a strong economy. But, he is a dignified person.
Do democrats really value class and dignity? Whatever president Obama has, Hillary Clinton does not have it.
55
The selection of a president comes down, in the end, to an either/or decision. This cycle it appears that that decision will be between Hillary Clinton, a candidate with a strong record of working to improve the lot of others, but one with some not insignificant baggage; and Donald Trump, the very personification of an "ugly American," one who has the least class and dignity of any political candidate south of Toronto in recent memory.
While Sec. Clinton may fall short or the standard set by President Obama in this category, Trump barely registers on the scale.
In my opinion, selecting "The Donald" to lead our country would be a betrayal of the legacy of Lincoln, FDR, JFK, Obama and others, whose names are held up around the globe as examples of leaders who listened to the "better angels" of their natures, those that, as Steven Pinker has persuasively argued, "orient us away from violence and towards cooperation and altruism."
While Sec. Clinton may fall short or the standard set by President Obama in this category, Trump barely registers on the scale.
In my opinion, selecting "The Donald" to lead our country would be a betrayal of the legacy of Lincoln, FDR, JFK, Obama and others, whose names are held up around the globe as examples of leaders who listened to the "better angels" of their natures, those that, as Steven Pinker has persuasively argued, "orient us away from violence and towards cooperation and altruism."
4
And the Republicans do? Trump is no paragon of class and dignity...
Aaron, have the Republicans and their candidate offered a more rational foreign policy? Has Hillary Clinton? Our struggles today are not against a foreign enemy, they are against an ideology of hatred - a single ideology of hatred expressed by Islamic radicals and white supremacist alike. Decency may well be the only weapon that will defeat these narcissistic madmen. Rather than belittle those among us who exemplify decency more of us should join them in embracing it.
1
Interesting - so we should disregard Mr. Obama's politics and the successes/failures of his administration and instead look at him as a man, father, etc. to properly evaluate him? Fair enough, for you make some very good points.
I find it utterly hypocritical, however, of many who will read this or post in here lauding the piece and the president, who in turn would never for a second give the same modicum of consideration to other leaders. Nope, a Reagan or a Bush, for example, were, in this view, evil to the core, probably kicked a puppy every morning, hated babies and little children and the sunrise, stole from the Sunday collection plate, tripped blind people on the street, and all the rest...Stalin or Hitler must have looked up to them from the beyond as ideal in ways they couldn't attain themselves. We see such derision and scorn in our politics daily.
Some people like a Hitler or a Mao are truly evil but in most cases if we are honest, we must give due to others for their humanity rather than making them one-dimensional black and white characters in some tawdry mortality play. Too quick to condemn them - and each other, just look at Facebook, thank you very much - for any differences as hateful and murderous.
Stop, for our own sakes.
I find it utterly hypocritical, however, of many who will read this or post in here lauding the piece and the president, who in turn would never for a second give the same modicum of consideration to other leaders. Nope, a Reagan or a Bush, for example, were, in this view, evil to the core, probably kicked a puppy every morning, hated babies and little children and the sunrise, stole from the Sunday collection plate, tripped blind people on the street, and all the rest...Stalin or Hitler must have looked up to them from the beyond as ideal in ways they couldn't attain themselves. We see such derision and scorn in our politics daily.
Some people like a Hitler or a Mao are truly evil but in most cases if we are honest, we must give due to others for their humanity rather than making them one-dimensional black and white characters in some tawdry mortality play. Too quick to condemn them - and each other, just look at Facebook, thank you very much - for any differences as hateful and murderous.
Stop, for our own sakes.
2
The vitriol that President Obama has borne over the last eight years breaks my heart. He would have been able to do so much more good for this country if only there were not a purchased congress representing both the moneyed and the bigoted. It is tragic for us that the simple fact of the color of his skin lanced even deeper reservoirs of poison than I could have imagined. I think of the grace of his presence, and the wisdom of the consolation he has given us in the face of ongoing national tragedies, the good he has still done while enduring relentless hate and being stymied at every turn, as a profound step in the historical effort of the many in this country who wish for it to live up to its highest ideals. The majority of us had the wisdom to elect this man. Let's hope our collective wisdom prevails in the next election.
22
Many of the comments talk of the racist vitriol on the right attacking Obama. This is nonsense. When I was in college Reagan had just been elected and he was often referred to on campus as 666 the devil (because each of his 3 names had 6 letters. The left wing students built a shanty town called Hooverville and accused Reagan of bringing back the depression. This had nothing to do with race and everything to do with ideology. When Clinton got elected right wingers thought of every mean name they could call him ("fat Willy" etc.) and invented scandals to compliment the actual ones. This had nothing to do with race and everything to do with ideology and politics. Then Bush the same. If Obama were a Republican and pushing corporate tax simplification and school vouchers for poor kids in bad public schools, he would face every bit as much hate but from left wingers. None of this has anything to do with race. The right would love nothing more than to have a Republican Obama and it would be the left's worst nightmare.
7
Did you miss the part where the GOP's current nominee crashed into politics by questioning where the President was born and how he worships? How about the massive rise in hate group membership since Obama took office? The constant claims of his anti-colonial sentiments or, as the article mentions, his "deep emotional ties to Islam?" Did all of that escape you? President Obama has faced more intense and numerous assaults on his character based on supposed otherness than any President you mention. It goes so obviously beyond ideology and politics.
6
No, your argument is nonsense. Race had never been an issue until Obama. Now, in the context of "being presidential," however silly that idea may be, race has become unavoidable.
Yes, all presidents have their attackers and detractors but. . .none of those other presidents were asked to publicly display their birth certificates to prove they were U.S. citizens. If you really doubt that race plays a role in how some Americans view and respond to Obama, do a google image search. You'll see him depicted as a slave, a monkey, a "witch doctor." You'll see him with a rope around his neck. You'll see racist slurs in the captions. Then come back and explain how it's "nonsense" to see "racial vitriol" in the attacks on this president.
5
President Obama's class, dignity, strength of character, intellect, popularity, empathy, and (much less importantly) personal wealth, are all qualities that endear him to people around the world. Yet, it is exactly those qualities that rile the extreme right.
All their lives, the powerful and wealthy men in Washington have been taught, either explicitly or implicitly, that they are superior to Black people. Then, in 2008, a Black man comes along who outclasses them in every way. They can't handle being humbled, and have made President Obama, and the people who elected him, pay for it ever since.
The likes of Mitch McConnell, Harry Reid, and their lackeys in right-wing hate media will soon be relegated to footnotes in the annals of American History. President Barack Hussein Obama however, will be remembered as one of the finest men to ever occupy the Oval Office.
All their lives, the powerful and wealthy men in Washington have been taught, either explicitly or implicitly, that they are superior to Black people. Then, in 2008, a Black man comes along who outclasses them in every way. They can't handle being humbled, and have made President Obama, and the people who elected him, pay for it ever since.
The likes of Mitch McConnell, Harry Reid, and their lackeys in right-wing hate media will soon be relegated to footnotes in the annals of American History. President Barack Hussein Obama however, will be remembered as one of the finest men to ever occupy the Oval Office.
15
To think that we could go possibly from the heights of President Obama to the depths of President Trump in a few short months makes me feel unbearably sad. What have we become? President Obama's greatness, decency, and class has provided a shining example of what a great man is. I miss him already.
32
What will you miss most? His incessant complaining or his unconstitutional executive pen?
3
Mr. Egan reminded us that this nation is truly blessed. Obama's scandal-free presidency, steady leadership and humanistic approach to crisis management marks a turning point in U.S. history that paves the way for better equality for all races. Obama shows that an African-American president can achieve as much if not more than many of his white counterparts in history; with grace, intelligence and dignity. The opposite is unimaginable. If Obama have had an inappropriate relationship with an intern, manufactured intelligence as pretense for war or misspelled 'Potatoe' in front of children, then the deep-seeded racists would point to him as the ultimate symbol of a black man's primitive urge for sex, violence and lack of intellect. Those of us who see the truth should breath a sign of relief that the first black president of the United States is Barack Obama and not Herman Cain, Ben Carson or even Jesse Jackson. Aren't we blessed?
6
You are delusional my friend. It's incredible how incompetent Americans have become to actually stil support this man.
You are swayed by his ability to present and keep his cool. However, Obama is, has and will always be a horrible president and leader. Our country, let alone our world is falling apart, and people that live in a bubble such as yourself. You need to take your blinders off!!!
Printing money, and inflating the economy will come to an end. Our unemployment number is fictitious, 40% of the population is living off of some type of grieve end aid. In most cases, welfare. Liberal America continues to destroy our country, and Obama is destroying our world.
As a global leader, he has failed miserably, and its disheartening that incompetent people such as yourself can't see the obvious. We've failed to control Islam, and Obama has opened our country, as well as the world up for what will lead into WW3. In addition, he's divided our country, and failed as the first black president of the United States of America.
I'm a independent voter, I'm not racist, religious, nor do I discriminate against anyone. However, if I was to lead our country, I would address our citizens as Americans vs calling them by their race religion sexual orientation gender etc...
The Democratic Party has conquered and divided. I'm not a Trump fan, but I'm glad he will win this election and undue the mess that this man has left on our country.
Get a clue
You are swayed by his ability to present and keep his cool. However, Obama is, has and will always be a horrible president and leader. Our country, let alone our world is falling apart, and people that live in a bubble such as yourself. You need to take your blinders off!!!
Printing money, and inflating the economy will come to an end. Our unemployment number is fictitious, 40% of the population is living off of some type of grieve end aid. In most cases, welfare. Liberal America continues to destroy our country, and Obama is destroying our world.
As a global leader, he has failed miserably, and its disheartening that incompetent people such as yourself can't see the obvious. We've failed to control Islam, and Obama has opened our country, as well as the world up for what will lead into WW3. In addition, he's divided our country, and failed as the first black president of the United States of America.
I'm a independent voter, I'm not racist, religious, nor do I discriminate against anyone. However, if I was to lead our country, I would address our citizens as Americans vs calling them by their race religion sexual orientation gender etc...
The Democratic Party has conquered and divided. I'm not a Trump fan, but I'm glad he will win this election and undue the mess that this man has left on our country.
Get a clue
9
Oh clueless Trust in Just one, you either pretend ignorance or you truly believe a country of citizens hostile to many diverse racial, ethnic, gender, economically diverse to the point of real suffering is likely to be united by a word, "American". We won't be suckered into thinking we don't have many disadvantaged classes of people or that pretending we do will make the wrongs acceptable. I still believe in the American ideals of equality for all in the search for life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. There is no equality for those born in poverty, malnourished and poorly educated. The last thing they--and all of us need is a schoolyard bully, a braggart, one who thinks only of himself.
6
You totally missed the whole point of the article which states "No matter what you think of Obama the executive branch, it’s hard to argue that Obama the human being has been anything less than a model of class and dignity."
It is about Obama as a PERSON, not a politician.
It is about Obama as a PERSON, not a politician.
2
Timothy Egan makes a solid case for Pres. Obama on the character issue. Indeed he has set a sterling example for the virtues of hard work, discipline, and the value of family as the soundest principals a person may strive for in life. Such characteristics will be a positive part of his legacy, and for which he deserves admiration.
Trouble is that’s not a very high standard for rating a presidency. George W. Bush is a great father; his wife a substantial and graceful lady; the couple blessed with fun and spirited twin daughters who we saw grow up. But how did his presidency turn out? And the Reagan family was “dysfunctional”? Not sure what Mr. Eagan is reaching for with this odd claim about the Reagans. Besides, who knows a “functional” family? I’ve never met one.
Where Pres. Obama comes up short on the character issue is a failing common with doctrinaire liberals (and too many conservatives, as well): a moral certainty to one’s purely intellectual beliefs.
Rarely does Pres. Obama attribute good faith intensions to those who honestly oppose his policy positions; he grumbles about certain quarters of the press (politicians should never, ever complain about the press), his hubris at times too big and his humility sometimes too small.
But these are minor failings. Overall, we know Barack Obama to be a good man. Cheers for that, and cheers for Timothy Egan for reminding us.
Trouble is that’s not a very high standard for rating a presidency. George W. Bush is a great father; his wife a substantial and graceful lady; the couple blessed with fun and spirited twin daughters who we saw grow up. But how did his presidency turn out? And the Reagan family was “dysfunctional”? Not sure what Mr. Eagan is reaching for with this odd claim about the Reagans. Besides, who knows a “functional” family? I’ve never met one.
Where Pres. Obama comes up short on the character issue is a failing common with doctrinaire liberals (and too many conservatives, as well): a moral certainty to one’s purely intellectual beliefs.
Rarely does Pres. Obama attribute good faith intensions to those who honestly oppose his policy positions; he grumbles about certain quarters of the press (politicians should never, ever complain about the press), his hubris at times too big and his humility sometimes too small.
But these are minor failings. Overall, we know Barack Obama to be a good man. Cheers for that, and cheers for Timothy Egan for reminding us.
4
"fun and spirited twin daughters"
That's an awful nice way of saying it. In actuality, the Secret Service was exhausted chasing them around because they could barely stop running around and partying all the time. They often tried to lose their security detail.
Yet Obama's daughters get chastised by conservatives for wearing clothes they don't like.
That's an awful nice way of saying it. In actuality, the Secret Service was exhausted chasing them around because they could barely stop running around and partying all the time. They often tried to lose their security detail.
Yet Obama's daughters get chastised by conservatives for wearing clothes they don't like.
2
One never knows if addressing race relations differently might have worked better for him and the country, but that is highly doubtful. The attacks he has endured for governing while black have been a shameful outrage. His obstinate opponents made racism fashionable again. If they could do it to the President of the United States, and they have, of course it seeps down to the way the broader black population is viewed. Many people have commented about the hope for better race relations that existed when he took office, and lamented the fact that somehow he failed on that. Given the vile backlash against him, to succeed would have been superhuman. One hopes not, but history may actually show that these eight years have been a net negative for race relations, because of that backlash. Mr. Obama famously takes the long view. In that spirit, one hopes that his likely white successor, by being less of a lightning rod (at least on race) than he has been, carries his excellent example of civility forward and bends the arc of justice in the right direction.
14
Exactly. Reflecting on our president's character makes this upcoming election even sadder to realize how many people are supporting an opposite and their reasons for doing so. I can't understand the hatred of this man who is so fundamentally good. I worry for our future.
24
We picked the right person in 2008. President Obama is an authentic leader who genuinely tries to do good.
That's why it's so tragic that we recycled the wrong person in 2016. Secretary Clinton is self-serving, driven by personal ambition, manipulative and untrustworthy.
The institutionalization of racism in our criminal justice system brings this into sharp focus. Hillary Clinton is a huge part of the problem. When she made her infamous "super-predators" speech in 1996, she portrayed minorities as subhuman beasts: "They are not just gangs of kids anymore. They are often the kinds of kids that are called 'super-predators.' No conscience, no empathy. We can talk about why they ended up that way but first we have to bring them to heel." She courts the black vote in every election, including 1992, which makes the Clinton legacy a cold blooded betrayal: mandatory sentencing, mass incarceration, shifting billions from public housing to building jails, etc.
