Someone compared Barack Obama with Jackie Robinson: he was nearly perfect because he HAD to be. I agree.
53
President Obama is perhaps the most thoughtful, kind, considerate person to every occupy the White House. He kept us safe for 8 years, was decent and respectful to all Americans, and tried his best to respect and work well with members of Congress, the Senate, the military, and ordinary citizens.
Thank you Mr. President for all you have done and for your dedicated service to our country.
Thank you Mr. President for all you have done and for your dedicated service to our country.
135
PE Donald "Four Pinnochio" Trump's administration will be the catalyst that powers the Republican Party's demise.
The history books will see President Obama standing as a Colossus over it's rotting corpse.
The history books will see President Obama standing as a Colossus over it's rotting corpse.
30
Barack Obama will be remembered to be the most articulate, thoughtful President America ever had.
Not to forget when he inherited the Presidency the stock market was dipping every single day seven to eight hundred points.When people lost all of their life savings and some panicked and sold their dwindling shares.
Now it has bounced back to more than double. So many did not have health care, Country was at war with Iraq and so much more.
Obama raised people`s confidence in his eight years and all those years Donald Trump denied his Presidency with his ongoing birther movements.
And look at President Obama now, he treated the President elect with utmost respect in return and never said any ill words against Trump after the election.
Barack Obama our 44th President is a class act in every possible way !
Not to forget when he inherited the Presidency the stock market was dipping every single day seven to eight hundred points.When people lost all of their life savings and some panicked and sold their dwindling shares.
Now it has bounced back to more than double. So many did not have health care, Country was at war with Iraq and so much more.
Obama raised people`s confidence in his eight years and all those years Donald Trump denied his Presidency with his ongoing birther movements.
And look at President Obama now, he treated the President elect with utmost respect in return and never said any ill words against Trump after the election.
Barack Obama our 44th President is a class act in every possible way !
74
The Obama presidency has been a shining reminder of the simple, yet noble, vision of the framers of the Constitution. The Office of the Presidency, first and foremost, must be served by the individual who occupies it, not the other way around. President Obama has done just that. Using, but never abusing, the enormous powers the Office has come to bestow, he tirelessly worked for the greater good, often in the face of the staunchest of partisan obstruction. Still, he managed to navigate around and through the political thicket. He got done what needed to get done and did it with integrity, strength and compassion. Unless motivated by blind partisanship or, worse yet, repulsive ideologies that have no place in a democracy, one cannot deny that we are in a far better place now than we were in 2008. But herein lies the great irony. For too many, the optimism of Obama is about to be replaced with the despair of Trumpism (and, perhaps, Putinism), a belief system rooted in bigotry and demagoguery. That President Obama will be succeeded by the likes of a Donald Trump still seems unfathomable. While I join with millions of Americans in thanking President and Mrs. Obama for their unwavering public service, closing with a fond farewell would not be sincere. The Twenty-second Amendment aside, the country needs President Obama's leadership now more than ever. I trust he will find the right way to exit without really leaving. We simply can't afford to live with the audacity of Trump.
30
Mitch McConnell beat Barack Obama very badly. The contest was not close.
It was shocking to read Eric Cantor's take in claiming Obama's intransigence in the Times today. Was I sheltered from the real truth during that first term by my paper, the Houston Chronicle?
Obama also failed badly by taking Timothy Geitner's elitist path in dealing with the housing crisis, ruining his credibility with many. He failed in the lack of focus on helping individual's' deal with the extreme damage done to them by Republicans during the last Clinton, and both of Bush's terms.
It was shocking to read Eric Cantor's take in claiming Obama's intransigence in the Times today. Was I sheltered from the real truth during that first term by my paper, the Houston Chronicle?
Obama also failed badly by taking Timothy Geitner's elitist path in dealing with the housing crisis, ruining his credibility with many. He failed in the lack of focus on helping individual's' deal with the extreme damage done to them by Republicans during the last Clinton, and both of Bush's terms.
2
Thank you for this Editorial of President Obama's legacy. It comes too late and does not alter the fact that the New York Times aided and abetted an incompetent, dishonest and treasonous man, namely Donald Trump to become our next President. By refusing to investigate his ties to Putin, putting Trump headlines each day in the most revered newspaper and quoting every ill conceived tweet of the Donald, they did a dis-service as the fourth estate to the American people.
President Obama has served our country with distinction. The hatred he endured from the puerile Republicans behaving more as thugs than elected officials will be correctly stated by historians. As for Trump tearing up President Obama's legacy, it is too numerous an nuanced to be done.
If Americans remember that they live in a democracy and voting is a duty and privilege, then we will get the country and leadership we deserve. If not, then the will of the few will prevail and we will have only ourselves to blame.
President Obama has served our country with distinction. The hatred he endured from the puerile Republicans behaving more as thugs than elected officials will be correctly stated by historians. As for Trump tearing up President Obama's legacy, it is too numerous an nuanced to be done.
If Americans remember that they live in a democracy and voting is a duty and privilege, then we will get the country and leadership we deserve. If not, then the will of the few will prevail and we will have only ourselves to blame.
37
Think what he could have done with a healthy congress working together.
48
Obama will be remembered as the only "boomer era"(Clinton through Trump) President worth remembering. He has had and will continue to have far more influence on the population born after 1980 than any of the three 46ers (Clinton, Bush, Trump). Republican efforts to destroy his "legacy" will only burnish it in the longer run.
21
I will make a prediction that 4 years from now you will not be reading an article like this about Donald Trump as he is replaced by a honest, ethical Democrat, Republican or Independent. And this comes from someone who WAS a registered and contributing Republican through the 2012 election. I have come to have considerable respect for this very fine man who is being replaced by a demagogue. I became thoroughly disgusted with my previous party for their lack of respect and willingness to work with President Obama on virtually any issues. There were very few exceptions.
This ex Republican cannot thank President Obama enough for his courage and dedicated service for the past 8 years. Was he perfect? No, but Ihis record of serving the American public will far exceed his replacement.
This ex Republican cannot thank President Obama enough for his courage and dedicated service for the past 8 years. Was he perfect? No, but Ihis record of serving the American public will far exceed his replacement.
85
After the mess left to him both internationally and domestically, he made America great again.
46
Comparable to Abraham Lincoln? Lincoln united and saved our country. Barack Obama divided our country. I have not see such racial divide and polarization in the United States since my 1960s childhood. Abroad, the Middle East is more a mess now than before. No thanks, Obama.
20
Your attempts to whitewash the almost total failure of the last eight years with fawning portraits and convenient memory loss, as to the failure to produce anything except chaos at home and abroad ,show what a reliable house organ of the DNC the NYT has become. Obama's only "success" the soon to be repealed failure of the ACA is disappearing.... what is left? Optimism is fine, without results it is demoralizing and so much hot air. How many sick cancer patients will you parade on these pages in a heartless attempt , to derail the inevitable repeal of an ineffective, badly drawn law, partisan to its' core? You have tried to portray all Republicans along with Trump as inhuman monsters and delegitimize our country's electoral process in a vain attempt to deny reality and stir up partisan hatred and animosity. This to cover the fact that your partisan rants are 95% fiction and just enough fact to conflate your true aims. Reality, the truth, will out and the real inhuman monsters will be recognized and dealt with. Most reasonable people know that hypocrisy and venal partisan distortion are not the hallmark of one political party or philosophy but universal traits that must be recognized and guarded against no matter the sacred institutions involved. The NYT, especially the NYT, is no exception.
16
I listened to Obama's farewell speech and was incredulous that he remains so optimistic about America's future. I have thought that perhaps he just wanted to avoid rancor during the transition. But this is a consistent theme in many of his recent speeches. He truly DOES seem to have faith in the goodness of the American people. Which is stunning, considering the ugly, hateful comments that have been directed at him by the Washington establishment, and a broad swath of Americans.
I have also been confused by why many people comment that Obama is arrogant. I think some of it may be because he seems so unruffled by all the hatred that is hurled at him (must be frustrating for somebody who hates him, to see that he seems unfazed by their best, most spiteful comments). But I also wonder if Obama were white, and spoke and acted in the same manner, would so many people feel that he is arrogant? Nobody is going to admit it, or likely even recognize it in themselves, but I think there are lots of white Americans who are very troubled that a black man feels so comfortable speaking in front of white people (white people in power). He speaks to those people like a white man would speak to those people, without saying "sir" at the end of every sentence (as African Americans seem to feel they have to, to avoid terrible outcomes, when speaking to white people in power: just look at the internet videos of African Americans interacting with white police officers)
I have also been confused by why many people comment that Obama is arrogant. I think some of it may be because he seems so unruffled by all the hatred that is hurled at him (must be frustrating for somebody who hates him, to see that he seems unfazed by their best, most spiteful comments). But I also wonder if Obama were white, and spoke and acted in the same manner, would so many people feel that he is arrogant? Nobody is going to admit it, or likely even recognize it in themselves, but I think there are lots of white Americans who are very troubled that a black man feels so comfortable speaking in front of white people (white people in power). He speaks to those people like a white man would speak to those people, without saying "sir" at the end of every sentence (as African Americans seem to feel they have to, to avoid terrible outcomes, when speaking to white people in power: just look at the internet videos of African Americans interacting with white police officers)
20
pretty sure people want jobs than optimism! Make America great again!
9
“Don't it always seem to go, that you don't know what you've got till it's gone.”
― Joni Mitchell
― Joni Mitchell
24
Diplomatic. Steadfast. Thoughtful. A presidential President.
Thank you, President Obama, for your dedicated efforts these past eight years. Despite all of the obstruction faced, you remained focused and soared above the fray. We will miss you, tremendously.
Thank you, President Obama, for your dedicated efforts these past eight years. Despite all of the obstruction faced, you remained focused and soared above the fray. We will miss you, tremendously.
27
It s difficult to imagine what Obama might have accomplished had he been the same person except white. Certainly he would have had Republican opposition to his ideas and efforts since a meaningful opposition is how our country is designed to operate. Obama, however, faced something entirely different. What other president has evoked the sort of hatred and disrespect from the opposition that Obama has? What other president has had to function in a political milieu in which the opposition senate leader declares the primary purpose of his party is not to legislate, not to move the country forward, but only to insure the elected president will fail? I have never understood why Mitch McConnell has not been charged with sedition. Sedition is precisely what he was fully engaged in for eight intransigent years and still is, since he continues to prohibit a vote on Merrik Garland.
I am not a religious person but the truth, which Republicans (and yes too many democrats) fail to understand is that under Barack Obama - and Michelle and Mr. and Mrs Biden as well - this country has been blessed for eight years. Truly blessed. Now, sadly, the adults are leaving the room and our country turns to open the door to the nursery. A very large, unruly eight year is ensconced therein throwing tantrums right and left and tweetering away through the wee hours of the morning. God and sanity help us all.
I am not a religious person but the truth, which Republicans (and yes too many democrats) fail to understand is that under Barack Obama - and Michelle and Mr. and Mrs Biden as well - this country has been blessed for eight years. Truly blessed. Now, sadly, the adults are leaving the room and our country turns to open the door to the nursery. A very large, unruly eight year is ensconced therein throwing tantrums right and left and tweetering away through the wee hours of the morning. God and sanity help us all.
53
He is a kind and decent man. He achieved many great things. Whenever he spoke, I felt proud that this country elected a person of such grace, intelligence and accomplishment to the presidency. It was all very fitting. But he was betrayed by his own party - or more accurately the progressive wing of it - which ushered in and stoked a novel brand of divisiveness and intolerance that eventually cost the Democrats the White House, Congress, statehouses and governorships. Could Obama have taken control of the progressives and moderated their excesses? That is the question, and it turns on whether he was a pragmatic centrist, a uniter as he claimed, or an ideologue. After his eight years as something of a political enigma, we don't really know for sure.
6
I have rarely, if ever, read such a marvelous editorial: strong, factual, every word absolutely justified. It is not a compliment to Barack Obama: this one-in-a-century President does not need it. It is a compliment to the press. May the Times, in the coming difficult years, remember what it just said.
12
The New York Times : you are embarrassing yourself a bit with your last minute bolstering, propping up, glorifying and revisionist recording of Obama's accomplishments during his two, sadly untransforming terms in The White House. I know you may be attempting to do a good thing, that is, to paint for history a picture of a glowing, victorious presidency but you are being dishonest.
I suppose as many who see Obama as "optimistic", a man of integrity and grace, there are thousands more who see him as quite the opposite: cynical, dishonest ("You can keep your doctor") and overseeing an administration (the IRS, Dept. of Justice) that harassed conservative applicants for 501c3 status and who manipulated the FBI non-indictment of a clearly guilty Hillary Clinton (tarmac antics with Bill), allowing multiple terrorists to go back home while praising and taking in a deserter from our military while showing almost no outrage over the various Isis-inspired terrorist events here and abroad, while his home city of Chicago burned and killed its own and with very little presidential action or sense of urgency for the innocent African Americans victimized by these crimes each day...
Would you be pandering so dishonestly about this man had he been a fair haired old white guy? The liberal history books will be perpetuating this Obama-myth for generations--and unenlightened students will believe it all.
I suppose as many who see Obama as "optimistic", a man of integrity and grace, there are thousands more who see him as quite the opposite: cynical, dishonest ("You can keep your doctor") and overseeing an administration (the IRS, Dept. of Justice) that harassed conservative applicants for 501c3 status and who manipulated the FBI non-indictment of a clearly guilty Hillary Clinton (tarmac antics with Bill), allowing multiple terrorists to go back home while praising and taking in a deserter from our military while showing almost no outrage over the various Isis-inspired terrorist events here and abroad, while his home city of Chicago burned and killed its own and with very little presidential action or sense of urgency for the innocent African Americans victimized by these crimes each day...
Would you be pandering so dishonestly about this man had he been a fair haired old white guy? The liberal history books will be perpetuating this Obama-myth for generations--and unenlightened students will believe it all.
17
It's a heavy sadness that weighs on President Obama's admirers and there are many reasons. Without an iota of help from the Republicans, he was a leader who was true to himself and his causes and as your editorial board points out, his achievements were great and numerous.
Ave atque vale, President Barack Hussein Obama. "Yes WeCan".
Ave atque vale, President Barack Hussein Obama. "Yes WeCan".
18
You write:
"His achievements, not least pulling the nation back from the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression, have been remarkable — all the more so because they were bitterly opposed from the outset by Republicans who made it their top priority to ensure that his presidency would fail."
OK NYT: Are you willing to write an editorial asking Democrats to support President Trump and to work with him to institute his agenda?
"His achievements, not least pulling the nation back from the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression, have been remarkable — all the more so because they were bitterly opposed from the outset by Republicans who made it their top priority to ensure that his presidency would fail."
OK NYT: Are you willing to write an editorial asking Democrats to support President Trump and to work with him to institute his agenda?
9
That one man,
scorned and covered with scars...
still strove.....
to reach the unreachable stars
Thank you Mr. Obama- - you are the best of what it is to be a public servant- a builder who stood tall against the right wing demolition derby- we the people will always wonder what might have been had your fellow elected officials chose to do the people's work-- but we will always remember that you fought the good fight, with class, dignity and true respect for all Americans.
scorned and covered with scars...
still strove.....
to reach the unreachable stars
Thank you Mr. Obama- - you are the best of what it is to be a public servant- a builder who stood tall against the right wing demolition derby- we the people will always wonder what might have been had your fellow elected officials chose to do the people's work-- but we will always remember that you fought the good fight, with class, dignity and true respect for all Americans.
32
We thank Barack Obama and Michelle for being so very dignified and decent;
and we thank Joe and Jill Biden also for being the same...dignified and decent.
and now we have this tyrant to deal with....so I hope we do not forget what we
are saying goodbye to.....a President and Vice President whom we trusted and
revered....I feel little hope....unless the military can find good cause to oust
Trump...that is my hope...since he is a despot in the making and most likely
is being blackmailed by the worst dictator that Russia has ever had to endure.
and we thank Joe and Jill Biden also for being the same...dignified and decent.
and now we have this tyrant to deal with....so I hope we do not forget what we
are saying goodbye to.....a President and Vice President whom we trusted and
revered....I feel little hope....unless the military can find good cause to oust
Trump...that is my hope...since he is a despot in the making and most likely
is being blackmailed by the worst dictator that Russia has ever had to endure.
19
I will never forget the footage of President Obama standing in the predawn darkness of Dover Air Force Base solemnly saluting the coffins of fallen soldiers returning home the last time. His dignity, grace and patriotism was a gift to our nation.
Thank you Mr President
Thank you Mr President
17
I think people need to be reminded constantly that the clear majority of American citizens in the last election voted to continue the legacy of what President Obama started. Nearly 3 million more Americans wanted to maintain the course we were taking under a Clinton presidency than change to a "who knows what policy" under a bombastic, crass, reality TV persona. President Obama's legacy will continue and many will remember it fondly after January 20th, 2017. And many who were bamboozled will harken back to the days of Obama and recall fondly, "Remember when America was Great!"
4
Utter nonsense. W was no success and Trump is a horror but Obama was hardly a success. We have had the slowest, smallest rate of recovery from a major recession since Eisenhower, a healthcare act that got insurance to 3.8 % of the population but has done immense damage to healthcare for all, due to over-regulation forcing providers to spend immensely more time on documentation, certification, regulation and more regulation as well as profoundly dysfunctional electronic medical records. Increases in physician burnout and early retirement, greater waits for appointments and substitution of mid level providers for physicians have combined with destabilized insurance costs for all. Internationally, Obama's beneficiaries have been Putin, Assad, Khamenei, Kim Jong-Un, ISIS and assorted other hostile forces and extremists.
Some legacy.
Some legacy.
11
As the Republicans and Conservtives gather to declare victory that they were right all along, and prepare to drag this country back to the dark days of restrictive civil liberties, all the while glossing over the fact they did everything in their power to undermine and obstruct this President, the full force of racism and hatred in this country is wasting no time in becoming ever more apparent.
Being a better man than I am, I fail to share President Obama's optimism about the future of our country, because I can't even see it.
With each passing day the dissenters and the haters plot to undo every good thing that might have made this country a better place for ALL of us to live in, and not just the privileged White few, who already gorged on their wealth, are now seeking to claim more, while leaving the rest of us with the bill.
Those that were fooled and conned into the make America great again, not only forgot that America was already great -- but they also forgot what made it great to begin with.
It was "We, the People".... All of us.
Now, as history is about to repeat itself, we will have to struggle to remember what history should have taught us in the first place.
These are the truths that must be self-evident.
And not the fake news.
Being a better man than I am, I fail to share President Obama's optimism about the future of our country, because I can't even see it.
With each passing day the dissenters and the haters plot to undo every good thing that might have made this country a better place for ALL of us to live in, and not just the privileged White few, who already gorged on their wealth, are now seeking to claim more, while leaving the rest of us with the bill.
Those that were fooled and conned into the make America great again, not only forgot that America was already great -- but they also forgot what made it great to begin with.
It was "We, the People".... All of us.
Now, as history is about to repeat itself, we will have to struggle to remember what history should have taught us in the first place.
These are the truths that must be self-evident.
And not the fake news.
5
I agree with much of this op-ed, but Obama was as partisan as the opposition which stood in the way of his agenda. Obamacare is the best example of his partisan politics, as the law passed with only Democratic support. He and the Democrats did not attempt to garner Republican support. The eventual enactment of Obama, while providing access to healthcare for many previous uninsured Americans, set the stage for the Republican revolt which culminated in the election of Donald J. Trump. Obamacare also demonstrated Obama's disingenuousness, as he said over and over to the American people that if they liked their current health insurance they would be able to keep it, that if they liked their doctor, they could keep that person as well, all talk that turned out to be false. In that sense, he will join the ranks of all Presidents,who have lied to the American people in order to celebrate and elevate their own hubris. Historians, especially those trained in today's diverse and politically correct academy, will fete him and his administrations as one of the greatest, but other scholars trained in the pre-pc era will carefully, thoughtfully, and critically examine him and his legacy in the sober contest of truth. Thank you.
5
The contrast between the outgoing President and the incoming one is the most stark perhaps in our history. The tone set by the leader of the highest office in our land is one that permeates all of society. Already the coarsening effect of the President-Elect is eroding what was considered "common decency" and consideration. When simple politeness is regarded as dishonesty and political correctness it is going to be a time of harsh discourse.
I know that President Obama has had a mixed review in terms of enacting policy. But his own demeanor, his elevated rhetoric, his grace under pressure, his scandal-free personal life, have raised all of us up as he presented the face of America to the world. I hope that there is some staying power in that effect- his like will not be seen for a very long time. And we need to gird ourselves for a very ungracious time that is heading our way.
I know that President Obama has had a mixed review in terms of enacting policy. But his own demeanor, his elevated rhetoric, his grace under pressure, his scandal-free personal life, have raised all of us up as he presented the face of America to the world. I hope that there is some staying power in that effect- his like will not be seen for a very long time. And we need to gird ourselves for a very ungracious time that is heading our way.
7
No president has carried himself with more grace and dignity than Mr. Obama and of course, his family. Though the pressure must have been excruciating, he and his family made it seem easy. The fact that the incoming president elect started the campaign to discredit his birth after he was already elected to office is shameful. Though the first two years of his presidency the Democrats had the majority and he was able to accomplish some things, after that the Republicans could care less. For example, the R's used sequestration, a budget cancelling tool to prevent doctors from receiving their entitled compensation for providing primary care under the Affordable Care Act provisions. In terms of foreign policy, the R's repeatedly refused to approve military requests for Obama's efforts in the middle east. I could go on and on, but it is too depressing.
4
Achievements? What a joke. Race relations that are worse today, foreign policy in shambles, trust in government at lowest level ever, over regulation of business/everyday citizens, and unprecedented additional $10, 000,000,000,000.00 of debt [just to name a few of his accomplishments] are his legacy.
16
Yes, Obama's optimism did help restore trust in government's essential role in helping recover from a severe financial depression; but didn't prevent getting depressed by the limitations imposed by a most hypocritical and petty, pesky and irrational opposition of a 'racist' republican congress (even when the ideas proposed by Obama where initially republican, they were now opposed by sheer spite and envy, that a black president dared accomplish what they could only dream of). What is it, that we can't shake the heavy burden of discriminating against our brothers and sisters, just because of the color of our skin? This is not only silly but all-out stupid. Sure hope Obama embraces now some cautious skepticism, so he can survive the unspeakable injustice impressed upon him by a despicable mob intent in destroying him. History will redeem him from his shortcomings; not so the narrow-mindedness and hate in the hearts of far too many, fanatically intolerant of 'the other', as if our attitudes must remain tribal: to survive, where ignorance is bliss, and prejudices become cultural icons to preserve.
6
Reading about the Obama post-mortem, several commentators lay a lot of issues at his feet while, in passing, stating that the opposition may have been a tad destructive.
Hogwash.
Many white folks (southern or rural or both) deep down cannot stand that they are becoming a minority. Rather than trying to harmoniously weave was is coming they are pushing us toward apartheid.
These same cadre cannot seem to notice that hypercapitalism is going to eat them alive and are going to spend their lives arguing that Obama ushered the downward spiral of this country.
It will take time to sort all of that but a) blame will be placed where it belongs namely the angry, incurious, non-welcoming whites and the greedy capitalists.
By then, many people will consider Obama to have been a great president who was continually thwarted. The main reason is that because he is in direct line with all the enlightened people starting with the Greeks who continually try to take us out of the dark ages.
Every country has deplorables. They will always be with us. They are what fuel the demagogues. You find them in Russia where they support Putin, in Turkey where they support Erdogan, in Iran where they support the theocracy and their repressive police and in many other places as well.
What distinguish them is that their brain is made out of wood.
Hogwash.
Many white folks (southern or rural or both) deep down cannot stand that they are becoming a minority. Rather than trying to harmoniously weave was is coming they are pushing us toward apartheid.
These same cadre cannot seem to notice that hypercapitalism is going to eat them alive and are going to spend their lives arguing that Obama ushered the downward spiral of this country.
It will take time to sort all of that but a) blame will be placed where it belongs namely the angry, incurious, non-welcoming whites and the greedy capitalists.
By then, many people will consider Obama to have been a great president who was continually thwarted. The main reason is that because he is in direct line with all the enlightened people starting with the Greeks who continually try to take us out of the dark ages.
Every country has deplorables. They will always be with us. They are what fuel the demagogues. You find them in Russia where they support Putin, in Turkey where they support Erdogan, in Iran where they support the theocracy and their repressive police and in many other places as well.
What distinguish them is that their brain is made out of wood.
5
Even those of us who voted for President Obama were amazed at the extent of his lying. If you like your insurance, you can keep your insurance. If you like your doctor, you can keep your doctor. Benghazi was caused by a You Tube video. The $800 billion stimulus would create millions of shovel-ready jobs; oops, there's no such thing as shovel-ready jobs. And the list, and lies, go on. I really do wish President Obama had been more honest with the American people, especially when it came to health care reform.
Maybe the Obama legacy will be best explained by the loss of Democratic Party seats in the House, the Senate, governorships and legislatures around the country. The Obama legacy will be explained by the 2016 presidential election cycle, including the Hillary email situation and how Obama and his Justice Department handled (or didn't handle) it, the hacking of Podesta and DNC emails, the fixing of the Democratic Party primary, and how Obama waited until after the election to take some controversial acts (such as the anti-Israel non-vote at the United Nations).
But one of the actions of President Obama that will always give me a smile was his response when Mitt Romney said that Russia was a strategic threat to the United States. Obama laughed and said the 1980s want their Cold War back. And the last 2 months of the Obama presidency have been spent arguing whether Russia caused Hillary to lose the election. Yep, we will get President Trump. Well done!