Trump is overtly racist while Clinton is deceitfully racist. We've got to find our next president elsewhere: Gary Johnson or Jill Stein.
I regret that President Obama did not make criminal justice reform a priority. Perhaps he felt that it would look out of place for a black President to do that, but then he should have influenced and supported other people to lead the charge.
In any case, we're going to miss President Obama very soon.
That's why it's so tragic that we recycled the wrong person in 2016. Secretary Clinton is self-serving, driven by personal ambition, manipulative and untrustworthy.
The institutionalization of racism in our criminal justice system brings this into sharp focus. Hillary Clinton is a huge part of the problem. When she made her infamous "super-predators" speech in 1996, she portrayed minorities as subhuman beasts: "They are not just gangs of kids anymore. They are often the kinds of kids that are called 'super-predators.' No conscience, no empathy. We can talk about why they ended up that way but first we have to bring them to heel." She courts the black vote in every election, including 1992, which makes the Clinton legacy a cold blooded betrayal: mandatory sentencing, mass incarceration, shifting billions from public housing to building jails, etc.
Trump is overtly racist while Clinton is deceitfully racist. We've got to find our next president elsewhere: Gary Johnson or Jill Stein.
I regret that President Obama did not make criminal justice reform a priority. Perhaps he felt that it would look out of place for a black President to do that, but then he should have influenced and supported other people to lead the charge.
In any case, we're going to miss President Obama very soon.
7
I will add one point that attracted me to him as a candidate in the first place - his ability to maintain a high level of intellectual honesty in a profession where that is nearly impossible.
38
President Obama will not go quietly into the night. Nor will he stay home and paint pictures. I except to see him work on social justice issues. The best is yet to be seen.
12
An honest and respectful commentary which should be read by more people. We are fortunate and lucky that Mr Obama became our President in that he has shown all, excluding the most intransigent and ignorant among us, that skin color has nothing to do with mental ability and character.
It is beyond me that the garbled grunts emanating from knuckle dragging personalities are even heard. We still have a way to go.
It is beyond me that the garbled grunts emanating from knuckle dragging personalities are even heard. We still have a way to go.
56
With due respect Ian, the country is in some ways on fire and the world certainly is. Mr. Obama seems a good and decent man, but as president he has duties beyond being a good representative for his skin color. In fact, why is that an issue for you? We would do ourselves and Mr. Obama a favor if we accepted him fully as our legitimate president and judged him for his job performance as such.
2
Magpie,
I think you have misinterpreted my remark.
I think you have misinterpreted my remark.
1
Try explaining it to me, Ian. I'll listen.
I wish more people could see and respect President Obama for the man he is and the character he shows rather than demonize him and his character because of his politics. I guess this is what we have to expect in the world of social media and instant news and the constant push to completely demonize and break down your opponent. It doesn't have to be this way and people should be able to identify someone as a good human being even if they don't agree with his or her politics. We used to be able to agree to disagree but unfortunately we've reached a point where many cannot do that without attacking the character of the person that disagrees with them. We should all try to do better because we share more in common as good and fair human beings than those that want to force their ideologies on us by creating a culture of divisiveness and hate.
34
I love our president. I will miss him.
67
I will as well.
3
I'm looking forward to the future Library in Chicago as, very frankly, a place of American pilgrimage. How nice if at least one of the campaigns to succeed him could begin to read as an entry in its guest book. http://www.barackobamafoundation.org/meet-the-architects
6
Excellent column.
Abroad (and I mean almost everywhere) he will be sorely missed
Abroad (and I mean almost everywhere) he will be sorely missed
34
A wonderful comment on a gentleman and scholar who has been disrespected by people who claim to be leaders. The Republican refusal to consider his Supreme Court nominee, the rejection of any legislation proposed by the White House, rude comments about his wife who is also a lawyer. I am embarassesd for these narrow minded, xenophobic people who call themselves Americans. Paul Ryan with his scruffy hunting beard wanting to prosecute fellow members of Congress for demanding they be heard on gun control. Trump with his crude locker room language threatening to jail Hillary Clinton. Amazing that some Americans identify with these boorish individuals. I look at President Obama and see not a black President but an American president to be emulated.
80
Well, I have always felt that President Obama genuinely cares about all Americans. That he really cares about me, a person unknown to him. I wish that his time was not up. If history will be kind to him, and I believe it will, how will the teapublicans in congress be judged? I wish him a happy rest of his life, thank him for his service and selfishly wish that he could continue to serve our country in some way in the future.
45
I, like most Australians, admire President Obama for his outstanding personal qualities, including his dignity, gravitas, warmth, humour, empathy, and decency. But more importantly in my view, he has been a great model for world political leaders to emulate, by reason of his passionate commitment to social justice, human rights, and above all, peace. As many others have said, truly a class act. For the sake of this fragile planet, I can only hope that these qualities can somehow continue after he leaves office.
152
Barack Obama is an epically classy man. The wonder is that We the People elected him President.
This is the same We the People, after all, who will be giving one Donald Drumpf 40%+ of the vote.
For this small miracle, I am deeply grateful.
This is the same We the People, after all, who will be giving one Donald Drumpf 40%+ of the vote.
For this small miracle, I am deeply grateful.
59
Great article on a great President.
57
To repeat the call of the Canadian Parliament upon President Obama's visit there, "Four more years!"
877
I agree, wholeheartedly! However, I want him to rest and enjoy a semi-private life; he deserves it.
We will never find another president like him.
We will never find another president like him.
1
Certainly when looking at the potential successors, you can understand the calls of the Canadian Parliament....
1
Thank you for saying what I have felt for a long time. Whatever policies I have disagreed with or celebrated, President Obama has been a man to admire. No matter who wins the presidential election in November, they will never be able to live up to the standard of human decency and compassion that their predecessor has set. This will be his legacy. Barack Obama the man will be sorely missed.
74
No President of the US while in office delivers on the needs of those who elected him and certainly disappoints those who voted against him. All we can ask is that the man or woman who represent this nation during their term in office do it ethically with class and dignity. That has been accomplished . Looking ahead can or will we say the same if it's Trump or Clinton in office, history will answer that question. Bravo Mr. Obama
36
Hear, hear!
Thank you, President Obama.
#Repeal22
Thank you, President Obama.
#Repeal22
28
Kudos to Mr. Egan for the pitch perfect op ed. After we have expunged this dark time in our nation's history, those to come will understand the impact of what Mr. Egan has written, and the historical proportions of President Obama's leadership. Never in my long lifetime has there been a President more dignified, truly statesman-like and a model for respectful behavior in spite of his critics.
All one has to do is read some of the comments posted here to realize that vitriolic hate is the status quo these days. I try to find compassion for the knuckle dragging Repub candidate and his like minded haters. I can't. Our nation has lost any honor it once held, save for our President, We are living through the darkest of times. God help us all.
All one has to do is read some of the comments posted here to realize that vitriolic hate is the status quo these days. I try to find compassion for the knuckle dragging Repub candidate and his like minded haters. I can't. Our nation has lost any honor it once held, save for our President, We are living through the darkest of times. God help us all.
49
The best president of my lifetime, and I'll be 65 soon. In bemoaning our challenges, we overlook just how fortunate we are to have had his steady, kind leadership these past years.
89
I agree, and I'll soon be 83, so that means from 1933.
5
You are right, Mr. Egan. President Obama has definitely not "diminished" the office. On the contrary, with his integrity, dignity and grace, he has rescued it from the squalid depths to which Bill Clinton and George Bush had made it sink.
Whether Hillary Clinton or Donald Trump comes to the White House, the new President will be "diminished," not because of Mr. Obama's design but because of the puny and widely despised character that either will bring to the Presidency in different ways.
Whether Hillary Clinton or Donald Trump comes to the White House, the new President will be "diminished," not because of Mr. Obama's design but because of the puny and widely despised character that either will bring to the Presidency in different ways.
13
Sad to say, what comes to mind is the phrase "pearls before swine".
22
Jerry wrote "Sad to say, what comes to mind is the phrase "pearls before swine"
Absolutely not. Mr. and Ms Obama were born and raised in this country and by this country. We chose him. If anything, his presidency has restored my faith in what this country can do.
Absolutely not. Mr. and Ms Obama were born and raised in this country and by this country. We chose him. If anything, his presidency has restored my faith in what this country can do.
1
Thank you Tim....I am encouraged somebody sees this with our President. Hopefully, your words will turn the glass for those who hate him so.
39
Excellent opinion piece.
I suspect the fundamental decency, quiet competence, and lack of self-aggrandizement is a large part of what drives the far right crazy about this president.
The Obama/Robinson family breaks every stereotype that the Newt Gingriches, Bill O'Reillys, and Rush Limbaughs of the world have spent the last forty years laboring to propagate. And President Obama, with minimal fanfare or self-promotion has, over eight years, presided over the reversal of a grinding recession, the salvation of the auto industry, the implementation of a compromise health care reform measure that eluded the nation for sixty years, the systematic killing of sociopathic terrorist leaders while keeping US troops out of harm's way to the greatest extent possible, and even the gradual reduction of the federal deficit, which ballooned in response to the excesses of a previous administration. And all of this in the face of cynical resistance on the part of the most dysfunctional bought-and-paid for congress in history.
President Obama's modesty is the more impressive simply because he has more to be modest about.
I suspect the fundamental decency, quiet competence, and lack of self-aggrandizement is a large part of what drives the far right crazy about this president.
The Obama/Robinson family breaks every stereotype that the Newt Gingriches, Bill O'Reillys, and Rush Limbaughs of the world have spent the last forty years laboring to propagate. And President Obama, with minimal fanfare or self-promotion has, over eight years, presided over the reversal of a grinding recession, the salvation of the auto industry, the implementation of a compromise health care reform measure that eluded the nation for sixty years, the systematic killing of sociopathic terrorist leaders while keeping US troops out of harm's way to the greatest extent possible, and even the gradual reduction of the federal deficit, which ballooned in response to the excesses of a previous administration. And all of this in the face of cynical resistance on the part of the most dysfunctional bought-and-paid for congress in history.
President Obama's modesty is the more impressive simply because he has more to be modest about.
95
In my lifetime (and it has been a fairly long one), there has never been another President and First Lady who have demonstrated as much decency, as much caring behavior, as much thoughtfulness, and as much intelligence as President and Mrs. Obama. As Egan writes, the President has been subjected unendingly to hateful comments and criticism driven frequently by barely hidden racism. And yet neither the President or the First Lady rose to the bait or responded in kind. Instead from the moment they and their lovely family became our First Family, they responded with class. Like many Americans, I will miss their being our First Family very much, no matter if Mrs. Clinton succeeds in defeating the classless, indecent and very scary Donald Trump.
133
President Obama is an exceptional man and potentially a great leader. It is unfortunate that he has been too timid to express what is in his heart and in his soul to a nation so desperately in need of sound guidance and a more solid foundation in distinguishing right from wrong. It seems that he has sat on the sidelines instead of stepping into the fray. As a result, his superior quality as a moral and ethical lodestone may be lost on history.
In any event, I will miss him.
In any event, I will miss him.
12
This article alludes to the fact that no matter who wins in November, the presidency of the US will suffer a steep decline in character and altruistic intent, with one outcome leading to an unimaginably precipitous decline. We're headed for a setback, no matter what, which is tragic. Equally as tragic is the opportunity we squandered by not providing a president who seemed capable of using the government to do good and enact change with the authority to do so. Instead, we empowered, through elections, public servants beholden to private enterprise and dedicated to declawing the president rather than making a difference in the lives of people who are bereft of silver spoons.
60
There will be a steep decline. We don't yet know HOW steep, but in any case, a person like President Obama comes along only once in long, long while.
2
When I hear someone bash President Obama I am just floored. It does not speak to his character but lowers my view of theirs. The way the GOP has treated and condemned him is shameless and ugly. He has faced it all with character, class, and dignity.
I believe he is the best president we have had in my lifetime. President Obama is a class act
I believe he is the best president we have had in my lifetime. President Obama is a class act
170
He is a class act. Thank you for this eloquent column, which the Obama haters will rush to condemn.
73
another embarrassing love letter for the failed presidency of obama from the ny times...
25
What I find upsetting is that people find it difficult to differentiate between evaluating someone's political positions and the person. Just for the sake of argument, let's say that the Obama presidency was a failure. Does that mean that we should not praise him for having a model relationship with his wife and children? Does that mean we shouldn't celebrate him for being civil despite the difficulties he has experienced?
I certainly hope we can, and that we can learn, listen, and respectfully treat people we disagree with. For example, I confess that I was not a fan of President Bush's politics. On the other hand, I think his remarks at the recent police memorial are worth appreciating:
" At our best, we practice empathy, imagining ourselves in the lives and circumstances of others. This is the bridge across our nation’s deepest divisions.
And it is not merely a matter of tolerance, but of learning from the struggles and stories of our fellow citizens and finding our better selves in the process.
At our best, we honor the image of God we see in one another. We recognize that we are brothers and sisters, sharing the same brief moment on Earth and owing each other the loyalty of our shared humanity.
At our best, we know we have one country, one future, one destiny. We do not want the unity of grief, nor do we want the unity of fear. We want the unity of hope, affection and high purpose."
It is possible to disagree and appreciate.
I certainly hope we can, and that we can learn, listen, and respectfully treat people we disagree with. For example, I confess that I was not a fan of President Bush's politics. On the other hand, I think his remarks at the recent police memorial are worth appreciating:
" At our best, we practice empathy, imagining ourselves in the lives and circumstances of others. This is the bridge across our nation’s deepest divisions.
And it is not merely a matter of tolerance, but of learning from the struggles and stories of our fellow citizens and finding our better selves in the process.
At our best, we honor the image of God we see in one another. We recognize that we are brothers and sisters, sharing the same brief moment on Earth and owing each other the loyalty of our shared humanity.
At our best, we know we have one country, one future, one destiny. We do not want the unity of grief, nor do we want the unity of fear. We want the unity of hope, affection and high purpose."
It is possible to disagree and appreciate.
2
Another embarrassing disparaging letter from the chattering chorus of hate against this ethical, class act President.
4
Another sour grapes comment from a reader who should be reading the Salt Lake Tribune.
3
The lesson for each of us to learn from this very dignified man, and very humble public servant, is to realize that we can shut off the noise when we chose and let the quite voice within, the better angel of our nature, dictate our behavior.
Hopefully, we will have the opportunity and wisdom to elect one such as him soon.
(Editor -- Please print name as NielChan .. thank you)
Hopefully, we will have the opportunity and wisdom to elect one such as him soon.
(Editor -- Please print name as NielChan .. thank you)
21
The level of self-awareness and utter decency that Barack Obama brings to the presidency is itself remarkable. As disappointed as I have been with some of the president's policies, I also cannot claim to be terribly surprised; President Obama never posed as anything but the pragmatist he is. I voted for him twice and wish I could again. His willingness to consider different perspectives, his practice of self-examination, his respectful conduct toward others and, finally, his Hella good mind - a wonderful president whom history will revere. I eagerly await his future course of action; he is too young, intelligent, and gifted to slink away into a statesman-only existence. Oh, America, that we had been worthy of this once-in-a-lifetime leader...