Maybe the Obama legacy will be best explained by the loss of Democratic Party seats in the House, the Senate, governorships and legislatures around the country. The Obama legacy will be explained by the 2016 presidential election cycle, including the Hillary email situation and how Obama and his Justice Department handled (or didn't handle) it, the hacking of Podesta and DNC emails, the fixing of the Democratic Party primary, and how Obama waited until after the election to take some controversial acts (such as the anti-Israel non-vote at the United Nations).
But one of the actions of President Obama that will always give me a smile was his response when Mitt Romney said that Russia was a strategic threat to the United States. Obama laughed and said the 1980s want their Cold War back. And the last 2 months of the Obama presidency have been spent arguing whether Russia caused Hillary to lose the election. Yep, we will get President Trump. Well done!
18
I am generally supportive of this president, but any fair reflection of Obama's two terms cannot neglect his neoconservative tendencies. Yes, Obama did succeed in expanding healthcare coverage, steer our economy away from total collapse, and replace American braggadocio with level-headed, diplomacy-driven foreign policy.
But Obama also doubled the number of deportations. In Libya, Obama repeated Bush's mistake of toppling a regime without committing to the hard, dirty work of sticking around so that chaos doesn't ensue. He continued Bush's surveillance programs. He appointed bankers to his administration even after these bankers drove our economy into the ground.
I really liked this president. But Obama clearly continued Clinton's centrist Third Way philosophy, and I think the overall strength of the Democratic Party suffered because of it. The Democrats really need to return to its labor roots and stick up for the working class and give less priority to corporate America. We already have one party that gives far too much attention to the rich. We don't need two.
But Obama also doubled the number of deportations. In Libya, Obama repeated Bush's mistake of toppling a regime without committing to the hard, dirty work of sticking around so that chaos doesn't ensue. He continued Bush's surveillance programs. He appointed bankers to his administration even after these bankers drove our economy into the ground.
I really liked this president. But Obama clearly continued Clinton's centrist Third Way philosophy, and I think the overall strength of the Democratic Party suffered because of it. The Democrats really need to return to its labor roots and stick up for the working class and give less priority to corporate America. We already have one party that gives far too much attention to the rich. We don't need two.
19
I feel President Obama's legacy will be one of opportunity missed. I too was so hopeful in 2008, for change, for unity.
What happened to that young man who gave that amazing and inspiring speech in 2004?
What happened to "There's the United States of America!"?
What happened to that young man who gave that amazing and inspiring speech in 2004?
What happened to "There's the United States of America!"?
5
After this administration is done handing out medals, ribbons, pins and wall plaques to each other, a few unpleasant facts stand darkly over the Republic: national debt (doubled to $20Trillion and counting, with interest alone running at $3Billion every day); the Global War on Terror unabated ($20 Billion per month in operations, not including long-term veteran care, or asset recapitalization); a Congress with an approval rating of less than 12 percent; incarceration, drug use, unemployment, foreign espionage and illiteracy at an all-time high; racial tension manufactured and politicized (do Americans really believe that Harvard's Gates just happened to get arrested, or a dozen other race-centered events were coincidental, such as BLM, funded by private donors to provoke conflict); a series of obvious synthetic "terror" events coordinated among the Bureau, Agency, the Administration and media, to mobilize gun control measures, among others; a 3,000-page health-care program, used as a tax and wealth transfer canard (Jonathan Gruber, the "Obamacare Architect," reiterated "the stupidity of the American voter," that "Americans were too stupid to understand" the ACA's tax increases and the administration's "exploitation of the lack of understanding of the American voter"). This is just the tip of the "legacy." If Americans knew the full scope of what really transpired over the last 8 years (or the last 80), there would indeed be riots, and they wouldn't be in Ferguson.
10
I love him, adore him and respect him.
At the same moment, I fear for his and his family.
FBI will not protect him and they are bad apples out there who don't know the real difference between good and bad.
At the same moment, I fear for his and his family.
FBI will not protect him and they are bad apples out there who don't know the real difference between good and bad.
1
His optimism has inspired me and made me a better person. Quite frankly he's my hero. I will be a better American because of him and Uncle Joe
9
The Republicans have embraced a Russian controlled criminal thug over one of the noblest men I have ever witnessed in public life.
7
Yes I will miss President Obama. And I thank him, his wife & family for all that they have done over the last 8 years. Sadly my sense of foreboding is growing as his replacement takes office.
The ACA gave healthcare to 20 million Americans. Will it be replaced? Will the changes that benefit all Americans - allowing people with pre-existing health conditions get insurance; allowing children to stay on their parent's policy until the age of 25, and preventing out of network doctors from billing more than 15% over the insurance company's allowed amount be gone....forever?
Now that the Republicans are in charge, can we trust them to do what is right for all Americans? Or even the majority of Americans....since we elected the next president without a majority I think not. Democracy is not something that is being adhered to in the US. What has happened to the right of the majority to determine our progress?
Much has been said of the "founding fathers" that wrote the Constitution. Is it too much to ask that we at least go back to the notion that democracy means majority rule, and abolish the electoral college? Could we have everyone who is a citizen allowed to vote? In India, the largest democracy on the planet, they use a simple technique to prevent voter fraud. After voting, they dip their finger in indelible ink. If the person tries to vote again, unless they cut off that finger, it is not possible.
The ACA gave healthcare to 20 million Americans. Will it be replaced? Will the changes that benefit all Americans - allowing people with pre-existing health conditions get insurance; allowing children to stay on their parent's policy until the age of 25, and preventing out of network doctors from billing more than 15% over the insurance company's allowed amount be gone....forever?
Now that the Republicans are in charge, can we trust them to do what is right for all Americans? Or even the majority of Americans....since we elected the next president without a majority I think not. Democracy is not something that is being adhered to in the US. What has happened to the right of the majority to determine our progress?
Much has been said of the "founding fathers" that wrote the Constitution. Is it too much to ask that we at least go back to the notion that democracy means majority rule, and abolish the electoral college? Could we have everyone who is a citizen allowed to vote? In India, the largest democracy on the planet, they use a simple technique to prevent voter fraud. After voting, they dip their finger in indelible ink. If the person tries to vote again, unless they cut off that finger, it is not possible.
3
President Obama and his Administration have been divisive, racist and incompetent. They have presided over the most dismal economic recovery since WWII and created some of the worst cultural malaise in recent memory. It's no wonder that many historians think he is the worst U.S. president since James Buchanan.
11
While folks can disagree with individual policies enacted by the president, it is impossible to deny his success in the Head of State role. His character and values embody what has made America such a unique nation. Empathy for others, humility, and incredible patience have set a wonderful example for our country's youth and strengthened America's image abroad. Throughout his presidency he has remained tolerant of criticism and demonstrated professionalism even in the face of passionate opposition. Image matters. Hopefully the incoming administration can learn from President Obama's success as Head of State, although I'm not too optimistic...
4
History will not be kind to the Republicans of this era.
11
I voted for Barack Obama the first time pretty much on faith. I didn't "know" him well, but he spoke the right words and there seemed to be blazing intelligence and solid preparation behind them. The tipping point was his optimism and the appeal of his call to the values and principles of our democracy. Looking back, I believe I was correct in my assessment them.
But what has additionally transpired since 2008 is that I have come to TRUST this president, as I think many other Americans have, always to act in in the interests of our country and people. Not necessarily always to be right, for that's impossible, but always to decide and act from the best motives and using all the knowledge he has and can gather.
We have come to rely on the steadiness and consistency of this "father of our country" in the White House, and it shakes our sense of security that he will no longer be there.
We have no way of knowing we can "trust Trump" in any similar way, and his actions so far leave us increasingly uneasy.
But what has additionally transpired since 2008 is that I have come to TRUST this president, as I think many other Americans have, always to act in in the interests of our country and people. Not necessarily always to be right, for that's impossible, but always to decide and act from the best motives and using all the knowledge he has and can gather.
We have come to rely on the steadiness and consistency of this "father of our country" in the White House, and it shakes our sense of security that he will no longer be there.
We have no way of knowing we can "trust Trump" in any similar way, and his actions so far leave us increasingly uneasy.
61
Mr. Obama is not about optimism; he is about attempting to destroy anyone who dares disagree with his touted brilliance and radical Marxist and racist ideas.
Many Americans are hoping to dig out from an unreported economic depression which was enabled by Mr. Obama and his policies. It is the 1930s for many in our country, and there is genuine hope on the horizon for common-sense tax reduction and regulation reduction to unleash our economy. It worked for Kennedy and it worked for Reagan. It will work again.
Many Americans are hoping to dig out from an unreported economic depression which was enabled by Mr. Obama and his policies. It is the 1930s for many in our country, and there is genuine hope on the horizon for common-sense tax reduction and regulation reduction to unleash our economy. It worked for Kennedy and it worked for Reagan. It will work again.
9
Precisely the sort of nonsense so many of us, on the day of Obama's first inauguration, predicted you'd be writing today.
"The stimulus did both — preserving or creating an average of 1.6 millions jobs a year for four years."
How are you even dreaming this up? Obama's entire economic policy 2009-13 can be summed up in three little words: wait it out. The economy is cyclical, Mr. President. Sit tight, it'll go up again, and you can rightfully claim credit. Only it didn't.
In fact, to this day, every week, we get boastful reports on your sister station, NPR, how there were only 260,000 new unemployment benefits applications THAT WEEK, which leaves everyone in America asking: who's left to fire??
"The stimulus did both — preserving or creating an average of 1.6 millions jobs a year for four years."
How are you even dreaming this up? Obama's entire economic policy 2009-13 can be summed up in three little words: wait it out. The economy is cyclical, Mr. President. Sit tight, it'll go up again, and you can rightfully claim credit. Only it didn't.
In fact, to this day, every week, we get boastful reports on your sister station, NPR, how there were only 260,000 new unemployment benefits applications THAT WEEK, which leaves everyone in America asking: who's left to fire??
9
Optimism is certainly in order with Obama leaving! Obama's regime revealed America's darker side: anti-Semetism, cop-killing, racial hatred, lying, lawlessness, endless war, divisive, hyper-partisan, power-mad; the hatred and violence characteristic of the Obama regime is certainly on full display with the violence the left has threatened and has carried out in response to President Trump's landslide election and mandate
4
He was legitimate by election, by public and by we all Americans despite racial efforts to undermine him from Day 1.
Barack Obama is my president and I am proud of him.
Barack Obama is my president and I am proud of him.
10
Thank you, Mr. President. You set a fine example of leadership for every one of us.
6
It was Obamas heart that makes him special, that in his heart he has always believed in America and Americans. And for that, he'll always be in mine. Has he been perfect these last 8 years? No, and he's certainly also had more trouble with a recalcitrant Republican lead Congress than any president should have, but he's always tried to find a way to make things better for America and Americans. Health care, the environment, foreign policy, education, the list goes on. He had hope when he started, and even now, when we need hope the most, he still has it. My best wishes to Barack Hussein Obama, Mrs. Obama, your girls. Thank you.
49
Funny how optimism in America is at all-time highs now that Obama is on his way out of the White House and into the trashcan of history
7
When I was about five, my younger brother and I shared a room, and argued at bed time about having the door opened or shut.
My father came in to broker a compromise. He asked me what I would be willing to do and I, trying to be reasonable, said "halfway is ok."
My brother said "all the way closed!" My father said "ok, we'll compromise between those, and put the door 3/4 closed."
I remember this because it was a powerful lesson in negotiation and compromise. If you do not begin the negotiation at everything you want, you have given away something for nothing.
Barak, former President of Harvard Law Review, Obama took six years to learn that Republicans always ask for more than they want and that any sign of compromise is a sign of weakness to be exploited with more demands.
For six years, Obama offered compromises, and got slapped.
Obama could have gone to the American People and by owning the title they gave him, "SOCIALIST," could have offered the People massive tax increases on the mega rich to pay for healthcare (just like every other sane country in the world), higher education, infrastructure including a high speed move to nearly free! renewable energy, with the happy bi-product of averting climate disaster, maybe free, double our speed wi-fi like Japan, etc.
And most importantly, he could have Pronounced, "I'm president now, but I understand what it means to be the outside. Now Outside's In!" And he could have allied with the Movements for Justice and made change.
My father came in to broker a compromise. He asked me what I would be willing to do and I, trying to be reasonable, said "halfway is ok."
My brother said "all the way closed!" My father said "ok, we'll compromise between those, and put the door 3/4 closed."
I remember this because it was a powerful lesson in negotiation and compromise. If you do not begin the negotiation at everything you want, you have given away something for nothing.
Barak, former President of Harvard Law Review, Obama took six years to learn that Republicans always ask for more than they want and that any sign of compromise is a sign of weakness to be exploited with more demands.
For six years, Obama offered compromises, and got slapped.
Obama could have gone to the American People and by owning the title they gave him, "SOCIALIST," could have offered the People massive tax increases on the mega rich to pay for healthcare (just like every other sane country in the world), higher education, infrastructure including a high speed move to nearly free! renewable energy, with the happy bi-product of averting climate disaster, maybe free, double our speed wi-fi like Japan, etc.