75
I agree President Obama is a very decent fellow. What I find perplexing is it had taken to the twilight of his presidency to see something which has been evident the whole time.
What is it about us who don't miss something until it's almost gone? How our past presidents, except for Richard Nixon who continues to haunt us from the grave, grow in stature? Even the deeply challenged George W. has, like a fine wine, which he is not, improved with age.
Politics by its very nature, is a blood sport. It seems to bring out the worse not only in politicians but we the people. Why is that? Perhaps instead of casting all the blame on our representatives we should look within. We want from them what WE want. When they do not deliver, we blame them for not doing their job, irregardless that they represent thousands, millions, of other citizens who also want what they want, who don't give a hoot what we want.
Think of the task politicians are suppose to perform. President Lincoln, one of the greats, was assassinated. One person decided he was going to be heard over those who elected him. Though most of us would never resort to such violence, we who disagree with a politician will often make it personal. Anger can turn to hatred. And hate eats from within.
I won't succumb to that. I support Hillary, but I don't hate Trump. Millions made him their nominee. In November I will make my choice. I will vote. And I will live with the outcome.
DD
Manhattan
What is it about us who don't miss something until it's almost gone? How our past presidents, except for Richard Nixon who continues to haunt us from the grave, grow in stature? Even the deeply challenged George W. has, like a fine wine, which he is not, improved with age.
Politics by its very nature, is a blood sport. It seems to bring out the worse not only in politicians but we the people. Why is that? Perhaps instead of casting all the blame on our representatives we should look within. We want from them what WE want. When they do not deliver, we blame them for not doing their job, irregardless that they represent thousands, millions, of other citizens who also want what they want, who don't give a hoot what we want.
Think of the task politicians are suppose to perform. President Lincoln, one of the greats, was assassinated. One person decided he was going to be heard over those who elected him. Though most of us would never resort to such violence, we who disagree with a politician will often make it personal. Anger can turn to hatred. And hate eats from within.
I won't succumb to that. I support Hillary, but I don't hate Trump. Millions made him their nominee. In November I will make my choice. I will vote. And I will live with the outcome.
DD
Manhattan
19
The day President Obama was elected was among the most moving of my life as a (white, native born) American citizen. How tragic that a moment of reconciliation turned, virtually in an instant, into eight years of smoldering resentment that a black person could transcend our nation's founding original sin.
Thank you, Timothy Egan, for your profoundly moving tribute to a man whose character, dignity, and unabashed intellect continue to reflect America's best self. President Obama's accomplishments in the face of implacable opposition have been remarkable. Imagine how much more he could have achieved, for citizens of our country and the world, had he been accorded the support and appreciation he deserves.
Thank you, Timothy Egan, for your profoundly moving tribute to a man whose character, dignity, and unabashed intellect continue to reflect America's best self. President Obama's accomplishments in the face of implacable opposition have been remarkable. Imagine how much more he could have achieved, for citizens of our country and the world, had he been accorded the support and appreciation he deserves.
160
Our President is a mensch. And in our world, there aren't many. Especially in politics.
46
Obama is the best President of my lifetime, since Eisenhower. If only he were followed by Bernie.
35
Older folks might remember seeing Ike in top hat and tails escorting young John F. Kennedy to his inauguration. Yes, it was carried live on TV. Ike's expression was in my view worried and, at the same time, anxious about the future laying out for the country.
1
Unfortunately he was not hired to be a good, even great, husband and father.
His job is to "preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of The United States of America". At that he has scornfully, willfully and terribly failed.
His job is to "preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of The United States of America". At that he has scornfully, willfully and terribly failed.
24
The constitution still exists. You are still free. The military is large. You are still safe. The economy is good (and would be better without republican obstructionism). There are more guns owned and available for buying than ever before.
Quit listening to Fox News.
Quit listening to Fox News.
6
What allows you to think that a professor of constitutional law at one of the nation's top law schools "scornfully" and "willfully failed" to protect and defend our Constitution as a twice-elected president?
Food for thought.
Food for thought.
8
Unfortunately he was not hired, he was elected. Setting an example is part of leadership.
2
His intelect and sensitiveness enable him to put everything into perspective. Another remarkable trait of him is his integrity. All those qualities are very rare. I do hope that history will treat him fairly.
42
What a joke. obamas behavior has been anything but classy. From constantly demonizing Republicans, tolerating behaviors like Secretary Clinton's emails,and inserting himself needlessly to pick winners and losers and domestic disputes, he set a new low. Thankfully this nightmare will be over soon
18
He should have thanked them for calling him a liar, the birthed nonsense and vowing to make him a one term resident? Republicans deserve being called out for not doing their jobs and obstruction.
6
Wow. It's obvious that you don't recognize grace, poise, dignity, humor, intelligence, integrity, and virtue when you see it. We have been blessed to have witnessed the behavior of this man - regardless of his politics - in this, the highest office of the land.
6
Even if what you say is true, which I don't believe, this column wasn't about politics. It was about Mr. Obama as a person, particularly in relation to his family.
One wonders how so many people can let their hatred for him blind them to everything about him.
One wonders how so many people can let their hatred for him blind them to everything about him.
6
The piece is important and raises an important principle that seems quaint and old fashioned- character matters. However, by making this claim, it does not ignore the shortcomings of the President. No one is without faults. But in a world which hyper sensationalizes, and thus, implicitly values lying, cheating, vulgarity etc, we will miss this President's steady ( though at times, misdirected) hand and his moral and ethical gravitas.
About 3 weeks ago, I sent a note to the White House thanking the President for his service and for his high ethical and moral standards.
About 3 weeks ago, I sent a note to the White House thanking the President for his service and for his high ethical and moral standards.
49
It's tragic that his presidency was so compromised by the relentless obstruction and despicable personal attacks that he had to endure from the GOP.
It should be obvious by now that what this country really wants and deserves is a three ring circus, orchestrated by an insult clown with an ridiculous comb over.
We want guys you can have a hamburger and a laugh with, not thoughtful individuals like Obama.
The truth is, we don't really want a "president" anymore. We want an "entertainer in chief", and that is what we are going to get.
Enjoy.
It should be obvious by now that what this country really wants and deserves is a three ring circus, orchestrated by an insult clown with an ridiculous comb over.
We want guys you can have a hamburger and a laugh with, not thoughtful individuals like Obama.
The truth is, we don't really want a "president" anymore. We want an "entertainer in chief", and that is what we are going to get.
Enjoy.
45
Don't include "me" in your "we" !
2
In the future, when we look back upon the past eight years and reflect upon the challenges facing our nation, most of us will be grateful that Barack Obama was our president. The pity is that it will take so long to acknowledge our appreciation.
70
Asked to assess the presidency of Bill Clinton a few years ago, historian Gary Wills called it a ‘’great disappointment.’’ Noting that Clinton had supreme political skills, Wills lamented that Clinton did not discipline himself to accomplish much more than he did.
The opposite will be said of President Obama, where it was we who disappointed, who were unable to receive the gifts he offered.
Republicans held to their 2009 Inauguration Day pledge to oppose everything President Obama proposed, while Democratic voters could not bother to show up for mid-term elections in 2010 and 2014. Professional Democrats were asleep at the switch as Republicans first took the Senate, then the House and then the statehouses. An increasingly lazy press reprints partisan talking points and memes as news, with less attention to facts and context.
Despite all this, President Obama has disciplined himself to accomplish quite a lot. On policy matters, he has accomplished some remarkable things, while opening doors to understanding and, as he often says, a path to ‘’a more perfect union.’’ We never see bitterness and rarely see anger, even in the face of overt bigotry and base stupidity.
We are a better country because of President Obama. We would be an even better country if we had all done our jobs nearly as well as he has done his.
The opposite will be said of President Obama, where it was we who disappointed, who were unable to receive the gifts he offered.
Republicans held to their 2009 Inauguration Day pledge to oppose everything President Obama proposed, while Democratic voters could not bother to show up for mid-term elections in 2010 and 2014. Professional Democrats were asleep at the switch as Republicans first took the Senate, then the House and then the statehouses. An increasingly lazy press reprints partisan talking points and memes as news, with less attention to facts and context.
Despite all this, President Obama has disciplined himself to accomplish quite a lot. On policy matters, he has accomplished some remarkable things, while opening doors to understanding and, as he often says, a path to ‘’a more perfect union.’’ We never see bitterness and rarely see anger, even in the face of overt bigotry and base stupidity.
We are a better country because of President Obama. We would be an even better country if we had all done our jobs nearly as well as he has done his.
452
Exactly what remarkable things has Obama accomplished? I can't think of a single thing that Obama has done to make this country a better place. Obamacare, a disaster. Foreign policy, a mess. Spending out of control. Racial relations far worse than before he took office. Work force at an all time low. Country more divided than ever. I could go on and on.
2
Well said!
4
@Sylvia - Your comments are opposite of the actual facts. Obamacare is working fine with 16.4 million in the U.S. currently signed up & covered. U.S. foreign policy is quite good -- or are you confusing problems in several countries in the world as something the U.S. is supposed to somehow solve alone? Spending is not out of control, and you're completely wrong about racial problems, it will take another generation or two to solve most of them. Unemployment is much lower than when George Bush left due to those tens of millions of jobs put back on the market over the last 7 years.
3
Biggest arms dealer in history.
Largest number of people deported.
Only US president with 8 years of war.
Largest deficit over. It was the largest with Bush, he doubled it.
Most divisive president in history.
His list of accolades goes on. What was good for him, was bad for mankind. If Mr Egan finds this as the model human being, then it is no wonder we are all in trouble.
Largest number of people deported.
Only US president with 8 years of war.
Largest deficit over. It was the largest with Bush, he doubled it.
Most divisive president in history.
His list of accolades goes on. What was good for him, was bad for mankind. If Mr Egan finds this as the model human being, then it is no wonder we are all in trouble.
19
Spoken like a true-believing conservative. You're complaining about the people deported? I thought that would please you. Eight years of war against middle Eastern terrorists? That's what w offered. Largest deficit? But taxes are low. Divisive? Conservatives have made a cause out of dividing the nation against him. Curious, that you're so bitter over getting what you want.
97
The statement on deficit is not true. You also probably want to state the 2008 banking crash is Obama's fault.
7
See if you feel the same way after four years of the opposite character, and I use that term very loosely (see my comment above).
1
No president in the half century in which I've been alive has conducted himself with more grace, decency, and fairness than President Obama. He was and is the "least qualified", but "most capable" of running this country. I did not vote for him in the last election. I don't agree with all his policies. But I know for sure he has this country's best interests at heart. I won't be around for the history books that write about him, the questions kids will ask, "how come no one liked him?", but I know his presidency has been a gift that as a country we have squandered.
148
Actually, many of us like him; some of us love him. A man for all seasons!
2
And this remarkable person will be noted for much more and for far longer than most who have served the greater public interest at his level. Let's be fair, if walking the balanced road is considered to be an accomplishment many of us should like achieve within our own, and much smaller parameters, then this man is a point of reference to be held in high esteem. Anyone who has the strength of character sufficient for self-analysis, who is not afraid to self-criticise, admit limitations and recognise failures - while at the same time, keep the perspective necessary to lead a nation, be a father, and as is noted in this article, to maintain a consistently high level of respect for those different from him, but not give in to the taunts, insults and worse - then this is a president who will be missed. As the song goes, "You never miss your water ´till the well runs dry". Good luck America (minus Obama)!
80
Full disclosure. . .I do not belong to any political party, and, when Obama was elected, I openly stated that I was proud that America could elect a black president. . .I still feel that way. However well written the article is, the fact remains that this is a failed presidency. We elected what amounts to an "intern" as president of the United States. Racially, the country is more divided because Obama has used several tragic incidents for personal political gain. The Trevone Martin death is a perfect example. . .as the chief law enforcement officer he had absolutely no place making early comments about the right and wrong of the incident. Obama calling ISIS a JV team was, clearly, an "intern-like" statement. His comments on Syria and chemical weapons have been child-like. He did not start the wars in the middle east but he was handed the responsibility of ending them properly, and in that lost effort he has made things much worse and gotten hundreds of thousands of innocents killed and displaced. He is totally disrespected, as a leader, by Russia and China, which has, without question, led to the Ukraine invasion and the South China Sea problems. He was never "qualified" for this office. Personally, I think even less of the current candidates, but, evaluating President Obama by comparing him, on a "class act" basis, to other former presidents is meaningless as far as real "results" are concerned.
21
Calling this a "failed" presidency is having drunk the republican kool-aid. The world situation is very complicated and complex, and the situation here in the US is the same. Pres. Obama has led this nation out of the depths of recession while under unparalleled Republican opposition, has garnered respect from leaders around the world, has shown tremendous grace under fire and has managed to provide basic health care as a right for all our citizens. Has he solved all of our problems? Of course not. A president is only a human being. Many of the problems we face today are way beyond the scope of any one person to remedy. Has he made mistakes? Of course. All leaders do. Will history remember him well? I'm sure of it.
36
Every president of the United States failed at something while in office; however, to treat the entirety of his two terms in office as a failure is wholly unfair and quite narrow-minded. As for ending the wars in the middle east "properly," its delusional to think that that was even remotely possible considering the history in that region. I would dare to say that his policies concerning the middle east were prudent under the circumstances despite not everything going perfectly. Perhaps he learned from history that sending soldiers into every war zone doesn't necessarily solve the problems that plague the middle east. Who cares if the Russians and the Chinese don't respect him as a leader. He's the president of the United States, the leader of the free world. That's to be expected from those leaders in the rear. Lastly, I'll concede that perhaps his remarks on the Martin shooting should not have been made; however, i dare to say that the purpose was not for political gain.
2
Notwithstanding the fact that he bought the country out of deep recession and restored us to our rightful place in the world. If you think he failed, I look forward to you piece on the GOP Congress he had rejecting everything he tried to do. Surely you will write that piece with the same critical eye.
4
Tim: I always look forward to your columns, and this not only hits the mark, it is deeply poignant and resonant for millions of us. I am already feeling a sense of grief and loss anticipating the departure of President Obama next January, but I am also very certain that history will, in fact, be extremely kind to this gracious, intelligent, humble servant. I have not always agreed with him; indeed, at times, I have been frustrated that he is not as liberal as I am. I am also a pragmatic realist, however, and recognize that not only can none of us lay claim to "perfection," the hard truth is that governing and progress demand compromise, and a willingness to chart a course through all manner of waves and turbulence. This man has done that, and far more. How shameful it is that the GOTP launched an all out insurgency against him, in what was clearly a flagrant nullification effort - imagine how much more we could have accomplished had they not been so determined to put a man of color in his "place," at the full expense of the nation. Let us all hope that we, the people, choose to embellish this President's legacy and move forward, rather than back to the 1800's.
173
As someone in his early 40s, President Obama has been the only president in my adult life who has not been mired in scandals or grossly incompetent or unabashedly hostile or uncivil towards those who disagree with him. And I also don't feel like he has ever lied to me.
He has made mistakes. There are things he could have done better. Buts its refreshing to know that he himself would probably be the first person to acknowledge that, and despite those mistakes, his character remains beyond reproach by any objective observer.