And most importantly, he could have Pronounced, "I'm president now, but I understand what it means to be the outside. Now Outside's In!" And he could have allied with the Movements for Justice and made change.
1
The essence and irony of President Obama's are that it also necessarily embraces the Republicans' counter-legacy. Yes, much can be said about President Obama's successes, his scandal-free administration, and his obvious skills but when his programs are discussed in coming years the Republicans' lock-step and absolute opposition, if not animus, to contributing to those programs in any constructive fashion, to the real detriment of our citizens and national interest, will also be studied. President Obama's yang is forever tied to the Republicans' yin. To the Republicans' lasting shame, Clio will instruct her students well.
3
He's hands down the greatest president of my lifetime, which started in 1955. To do what he did in the face of the irrational opposition he faced was incredible. He will be sorely missed.
7
Please give me a break from accusations that Dems are doing to Donald Trump that Repubs did to Obama! Trump himself was part, and in fact a leader, of the 'birther movement' that was based on nothing that Obama had control over! In addition, after urging Obama to put the doubts to rest by releasing his birth certificate, Trump himself declared that it was fake! I am still waiting for the results of Trumps people whom he said were looking into this issue! What is going on with Trump now is for the most part brought on himself by his actions, tweeting and words. He could take his own advice to Obama and try to put it to rest by getting on board for investigating the Russian connection and interference in out democratic process! People like WMK really do a disservice to the collective intelligence of the American people by comparing apples and oranges just to score political points!
2
Seems almost like the US has a bipolar disorder. Obama brought us hope and integrity and helped millions obtain health insurance, saved our economy and helped set us on the path to greener more sustainable energy. Trump and the GOP, poised like the ancient vandals at Romes's gates, want to undo all off it. The closest analogy I can see is Mel Brooks, "The Producers" where they hire the worst of everything to produce a Broadway flop, so as to keep their investors money. Unfortunately this is reality, and now we're going to see the if the US can survive with nothing but the most dubious characters running it.
2
My heart breaks. There are no words to express the sadness I feel that President Obama's presidency is coming to an end. He made the rest of the world believe there could be a better future.
7
Sorry. When they go low, if we go high, we will be run over by them, and that's exactly what happened. Obama's optimism sounds good, but didn't work in reality. I challenge the NYT Editorial board to, one year from now, list all of Obama's accomplishments that have not been shredded. That assumes that other things, such as the First Amendment, will not already have been shredded.
1
The US didn't deserve a president as dignified, intelligent, wise and graceful as Barack Obama. I wish he had stopped giving Republicans the benefit of the doubt and hoping that they would play nice. Anyone who knows the history of race relations in this country understands that Whites have failed and continue to fail when it comes to righting racial wrongs.
Now the deplorables have won and we have a vulgar, ignorant, racist, misogynistic and narcissistic buffoon coming into the White House. Stupid is as stupid does! Usually I muster sympathy for individuals who behave stupidly but not this time. I have my popcorn ready to watch when the deplorables lose their health insurance while not getting their jobs back due to automation not immigrants.
Now the deplorables have won and we have a vulgar, ignorant, racist, misogynistic and narcissistic buffoon coming into the White House. Stupid is as stupid does! Usually I muster sympathy for individuals who behave stupidly but not this time. I have my popcorn ready to watch when the deplorables lose their health insurance while not getting their jobs back due to automation not immigrants.
6
The gushing uniformity of encomium here is striking. I suggest you all read another newspaper as well. Nowhere else at major international papers will one see such homogenous thought in the comments section. The Obama Presidency was not the shining, unalloyed success the writers here suggest; many equally informed, though philosophically opposed people would argue quite exactly the opposite.
The general assessment above is the substance of my point; however, perhaps some specific examples will help. Those who disagree with the President do not contend that his stimulus didn't "help" - by definition some sort of action will be better than no action, unless the action is intentionally malevolent. What we argue is that growth was significantly worse than it could have been if other policies were enacted, and that some policies may have (unintentionally, perhaps) actually retarded growth. This is an argument of economic philosophy.
The Health Care law is not a "demonstrable success" everywhere. Try buying individual insurance in Obama's "home" state of Illinois, as I have for the last several years. Our options have dwindled, prices have skyrocketed, and everyone I know who buys individual insurance feels remarkably worse off.
Ask the bodies of women and children in shouldering piles of rubble in Syria how well the focus on the Climate has helped as a foreign policy. His speech in Charleston was magnificent-people ask where his speech was after Orlando.
Cordially, in dissent.
The general assessment above is the substance of my point; however, perhaps some specific examples will help. Those who disagree with the President do not contend that his stimulus didn't "help" - by definition some sort of action will be better than no action, unless the action is intentionally malevolent. What we argue is that growth was significantly worse than it could have been if other policies were enacted, and that some policies may have (unintentionally, perhaps) actually retarded growth. This is an argument of economic philosophy.
The Health Care law is not a "demonstrable success" everywhere. Try buying individual insurance in Obama's "home" state of Illinois, as I have for the last several years. Our options have dwindled, prices have skyrocketed, and everyone I know who buys individual insurance feels remarkably worse off.
Ask the bodies of women and children in shouldering piles of rubble in Syria how well the focus on the Climate has helped as a foreign policy. His speech in Charleston was magnificent-people ask where his speech was after Orlando.
Cordially, in dissent.
21
In his contrasting opinion, Peter Wehner, offered this monumental understatement: "...It would be silly to lay all the blame for this [purported series of unsuccessful efforts] at the feet of Mr. Obama. Republicans have been rhetorically reckless at times," Come now, merely rhetorically reckless? In fact the GOP legislative branch's intransigent opposition, and especially its uncontrollable, wild hare Freedom Caucus, undertook an unprecedented, virtual guerrilla war of opposition. Without any attempt to propose reasonable alternatives or compromise (offering in their place the like of sequesters and government shut downs) every Obama effort was viciously attacked, misrepresented and rigged with trip wires and booby traps, the ACA being the
paramount example. The only success of such obstructionist efforts is that a vast swath of our mislead, low-information electorate were taken in by them and the presidential candidate who saw and capitalized on them.
paramount example. The only success of such obstructionist efforts is that a vast swath of our mislead, low-information electorate were taken in by them and the presidential candidate who saw and capitalized on them.
2
Must be the same polls that told us Hillary Clinton would win election in a land slide
9
You guys in the media keep forgetting the important stuff; on the night of his first inauguration 22 seditious republicans gathered in the cellar of a steak house to pledge fealty to each other and their party while pledging, as well, to not allow one single victory for the new President.
Victories that would improve the lives of Americans across the Nation.
All the while his successor (I can barely type that) spent the entire 8 years sowing doubt that Obama was even an American.
We have entered a new chapter in our Nation with the election of t rump and I hope we are able to survive.
Victories that would improve the lives of Americans across the Nation.
All the while his successor (I can barely type that) spent the entire 8 years sowing doubt that Obama was even an American.
We have entered a new chapter in our Nation with the election of t rump and I hope we are able to survive.
8
My older son was part of the IT team provided by the school system where he works for a visit by President Obama. It was all behind the scenes work, and when he said something to the effect that he would be available by cell phone when the President visited the school to give a speech, the Secret Service agent whose requests were my son's commands, said, "No, you'll be beside me in the room." I was proud of and for him, that the Secret Service gave him the opportunity to see and hear the President in such a small venue.
My father, a WWII Navy veteran, died in 2011 and his letter of appreciation that accompanied as US flag for his service (an honor available to all honorably discharged veterans) bears Barack Obama's signature. At 70, the odds get better every day that I may not survive the presidency of Donald Trump. As a Vietnam vet, I, too, will be eligible for the same commemorative letter, but I will be instructing my family to burn the letter with Donald Trump's signature and to flush the ashes down the toilet. A letter thanking me for my service signed by a bigoted, draft-evading narcissist is not, in my book, an honor.
Thank you Mr. President. For the next 4 years, if I live it out, I will not be dignifying your title by capitalizing the first letter when it precedes you successor's name.
My father, a WWII Navy veteran, died in 2011 and his letter of appreciation that accompanied as US flag for his service (an honor available to all honorably discharged veterans) bears Barack Obama's signature. At 70, the odds get better every day that I may not survive the presidency of Donald Trump. As a Vietnam vet, I, too, will be eligible for the same commemorative letter, but I will be instructing my family to burn the letter with Donald Trump's signature and to flush the ashes down the toilet. A letter thanking me for my service signed by a bigoted, draft-evading narcissist is not, in my book, an honor.
Thank you Mr. President. For the next 4 years, if I live it out, I will not be dignifying your title by capitalizing the first letter when it precedes you successor's name.
3
President Obama made this country a better place to live in.
If only...
...Republicans were more interested in governing than in undermining the people's faith in their Constitutional system of government.
...Democrats actually ran on the accomplishments of the Obama administration.
...Americans thought of themselves first as Americans and not first as Texans, African Americans, republicans or the like.
...Americans actually thought what greatness really means, what really constitutes fair play opportunities for all, what actions and what deliberate non-actions have to do with honor, how to recognize a good man from a not so good man ...
President Obama's administration was not perfect, but his quiet, intelligent leadership personifies what which makes America great in an imperfect world.
Unfortunately, his successor personifies that which makes America far less than great in an imperfect world. The reality is that we are an America of both and we are locked in a civil war with each other. Mr Obama knows this and his words to the generation coming up are not only timely, they must be carried forward by that generation to fix what its predecessors bequeathed them.
If only...
...Republicans were more interested in governing than in undermining the people's faith in their Constitutional system of government.
...Democrats actually ran on the accomplishments of the Obama administration.
...Americans thought of themselves first as Americans and not first as Texans, African Americans, republicans or the like.
...Americans actually thought what greatness really means, what really constitutes fair play opportunities for all, what actions and what deliberate non-actions have to do with honor, how to recognize a good man from a not so good man ...
President Obama's administration was not perfect, but his quiet, intelligent leadership personifies what which makes America great in an imperfect world.
Unfortunately, his successor personifies that which makes America far less than great in an imperfect world. The reality is that we are an America of both and we are locked in a civil war with each other. Mr Obama knows this and his words to the generation coming up are not only timely, they must be carried forward by that generation to fix what its predecessors bequeathed them.
Yep, Obama's optimism surely helped by promoting N. Korea to conduct 65 missile and nuclear tests in the last 8 years and give a young man the power to soon black mail hundreds of billions of dollars from the USA. My issue with Obama is that he is a hallow shell who's oratory has allowed him to con many American's into thinking he actually did good.
6
It's refreshing to read this piece, based as it is on demonstrable fact and so plainly lacking in the "cover your back" caveats that have normally albatrossed the Time's positive assessments of Obama as president.
Compare it to the "up is down" piece by Peter Wehner also published in today's paper, a piece filled with irons in the fire.
By publishing both, the Times wants to show that it has both sides of a story. But unlike this piece from the Editorial Board, little of what Wehner says is demonstrably true. It's not a viable "other side." It's just an opinion with questionable motivations and not much to back it up.
To say the division in the country was caused by Obama - and not the actions of the Republicans who fought against his every move - is like saying the divisive racism in the country was caused by MLK, not the people who fought against his civil rights mandate.
Wanting be be an even-handed news source is one thing. But Donald Trump was just elected largely because the media presented him as a viable candidate.
In today's piece - unlike Wehner's - the Times gets it right. Too bad they couldn't have published it and others more like it, back when taking a stronger stand against Trump might have made a difference.
Compare it to the "up is down" piece by Peter Wehner also published in today's paper, a piece filled with irons in the fire.
By publishing both, the Times wants to show that it has both sides of a story. But unlike this piece from the Editorial Board, little of what Wehner says is demonstrably true. It's not a viable "other side." It's just an opinion with questionable motivations and not much to back it up.
To say the division in the country was caused by Obama - and not the actions of the Republicans who fought against his every move - is like saying the divisive racism in the country was caused by MLK, not the people who fought against his civil rights mandate.
Wanting be be an even-handed news source is one thing. But Donald Trump was just elected largely because the media presented him as a viable candidate.
In today's piece - unlike Wehner's - the Times gets it right. Too bad they couldn't have published it and others more like it, back when taking a stronger stand against Trump might have made a difference.
1
Obama tried. He tried his best.
He talked, he threatened, he wept, he got bills passed, he signed executive orders, he even shared a beer in the white house lawns if he thought it would help the country in anyway.
Republicans were the typical opposition. No quarter given , none asked. Yes, they stone walled everything, but that was expected.
What was surprising and frustrating to me was the democratic party. I always thought they were never totally behind their President. They did not do a good job of selling his ideas and his achievements.
For me, his own party let him down.
Sometimes it looked like they too thought of him as an outsider who just needs to be humored and tolerated.