I lament the fact that regardless of whether Mr. Trump or Mrs. Clinton wins, the next President will not meet the high standards of civility, competence, professionalism and trustworthiness that Mr. Obama has set.
He has made mistakes. There are things he could have done better. Buts its refreshing to know that he himself would probably be the first person to acknowledge that, and despite those mistakes, his character remains beyond reproach by any objective observer.
I lament the fact that regardless of whether Mr. Trump or Mrs. Clinton wins, the next President will not meet the high standards of civility, competence, professionalism and trustworthiness that Mr. Obama has set.
91
In my Vermont home, our guest rooms are the Lincoln bedroom, the (new) Sanders bedroom and the coolest one of all, the Obama suite (sweet). The President and his family are welcome to visit anytime.
52
President Obama will be remembered as one of our greatest presidents...ever. Few have faced the challenges of the modern presidency with more opposition and obstinance and succeeded against all odds. Think what he might have achieved with even a modicum of Republican cooperation. With the GOP meltdown we are witnessing, it's possible that deadly, divided government is coming to an end. If this happens, Obama will get credit for setting the stage for a new American Renaissance.
97
The President is "not naive," but he is being modest when he says "I've seen how inadequate my own words have been."
His words can hardly have been more eloquent, as mourner-in-chief or in attempting to persuade Congress. The problem is with the thick-headed part of his audience. There are none so deaf as those who will not hear.
His words can hardly have been more eloquent, as mourner-in-chief or in attempting to persuade Congress. The problem is with the thick-headed part of his audience. There are none so deaf as those who will not hear.
216
The ability to self evaluate is so rare and Obama seems to be able to do that. With that comes his sense of humor and wit.
I would say that almost every move he made as president, mistake or not, he will have learned something about himself and us.
The long view of history he took whenever he made a decision will unroll for decades to come.
those that think he was a disappointment have allowed the media and political climate to taint their narrow view of history.
I would say that almost every move he made as president, mistake or not, he will have learned something about himself and us.
The long view of history he took whenever he made a decision will unroll for decades to come.
those that think he was a disappointment have allowed the media and political climate to taint their narrow view of history.
94
"No matter what you think of Obama the executive branch, it’s hard to argue that Obama the human being has been anything less than a model of class and dignity."
And yet those of us that reject facts- have have been making the argument that our classy President and his family are not American, are less than human, and are exactly opposite of everything that I, a thinking individual can see. How do you counter those that are so entrenched by a non-stop outpouring of propaganda, that they no longer see facts and cannot discern reality? In my mind, that reflects the sorry state of affairs that has led us to a man running for office that is so completely opposite in the qualities of humanity and empathy displayed by our President, that it is sickening and very very scary.
And yet those of us that reject facts- have have been making the argument that our classy President and his family are not American, are less than human, and are exactly opposite of everything that I, a thinking individual can see. How do you counter those that are so entrenched by a non-stop outpouring of propaganda, that they no longer see facts and cannot discern reality? In my mind, that reflects the sorry state of affairs that has led us to a man running for office that is so completely opposite in the qualities of humanity and empathy displayed by our President, that it is sickening and very very scary.
141
President Obama possesses all the qualities that Americans claim to admire and desire in their leaders. Even if you disagree with him politically or philosophically, he still deserves our respect not only as President of the United States, but as a man. The fact that so many loathe him because of the color of his skin shows that we really haven't come that far at all as a society. If anything, we have regressed. I know this, we'll miss him on many levels when he leaves public life. I, too, wholeheartedly say "Thanks Obama".
267
It has always been amazing to me that the evangelical right will bend over backwards to ignore the character of President Obama. He is everything that they should be embracing. And instead, in this election, they are supporting Trump. A serial philanderer, married 3 times, bully, etc. It couldn't possibly be because President Obama is black, could it? The blatant hypocrisy is sickening.
948
Your point is well taken, but I don't think this is hypocrisy. Rather it is a of lack of judgment, of discernment, of wisdom. Whether it is a result of their particular religion or a function of the sort of minds that would be drawn to it in the first place, so many right-wing evangelicals simply cannot see.
7
Let's not forget that they're racists and phonies. They barely hide behind their devotion to religion. But if they really embraced what a great deal of the message behind religion of all types is (i.e. that we skirt hatred and embrace kindness and others) they would realize that they're just overwhelmed by their hate for those who aren't white.
6
Sadly so true. Many of the supposed followers of Jesus are not aligned with anything he modeled in his life or in his teachings. The hypocrisy of the evangelical christians is incomprehensible.
2
President Obama and his family have set a new standard for elegance, grace, and though this will make his right-wing opponents cringe, traditional family values.
O'Reilly's intended smear that attending a wedding wearing traditional Muslim dress proves Obama's "deep emotional ties to Islam" is baseless and absurd.
I recently attended a Jewish funeral service and was offered and, out of respect, wore a yarmulke. Using O'Reilly's criteria I must then have deep ties to Judaism. Except that I'm an atheist.
O'Reilly's intended smear that attending a wedding wearing traditional Muslim dress proves Obama's "deep emotional ties to Islam" is baseless and absurd.
I recently attended a Jewish funeral service and was offered and, out of respect, wore a yarmulke. Using O'Reilly's criteria I must then have deep ties to Judaism. Except that I'm an atheist.
245
Yes. I agree with jwalker99. O'Reilly's smear is absurd. At nine years of age I was cast in the role of Nokomis, mother of Hiawatha. Given O'Reilly's reasoning I must be a native American. Except that at that time I was a blue-eyed towhead. Geez.
8
My 80-year-old parents, both white and born and raised in the deep south, said just the other day that Obama is the most presidential president in their lifetime. Thank god I got the parents I got.
1929
Hey Lil50 ! Please give your mom and dad a great big hug from me in Brooklyn . You gave me hope , something that I need today ! Have a great day !
4
May God bless both you and your parents for your wisdom and honesty.
5
This "community organizer" that people derided, has never forgotten that along with being elected to the highest office in the land, he is still a husband, father, son, and public servant. I don't always agree with his strategies, but I have tremendous respect for him as a leader and a person.
91
Fox News has been an instrument of hate and racism towards President Obama since day one of his presidency. Over the past 7 ½ years Fox has been the GOP's breeding ground of hatred, racism, and acrimony towards the President. I find it miraculous that the President has remained stately all this time as the republican controlled congress has done everything in its power to deprecate, undermine, and vilify a decent human being whose task after his inauguration was to “Make America Great Again” after W's disastrous eight years. This congress has got to be one of the most shameful in our country's history. No doubt about it.
223
I rarely agree with Egan, but in this case I do. As a human being President Obama is a class act.
54
He's been an excellent Healer in Chief. Only one of the two candidates running for his job comes close to being able to show empathy for others.
35
Only president in my lifetime to beat out Obama in terms of character and competency was Harry Truman. Both Presidents handling of very complex national and international problems is exceptional. Both Presidents had to deal with a belligerent and disrespectful opposition but did so with candor and skill. Both showed America the best we had to offer during their presidency.
32
Carrying on your opening words: for all our sons, he's been a (model) mensch. We have been very, very lucky to have had him at this time.
75
President Obama is a beacon of personal greatness.
64
President Obama has been a model husband and father and has shown great respect for his office. Presidents Bush and Bush and Carter were fine family men and showed great respect for the office too. If Presidents served as ornamental Kings we could leave it at that. But they have more important jobs as executives and salesmen, jobs that have direct impact on our lives.
As executives, the disrespectful and/or morally and/or ethically challenged Bill Clinton, Richard Nixon and Lyndon Johnson were much more adept. Leaving aside the morass of Vietnam, they accomplished great things because they fought hard and sometimes fought dirty.
Ronald Reagan was unparalleled at sales and used his abilities to make us feel great at a time of uncertainty and then to work with Gorbachev to end the Cold War.
Donald Trump is a disgraceful human being and dishonors the ideals of our Constitution. But he is a great salesman and Americans love to be sold. Great salesman believe in what they're selling and Trump is great at selling himself, the only thing he believes in.
Which brings me back to President Obama. His presence as a figurehead and voice of reason will be sorely missed. But now I want someone who will fight for American values, someone who's not afraid to get her hands dirty, nor afraid to sell and yell when it's appropriate. I want see the imperfect Hillary Clinton crush Donald Trump in a landslide and become our next President.
As executives, the disrespectful and/or morally and/or ethically challenged Bill Clinton, Richard Nixon and Lyndon Johnson were much more adept. Leaving aside the morass of Vietnam, they accomplished great things because they fought hard and sometimes fought dirty.
Ronald Reagan was unparalleled at sales and used his abilities to make us feel great at a time of uncertainty and then to work with Gorbachev to end the Cold War.
Donald Trump is a disgraceful human being and dishonors the ideals of our Constitution. But he is a great salesman and Americans love to be sold. Great salesman believe in what they're selling and Trump is great at selling himself, the only thing he believes in.
Which brings me back to President Obama. His presence as a figurehead and voice of reason will be sorely missed. But now I want someone who will fight for American values, someone who's not afraid to get her hands dirty, nor afraid to sell and yell when it's appropriate. I want see the imperfect Hillary Clinton crush Donald Trump in a landslide and become our next President.
49
I am utterly confident that history will see Obama as a near-great if not great president--a man of character and strength who exhibited grace under pressure, as well as a president with a long list of accomplishments, including saving an almost collapsed economy, keeping us out of pointless, endless, un-winnable wars, and nudging an intractable, clumsy, unjust health care system toward something more rational and humane.
Unfortunately, history will also show that for countless white Americans, a black president was too much to bear. Nothing in their background could prepare them for the deeply felt affront to their very being that a black man in the White House represented.
I suspect one of Obama's greatest sadnesses is in this regard--that his presidency, instead of causing white racists to see the potential of the black race, and instead of bridging the gap between races, seems to have exacerbated racist feelings--in both blacks and whites.
If I could speak directly to him about this, I would say, "Thank you, Mr. President. You made a magnificent effort. It turned out this country wasn't ready."
Unfortunately, history will also show that for countless white Americans, a black president was too much to bear. Nothing in their background could prepare them for the deeply felt affront to their very being that a black man in the White House represented.
I suspect one of Obama's greatest sadnesses is in this regard--that his presidency, instead of causing white racists to see the potential of the black race, and instead of bridging the gap between races, seems to have exacerbated racist feelings--in both blacks and whites.
If I could speak directly to him about this, I would say, "Thank you, Mr. President. You made a magnificent effort. It turned out this country wasn't ready."
97
If Obama "exacerbated" racist feelings, it was simply by existing while Black. He is a secure individual who knows who he is, but clearly large segments of our population are irrationally threatened and respond with hostility to someone with a different background than their own.
12
There is one redeeming feature - he was elected TWICE; and with very healthy majorities. I feel better about my country when I think of that. The country was ready, the bigots were not.
9
Jeez, Tim, I'm trying to enjoy my morning coffee & doughnut, and you had to go put a lump in my throat. Great tribute, so true.
89
When Mitch McConnell and his miserable cohorts are long gone the legacy of Barack Obama will shine through our history as one of the very best presidents this country has ever elected.
We did not deserve him and we treated him badly but his calm, kindness, intelligence and compassion is an example of the very best in us.
We did not deserve him and we treated him badly but his calm, kindness, intelligence and compassion is an example of the very best in us.
425
I believe he's done well also but he still hired Financial Advisors (T.Geithner) that partnered with the banks and offered very little to American homeowners driven out of their jobs and homes by the recession. And remember he wouldn't fight for E. Warren as head of the CFPB? So I wouldn't make him out to be the President that was too good for us. He could have been better.
3
After hearing the right wing say it sarcastically about every bad thing that happened (and many that didn't) during the past eight years, finally it's my turn...........Thanks Obama.
57
There is only one man to whom President Obama can be compared -- Jackie Robinson -- who bore the indignities, insults, the racist attacks not only from "fans" but also from other baseball players just as President Obama has borne the attacks by the rightwing media, the racist public, and other politicians who have attempted to make him and his policies fail and who have stooped to calling out "you lie" when he was speaking to Congress.
Like Robinson he has borne it all and turned the other cheek, never lowering himself to the guttersnipe mentality that they epitomize.
He's served with class, dignity, honor, and intelligence -- we've been fortunate to have him and those of us who actually care about the United States will miss him.
Like Robinson he has borne it all and turned the other cheek, never lowering himself to the guttersnipe mentality that they epitomize.
He's served with class, dignity, honor, and intelligence -- we've been fortunate to have him and those of us who actually care about the United States will miss him.
129
Obama's personal family behavior deserves praise.
That has been his major accomplishment as President.
That has been his major accomplishment as President.
14
For me, Mr Obama has changed America into a racial, divided country, with everything from healthcare to Dreamers in disarray. He has divided America and will go down in history as the man who paved the road for Mr Donald Trump to come to power.
7
That you fail to recognize the roadblocks placed in front of him by the GOP and the racist tea party is very sad.
55
This was a racially divided country long before Obama was elected. The Republican party never once accepted the legitimacy of his election and sought to block him at every turn. They followed the path of Nixon and Reagan in stoking racial, class, and economic divisions. Obama alas did not have magical powers to cure their sin-sick souls of deeply rooted racism.
53
People had the same complaint when FDR introduced social security. In 1963 Kennedy defied the governor of Alabama by issuing executive orders forcing him to comply with desegration orders. Southern states saw this as an intrusion into "States rights." President Johnson supported civil rights, again angering southerners and in 1965 signed into law medicare. Many people opposed these changes and complained the country was going into the abyss.
Now days social security and medicare are sacrosanct.
So who "paved," the road for an America with a old age, disability insurance and heath care program for older Americans. Obama's legacy will be that he tried to expand health care for uninsured Americans, something Republicans could care less about.
Now days social security and medicare are sacrosanct.
So who "paved," the road for an America with a old age, disability insurance and heath care program for older Americans. Obama's legacy will be that he tried to expand health care for uninsured Americans, something Republicans could care less about.
33
Thanks Tim, very well said. While I am very sorry he will not be our leader next year I am keen to see him in his post Presidency. Much like Jimmy Carter he will shine and provide more hope and optimism for a world that is hungry for good.
72
Yes. And I have faith he and Michelle will not trade on their public service to the tune of $150 million plus in the degrading manner that the Clintons have done.
This is all true, but of Obama's many virtues the one that impresses me the most is humility. Power corrupts; this has been known for a long time but is now very well documented in the social sciences literature (reviewed in a recent book by Dacher Keltner, for example). And you can see this phenomenon in the careers of many recent politicians, eg Tony Blair, Bill Clinton, George W Bush, etc. But Obama is incorruptible.
It is incredible to me that this paragon may be succeeded by Donald Trump: "hyperion to a satyr". What a waste, what a tragedy and disgrace for our country.
It is incredible to me that this paragon may be succeeded by Donald Trump: "hyperion to a satyr". What a waste, what a tragedy and disgrace for our country.
65
If not for the horror of the Republican opposition our very best man could have been our very best president. We should be grateful for him and never allow thre Republican Party to ruin and destroy again
61
Sure - great. Simply what I see each day throughout my largely white middle to upper middle-income neighborhood; and with my sons, their families, and their friend's families. Nothing remarkable - the usual; except in the black communities in every American city where what Egan describes is woefully not there.
And while Obama issued all the wonderful words of healing in wounded cities - as he did here in Charleston - he rarely used his pulpit to honestly address the social collaspe of blacks; instead he has been quite quick to blame racism and police for black's failures. In that he has wasted the past seven years to "bring about lasting change" because he did next to nothing to attempt it.
And while Obama issued all the wonderful words of healing in wounded cities - as he did here in Charleston - he rarely used his pulpit to honestly address the social collaspe of blacks; instead he has been quite quick to blame racism and police for black's failures. In that he has wasted the past seven years to "bring about lasting change" because he did next to nothing to attempt it.
8
Please give specific examples of him "blaming racism"....
3
Same commenter who once claimed that the adjectives "ignorant, stupid and shallow" do NOT apply to Donald Trump.
Even though Politifact has researched 180 statements by Trump and rated only five of them, or 3%, as true. In contrast, 58% were false or pants-on-fire. So, Trump actually knew that the Constitution has only 7 articles, not 12? He actually knew that Scotland voted against Brexit? He knew that in fact no one held a candlelight vigil for the murderer of police officers in Dallas? In your view, I suppose, he's not ignorant, stupid, or shallow: he just PRETENDS to be ignorant, stupid, and shallow to win votes from us Americans.
Incidentally, Politifact has researched 586 statements by Barack Obama: 14% false or pants-on-fire.
As for your claim that Obama has not been "honest" about the challenges facing black Americans, note that Michael Eric Dyson, author of The Black Presidency, has complained that ""Obama energetically peppers his words to blacks with talk of responsibility in one public scolding after another." Award-winning author Ta-Nehisi Coates has described our president as "the scold of Black America." Obviously, they see things quite differently. An academic, that is. A cultural critic. People who follow the news everyday.
Here's the bottom line: in truth, you know next to nothing about what's really happening inside other white, upper-middle-income families, and in fact, you've clearly got an axe to grind. I find your comment unconvincing.
Even though Politifact has researched 180 statements by Trump and rated only five of them, or 3%, as true. In contrast, 58% were false or pants-on-fire. So, Trump actually knew that the Constitution has only 7 articles, not 12? He actually knew that Scotland voted against Brexit? He knew that in fact no one held a candlelight vigil for the murderer of police officers in Dallas? In your view, I suppose, he's not ignorant, stupid, or shallow: he just PRETENDS to be ignorant, stupid, and shallow to win votes from us Americans.
Incidentally, Politifact has researched 586 statements by Barack Obama: 14% false or pants-on-fire.
As for your claim that Obama has not been "honest" about the challenges facing black Americans, note that Michael Eric Dyson, author of The Black Presidency, has complained that ""Obama energetically peppers his words to blacks with talk of responsibility in one public scolding after another." Award-winning author Ta-Nehisi Coates has described our president as "the scold of Black America." Obviously, they see things quite differently. An academic, that is. A cultural critic. People who follow the news everyday.
Here's the bottom line: in truth, you know next to nothing about what's really happening inside other white, upper-middle-income families, and in fact, you've clearly got an axe to grind. I find your comment unconvincing.
5
I became a US citizen in the late eighties after being born in Holland in the 1930s and having worked in Ghana in the 1960s, but I as a world citizen became a proud US citizen after hearing Obama in Dallas and Sanders and Clinton in New Hampshire on July 12.
I have great hopes for Obama after this presidency, even greater than I had for Jimmy Carter whose personal life was almost as presidential as Obama’s. Having established himself globally in a way that demands great respect from every well-thinking politician, I would like him to see in a global position that is flexible enough to effect great global change particularly in respect to the looming climate catastrophe. Perhaps, he might consider getting engaged in one of the ultimate challenges of transforming the unjust, unsustainable and, therefore, unstable international monetary system by basing it on a carbon standard, the conceptual, institutional, ethical and strategic dimensions of which are presented in Verhagen 2012 "The Tierra Solution: Resolving the climate crisis through monetary transformation" and updated at www.timun.net.
I have great hopes for Obama after this presidency, even greater than I had for Jimmy Carter whose personal life was almost as presidential as Obama’s. Having established himself globally in a way that demands great respect from every well-thinking politician, I would like him to see in a global position that is flexible enough to effect great global change particularly in respect to the looming climate catastrophe. Perhaps, he might consider getting engaged in one of the ultimate challenges of transforming the unjust, unsustainable and, therefore, unstable international monetary system by basing it on a carbon standard, the conceptual, institutional, ethical and strategic dimensions of which are presented in Verhagen 2012 "The Tierra Solution: Resolving the climate crisis through monetary transformation" and updated at www.timun.net.
9
There can be no doubt that compared to his democrat predecessor Bill Clinton, Mr. Obama is Ward Cleaver. That being said, we elected a President, not father of the year. His tenure as President has been beset with disappointment, tragedy and a general disinterest in demonstrating even a modicum of leadership on the world stage. It seems like he is running out the clock and the events and realities of the world have overtaken him. So sad.
10
Quite wrong, the right has sought to obstruct him in every possible way. The world and most world leaders have great respect and admiration for him. One wonders how much better this country and the world would be if the 'redneck rabble' had only worked with him.
62
President Obama has set a global example of humanity and leadership that is timeless and without borders - and has too often been maligned for respecting even those who have worked so hard to block him. Only a fool would blame him for the current disarray of that democracy, which is not (yet?) a dictatorship. That democracy requires the electorate to fill not only the executive branch with a worthy leader, but also every congressional and senate seat - also willing to seat justices who would ensure their rights, in order to realize the change and the future so many claim they wish to enjoy. President Obama has been the greatest of all who have held his office. One can only imagine how much more he could have accomplished if more voters had chosen like-minded legislative and judicial branches.
59
Mr. Obama has always been an inspiration to me, his calm under fire, his intelligence, and wit. As a single mother and an educator, I have often used Mr. Obama as a model to children of how to be our "best self." I will really miss him and the shinning example of thoughtful decency he gave Americans and people around the world.
74
This article is about Barack Obama, as a father, husband, POTUS and human being.
It is not about African Americans being superior to Caucasians or vice versa. It is not about Trump or Hillary.
See it for what it is - President Barack Obama is an exemplary Homo Sapien, and a fine POTUS. He may be one of the finest to hold the office.
This is about a win-win, not a win-lose!
It is not about African Americans being superior to Caucasians or vice versa. It is not about Trump or Hillary.
See it for what it is - President Barack Obama is an exemplary Homo Sapien, and a fine POTUS. He may be one of the finest to hold the office.
This is about a win-win, not a win-lose!
63
Best First Lady in my lifetime, by far.
A good and decent man, but a very disappointing failure as President.
And it's time to seek some counseling about your obsession with Trump, who has clearly driven you over the edge.
A good and decent man, but a very disappointing failure as President.
And it's time to seek some counseling about your obsession with Trump, who has clearly driven you over the edge.
3
You don't need to be obsessed with Donald Trump to see what a mean, petty, bullying, egotistical, racist human being he is. What you need to be is fearful for our country if he is elected
46
I understand your opinions about Trump, and in fact I share them. It's just that Egan has been over the top.
And I wouldn't get too worked up about Trump, anyway, since I don't expect him to even be on the ballot in November. He's unstable, and will either voluntarily drop out or be forced to.
Oh, and while we're on the subject, I don't expect Hillary to be on the ballot either. There will be a surprise leak from Snowden or that Romanian guy, that will reveal a "smoking gun" that the FBI "missed", wink wink, in their "investigation" wink wink. Anybody who believes that she wasn't hacked is naive.
Personally, I'm trying to decide between Biden and Michael Bloomberg, which is where I suspect it will end up, when the smoke clears.
And don't tell me I'm crazy. This is a year unlike any other.
Anything can happen in the next four months.
Happy Friday.
And I wouldn't get too worked up about Trump, anyway, since I don't expect him to even be on the ballot in November. He's unstable, and will either voluntarily drop out or be forced to.
Oh, and while we're on the subject, I don't expect Hillary to be on the ballot either. There will be a surprise leak from Snowden or that Romanian guy, that will reveal a "smoking gun" that the FBI "missed", wink wink, in their "investigation" wink wink. Anybody who believes that she wasn't hacked is naive.
Personally, I'm trying to decide between Biden and Michael Bloomberg, which is where I suspect it will end up, when the smoke clears.
And don't tell me I'm crazy. This is a year unlike any other.
Anything can happen in the next four months.
Happy Friday.
Those who connect with Trump feel heard in a way that they don't with Obama. In short, Trump "feels their pain." In that way, he is like Clinton 1. Trump's ability to tune into frustration without the ability to navigate a cogent, thoughtful way forward may be a strength for the election but will be a liability in office. The vast majority of people, even those voting for Trump, do not believe he is trustworthy. How would Trump handle the opposition and defamation that Obama was routinely subjected to? Would he spend a lot of tax dollars suing Congress for libel?
We need leaders who can take the heat. Who remain calm during a crisis and exhibit grace under pressure. Who do not cave in to their personal weaknesses under the extraordinary pressure of being POTUS.
We need leaders who can take the heat. Who remain calm during a crisis and exhibit grace under pressure. Who do not cave in to their personal weaknesses under the extraordinary pressure of being POTUS.
20
Already we have seen that Trump tends to melt down when challenged. He reacts only with hostility.
3
Mr. Egan has captured almost perfectly the reason I will miss our president. Why almost? President Obama is also a model son-in-law. How many men have such obviously loving and mutually supportive relationships with their mothers-in-law?
46
Thank you for this.
39
What a beautiful and apt tribute to Barack Obama, a one class act. I miss him already, and so wish it were possible to chant, "four more years."
53
I agree 100%. On one hand or country is strong enough to survive a bad candidate getting into office. On the other hand you can see how important these skills are in time of hardship and how they will be sorely lacking if Trump gets in
16
President Obama's personal story has always informed his political one. As a candidate, he shared that his late mother's insurance struggles during cancer treatment led him to struggle for guaranteed health care - ultimately, he was the first American leader to achieve that. He took much heat for addressing absentee fathers, speaking as the son of one, challenging that anyone could create a child, but it took courage to then raise them. Having lived in different parts of the world gave him respect for cultural pluralism and foreign policy towards reconciliation and dropping his predecessor's arrogance. As a biracial man, he has understood race through the prisms of both whites and people of color, stating that he most wanted his own legacy to be addressing America's legacy of race. And his devotion as a father comes through when he has to console the parents of those lost to gun violence, which he says is the hardest thing he does. His empathy as a parent makes him push for laws to make bloodbaths less likely.
President Obama's own unique story and good character inform his policies, his exemplary behavior, and his strong leadership.
President Obama's own unique story and good character inform his policies, his exemplary behavior, and his strong leadership.
66
"....led him to struggle for guaranteed health care - ultimately, he was the first American leader to achieve that."
There is not guaranteed healthcare in this country.
There is not guaranteed healthcare in this country.
1
@JJ - Actually, there is. Because the the Affordable Care Act, insurance companies are no longer allowed to refuse coverage based on a whim or pre-existing conditions, drop you on a whim if you get ill, or cap how much coverage you're allowed in a lifetme, And Medicaid program coverage was extended with federal tax support to states, in addition to tax credits toward premiums for low income families. No, it's not universal healthcare (Congress would not agree to it), but it is a step in the right direction.
4
As a candidate, he shared that his late mother's insurance struggles during cancer treatment led him to struggle for guaranteed health care - ultimately, he was the first American leader to achieve that.
=====================
One more Obama lie that many (like you) have swallowed.
If you check David Maraniss's biography of Obama, you'll see that Obama's mother was completely covered by insurance for her medical expenses during her battle with cancer. The insurance dispute that Obama says he helped her with, was really about payment on disability insurance.
=====================
One more Obama lie that many (like you) have swallowed.
If you check David Maraniss's biography of Obama, you'll see that Obama's mother was completely covered by insurance for her medical expenses during her battle with cancer. The insurance dispute that Obama says he helped her with, was really about payment on disability insurance.
1
My father, a WWII Veteran, passed away last year. I wrote to the President personally, pencil and paper, telling him a little of my father and how much it would mean to my mother to get a short note if condolence from him. I debated thinking, I am wasting my time. The busiest man in the world and with all the problems going on in this country and the world will not have or take the time to write to a nobody of importance. I dropped the letter in the mailbox anyway. Several months go by that I had in fact forgot about it.
A few months later we get a knock on the door at 6:48 pm.
A courier is outside with a large envelope for me to sign for .
President Obama did not forget about my did not forget about my mother and I . The letter my Mother received from him is so personal it brings tears to her eyes everytime she reads it and me as well. It stays mounted in glass on our wall of the tiny condominium I share with her.
Thank you and God Bless you President Obama.
A few months later we get a knock on the door at 6:48 pm.
A courier is outside with a large envelope for me to sign for .
President Obama did not forget about my did not forget about my mother and I . The letter my Mother received from him is so personal it brings tears to her eyes everytime she reads it and me as well. It stays mounted in glass on our wall of the tiny condominium I share with her.
Thank you and God Bless you President Obama.
1037
For several decades the White House has had an office staffed with people who take care of the letters requesting notes of condolence, birthday greetings, etc. Requests for notes from the current president can be honored for births, anniversaries, birthdays (80 or older), and letters of condolence. This service sends out several thousand such messages each year. The service is offered only to American citizens.
This is a good opportunity to let people know that the greetings can be requested by email, US mail, and through every Senator's office.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/contact/presidential-greetings-request
This is a good opportunity to let people know that the greetings can be requested by email, US mail, and through every Senator's office.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/contact/presidential-greetings-request
2
Glenn,
Your comment made me cry. President Obama also answered a letter from my daughter regarding gun violence in a vey reassuring, personal way.
I am going to miss this most extraordinary, thoughtful, caring man very much.
Your comment made me cry. President Obama also answered a letter from my daughter regarding gun violence in a vey reassuring, personal way.
I am going to miss this most extraordinary, thoughtful, caring man very much.
6
@GlennS, Ft. Lauderdale: I want to say yours is one post I'll never forget. The president should be the president of *all the people*, not simply the mega-donors to campaigns. I hope that you and you mother appreciate the rare presidential honor bestowed upon your family. I really can't imagine another president in my lifetime taking the time to recognize your father's service save Jimmy Carter. Donald Trump (pray "president" is a title he'll never own) would have probably said something like "write me a check and I'll think about it."
6
"It’s not fair to give him his due as a person, his high grade for character, for being scandal-free in his private life, just because a potential successor has no character, no class, and breaches a new wall of civility every time he opens his mouth."
Hey Timmy - change that "he" to a "she" and you nailed it.
Hey Timmy - change that "he" to a "she" and you nailed it.