He talked, he threatened, he wept, he got bills passed, he signed executive orders, he even shared a beer in the white house lawns if he thought it would help the country in anyway.
Republicans were the typical opposition. No quarter given , none asked. Yes, they stone walled everything, but that was expected.
What was surprising and frustrating to me was the democratic party. I always thought they were never totally behind their President. They did not do a good job of selling his ideas and his achievements.
For me, his own party let him down.
Sometimes it looked like they too thought of him as an outsider who just needs to be humored and tolerated.
1
In mid-2016 my former employer of 40 years announced that despite all previous documents about retirement, it was doing away with retiree health coverage as of Jan. 1, and that my family could instead work with an agency the company retained to help us find health coverage in the Obamacare exchanges.
Now I, my wife, and child are all involuntarily covered through the Obamacare exchanges, despite my 40 years professional employment and my being a life-long Republican, We do not know how long we will have that coverage available. All three of us have serious pre-existing conditions.
Healthcare may look like a political football, but it is people's lives - yours, mine, and our extended families'. If Congress and Trump fumble it, many people will be hurt or die because of the resulting pile-up. Shame on all who would destroy instead of fixing, building, and improving.
“When we take away from a man his traditional way of life, ... we had better make certain to replace it with Something of Value” ― Robert Ruark
Now I, my wife, and child are all involuntarily covered through the Obamacare exchanges, despite my 40 years professional employment and my being a life-long Republican, We do not know how long we will have that coverage available. All three of us have serious pre-existing conditions.
Healthcare may look like a political football, but it is people's lives - yours, mine, and our extended families'. If Congress and Trump fumble it, many people will be hurt or die because of the resulting pile-up. Shame on all who would destroy instead of fixing, building, and improving.
“When we take away from a man his traditional way of life, ... we had better make certain to replace it with Something of Value” ― Robert Ruark
3
In spite of the fantasies of the liberal elite and the President himself, the Presidency of Barack Obama has by any objective analysis an abysmal failure . A horrible economy , the worst race relations in memory. slaughter in the Middle East, the abandonment of long time allies. the strengthening of Islamic Terrorism among many other things are his real legacy. His signature achievement known as Obamacare which does have some good aspects has proven to be another failure due to skyrocketing premiums. His legacy has been overwhelming rejected by the American people by Trump's election and no amount of leftist spin will change this fact
7
It's fitting that Obama did as much damage to the Democratic Party as he did to America and to the Constitution
7
Republicans love the legacy Obama has left for the country. They appreciate all he has done. I mean no other democratic president has lost more house seats, more senate seats and then the presidency. And just for good measure the republicans have secured a vast majority of state legislatures and governorships while he has been president. Thank you Obama for all you have done. We can't thank you enough
Next topic please
Next topic please
4
For those of us who trusted and admired Barack Obama, his departure is particularly depressing because the man who will replace him is his polar opposite in terms of character, thoughtfulness, and eloquence. January 20th looms like a massive thundercloud carrying four years of rain.
3
ACA Failing when we could have had single payer. No one would have been able to take single payer/Medicare-for All away. Bombing what, 77 or 8 countries. Prosecuting ethical whistle blowers while Bush war criminals, torturers and abductors walk free, and with profit in the country. Same with Wall St criminals.
Enforsing a candidate in a party of which he is the leader, that rigged it's primary agaisnt a candidate who would have beaten Trump. I voted for Obama once, but it was clear in a few months, that he was not a candidate of hope, or change. He was an elite, oligarch protector, whose cabinet came from a Citi Corp list. But he looked pretty, and talked pretty, so they love him.
Yes, how remarkable this presidency has been.
Enforsing a candidate in a party of which he is the leader, that rigged it's primary agaisnt a candidate who would have beaten Trump. I voted for Obama once, but it was clear in a few months, that he was not a candidate of hope, or change. He was an elite, oligarch protector, whose cabinet came from a Citi Corp list. But he looked pretty, and talked pretty, so they love him.
Yes, how remarkable this presidency has been.
1
Thanks Obama
Obama will regarded very favorably by future historians who evaluate his presidency objectively. The country has made remarkable progress given the multi-faceted calamity he inherited upon entering office and the intensity of the partisan malice he faced. If Obama had one shortcoming, it is that he gave the republicans in congress more far more respect than they deserved.
1
Americans will miss everything about President Obama --- his intelligence, his integrity, his decency, his humanity, his "cool", and his optimism in the face of outright bigotry not only on the part of some citizens but also on the part of the Republicans in Congress who from day who were determined to undermine him in an attempt to make him not succeed. His a bigger and better man than all of them and he is the epitome of the best and brightest that the country has to offer even in the face of the worst and stupidest.
Thank you President Obama, Mrs. Obama and Sasha and Malia for eight years of dignity and grace as America's first family
Thank you President Obama, Mrs. Obama and Sasha and Malia for eight years of dignity and grace as America's first family
2
The NYT uses an a near-worshipful tone in describing President Obama -- but avoids discussing his admin's many failures over the years.
Yes, he brought us back from the brink by bailing out the mega banks. But he took no such action for the millions whose homes sunk underwater or savings were decimated by those banks' reckless gambling and widespread fraud.
I think his best speech on race was early in his tenure regarding Rev. Wright (after phony Rep. outrage). But as we've all watched video after video of innocent African-Americans gunned down, beaten or tasered by hostile police, Obama has been far more MIA than we needed in this crisis.
You mention his deft negotiating skills -- but when healthcare "negotiations" began, he took single-payer completely off the table as a starting point.
Yes, he faced uniform, ideological Rep. congressional opposition to his every move -- so then why didn't he enlist the enthusiastic support of the MILLIONS who voted him into office? We would have gone to the mat for him, yet, strangely, he never took advantage of us as a resource.
Obama is drone-bombing 7 countries right now, by last count. He has deported more undocumented immigrants than any recent past president. He has done nothing to curb massive NSA surveillance. Income inequality has continued to soar. Not a single bank CEO has been prosecuted for their crimes. And I could go on.
It is the job of the 4th estate to hold the powerful to account, not to be their cheerleader.
Yes, he brought us back from the brink by bailing out the mega banks. But he took no such action for the millions whose homes sunk underwater or savings were decimated by those banks' reckless gambling and widespread fraud.
I think his best speech on race was early in his tenure regarding Rev. Wright (after phony Rep. outrage). But as we've all watched video after video of innocent African-Americans gunned down, beaten or tasered by hostile police, Obama has been far more MIA than we needed in this crisis.
You mention his deft negotiating skills -- but when healthcare "negotiations" began, he took single-payer completely off the table as a starting point.
Yes, he faced uniform, ideological Rep. congressional opposition to his every move -- so then why didn't he enlist the enthusiastic support of the MILLIONS who voted him into office? We would have gone to the mat for him, yet, strangely, he never took advantage of us as a resource.
Obama is drone-bombing 7 countries right now, by last count. He has deported more undocumented immigrants than any recent past president. He has done nothing to curb massive NSA surveillance. Income inequality has continued to soar. Not a single bank CEO has been prosecuted for their crimes. And I could go on.
It is the job of the 4th estate to hold the powerful to account, not to be their cheerleader.
6
If a Republican president had achieved what President Obama has done in the wake of the George W Bush administration, he would be acclaimed as the second coming of Ronald Reagan.
4
We go from commendable to deplorable. I am in a Kiwanis group that prayed before our meetings for President Obama to fail. Now many of them want Trump to be impeached so that Pence can become their president.
I just do not fit in anymore.
I just do not fit in anymore.
2
Yes. Thank you Mr. President for all that you've done for & with us. You are a great humanitarian and a true role model, even for this old white woman. You made me want to a better person & to SEE those who struggle harder than I. And I know you're not going anywhere.
I am so proud you were our President for 8 very productive years!
I hope that times will publish a succinct bullet list of your accomplishments for those who don't read actual paragraphs anymore.
I am so proud you were our President for 8 very productive years!
I hope that times will publish a succinct bullet list of your accomplishments for those who don't read actual paragraphs anymore.
2
Obama always negotiated from a position of weakness. He came into office at a time when people were hurting and needed to punish the bad and change how things were done. It would not have taken much to provoke large numbers of People to crowd the Great Lawn and demand Justice. He needed to go on TV and tell the People how they were tricked into a war for oil, and how the global banks were lying and cheating and gambling our futures away. He needed to promise the People what they tell polls they want: taxes on the mega rich to pay for universal single payer health care, subsidized college, a bail out for workers and small business owners, and a non-interventionist foreign policy. He could have organized homeowners who were being foreclosed on, fraudulently to demand justice and a bail out.
As the first black president, he could have went into neighborhoods and said, "We can make your lives better, but I need you to organize to help me. Here is my representative in your area. She will help you." Unlike most politicians many would have believed him, and after two years of fighting for him, record numbers of poor people would have voted for their own interests. He could have gone to Appalachia with the same message.
He could have allied with the climate justice movement to end climate change. Where was he in Standing Rock?
Instead he hid in the White House and negotiated with the rich, always leading with his weakened, compromise position.
Power comes from the People.
As the first black president, he could have went into neighborhoods and said, "We can make your lives better, but I need you to organize to help me. Here is my representative in your area. She will help you." Unlike most politicians many would have believed him, and after two years of fighting for him, record numbers of poor people would have voted for their own interests. He could have gone to Appalachia with the same message.
He could have allied with the climate justice movement to end climate change. Where was he in Standing Rock?
Instead he hid in the White House and negotiated with the rich, always leading with his weakened, compromise position.
Power comes from the People.
2
Thank you, New York Times, for this assessment of the wonderful spirit and achievements of this most remarkable president. I will sorely miss his pragmatic approach, kindness and humility, and his great intellectual grasp of issues. Barack Obama inspired us to truly believe in the humanitarian values that are at the core of our democracy and urged us to take action to make this world a better place. HIs leadership inspired people on a deeply personal level. I know that I am a better person for having lived under his presidency and I am grateful that I have had this opportunity.
1
in eight of trying no Obama detractors have been able to land a blow on the integrity or empathy of this man or his family.
give up you lost!
and what he tried to do for this country will outlive all ya'll.
give up you lost!
and what he tried to do for this country will outlive all ya'll.
1
Contrast this to the lying lies that the lying Cantor wrote today. What Mr. Cantor omits in his recounting of history is that on inauguration night (the VERY night), some twenty or so Republican'ts met at the Caucus Room restaurant to agree on their Obama strategy. Their conclusion: we must obstruct, delay, argue, and at all costs defeat Obama at every turn. Imagine, the country was in its worst economic crisis since the Great Depression and rather than find ways to fix things for Americans, they focused on how to make sure the first Black man in the Oval Office had zero success. Should be thrown in jail for treason, all of 'em. (And, btw, Obamacare is exactly a Republican't plan put forth by the Heritage Foundation)
1
The landmarks of the Obama disaster: everywhere there is an ISIS terrorist murdering innocents, Obama is there making excuses and deflecting blame from ISIS and onto American Christians. Everytime a police office is murdered, Obama is there cheering his death. Everytime an American makes a buck, Obama is there claiming he didn't earn the buck and that it rightfully belongs to Obama. Everytime an employer post a Help Wanted ad, Obama is there adding piles of mindless taxes and regulations until he forces the businessman to give up and hire nobody. Everytime a mother is comforting a sick child, Obama is there cancelling the child's insurance and forcing the mother to pay 1000 times more for less care. Everytime an American is murdered by Obama's creation called ISIS, Obama is on the golf course.
Obama is by every measure the worst president in history. Good riddance
Obama is by every measure the worst president in history. Good riddance
3
Some people might have seen the election of President Obama as proof that the nation has "overcome" its history of racial discrimination. Barack Obama is off the charts on every understandable measure of evaluating a human being--not electing him would have confirmed the worst about the United States. Republican opposition to his domestic policies was never on the merits--always underneath lurked appeals to selfishness and race, not understanding. In Donald Trump we see the republican reality without the sheep's clothing. Over the last two years. reading and hearing about his business and personal life history, and then seeing and hearing him makes it hard to believe that the average person anywhere could not see and understand Trump's history of dishonesty and being a con man and ignoring the law. So they accepted it, but why. Can it simply be that Clinton was so horribly inept at campaigning and being straightforward ? Trump has never been straightforward. So, again, why was Trump accepted ? Can it be that people in rural and small town America really do not understand that their state and local governments affect their daily lives much more than the federal government ? Or are people in rural America just not as comfortable as people in urban America with the differences in culture of people who live in cities and around the world that President Obama represented. And then we get back to selfishness, experience and race.
1
Finally! The reign of terror of Barack "Endless War" Obama is coming to an end. It's about time! America and the free world couldn't survive even one more minute. Will he at least have the decency to end the seven wars he started, including the Race War in America he started??
4
"[Americans] will also miss an impassioned speaker whose eloquence ranks with that of Abraham Lincoln."
I understand that the historical theme of the new National Museum of African-American History and Culture in Washington D.C. is highly critical of Abraham Lincoln.