5
Some few of us rise to the level of elegance. Obama does! I started to miss him the moment I witnessed the pretenders emerge. To call Trump a vulgarian is to raise him to a level he will never reach. It isn't vulgar to tell us he would do his daughter. It isn't vulgar for him to tell us he will commit war crimes. It isn't vulgar for him to want women punished if they have abortions. It isn't vulgar to call a federal judge a bigot because he's Mexican. It isn't vulgar for him to tell us that he will deport 11 million people. It isn't vulgar for him to have multiple bankruptcies and wives. It isn't vulgar for him to tell us that his genitals are great. I have the feeling that he left vulgar behind when he was a teenager. He is now a full blown ego maniac whose world consists of nothing more than himself. He's told us that he will give himself advice. He told us that the UK's opting out of the EU will help him make money because the UK's currency will take a hit. Yes, Obama will be missed by all of us because he is an unruffled human being who actually cares about the people in his country. Back when I was in my 20's in the 1950's the world had a phrase for us: "The ugly Americans." We earned this label because of our citizens behavior in Europe after WWII. Compared to Trump that behavior was admirable. To Obama: "Take him for all in all. We shall not look upon his like again."
89
But, ironically, in the book "The Ugly American" the ugly American and his wife were models of how Americans should act if trying to help poor people in other countries.
9
You need to check out the history and meaning of what "the ugly American" means. It's the opposite of what you said in your comment.
2
When I used the term "Ugly American," I wasn't referring to the book, but rather a popular term used to describe Americans abroad at the time. The claim was that we lacked culture compared to the Europeans. The rather trite expression had its roots in the idea tat we had money, but no savoir faire. I didn't agree with it then, and I still don't for a variety of reasons. My point, as labored as it seems, is that Trump embodies what one may call an Ugly American and not us folks back when I was in my 20's.
1
Barack Obama is everything a rural, white, evangelical, conservative would hope to be and at the same time, he is everything they hate.
176
Besides being black, sometimes we hate what is "too good." Mr. Clinton has also been an excellent president in many ways but seriously faulted in many other ways. However, Mr. Clinton is universally liked because he is faulted like one of us. Bill is one of the guys but Barack is not. Mr. Obama is an outsider not only because he is a minority but also because he holds himself to higher standards than most of us can achieve. That is why envy is a sin; sometimes people envy not only for material things but also for "goodness."
47
So true.
20
So true, as well.
14
Seen from afar one can only echo the thoughts of the writer: President Obama has been an exceptional president . Probably better than the country deserves. History will certainly treat him better than his compatriots have.
99
What is sad is that there has been a wide gap between President Obama's personal comportment, which is exemplary, and his track record of accomplishment as President, which is terrible. He campaigned as a statesman and sounds like a statesman in major public speeches, but he has governed as a highly partisan Democrat from the Chicago political machine. He is one of the worst negotiators ever to be President. His personal dignity is what has allowed him to escape accountability for 8 years of economic stagnation and now deteriorating race relations.
He has invented bogeymen to hide is administraton's failures. Eight years of economic and wage stagnation are not due to policies of increased regulation and higher taxes, but rather to "income inequality". Conflicts between police and minority communities are not due to urban poverty, welfare dependency, and crime (problems his administration has failed to address or mitigate), but rather due to "systemic racism".
Remember My Brother's Keeper? That was just a nice photo op for the President. Sadly, he has been too busy playing golf to give much time to it.
He has invented bogeymen to hide is administraton's failures. Eight years of economic and wage stagnation are not due to policies of increased regulation and higher taxes, but rather to "income inequality". Conflicts between police and minority communities are not due to urban poverty, welfare dependency, and crime (problems his administration has failed to address or mitigate), but rather due to "systemic racism".
Remember My Brother's Keeper? That was just a nice photo op for the President. Sadly, he has been too busy playing golf to give much time to it.
8
You must be kidding. (Sadly, you're not.) What he has achieved is remarkable, especially in light of an entirely uncooperative, scheming, undermining Republican Congress. REMARKABLE. And yet in the face of all of those machinations against him, he retained his composure, his balance, his sense of humor, and still kept on, trying to move things forward for the country. Best President in my lifetime so far (my first vote was for George McGovern), by a long shot. Probably will be the best President we've had for a very long time.
41
Taking the country from the depths of a monumental recession with possible destruction of the financial system to stability… is not failure.
Taking unemployment down from 9% to less than 5%.. is not failure.
Moving up the market three times more than when he took office…is not failure.
Dealing with two deplorably unnecessary wars and
stopping the killing of American soldiers…is not failure.
Trying to govern in the face of unprecedented political opposition…is not his failure.
Dealing with opponents who want him to engage terrorists more forcibly while refusing to give him authorization to do so…is not his failure.
Trying to boost the economy through necessary infrastructure improvements when opponents refuse to fund them…is not his failure.
Blinders are detrimental to knowledge.
Taking unemployment down from 9% to less than 5%.. is not failure.
Moving up the market three times more than when he took office…is not failure.
Dealing with two deplorably unnecessary wars and
stopping the killing of American soldiers…is not failure.
Trying to govern in the face of unprecedented political opposition…is not his failure.
Dealing with opponents who want him to engage terrorists more forcibly while refusing to give him authorization to do so…is not his failure.
Trying to boost the economy through necessary infrastructure improvements when opponents refuse to fund them…is not his failure.
Blinders are detrimental to knowledge.
61
Wow. Your must have been hiding out in a cave somewhere the last eight years or you have decided to ignore deliberately all the facts. First off- yes, there is such a thing as "Income Inequality." Ask any economist. And our economy is up and unemployment down since Obama took over from the complete eight-year failure of W. Secondly, "Systematic Racism" is also a fact- even some of the Repugs agree on it these days. Conflicts between minorities and the police won't be there if a lot of them don't have the mind-set that "breathing while black" is a crime. Get out of that hate-filled cave and come into the sunshine already!
3
Four more years!!! Four more years!!! Four more years!!!
48
Democrats let President Obama down by not bothering to vote in mid-term election. We are our own worst enemies by allowing the carcinogenic GOP to continue infecting us. So much squandered by a feckless electorate that doesn't understand the power of the vote. Shame on Democrats.
We owe this wonderful man an apology for not standing behind him while a cancer is riddling our body politic. As for his haters, well done spreading your inchoate bile and bigotry. You should be very proud to have dragged this whole country into your sewer.
We owe this wonderful man an apology for not standing behind him while a cancer is riddling our body politic. As for his haters, well done spreading your inchoate bile and bigotry. You should be very proud to have dragged this whole country into your sewer.
115
I am not an American and I adore him.
58
Amen! President Obama has been the epitome of grace, class and compassion in a openly hostile and classless relationship with a do-nothing congress. History will only need to report the facts regarding his presidency to do him justice.
63
The best measurement of any President is the ability to unite people of all beliefs. Obama has a done a poor job. For those who blame Congress they need to be reminded that the President must have the ability to reach across the aisle and get things done. This is difficult, but it is the Presidents job, is it not? I fear the Obama ego has tarnished his legacy. their were too many times Obama interjected politics into the so called "venues of despair" and most found that distasteful.
7
Nonsense. President Obama can not unite people who are determined to oppose him.
100
Amen
14
When the leader of the opposing party states that their number one priority is to make him a one term President, it proves there is not a hand on the other side of the aisle to reach across to.
53
Am I the only one suffering from Obama-burn out? Think back to 2008--Barack Obama was still a relatively unknown junior from Illinois when he decided to throw his hat in the presidential ring. Why?? Because Barack Obama disapproved of then front runner Hillary Clinton vote in the Senate to give George W Bush the green light to invade Iraq. The rest is history. Obama won thanks to those nifty campaign promises of "hope and change" and the endless chant of 'Yes we can". Having a compliant, worshipful mainstream media which didn't bother exploring Candidate Obama's background didn't hurt either. We elected someone we knew absolutely nothing about!!!! The only reason Obama made it to the Oval Office, despite his lack of legislative experience, is because his last name was neither Clinton nor Bush.
Obama proved to be the most naïve president in recent history. In the beginning Obama thought that the world's problems could be solved if all nations agreed to get some group therapy with himself as head shrink. Unfortunately, things didn't go according to plan. ISIS started running amok and America became one massive shooting gallery with out of control bloody rampages occurring on a weekly basis. Donald Trump's surprising presidential run is simply part of the backlash to Obama. Obama turned America into the world's laughingstock.
See what happens when you elect a fantasy candidate as president??
Obama proved to be the most naïve president in recent history. In the beginning Obama thought that the world's problems could be solved if all nations agreed to get some group therapy with himself as head shrink. Unfortunately, things didn't go according to plan. ISIS started running amok and America became one massive shooting gallery with out of control bloody rampages occurring on a weekly basis. Donald Trump's surprising presidential run is simply part of the backlash to Obama. Obama turned America into the world's laughingstock.
See what happens when you elect a fantasy candidate as president??
10
It's just this kind of rhetoric -- the unsubstantiated venting of the aggrieved -- that gave us Donald Trump. Trump was canny enough to realize that he could tap into this kind of resentment and make a successful run. Whether you vote for him or someone else, this is what the rest of the world is laughing at, when they're not shaking their heads in bewilderment.
70
As a 62 year old white Jewish man I have never uttered these words "MY PRESIDENT". I do now!
61
I agree 100%. I did not vote for Obama either time, but he has personally been above reproach.
I wish we could give him another 18 months in office and let the Democrats and GOP reboot and get us better candidates. I could support Sanders or Kasich, both honest men.
After Bill Clinton went out of his way to meet Attorney General Lynch, I cannot vote for Hillary.
I wish we could give him another 18 months in office and let the Democrats and GOP reboot and get us better candidates. I could support Sanders or Kasich, both honest men.
After Bill Clinton went out of his way to meet Attorney General Lynch, I cannot vote for Hillary.
107
Exactly right. With few exceptions, like this essay, this paper has failed to give Obama his due. Even today, the morning after which the president offered insight and reassurance at a nationally televised town hall, the article about it, hopeful in tone, was an AP story that didn't make it to the front page or even the politics section. How can any president hope to make a difference when editors and media business people increasingly push stories if division and drama rather than solutions and reason?
55
I’ve inveighed against almost all of President Obama’s initiatives, many of them not for their motivations or end objectives but for their achievability and sustainability. But I’ve never questioned the basic decency of this man. Every American can be proud of the way he has chosen to comport himself as our president. While we may argue the divisiveness of ObamaCare and the effectiveness of a strategy of telling the world that it needs to be more accountable for its own maintenance, it’s just unimaginable that we would ever see a Whisky-Ring emerge from this administration, or that anyone could ever question the president’s personal honor and integrity.
35
And yet you are prepared to vote for a man with no decency , no honor, and certainly no integrity.
Don't bother to bad mouth Hillary in comparison. Trump's failings are there for all to see. Hillary , conversely , has done nothing that rises to anything of consequence while acting in the service of her country for the past twenty five years. All of the swiftboating , propaganda, and vicious lies promoted by the GOP have produced zero proof that she has done anything with in miles of earning a conviction. In the words of James Comey : we have no proof that the server was hacked...but it might have been.
Anything is possible , Dickey-Boy , but the fact that Goldilocks gas absolutely nothing in his quiver is manifest, Res Ipsa Loquitor for every eye to see and every ear to hear.
Ms. Clinton , on the other hand is possessed of all the accomplishments and wisdom that Mr. Trump could only hope for.
Wake up man !
Don't bother to bad mouth Hillary in comparison. Trump's failings are there for all to see. Hillary , conversely , has done nothing that rises to anything of consequence while acting in the service of her country for the past twenty five years. All of the swiftboating , propaganda, and vicious lies promoted by the GOP have produced zero proof that she has done anything with in miles of earning a conviction. In the words of James Comey : we have no proof that the server was hacked...but it might have been.
Anything is possible , Dickey-Boy , but the fact that Goldilocks gas absolutely nothing in his quiver is manifest, Res Ipsa Loquitor for every eye to see and every ear to hear.
Ms. Clinton , on the other hand is possessed of all the accomplishments and wisdom that Mr. Trump could only hope for.
Wake up man !
3
As a person and a president, Mr. Obama will be missed by me. I have no doubt that history will judge him well and will rank as one of the best presidents. Many in the country hate him for his blackness. Many on the right in the country oppose him because he is center left. Many on the left in the country are disappointed with him because he is center left. Besides the haters, either consciously or subconsciously racists, Mr. Obama's policies are compromises. While "compromise" is a dirty word in this election year, with country closely divided on so many issues, what can actually be implemented are ultimately compromises. May be taking fire from both left and right means that Mr. Obama has been doing the right things all along?
32
Yes, he has been a fine person. We have been lucky to have him.
56
This is one of the most incisive, most accurate, most important columns I have EVER read. Thank you so very, very much for it. What can and should be added to it is the following. It is President Obama's very class, dignity, character, rectitude, integrity and grace that have only enraged the racists and fueled the racism. The indisputable facts that the Obama administration and the Obama family have been the most ethical, the most dignified, the classiest really sticks in the craw of so many pathetic Americans. Yes, the Black president has shown all those White presidents of the past 80 or 90 or so years not only how the presidency should be done but how being a man, a spouse, a father SHOULD be done. This nation will miss President Obama enormously. It owes him a dept of gratitude...and apologies.
526
"If you can keep your head when all about you are losing theirs and blaming it on you..." Rudyard Kipling
What a lesson in class and dignity President Obama has provided in the face of unhinged right-wing hatred.
What a lesson in class and dignity President Obama has provided in the face of unhinged right-wing hatred.
89
It must be very hard to recognize instinctively that something you loathe can be so exceptional. It must be even harder to deal with the guilt and the envy this recognition causes. A barbarian like Trump is therefore balm on a wounded sense of proportion caused by a black man who isn't uppity at all but a true gentleman.
12
From my heart to your keyboard. Thank you for detailing the truth about this extraordinary man and his presidency. He belongs on Mount Rushmore.
75
Obama is a class act. I'm tired of Americans bashing him. Europeans (who tend to be more politically sophisticated than Americans) greatly admire him. All the problems of his presidency are due to Republicans blocking every bill he proposes. Shame on the Republicans and long live Obama.
100
Many, many Americans admire him greatly. I would venture to say that in many parts of the country we are in the majority.
7
I don't think we'll ever have another president who presents with the calmness and dignity of Barak Obama. It's just not in our social DNA anymore.
51
The great shame in this country is how this man of dignity and class has been savaged by a white conservative press which has relentlessly attempted to tear him down over eight full years. They have blamed him for every conceivable problem that has arisen and invented dozens of stories that have sought to bring him low. Under this duress he has exhibited the patience of a saint. We are now on the cusp of turning the Presidency of this country over to a man who was at the forefront of this smear campaign. What a classless society we haver become.
1610
I don't blame the press, but the pundits who are constantly stirring the pot for something to report on. There are way too many opinionators and way too little factual reporting. And then we wonder why people don't pay attention to facts!
27
Scapegoating is a sure fire way for those feeling weak and ineffectual to feel better by denying their part in a problem and blaming it on an outside group or individual. Politics is rife with it, and Obama has been blamed for problems that were in play long before he became president. That he has dealt effectively with many of them serves only to anger those who would have him fail. Similarly, anger and fear is being used to stoke resentment and hatred this election year to unify a failing party behind a candidate who wants to win at any cost; to be the conquering hero that promises to "Make America great again".
2
Amen, Babel!
Thank you, thank you. He has been a man of remarkable dignity, decency and grace while enduring hostility and explicit racism. History will treat this good man well.
91
Those of us who regularly red and admire Mr. Egan's essays will say, "Thank you for capturing the essence of the president." Far too many others - and we have seen and heard their words - still, STILL see only a Kenyan-Muslim-Socialist who hates America and particularly white people. Even after eight years the needle has not moved except perhaps backwards as tens of millions of Americans are prepared to vote for the crudest, most ignorant, most insecure, and least prepared candidate for the awesome responsibilities of the presidency in modern times. Anyone who does not genuinely fear for the future of this nation is not paying attention.
81
And if Trump is elected, those same ignorant Trumpian people will twist themselves in knots trying to blame the subsequent Trump disasters on Obama. I have already seen published opinions that somehow, Obama brought forth Trump.
Americans seem to have infantile expectations that Presidents can magically do anything they want to. This is what Trump promises. We shall see.
Americans seem to have infantile expectations that Presidents can magically do anything they want to. This is what Trump promises. We shall see.
14
This is beautiful and completely sums up how I've been feeling about President Obama since this election year began. No matter who is elected next, we will miss him. HIs class, his sincerity, his compassion and his ability to elevate the office after years of people that didn't. I know he wasn't a perfect president (perfect doesn't exist) but we were lucky to have him as our leader for the past eight years. Thanks so much Timothy for putting my feelings to words.
74
Obama the President will be judged by future historians as one of the great Presidents. After all he did save the American and global economy, reverse the bleeding losses in jobs, get Obamacare passed, not start a war and tried his best to close down currents wars and Guantanamo.
But what is clearly evident is that Obama the man, the husband, and the father is a shining model. We do not need the future to tell us what is palpably obvious right now, right here.
But what is clearly evident is that Obama the man, the husband, and the father is a shining model. We do not need the future to tell us what is palpably obvious right now, right here.
125
The president projects the image of the nation. Obama has served the US extremely well in this regard. Sadly, the president can be only as good as Congress allows him to be in terms of helping pass useful legislation. Nobody could have done better than Obama with the cards he was dealt in that regard. Most criticisms of his presidency should be deflected towards Congress.
67
Although I share Mr. Egan's admiration for President Obama, I think attributing much of the vitriol directed at him to race is a bit lazy. The delegitimization of Democratic presidents can be traced back at least to Jimmy Carter, and reached a crescendo with the impeachment of Bill Clinton. President Obama's skin, the circumstances of his childhood, his elite education and his personal connections to Islam make him an easy target for disingenuous demagogues; but if he were a white, middle-class, Methodist alumnus of a state school, the innuendo and accusations would have found - or invented - other gaps in his armor.
Barack Obama, is by all appearances, a far better human being than Bill Clinton. Then again, so is Hillary Clinton, for all the good it will do her. There is too much money to be made, too many careers to be advanced, through the politics of destruction. At best, President Obama's exemplary private life has deprived his detractors of ammunition. Unfortunately for Secretary Clinton, she and her husband have seldom even managed that much.
Barack Obama, is by all appearances, a far better human being than Bill Clinton. Then again, so is Hillary Clinton, for all the good it will do her. There is too much money to be made, too many careers to be advanced, through the politics of destruction. At best, President Obama's exemplary private life has deprived his detractors of ammunition. Unfortunately for Secretary Clinton, she and her husband have seldom even managed that much.
17
What an examined Self.
I admire his decorum and composure.
It's been an extraordinary performance by the entire family.
Though I have not always felt in accord with his substance, I will miss that slight upturn of the head, his comedic timing, the slight but unmistakable sideways swagger getting off the plane that my friend Ms. Linda and i liked to comment upon, whenever we speak about him. We are fortunate he came along in 2008 and somehow managed to keep things going when the going was less than easy. It's a good thing we have some more months with him.
I admire his decorum and composure.
It's been an extraordinary performance by the entire family.
Though I have not always felt in accord with his substance, I will miss that slight upturn of the head, his comedic timing, the slight but unmistakable sideways swagger getting off the plane that my friend Ms. Linda and i liked to comment upon, whenever we speak about him. We are fortunate he came along in 2008 and somehow managed to keep things going when the going was less than easy. It's a good thing we have some more months with him.
44
Yes. Mr. Obama has indeed been upright, dignified, and principled. He has had more vitriol tossed at him than any president in my life-time, but has refused to come down to their level. He faced a congress with a GOP whose stated goal was to make him a failure (too bad their goal has not been to actually do their jobs and govern). Mr. Obama has lived into the dignity of the office of President of the United States. I am proud to call him my president.
482
Mr. Egan : Your words reflect my feelings about President Obama exactly. I am continually surprised and moved by his eloquence in the face of tragedy and pain, his grace under pressure and undeserved partisan attack and his exemplary conduct as a father and husband. He makes me proud to be an American.
54
We need him for 4 more years.
56
Agree 1000%, Joe! And a better Congress who will work with him and not against him. President Obama is a class act all the way around.
24
Tim.
One of your best.
Hopefully the President reads it and takes solace in both the column you wrote and the Comments which will surely reinforce all that you have said here.
His take-away should be that there are many among us who see him as the paradigm of intellect, balance and virtue that he is.
Thank you for saying what so many of us feel.
One of your best.
Hopefully the President reads it and takes solace in both the column you wrote and the Comments which will surely reinforce all that you have said here.
His take-away should be that there are many among us who see him as the paradigm of intellect, balance and virtue that he is.
Thank you for saying what so many of us feel.
81
Magnificent encomium of our great President, Barack Hussein Obama. Thank you, Tim Egan. After having watched his memorable speech to the murdered white police officers in Dallas, a city which rings a bell of doom in our political history and culture, this was yet another Obama Gettysburg Address moment, of which he has had so many during his two terms as President. A dear friend of mine emailed after watching Barack Obama's incomparable heartfelt words words to the Dallas police and to us - "we are blessed to be here in this time of this miraculous President of ours!". We did not see Obama's like before - except in the persons and presidencies of Abraham Lincoln, FDR and Harry Truman. It will be a very long time before we see his like again.
58
I knew Barack Obama had the integrity, temperament, and intelligence required of a president in 2008, when he addressed the Rev. Wright scandal. His speech made clear that he'd thought deeply about the problem of racial tension in the United States and well understood that there are no easy answers. He didn't cast blame or point fingers, and even used his own white grandmother as an example of a generally well-meaning person who had a blind spot when it comes to race. He was relatively inexperienced, but I was reassured that he had what it took to occupy the Oval Office.
With every public utterance, half-baked policy idea and impulsive tweet, Donald Trump's behavior tells me exactly the opposite about him. I don't care that he once embraced some Democratic policies and may do so again if he wins the election. He appeals to our worst instincts, not our better angels, and doesn't deserve to get within a light year of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
With every public utterance, half-baked policy idea and impulsive tweet, Donald Trump's behavior tells me exactly the opposite about him. I don't care that he once embraced some Democratic policies and may do so again if he wins the election. He appeals to our worst instincts, not our better angels, and doesn't deserve to get within a light year of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
893
Unfortunately, he's already within a light year of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue; he's only one election away.
I just need to say, over and over, how much I'm going to miss this President. As you write, Timothy, no matter how much you disagree with his policies and performance, in his private life, Barack Obama has been nothing but exemplary.
And against such odds. Like so many members of a minority class, he simply does have to "be twice as good to succeed". Had there been a whiff of scandal, you just know he would been under assault from all quarters, as proof positive that he was simply bad for the country. Never mind the ACA, cleaning up the wreckage of the toxic mortgage crisis, and achieving a recovery that, while far from perfect due shifting technology and type of jobs that can be create in a world beset by global warning, global crises, and steep changes in monetary policy.
Which makes Mr. O'Reilly's ad hominem attack on our President so small, so mean-spirited, and so off base. Bill: your own personal portfolio made a huge comeback, and all you can think of is what Mr. Obama wore to his African brother's wedding? As a symbol of ties to Islam? For shame!
It's this disconnect from his personal attackers and his resolute resolve to maintain his dignity in the face of slights. I have no idea what he says to Michelle in private, but that he can turn the other cheek in public, over and over, says so much about the man.
And so little about his detractors, including the presumptive GOP nominee to replace him.
And against such odds. Like so many members of a minority class, he simply does have to "be twice as good to succeed". Had there been a whiff of scandal, you just know he would been under assault from all quarters, as proof positive that he was simply bad for the country. Never mind the ACA, cleaning up the wreckage of the toxic mortgage crisis, and achieving a recovery that, while far from perfect due shifting technology and type of jobs that can be create in a world beset by global warning, global crises, and steep changes in monetary policy.
Which makes Mr. O'Reilly's ad hominem attack on our President so small, so mean-spirited, and so off base. Bill: your own personal portfolio made a huge comeback, and all you can think of is what Mr. Obama wore to his African brother's wedding? As a symbol of ties to Islam? For shame!
It's this disconnect from his personal attackers and his resolute resolve to maintain his dignity in the face of slights. I have no idea what he says to Michelle in private, but that he can turn the other cheek in public, over and over, says so much about the man.
And so little about his detractors, including the presumptive GOP nominee to replace him.
185
I think Tim Egan has captured only a part of President Obama's strengths. Unfortunately, we have allowed what will be eight years to pass without drawing on his other strengths. His abilities to see and accomplish goals through thoughtful discussion, analysis, and judgement could have yielded progress on many fronts. Unfortunately, the Republicans where only interested in keeping there political jobs, and not interested in doing those jobs. What a loss for all of us!
66
Thank you for writing such a thoughtful and inspiring piece on a man worthy of our admiration , respect and thanks. In a world with few if any role models he stands tall as someone who answers the call everyday as you beautifully point out, first as a father and a husband something all men should strive to accomplish and emulate. His grace under fire, his ability to remain calm, reflective and not retaliatory in the face of the unrelenting personal and vitriolic attacks on his character and family have been nothing short of amazing. He is a true inspiration and has been a blessing. Sadly it seems the world outside of America has appreciated him so much more than we have, In the days to come we shall all miss him so much more than we could ever possibly imagine.
97
Utter floff. Being a decent husband and father is not sufficient qualification for the Presidency. The reality is that Obama the President has been an abject failure. The fact he has achieved this dubious status without being as crude and despicable as Trump, as unwise as W, as sleazy as Clinton, as crooked as Nixon as foul mouthed as LBJ or as horny as JFK does not make him a decent president. Taken all together, you could argue that the U.S. Presidency has been in bad hands for the last 56 years.
8
Are you sure? Obama is almost perfect except for his action on the usage of the drones.
7
I don't understand where all the "failed presidency" talk comes from. I challenge anyone to objectively point to anything that merits such a label. In the face of unbridled hostility from Congress, the ceaseless spreading of lies by Fox News and other agenda-driven members of the press, and overt racism from the chorus of people using the Internet to complain about their loss of privilege in our society, this man has been steady, strong, compassionate and fair. What more could we possibly ask of a President?
60
So if my arithmetic is correct, you're saying the last good president was Dwight Eisenhower?
I think that's a questionable claim, to say the least.
I think that's a questionable claim, to say the least.
17
Barack Obama is the best president in my lifetime. I will truly miss him as President. No one says this, but he has the Aloha spirit. I have spent months in Hawaii. I have not seen road rage. No honking. A lot of smiles. Plenty of sunshine and love.
48
How can we feel anything but pride about our President? He's one of the few things that make America look good around the world. He could make Atticus Finch look shady.
How ironic that he could be followed into office by someone who isn't fit to shine his shoes. As Bill Bryson has said, it's an especially wonderful time for noisy morons.
How ironic that he could be followed into office by someone who isn't fit to shine his shoes. As Bill Bryson has said, it's an especially wonderful time for noisy morons.
57
Thank you, Mr. Egan for your eloquent words. You reflect my feelings exactly. We will greatly miss Barack Obama as our president, and his example of how to behave as a human being.
41
Your description is right on. But it is unfortunate that we feel the need to compare Barak Obama with anyone. As someone commented: a mensch in contrast to the un-mensch! He is a model that more need to replicate rather than repudiate. In fact, Barak Obama is the "American Dream" of old: the fairy tale of "humble origins" elevated to an "exalted height". A dream to which many aspire but too few succeed without some fatal flaw exposed. And, I can think of few who have carried their grace, honor and humility with them through the full eight years. He You don't have to agree with him to respect him. Everyone should.
1250
Excellent piece, TE. Thank you. We'll miss the Obamas and we'll miss his steady hand and bright smile. I pity the jaundiced generation, people who think it gauche, (ok, uncool) to praise anything or anyone. They have their heroes but the feet of clay of such heroes are so large and mucky that everyone else must also be derided. And that's part of the descent into the hell that lies below mediocrity. (You'll see, we'll get around to nostalgia for mediocrity. Some actually yearn for the W years.)
Gingrich has just called for the First Amendment to be overthrown. Congress has gone home without doing its duty to the Constitution, using instead the worst of the nihilistic playbook brought to DC by the Tea Party. They've ignored Zika virus; they've denied a war resolution to Obama, hoping that if it turns out really badly, they cam blame him. Goodnight, Irene.
Gingrich has just called for the First Amendment to be overthrown. Congress has gone home without doing its duty to the Constitution, using instead the worst of the nihilistic playbook brought to DC by the Tea Party. They've ignored Zika virus; they've denied a war resolution to Obama, hoping that if it turns out really badly, they cam blame him. Goodnight, Irene.
32
He is also a man of vision, great vision. He understands how his legacy and the future of the country and the course he has set will depend on the November election. He is a competitor, a fierce competitor whose fires burn not for intermittent victories, but for a peace time reset in harmony with global changes--the most difficult of leadership challenges.
He will not let Trump win. He will not hand the keys to the White House to him at the swearing-in. Chargrined, beaten, stalemated and in disorder (a Speaker resigned mid-term!), Ryan and others are still running against his astounding legacy; they see Hillary as a proxy.
She's not. But President Obama will not stand by idly to see his work dismantled as a wall is built--he will not leave the nation in the hands of a man as uncouth and crude, loud, narcissistic, and arrogant (and ignorant!), racist and xenophobic, insistent on blind violence with no respect for the law or the constitution or for progress as Donald Trump. That he sees as his final duty as President.
Let's help him achieve his final goal.
He will not let Trump win. He will not hand the keys to the White House to him at the swearing-in. Chargrined, beaten, stalemated and in disorder (a Speaker resigned mid-term!), Ryan and others are still running against his astounding legacy; they see Hillary as a proxy.
She's not. But President Obama will not stand by idly to see his work dismantled as a wall is built--he will not leave the nation in the hands of a man as uncouth and crude, loud, narcissistic, and arrogant (and ignorant!), racist and xenophobic, insistent on blind violence with no respect for the law or the constitution or for progress as Donald Trump. That he sees as his final duty as President.
Let's help him achieve his final goal.
70
Are you insane? Obama will not leave the White House? He will not accept the will of the people in a democracy to elect their next leader?
@Concerned Citizen - Your post makes no sense. Perhaps you posted before carefully reading @Walter Rhett's comments?
3
President Obama has spent his time in the White House in denial of his white heritage. never bringing up the 50% attributable to his mom.
Instead of being a bridge between black and white (Mr. Obama is brown, not black), he has acted as a divisive figure.
He may have been a good father within his family - but he has not been a good father to his country.