I find this declaration to be almost unimaginable. When President Abraham Lincoln took office in 1861, there were 4 million slaves in the United States. It was President Lincoln who conducted a civil war and was largely responsible for Amendment XIII to the Constitution that brought freedom to these 4 million slaves: "Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction."
Why has not President Barak Obama voiced his own "impassioned and eloquent” severe disapproval and condemnation of the negative characterization of President Lincoln within the National Museum of African-American History and Culture? I was under the impression that President Lincoln was a hero of President Barak Obama.
I think that President Barak Obama should clearly express himself on this subject while he remains President.
I understand that the historical theme of the new National Museum of African-American History and Culture in Washington D.C. is highly critical of Abraham Lincoln.
I find this declaration to be almost unimaginable. When President Abraham Lincoln took office in 1861, there were 4 million slaves in the United States. It was President Lincoln who conducted a civil war and was largely responsible for Amendment XIII to the Constitution that brought freedom to these 4 million slaves: "Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction."
Why has not President Barak Obama voiced his own "impassioned and eloquent” severe disapproval and condemnation of the negative characterization of President Lincoln within the National Museum of African-American History and Culture? I was under the impression that President Lincoln was a hero of President Barak Obama.
I think that President Barak Obama should clearly express himself on this subject while he remains President.
3
Dear loyal Democrats, I used to be a Democrat, but I no longer believe they are on my side.
You have just watched the Democratic Party be stopped from doing almost anything for eight years. I know, you blame Mitch McConnell and the rest of the Republicans.
You are about to see how change is forced through Washington, against the rhetoric of the opposing party. Unlike the Democrats, the Republicans will plow right through weak Democratic resistance, like filibusters and law suits. In the face of Republicans' push to give our national wealth to the global billionaires, the Democrats will say, we're trying to stop them, but its unreasonable to shut down the government, or threaten the budget, or bring millions of citizens to Washington, or to occupy the floor of the House to stop the hijacking of our democracy.
While Democrats could get nothing done (except a Republican healthcare plan, designed by the Heritage foundation and Newt Gingrich), the Republicans, despite doing the opposite of what most Americans want (like cutting taxes on the rich, privatizing social security and Medicare, etc,) will face weak resistance from the Democrats. While Bernie and Elizabeth Warren are trying to sop it, they will be undermined by Chuck Schumer (who takes tens of millions from Wall Street) and isle crossing blue dogs at every turn.
The Democratic Party is designed to fail. No one is this incompetent by accident.
We need a real party that is as loud for Justice as the GOP is for Theft.
You have just watched the Democratic Party be stopped from doing almost anything for eight years. I know, you blame Mitch McConnell and the rest of the Republicans.
You are about to see how change is forced through Washington, against the rhetoric of the opposing party. Unlike the Democrats, the Republicans will plow right through weak Democratic resistance, like filibusters and law suits. In the face of Republicans' push to give our national wealth to the global billionaires, the Democrats will say, we're trying to stop them, but its unreasonable to shut down the government, or threaten the budget, or bring millions of citizens to Washington, or to occupy the floor of the House to stop the hijacking of our democracy.
While Democrats could get nothing done (except a Republican healthcare plan, designed by the Heritage foundation and Newt Gingrich), the Republicans, despite doing the opposite of what most Americans want (like cutting taxes on the rich, privatizing social security and Medicare, etc,) will face weak resistance from the Democrats. While Bernie and Elizabeth Warren are trying to sop it, they will be undermined by Chuck Schumer (who takes tens of millions from Wall Street) and isle crossing blue dogs at every turn.
The Democratic Party is designed to fail. No one is this incompetent by accident.
We need a real party that is as loud for Justice as the GOP is for Theft.
4
Fair or not, U.S. Presidents are often remembered, if at all, by their single greatest achievement or failure: Roosevelt for winning WWII; Truman for using a nuclear weapon; Johnson for Civil Rights legislation; Nixon for Watergate; Reagan for ending the Cold War; Carter for Iran and the Bushes for Iraq.
But in a country where slavery was legal for much of its first century, and separate was considered equal for much of its second, Barack Obama will be remembered as the first black man to become President of the United States.
President Obama will be forever remembered not for anything he did; but for what we did.
But in a country where slavery was legal for much of its first century, and separate was considered equal for much of its second, Barack Obama will be remembered as the first black man to become President of the United States.
President Obama will be forever remembered not for anything he did; but for what we did.
1
Despite differences with many of President Obama's policies, there was never a moment during his eight years in office in which I felt he did anything contrary or hurtful to American interests and the American people. He and his family displayed a humility, caring, compassion, and love for our country that was always on display and the envy of the world. He will be greatly missed and as for his wife, Michelle, she elevated the title of First Lady so high that one could only hope that future first ladies try to emulate her many accomplishments and her undeniable class and style.
2
When I think about Obama's legacy the first thing that comes to mind are his foreign policy failures like the Syrian city of Aleppo where so many have been slaughtered due to Obama's indecisiveness and fecklessness. And I will never forget the 'leading from behind' disaster in Libya, the rise of ISIS and Russian expansionism due to Obama's "reset" recklessness. However, the biggest and most telling Obama "legacy" in foreign policy will be his total hatred for the state of Israel where his recent actions at the UN have totally betrayed our strongest ally in the region.
What will be remembered in terms of Obama's domestic policy? Probably nothing. Since Obama decided to go around congress and never tried to work with the Republicans most of his executive actions and the disastrous ACA will be soon gone.
So yes, "optimism" is the word I would use since I'm more optimistic now that Obama is gone!
What will be remembered in terms of Obama's domestic policy? Probably nothing. Since Obama decided to go around congress and never tried to work with the Republicans most of his executive actions and the disastrous ACA will be soon gone.
So yes, "optimism" is the word I would use since I'm more optimistic now that Obama is gone!
8
I noticed that the focus of the editorial was almost entirely on the domestic achievements, with the exception of climate change. Even though the international achievements are decidedly mixed, I do consider Obama's greatest foreign policy achievements to be the reduction of U.S. armed forces in Iraq and Afghanistan. In 2008 TV newscasts reported the daily casualties from both wars. Today, this is a rare occurrence. And even though there are opponents of drone use in the military, Obama's use of drone have taken out scores of leaders in the Taliban and Al Qaeda with minimal loss of life to U.S. forces. In my opinion he does not get nearly enough credit for these things. My greatest fear with the Trump administration is what he will do with foreign policy and U.S. armed forces. Only then will people wake up and see Obama's foreign policy achievements in their true light.
2
The last 35 years have shown us that basically anybody can be elected president. For a guy with little to no experience, no real accomplishments and no other reason than his race and a speech at the 2004 democratic convention to qualify him for the nomination he's done ok. I would have preferred someone who would have locked up the crooks on Wall Street and the big banks, rather than rewarding them after the 2008 collapse and done something to prevent most of the gains of the recovery going back to the top as they seem to always do, but he probably would have been seen as a black Muslim terrorist if he'd shaken things up more. The middle class and the blue collar jobs continue to disappear and like all of Washington, bho has thrown up his hands and said, "gee, what can you do"? and carried on. I wish, rather than signing worthless paper about global warming, he'd made the very hard but necessary decision to speak out about population and its central roll in global warming, the economy and our and the worlds need to confront it, but that issue appears beyond any politicians ability to be honest. The portion of the country who has felt left behind by Obama, the elites and the business as usual crowd have lashed out and given us trump in their desperation. The only hope I feel now is that publics patience is very short. Trump and that crowd will need to produce for regular people very quickly or the public will toss them aside too.
4
I liked the man for the first six years of his presidency. I did. then for the last two years he has crowed about doing the right thing while simultaneously standing for no morals whatsoever on the world stage. He has glad handed with Myanmar and Saudi Arabia and Iran as they kill thousands and has thrown Israel under the bus. He has made promises and threats and held none of them.
Obama is the epitome of the saying "mercy to the guilty is cruelty to the innocent." Half a million lay dead in Syria because this man did not the will to do what was right. And that will be his real legacy
Obama is the epitome of the saying "mercy to the guilty is cruelty to the innocent." Half a million lay dead in Syria because this man did not the will to do what was right. And that will be his real legacy
5
Says you. He was an unmitigated disaster. I voted for him twice. The first time because I bought into his message. The second time he was the least worst choice. The most disgusting thing he did was his embrace of drones. He murdered countless innocent people under the rubric of "collateral damage". The New York Times may not hold him responsible, but hopefully the Almighty will. He also screwed up universal healthcare, let Putin rub his nose in the dust over Syria, and destabilized most of the Middle East through his administration's approach to the phenomenon known as the "Arab Spring". Oh, and I didn't even mention that his leadership has led the Democratic Party to probably its lowest point in its history.
9
Thank you for this reminder. I believe that a second one should be for Joe Biden.
2
Hope and optimism-- I think many people feel very little of it.
I will start referring to the next pres. only as:
"The Current President"-- connoting the temporary state of his presidency, and never mention his name, which of course he loves to hear. Clearly he thinks he will be king, so it will be nice to remind ourselves that he's there temporarily.
It would be helpful if the media buried the nasty, gratuitous, personal-attack tweets in a daily column on the back page :
"The Current President's Little Tweets," where they deserve to be.
Yes, everything the next pres. does is news, including tweets, but it does not all warrant being on the front page.
To stay optimistic, Dems need to focus on the states, where a lot of what affects our everyday life is determined, get rid of the gerrymandering, and on getting the next pres. out the door as quickly as possible.
Let's not be continually detracted by know-nothing rants and temper-tantrums--it's too depressing.
I will start referring to the next pres. only as:
"The Current President"-- connoting the temporary state of his presidency, and never mention his name, which of course he loves to hear. Clearly he thinks he will be king, so it will be nice to remind ourselves that he's there temporarily.
It would be helpful if the media buried the nasty, gratuitous, personal-attack tweets in a daily column on the back page :
"The Current President's Little Tweets," where they deserve to be.
Yes, everything the next pres. does is news, including tweets, but it does not all warrant being on the front page.
To stay optimistic, Dems need to focus on the states, where a lot of what affects our everyday life is determined, get rid of the gerrymandering, and on getting the next pres. out the door as quickly as possible.
Let's not be continually detracted by know-nothing rants and temper-tantrums--it's too depressing.
The editors have optimism confused with fantasy.
How dare he minimize the deaths and injuries of 100's of Americans with his ridiculous statement that "no foreign organization planned and carried out a terrorist attack on our soil"? San Bernardino, Orlando, Boston, Fort Hood,
all inspired by radical Islam, ISIS, etc. But Mr Obama parsed this out with his carefully worded statement so he could brag. I'm sure that he had little concern about how the families of these victims might feel. Remember he told us that more people die falling in the bathtub. Yes so optimistic. He also told us ISIS was a JV team, Iraq was stable so we could bring all the troops home, and the economy was great despite being the only Presidency in modern history to not have a single quarter of GDP growth over 3%. Wonderful platitudes by the Times but also nothing more than a fantasy.
How dare he minimize the deaths and injuries of 100's of Americans with his ridiculous statement that "no foreign organization planned and carried out a terrorist attack on our soil"? San Bernardino, Orlando, Boston, Fort Hood,
all inspired by radical Islam, ISIS, etc. But Mr Obama parsed this out with his carefully worded statement so he could brag. I'm sure that he had little concern about how the families of these victims might feel. Remember he told us that more people die falling in the bathtub. Yes so optimistic. He also told us ISIS was a JV team, Iraq was stable so we could bring all the troops home, and the economy was great despite being the only Presidency in modern history to not have a single quarter of GDP growth over 3%. Wonderful platitudes by the Times but also nothing more than a fantasy.
5
His only two pieces of legislation were the trillion dollar stimulus which was a Democrat pork barrel that had zero impact and Obamacare which is dying as we speak.
He was too arrogant to get anything done.
He was too arrogant to get anything done.
5
well republicans can repeal everything Obama did during his eight years in office. but that's not his legacy, what you can't repeal is the man or his family's character and love of country. that made a great many Americans proud whether you agree or disagree with him.
1
What soured me on the Obama administration very early in his tenure was the stimulus package. Instead of money for "shovel ready" jobs, the vast amount of money was sent to academia to fulfill their need for federal support. And worse yet - the promised accounting of where all the money was sent (an assignment for new VP Joe Biden) never happened, so we were left with the correct impression that this President would continue his high spending ways instead of creating a fiscally functional and responsible leadership.
Obamacare followed, and once again proved promises made were not going to be kept.
Obamacare followed, and once again proved promises made were not going to be kept.
4
"Mr. Obama's negotiating skills on tough issues"--?! Come on! He couldn't negotiate his way put of a paper bag with Congress. But. of course, that's all Congress's fault, isn't it? Then there's his hard bargaining with Cuba and Iran. Wet foot/dry foot? No problem. How about no foot? and all just a unilateral gift from the great negotiator. Then that plane load of cash waiting on the tarmac for the ink to dry on the Iran deal. One can recognize Obama's virtues without being blind to his faults or even manufacturing success where there is none. It's the difference between being a member of Obama's support group and doing the job of journalism. Finding just one good thing to say about Trump would also help.
1
The election of Donald Trump is an extension of the vitriol that has plagued our country since the election of President Obama. Those who shatter glass ceilings especially racial and gender ones are always the butt of this hatred and fear. It was so for Dr. Martin Luther King, Nelson Mandel and it has been so for President Obama. The rabble that murdered so many of our icons are not remembered kindly for they represent the worst of our natures. But despite all of their efforts president Obama will be remembered for his courage, intelligence, open mindedness and yes forgiveness. We are so fortunate to have him in our lives and this awareness will only grow as we move into an era where none of these attributes will be cherished by so s many.
3
A recession that ended when Obama took office, slow growth never above 3%, worst racial divisiveness ever, 4 dead in Benghazi, 1/2 million dead in Syria, Boston, San Bernadino and Orlando. Quite a disaster. I and all I know in the upper middle class suburbs of Connecticut cannot wait for Trump to Make America Great Again.
4
Obama's strategic mistake was to think that he he could be technocrat, and not organize the People to force change.
Politicians are mostly worried about getting re-elected. This is why they spend half of their time on the phone with rich people asking for money. When large numbers of people are out in public calling for the opposite policy than the one their rich donors want them, they have to weigh the bad publicity against the power of money to counteract it.
Right now Trump is still holding rallies and using twitter to communicate with his base. This will bring him People power which will strengthen his hand. Trump may be a lot of bad things, but he knows that he will need the People to support him.
Obama did the opposite. He disbanded the organization that put him in office. He stopped making speeches. He did not attack the people that were firing everyone, and enriching themselves by throwing people out of their homes. He did not call for People to come to Washington or go to their congress person and demand universal health care or even the public option (so people could see the public and private sector compete). He did not ask the left to go to Washington and demand cuts in military spending, or the demilitarization of the police, or push for a carbon tax.
No, he attacked community organizers that demanded these things with police violence, and so had no power.
He let him self be labeled a socialist, while moving the blame for capitalist disasters onto the left.
Politicians are mostly worried about getting re-elected. This is why they spend half of their time on the phone with rich people asking for money. When large numbers of people are out in public calling for the opposite policy than the one their rich donors want them, they have to weigh the bad publicity against the power of money to counteract it.
Right now Trump is still holding rallies and using twitter to communicate with his base. This will bring him People power which will strengthen his hand. Trump may be a lot of bad things, but he knows that he will need the People to support him.
Obama did the opposite. He disbanded the organization that put him in office. He stopped making speeches. He did not attack the people that were firing everyone, and enriching themselves by throwing people out of their homes. He did not call for People to come to Washington or go to their congress person and demand universal health care or even the public option (so people could see the public and private sector compete). He did not ask the left to go to Washington and demand cuts in military spending, or the demilitarization of the police, or push for a carbon tax.
No, he attacked community organizers that demanded these things with police violence, and so had no power.
He let him self be labeled a socialist, while moving the blame for capitalist disasters onto the left.
1
Reading this sappy editorial and all the sugary testimonials in the comments section is about all I can take this Sunday morning. I prefer my coffee black, please.
3
I believe the editorial was accurate but incomplete. The President took office when the Democrats controlled both house of Congress, had many more Democratic Governors as well as Democrats elected to state legislatures. Now the Republicans have it all and not just Republicans but these new, extreme right wing Republicans (not Richard Lugar, Olympia Snowe, Dwight Eisenhower, Jacob Javits, Nekson Rockefeller etc.). The President's policy successes notwithstanding, his legacy may be tarnished by his political failures. Saying this, I would still vote for President Obama again if he ever runs again and would have voted for him in 2016 if he were on the ballot. Unforgiving History will be the final judge as time and subsequent events bring President Obama's Presidency into sharper focus.
1
Truly a remarkable man. Such a shame that a handful of shouting extremists in the conservative media and Congress have succeeded in projecting a fictionalized account of these accomplishments as failures. Their reality altering shouts (and tweets) about this very intelligent, capable, and compassionate man have served to transfer the office of the president into the hands of a man with none of these qualities but with a distinct and worrying personality disorder.
5
As a lifetime Senator Robert A Taft Republican, whose Party left him for ex-D neocons, then, overly-evangelical haters, then tea party anarchists, I was appalled by the GOP "obstruction and NO!" with which they greeted Obama- after handing him 2 failed wars (un)paid for by tax cuts (mostly) for the rich- AND the Second great Depression.
Despite this obstruction, Obama used legitimate Presidential powers to convert depression to recession. incredible competence and guts.
Now, as the recession drags on- thanks to the GOP intransigence, GOPers have the marbles to blame Obama!!!
How quickly we forget!!!
Despite this obstruction, Obama used legitimate Presidential powers to convert depression to recession. incredible competence and guts.
Now, as the recession drags on- thanks to the GOP intransigence, GOPers have the marbles to blame Obama!!!
How quickly we forget!!!
3
Obama did a great job of advocating for those he chose to represent. Unfortunately, he didn't choose to represent all Americans. Instead, he focused on identity issues and hand-outs versus pocketbook issues for taxpaying Americans. Nobody begrudges progress, but at some point they want their priorities to get a fair hearing. To be fair, he was less tone deaf than the DNC and HRC, but unfortunately their shortsightedness will impair his legacy. I wish him the best, while fearing he will not mimic the class of the Bush's now that his time is over. He seems bent on turning OFA into a mini-Clinton Foundation.
2
Your #44 has been a model for the world, resolutely pushing forward and making progress inch by inch despite obstacles that would cause most to despair. Even his so-called failures highlighted the systemic problems in US politics and culture. As Leonard Cohen said - 'There is a crack in everything.That's how the light gets in'.
5
Thank you for this, NYT. I miss him already. I want to echo Mr. Obama's beliefs about our young people. My sons and their friends are optimistic, altruistic, and hard working. I feel better knowing that they will take over the helm some day. They see people for who they are, not what they look like. I am optimistic, too. Thank you for all you've done for us, Mr. Obama, not least of which is being an exemplary role model. Thank you!
3
Eric Cantor, in another piece on this page used his time to paint Obama, as usual from Republicans, as a person who was unresponsive to Republican input on legislation. Cantor is but another example of the sense of entitlement that pours out of Republicans at every opportunity. Only "they" have the answers; only "they" have the policies that are the correct ones. Their positions come directly out of their own hubris and out of the original notion of political correctness. They punish anyone in their own party who dares to be different.
Cantor himself was kicked out of his position in the Senate by the same angry radical right wing Tea Partiers who eventually pushed out Boehner and for the same reason: they wouldn't stick with the "politically correct" ideas of the Party.
Once you set up an us vs. them mentality, which is what Republicans have done for the past 15 years, there is no way for anyone on either side to use compromise. Every law becomes all or nothing and government becomes dysfunctional. The dysfunction makes people angry and sets the stage for a demagogue to step in who literally says, "I alone can fix it." Unless and until Republicans decide they need to work with Democrats it will be Junior, who knows nothing, in charge.
I would say, "serves you right," except that it marks the end of democracy and a lot of suffering for people who value conservative ideas but haven't the wealth to ignore how conservative ideas and policies punish them personally.
Cantor himself was kicked out of his position in the Senate by the same angry radical right wing Tea Partiers who eventually pushed out Boehner and for the same reason: they wouldn't stick with the "politically correct" ideas of the Party.
Once you set up an us vs. them mentality, which is what Republicans have done for the past 15 years, there is no way for anyone on either side to use compromise. Every law becomes all or nothing and government becomes dysfunctional. The dysfunction makes people angry and sets the stage for a demagogue to step in who literally says, "I alone can fix it." Unless and until Republicans decide they need to work with Democrats it will be Junior, who knows nothing, in charge.
I would say, "serves you right," except that it marks the end of democracy and a lot of suffering for people who value conservative ideas but haven't the wealth to ignore how conservative ideas and policies punish them personally.
2
I voted for Obama 2x, but have become totally disillusioned with his presidency. Of course being the first black president was an important milestone in American life and politics, but with all his skills and intelligence, I think finally he is a man who has disdain for politics itself. I think his historical legacy in time will be totally overshadowed for allowing this genocidal war to continue in Syria, and his abysmal and unrealistic foreign policy. True, he inherited a Middle East mess, but made it worse in every facet. I can never forgive him for failing to come up with a workable plan in Syria, and his coolness in the face of it is not admirable.
As to the rest of the country-it is a mess, and the bubble perspective of the coastal elites misses it entirely. The infrastructure is deplorable and starting to resemble the third world-the inner cities are worse than ever (look at Chicago)-the vast expanse of middle America is in the grips of an opiod epidemic-the threat of terrorism has become an unacceptable new normal-and much of the country is economically marginalized.
This is why we have term limits for the President, and we should have it for every elected position!
As to the rest of the country-it is a mess, and the bubble perspective of the coastal elites misses it entirely. The infrastructure is deplorable and starting to resemble the third world-the inner cities are worse than ever (look at Chicago)-the vast expanse of middle America is in the grips of an opiod epidemic-the threat of terrorism has become an unacceptable new normal-and much of the country is economically marginalized.
This is why we have term limits for the President, and we should have it for every elected position!
6
Really don't know what universe some people live in. I see a President who was extremely divisive and unable to build consensus and coalition. He had extremely thin skin, went after Media the same way as Trump and to quote Senator Cruz you said nothing. He circumvented 120 years of Bankruptcy laws by forcing Chrysler bondholders to take a haircut and then selling it to the Italians and you said nothing. He approved pensions for blue collar employees but not white collar employees and you said nothing. He changed the rules to ram through Obamacare by way of reconciliation and you said nothing. He used the bully pulpit time and time again, His justice department neutered Police departments, made communities less safe, failed to follow through in Syria, this list goes on and on. I never seen my country so divided. The media has become state propaganda.
5
When folks can no longer distinguish fact from fantasy, the country ends up with trump. His mouth, like Pandora's box, after all the evil has flown out and only hope is left, that is what the unemployed, medically uncovered clung to. Now that there is no hope, how many would again change their vote.
2
The issue facing us now is whether that "fair and just and inclusive America" can be rendered inoperable by the upcoming administration. What is it that we, collectively want to be? Whose picture is the "real" one? The portrait on the wall, or the one in the attic, devolving as Dorian Grey?
He is the worst President we have ever had. For the first time in history the USA lost its perfect credit rating under obama. Under obama the USA went 10 Trillion dollars in debt. He matched the debt of all the previous presidents combined. Race relations have been the worst they have ever been. He plays golf while funerals are being held. He has an ability to lie with a straight face. He vetoed a pipeline in Vermont (read jobs lost) so his rich friend Warren Buffet could make even more money from his rail road carrying the oil. He takes vacations galore. He appears to be racist himself. His wife in her thesis paper said that she would help out members of her own race first. If a white First Lady had said that, the reporters would have made it national news. He is nothing more than a lap dog for the super rich. He makes the super rich more money and that is about all he has done. He is pathetic.
5
To me, a life-long Democrat, the tragedy that is unfolding in the rapid and rabid undoing of the Obama legacy is the result of his own party never fully embracing his achievements from Obamacare to the amazing economic recovery. In the last mid-term when the Democrats lost control of the Senate, just about every Democratic candidate ran away from President Obama as Republicans-lite to the point where some refused to admit whether or not they even voted for him. When a party refuses to embrace it's own titular leader and his notable accomplishments--and that includes Hillary Clinton who focused more on her opponent's character than what her own husband knew, "It's the economy, stupid!"--you have the debacle now facing the Democrats, the nation, and the world.
3
President Barack Obama is the total opposite of the incoming, so-called president. He is a gentleman and will long be revered as such by those of us who have supported him over the years. I have absolutely no respect for the individual who will soon occupy the Oval Office. He has demonstrated time and again that he is not worthy of respect no matter whether one is a Democrat or a Republican. On the contrary, he is a disgrace. As such, he will NEVER be my president.
2
Only the strongly partisan can extoll Obama's achievements.
Most Democrats,including Sanders, recognize the stagnant economic growth under Obama.
Our foreign affairs are a disaster e.g. Russia,Turkey,Israel,China
When Americans needed to be united, he rejected bipartisan solutions and fostered historic divisiveness.
His "popularity" in polls reflects the weaknesses of Trump and Hillary Clinton as candidates and is boosted by his talents on late night TV talk shows which are inconsequential in solving America's problems.
Most Democrats,including Sanders, recognize the stagnant economic growth under Obama.
Our foreign affairs are a disaster e.g. Russia,Turkey,Israel,China
When Americans needed to be united, he rejected bipartisan solutions and fostered historic divisiveness.
His "popularity" in polls reflects the weaknesses of Trump and Hillary Clinton as candidates and is boosted by his talents on late night TV talk shows which are inconsequential in solving America's problems.