Instead of being a bridge between black and white (Mr. Obama is brown, not black), he has acted as a divisive figure.
He may have been a good father within his family - but he has not been a good father to his country.
8
The President has frequently spoken of his mother and his grandparents. Far more frequently than he's spoken of his father, actually. I'm honored to call him my President.
55
The choice was made for him hundreds of years ago. Have you ever heard of the "One Drop Rule"? One drop of black blood makes one black.
What is the white heritage he denied? Confederate flags, country music and pickup trucks? Always entertaining to see northern whites standing up for their Southern "heritage".
What is the white heritage he denied? Confederate flags, country music and pickup trucks? Always entertaining to see northern whites standing up for their Southern "heritage".
25
Alex in S. Lancaster Ontario said, "President Obama has spent his time in the White House in denial of his white heritage. never bringing up the 50% attributable to his mom."
In this country a man who looks like Mr. Obama is labeled as a "black" man. If he was not famous, that is how he would be seen and that is how he would be treated. In some parts of the country, a swaggering sheriff's deputy would stop him and call him "boy" as he asked him what he was "doing here."
You are simply wrong that Mr. Obama is "in denial of his white heritage." Mr. Obama speaks loving both of his mother and of her parents who partly raised him, but the country makes its judgments and they are not "Oh, he's 1/2 white."
In this country a man who looks like Mr. Obama is labeled as a "black" man. If he was not famous, that is how he would be seen and that is how he would be treated. In some parts of the country, a swaggering sheriff's deputy would stop him and call him "boy" as he asked him what he was "doing here."
You are simply wrong that Mr. Obama is "in denial of his white heritage." Mr. Obama speaks loving both of his mother and of her parents who partly raised him, but the country makes its judgments and they are not "Oh, he's 1/2 white."
37
I so admire Barack Obama for being the real thing, and not a hypocrite.
His dignity, maturity, grace, decency and optimism in the face of unceasing onslaughts are one classy package.
His dignity, maturity, grace, decency and optimism in the face of unceasing onslaughts are one classy package.
60
President Obama would have been an outstanding asset for any country. The sad - indeed tragic - fact is that he became president of a country where tens of millions of people were prepared to dismiss him (or worse) for all the irrelevant reasons noted here by other commenters.
That he not only survived (almost) eight years of such abuse without losing it says more about the man than anything I can think of.
p.
That he not only survived (almost) eight years of such abuse without losing it says more about the man than anything I can think of.
p.
49
I think that this has been more a case of Americans failing to deserve the President that they have than the President failing to make things better with his words. The increase in racist attitudes after Obama's election is not surprising; the very fact that an African American could be elected President drove large segments of white America crazy and polarized/catalyzed those racist tendencies in a way nothing else could. Obama has been a trail blazer in this regard, but it is tragic that such a great man was stymied and held back by such small, vicious people. The real possibility that his Presidency might be followed by Donald Trump isn't just a tragedy - it's a farce. Win or lose, the Republicans have demonstrated time and again that their party is completely unsuited for governance. But there are many Americans who want to vote Trump just as a way to "take back their country" from the African American man who dared to win, twice.
Obama has been much better than the US deserves. He is easily the most popular politician in Canada. Touch in cheek, if he wanted to come here and continue his political career, he would do amazing things. Of course, he really deserves the rest that he is about to get. I look forward to seeing what he does with the rest of his life and I hope that he uses Jimmy Carter as a role model to take his talents into the larger world.
Obama has been much better than the US deserves. He is easily the most popular politician in Canada. Touch in cheek, if he wanted to come here and continue his political career, he would do amazing things. Of course, he really deserves the rest that he is about to get. I look forward to seeing what he does with the rest of his life and I hope that he uses Jimmy Carter as a role model to take his talents into the larger world.
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@Shaun Narine - You apparently failed to remember that President Obama was elected by the people in the U.S., whom you mistakenly claim "do not deserve" his years in the Presidency. The majority of our citizens did, indeed, recognize his intelligence, thoughtful consideration in decision making, decency, sincerity, grace and eloquence, and elected him twice.
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Beautifully expressed. Well said. The President and First Lady and their lovely daughters will leave the White House knowing that they set new standards of behaviour, decency and compassion for future office holders. History will treat obama kindly even as it chronicles the myriad ways the misanthropic right sought to stifle his efforts to set a an enlightened course for America's future.
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When a black criminal is killed by the police while they are committing a crime, President Obama rushes to judgment., and then offers person consolation to the families of the criminal.
When police officers are murdered in cold blood, he decries the incivility of our society, but offers no personal expression of consolation to the families of the officers.
When an American citizen is beheaded by ISIS, he makes a statement and then plays golf.
And when more people are murdered in France and Belgium, he dismisses it by saying that it is not an existential threat to the US.
All those facts tell me a lot about President Obama and his values, and it is clear that Timothy Egan and the other media figure continue to view him with rose colored glasses.
When police officers are murdered in cold blood, he decries the incivility of our society, but offers no personal expression of consolation to the families of the officers.
When an American citizen is beheaded by ISIS, he makes a statement and then plays golf.
And when more people are murdered in France and Belgium, he dismisses it by saying that it is not an existential threat to the US.
All those facts tell me a lot about President Obama and his values, and it is clear that Timothy Egan and the other media figure continue to view him with rose colored glasses.
10
President Obama met personally with the families of the slain officers and spoke eloquently about each of them at the memorial service. How this can be interpreted as "no personal expression of consolation to the families" is a complete mystery to me.
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Those are not facts. The President has expressed personal condolences in every case you sight. But clearly, some people can't give this man his due under any circumstances.
28
Osama Bin Ladin, the man Dubya ignored before and after 9/11, is dead and this President launched the attack that killed him. George W. Bush screwed up the Middle East for a generation and you'll be blaming decent people like Obama for the foreseeable future.
30
Barack Obama's unique combination of charisma, intelligence, humanity, and grace is stunning. The Dallas speech was the epitome of honesty and eloquence. The contrast with Donald Trump is absolutely Manichean. As a visual role model for fathers and husbands he is without peer. His grace under pressure was never more evident than at the White House Correspondents dinner in 2011, when he pulled off a comedic tour de force, including an evisceration of "the Donald" , knowing Seal Team Six was on their way to take out Osama Bin Laden, and his presidency hung in the balance. He's not totally impervious to stress though, just look at the evolution in hair color. However, There is no higher compliment than the fact that his personal conduct and demeanor will be the standard by which future Presidents will measured.
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President Obama's governing style is uncomplicated and brilliant -- "don't do stupid stuff." He has been the best president of my lifetime, full stop.
At the Republican Convention Mike Pence should wear one of those "I'm with stupid" tee shirts.
At the Republican Convention Mike Pence should wear one of those "I'm with stupid" tee shirts.
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Thank you, Mr. Egan.
Think of it. President Obama's girls have basically been brought up in the White House. A world of public, but at the same time, private. A house of inclusion and exclusion. A house where we recently learned their father goes to a place where he studies for hours into the night about a country's strife, where he prepares for difficult days ahead in the midst of our country's violent nature at times, where he readies to meet with world leaders, where he has tried to figure a way for people in this country to find a humane need - healthcare.
And at the heart of all that Barack Obama is and does, his wife and his daughters seem to know that for all his work, his life goes deeper than just the White House. It is because this man obviously knows what real love is. He knows what decency is and when he puts love and decency together, his family and this country have been able to lean on someone who thrives on dignity, respect, fairness, and yes, class. It reflects in that place on Pennsylvania Avenue.
So glad in my lifetime I got to watch this man in the White House. Kudos to him. Say what you may about Barack Obama. He has never once brought
disgrace to the country's White House. So glad he and his family moved in, and how sad it will be for us when the moving vans come for their personal belongings soon.
They can all leave with pride, a family of high standards, never broken by a great guy. Thank you Barack Obama.
Think of it. President Obama's girls have basically been brought up in the White House. A world of public, but at the same time, private. A house of inclusion and exclusion. A house where we recently learned their father goes to a place where he studies for hours into the night about a country's strife, where he prepares for difficult days ahead in the midst of our country's violent nature at times, where he readies to meet with world leaders, where he has tried to figure a way for people in this country to find a humane need - healthcare.
And at the heart of all that Barack Obama is and does, his wife and his daughters seem to know that for all his work, his life goes deeper than just the White House. It is because this man obviously knows what real love is. He knows what decency is and when he puts love and decency together, his family and this country have been able to lean on someone who thrives on dignity, respect, fairness, and yes, class. It reflects in that place on Pennsylvania Avenue.
So glad in my lifetime I got to watch this man in the White House. Kudos to him. Say what you may about Barack Obama. He has never once brought
disgrace to the country's White House. So glad he and his family moved in, and how sad it will be for us when the moving vans come for their personal belongings soon.
They can all leave with pride, a family of high standards, never broken by a great guy. Thank you Barack Obama.
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1. Barack Obama has been the greatest president of my lifetime.
2. I am astonished (in a good way) that the hatred displayed and encouraged by his enemies has not resulted in an attempt on his life.
2. I am astonished (in a good way) that the hatred displayed and encouraged by his enemies has not resulted in an attempt on his life.
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@Mark, Illinois: Don't think for a moment that the thought never percolated on a daily basis. I don't think it's possible to imagine the stress that the Secret Service is under--from moment to moment--to protect him and his family. That disaster has not struck is not due to complacency on the part of the haters.
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Thanks Tim Egan for adding details on another dimension of President Barack Obama, as humane a president as I have ever seen in my lifetime. It is easy for any of us to suggest that he might become a role model for Americans but that is too easy.
How many Americans have a history even somewhat close to his? Not many, I guess. So I draw on this comment of mine @ http://www.nytimes.com/2016/07/13/us/politics/obama-dallas-attacks-speec... to take those thoughts a bit further.
What are some of the most important elements in Barack Obama’s line of descent and his personal history that made it possible for him to weave so many threads together in the memorable speech he gave in Dallas? How did he become Barack Obama, President, husband, father, the man we will miss?
I suggest that he and Michelle Obama might give us a book or two that take up in part where Dreams From My Father left off. The foundation of such a book might be a careful examination of their individual lines of descent, one with a root in American slavery, the other with a root in the Luo clan in modern Africa, Michelle an African American ethnic, Barack an African emigrant ethnic.
What role did these roots play in each becoming the people they now are, and where will they take us next?
Only-NeverInSweden.blogspot.com
Dual citizen US SE
How many Americans have a history even somewhat close to his? Not many, I guess. So I draw on this comment of mine @ http://www.nytimes.com/2016/07/13/us/politics/obama-dallas-attacks-speec... to take those thoughts a bit further.
What are some of the most important elements in Barack Obama’s line of descent and his personal history that made it possible for him to weave so many threads together in the memorable speech he gave in Dallas? How did he become Barack Obama, President, husband, father, the man we will miss?
I suggest that he and Michelle Obama might give us a book or two that take up in part where Dreams From My Father left off. The foundation of such a book might be a careful examination of their individual lines of descent, one with a root in American slavery, the other with a root in the Luo clan in modern Africa, Michelle an African American ethnic, Barack an African emigrant ethnic.
What role did these roots play in each becoming the people they now are, and where will they take us next?
Only-NeverInSweden.blogspot.com
Dual citizen US SE
23
Charm and grace, both of which come naturally to Barack Obama, are not necessarily what you look for in a president. But this year, perhaps more than ever, we as a country have needed it. Race has boiled to the surface, yet again, and a deft touch certainly helps. And before you can ever figure out what to DO about racial strife, you'd better know what to SAY about it. Obama knows exactly what to say. And if we ever needed a better laboratory test to understand what to say and what not to say, what heals wounds and what opens them, put the words of Barack Obama up against the words of Donald Trump. There is absolutely no comparison. Hillary Clinton, who will win in November, has some very big shoes to fill.
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A person who endlessly divides a people based on race, wealth or their careers, etc cannot be said to operate with class and dignity.
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This is a cheap, ugly hit piece -- no surprise, but honestly does the Editorial Board pay you, Mr. Egan, by the word or the sentence, for attacking Trump?
Yes, Mr. Obama seems to have a nice family and has had no "scandals" (ala Bill Clinton). But neither have MOST Presidents. Bill was an exception in that regard. What "family scandals" did Nixon or Reagan have? GW Bush had a loving marriage, and was by al reports a faithful husband and a good father. Did it make him a good President?
There is no scandal within Mr. Trump's marriage or family and you are trying to INVENT one. Trump never said he was going to date his own daughter -- he said she was so beautiful, that IF SHE WAS NOT his daughter, he might. And he never talked about his genitals -- that was Marco Rubio, pathetically torpedoing his future career by making crude jokes.
The ultimate measure of a President is what he DOES in office (or fails to do) -- not whether he is glib or slick, crude or classy. Some of the most effective con artists, Mr. Egan, steal your money and sell you out, with soft words and a nice suit.
Oh and BTW: Obama DID lie. Calling a liar "a liar" is never incorrect.
Yes, Mr. Obama seems to have a nice family and has had no "scandals" (ala Bill Clinton). But neither have MOST Presidents. Bill was an exception in that regard. What "family scandals" did Nixon or Reagan have? GW Bush had a loving marriage, and was by al reports a faithful husband and a good father. Did it make him a good President?
There is no scandal within Mr. Trump's marriage or family and you are trying to INVENT one. Trump never said he was going to date his own daughter -- he said she was so beautiful, that IF SHE WAS NOT his daughter, he might. And he never talked about his genitals -- that was Marco Rubio, pathetically torpedoing his future career by making crude jokes.
The ultimate measure of a President is what he DOES in office (or fails to do) -- not whether he is glib or slick, crude or classy. Some of the most effective con artists, Mr. Egan, steal your money and sell you out, with soft words and a nice suit.
Oh and BTW: Obama DID lie. Calling a liar "a liar" is never incorrect.
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Imagine if Obama would have refused to release his taxes. I am sure Trump would have spread the lies that it is because he is was in business with drug dealers or perhaps hiding charitable contributions to terrorist organization. I understand that for many bigots, a black man with class is a real challenge.
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Over the past eight years, this President has made hundreds of public pronouncements and public statements, all of them vetted by media, politicians, and detractors like you. But the only statement that you've come up that suggests the President "lied" was his comment that folks would be able to keep their old health insurance. You've brought that up twice today, in separate comments.
Yep, the President misspoke on this. Some people were not able to keep their old insurance. What Mr. Obama should have said was, "Some of you will not be able to keep your old insurance. This is because the carrier may decide to drop the coverage. Or it may be because there are coverage defects in your plan that make it an illegal plan under the new law."
No doubt you'lll continue to rant and rave about this so-called "lie" in future comments. You go for it, Concerned Citizen. But I have to ask you. Is this the best you got?
Yep, the President misspoke on this. Some people were not able to keep their old insurance. What Mr. Obama should have said was, "Some of you will not be able to keep your old insurance. This is because the carrier may decide to drop the coverage. Or it may be because there are coverage defects in your plan that make it an illegal plan under the new law."
No doubt you'lll continue to rant and rave about this so-called "lie" in future comments. You go for it, Concerned Citizen. But I have to ask you. Is this the best you got?
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