3
His true legacy is that of sowing more division among this country, the Mideast in much worse turmoil, and many of our Allies feeling embittered. Let's not sugarcoat it. You might be a nice person, but it certainly does not mean you are a leader. He had not idea how to build coalitions of different minded groups. Not impressed.
3
Eight years of no scandals, no impeachment, not even a forced resignation. Only grace, dignity and class and that is what makes republicans so angry.
Near full employment, no unnecessary wars, DOW and NASDAQ both tripled, construction booming, deficit cut $1Trillion, consumer confidence high and stopped Iran from having nuclear weapons without firing a shot.
Had a Republican done this his face would be on Mt. Rushmore.
Near full employment, no unnecessary wars, DOW and NASDAQ both tripled, construction booming, deficit cut $1Trillion, consumer confidence high and stopped Iran from having nuclear weapons without firing a shot.
Had a Republican done this his face would be on Mt. Rushmore.
5
Obama was the right person for the right time for the captains of capital. He was young, fresh, eloquent and his mere presence invoked a special symbolism of American opportunity.
His job was to manage a shift for global capital that had gone badly off course under Bush. Obama dialed back American military global reach and he successfully did so without changing its basic strategic imperatives. He saved Wall Street, on its terms. Billions were recovered for their mismanagement, but mostly for the major investors, not the 7 million people who lost their homes.
Obama Care is basically a private insurance company bonanza. Billions in profit there.
Obama was a smart, skillful manager. He emphasized agency efficiency, without calling for much major change. He, not Trump stabilized the boarder and deported nearly 2.5 million immigrants a year. He shut down drilling on many federal lands, but gave out hundreds of licenses for other spots.
His foreign policy was the same US strategic plan as its been for the last 25 years. Secure energy, dominate the world economy and deploy US military as global enforcer. His national security measures were nearly identical to Bush's. He even expanded the national security state.
He cautiously supported traditional liberal themes, gay marriage, civil rights and continued the illusions of the moral direction of the country. In the end, Obama extended the life of a moribund exploitive system and will be haled at least by some for that achievement
His job was to manage a shift for global capital that had gone badly off course under Bush. Obama dialed back American military global reach and he successfully did so without changing its basic strategic imperatives. He saved Wall Street, on its terms. Billions were recovered for their mismanagement, but mostly for the major investors, not the 7 million people who lost their homes.
Obama Care is basically a private insurance company bonanza. Billions in profit there.
Obama was a smart, skillful manager. He emphasized agency efficiency, without calling for much major change. He, not Trump stabilized the boarder and deported nearly 2.5 million immigrants a year. He shut down drilling on many federal lands, but gave out hundreds of licenses for other spots.
His foreign policy was the same US strategic plan as its been for the last 25 years. Secure energy, dominate the world economy and deploy US military as global enforcer. His national security measures were nearly identical to Bush's. He even expanded the national security state.
He cautiously supported traditional liberal themes, gay marriage, civil rights and continued the illusions of the moral direction of the country. In the end, Obama extended the life of a moribund exploitive system and will be haled at least by some for that achievement
4
Come on, the inauguration of whatshisname is DAYS away. There's still time for a run-off election. Third term, anyone?
1
Please don't tell me what I'll miss about Barack Obama.
4
I am told that Obama had no sex scandals, but did the following scandals:
1. The IRS scandal. Why did Lois Lerner of the IRS visit the White House over 100 times? Was it to get instructions to target Conservatives?
2. Gave up US control of Internet, enabling many countries to censor information.
3. Released criminal illegal aliens; executive amnesty for illegals.
4. Cut Medicaid to states that defended planned parenthood
5. Discarded Britain and Israel; betrayed Poland.
6. Forced army men to walk in high heels to show how hard it is to be a woman.
7. Cut military healthcare benefits. Purged dissent in military (remember he fired the General whose opinion appeared in a magazine).
8. Allowed a million Muslims to enter USA over past 4 years but excluded christian refugees from Middle East and Africa.
9. He altered Freedom of Info law to prevent information from WH to be released.
10. He prosecuted opponents (Senator Menendez).
11. He punished anti-Islamic speech.
12. After Charlie Hebdo, all world leaders marched in Paris but not Obama.
13. His Iran deal guarantees that Iran will have an atomic bomb 8 years from today.
1. The IRS scandal. Why did Lois Lerner of the IRS visit the White House over 100 times? Was it to get instructions to target Conservatives?
2. Gave up US control of Internet, enabling many countries to censor information.
3. Released criminal illegal aliens; executive amnesty for illegals.
4. Cut Medicaid to states that defended planned parenthood
5. Discarded Britain and Israel; betrayed Poland.
6. Forced army men to walk in high heels to show how hard it is to be a woman.
7. Cut military healthcare benefits. Purged dissent in military (remember he fired the General whose opinion appeared in a magazine).
8. Allowed a million Muslims to enter USA over past 4 years but excluded christian refugees from Middle East and Africa.
9. He altered Freedom of Info law to prevent information from WH to be released.
10. He prosecuted opponents (Senator Menendez).
11. He punished anti-Islamic speech.
12. After Charlie Hebdo, all world leaders marched in Paris but not Obama.
13. His Iran deal guarantees that Iran will have an atomic bomb 8 years from today.
10
I appreciate so much this editorial because for the first time in my life (I'm 75), I wish that the amendment limiting president's terms in office didn't exist because had our beloved current president run again, we would not be facing, in the words of Kurtz in Joseph Conrad's "Heart of Darkness," "The horror! The horror!" of the one coming in. Mr. Obama will go down in history as one of our country's greatest and most compassionate Presidents. You have provided, here, some of the reasons why. But then there are other aspects such as that image of him bending over to let the little black boy touch his hair. And, of course, the most amazing first lady since Eleanor Roosevelt in Michelle Obama. Thanks so much for this thoughtful editorial.
6
Whatever else history may credit him with or blame him for, a very strong argument can be made that the three interests that benefited most during Obama's 8 years in the White House were Wall Street, the C.I.A. and Saudi Arabia.
1
Imagine what more he could have accomplished if the republicans only meet him at least half way.
2
At this point, I am missing Dubya. Even Tricky Dick.
3
People have underestimated the achievements of President Obama.
He surely oversaw the resurrection of our economy. Hw worked to mitigate the impact of the changing economy from a corporatized manufacturing economy to a service economy. His major impetus was the ACA which would spread healthcare to those in jobs which don't provide for it.
He oversaw the draw down of a useless war, and kept us from engaging in more unwinnable conflicts, but held firm on eliminating terror, one terrorist at a time if necessary. The Hydra tendency of terror - ISIS develops the tactic of seeking unstable individuals as Al Qaida's structural approach is dismantled - doesn't make the success weakening Al Qaida lesser.
But most of all, he gave us eight more years of safety nets. He kept an unstable Congress from dismantling more than 100 years of progress. We will recognize how much he did for us only as we see the results of the next two years play out.
His greatest weakness is that he could not override with his soaring words, the rhetoric and disfunction spewed by his naysayers and the rightwing press. He could not get Americans to demand that Congress act for them, not against them. He could not get Americans to recognize that his policies were not left wing socialism. And he could not get left wingers to recognize that centrism was their friend in a nation skewing rightward.
We will pay a pretty high price for President Obama being a prophet disregarded in his own country.
He surely oversaw the resurrection of our economy. Hw worked to mitigate the impact of the changing economy from a corporatized manufacturing economy to a service economy. His major impetus was the ACA which would spread healthcare to those in jobs which don't provide for it.
He oversaw the draw down of a useless war, and kept us from engaging in more unwinnable conflicts, but held firm on eliminating terror, one terrorist at a time if necessary. The Hydra tendency of terror - ISIS develops the tactic of seeking unstable individuals as Al Qaida's structural approach is dismantled - doesn't make the success weakening Al Qaida lesser.
But most of all, he gave us eight more years of safety nets. He kept an unstable Congress from dismantling more than 100 years of progress. We will recognize how much he did for us only as we see the results of the next two years play out.
His greatest weakness is that he could not override with his soaring words, the rhetoric and disfunction spewed by his naysayers and the rightwing press. He could not get Americans to demand that Congress act for them, not against them. He could not get Americans to recognize that his policies were not left wing socialism. And he could not get left wingers to recognize that centrism was their friend in a nation skewing rightward.
We will pay a pretty high price for President Obama being a prophet disregarded in his own country.
1
I didn't vote for Obama in 2008 (I didn't vote at all).
After 4 years of his steady, sane, (list of superlatives) leadership in the face of the racist sedition of republicans, I made it to a point to never ever sit out an election again.
I for one will miss this guy.
America is now headed for crazy - "Welcome to the Monkey House" (NYT readers will know who Vonnegut is, trump supporters will only know the beauty pageant lady that gained a lot of weight).
After 4 years of his steady, sane, (list of superlatives) leadership in the face of the racist sedition of republicans, I made it to a point to never ever sit out an election again.
I for one will miss this guy.
America is now headed for crazy - "Welcome to the Monkey House" (NYT readers will know who Vonnegut is, trump supporters will only know the beauty pageant lady that gained a lot of weight).
1
I just read Eric Cantor's piece! I never realized those Republicans offered so many wonderful policies that Obama ignored, especially since they were trying to work with him (to make him a one term president?). Even more amazing how they have "lost" these compromise policies, particularly any relating to health care, now they are in office.
2
Not one of the republicans, not even one, deserves the right to carry this man's golf bag. Thank you President Obama, thank you.
1
I am proud to say he will always be MY President.
1
Obama election terrified the GOP because it revealed that African Americans are moving back south. From 1910 -1970 Africans migrated north due increase violence in the south and job incentives. It was only after southern population dropped below 30% in the 6 states where African Americans where the majority population did we get the right to vote but African Americans have been moving back south since 2000 and we are above 30% or close to it in 6 states. If the population migration continues African Americans will become the majority population in at least 2-3 states in our life time. This is why we have all these voter ID laws this is why they treated Obama the way they did. If African Americans can become the majority population in 3 states the GOP party as we know it will be done. This is why we have Trump and the rise of racism.
1
Obama's "eloquence ranks with that of Abraham Lincoln". Every President, even Trump, must dream of a commendation like this from the Editorial Board of the New York Times - after all they deal daily in the world's most influential prose.
To think that a President as simplistic as Trump could undo the infinite complexity of the genius of Lincoln, or Obama - it's a no brainer.
In fact, I do not think Obama could have been succeeded by a weaker President. For this reason I think his legacy will be even more deeply embedded.
Lincoln was followed by Andrew Johnson, he was later impeached of course.
Interestingly, an impeachment also looks likely for Trump.
History does seem to repeat.
Thank you Obama, you showed a cynical man how to change and how to hope, again.
To think that a President as simplistic as Trump could undo the infinite complexity of the genius of Lincoln, or Obama - it's a no brainer.
In fact, I do not think Obama could have been succeeded by a weaker President. For this reason I think his legacy will be even more deeply embedded.
Lincoln was followed by Andrew Johnson, he was later impeached of course.
Interestingly, an impeachment also looks likely for Trump.
History does seem to repeat.
Thank you Obama, you showed a cynical man how to change and how to hope, again.
2
Revisionist history stimulated by wishful thinking is behind the desperate attempts to falsely create a favorable legacy for Oama's disastrous failure as President. To credit him for economic recovery is absurd. The economy was so anemic that it could only get better. However, Obama's anti-growth policies including crippling regs and refusal to cut taxes prevented a much more robust recovery. He set race relations back decades. He presided over a further deterioration of inner cities. He owns the worst heath care system. Hold he sold to us on a pack of lies admittedly because of how "stupid" he believed Americans to be. He is forever linked to IRS scandal, Benghazi, Mexican gun running, the VA, Reverand Wright and his intense antiSemetism and hatred for Israel. He completely failed to address cyber security. He was even worse on foreign affairs. 500,000 dead in Syria from not acting on red line, regime change Arab Spring, Russian reset, early withdrawals from Iraq and Afghanistan. Yes, by all means tell us what a great job he did.
8
We're losing the most popular president to the least popular president-elect, but please stuff the ideology and envy hypothesis. Mr. Obama's opponents are Republicans driven by mean-spirited greed, bigotry, lies and fear. After all we've experienced of their governance can't even the NYT begin to call a spade a spade? Those normal Republicans the NYT imagine still exist have been ejected from the GOP. They are RINOs and they have no power. There is no ideology in the new Republican party. It is all about money, power and the over throw of democracy in the United States. Stop acting like this is normal. NYT, Do Your Job.
2
We shall not see his like again for generations. Few presidents have had the ability to speak and act in the interests of this country in times of crisis with eloquence and competence. To pull us out of a morass with tough action and hope. Even fewer have done it with such opposition. The GOP will forever be branded as near traitors by history.
With all this some how Americans (all be it a minority) elected the exact opposite, failing to realize that it was Obama's opposition that was responsible for their supposed problems.
Forever our shame the way he was treated. Forever our blame what we have just done in replacing him with Trump.
With all this some how Americans (all be it a minority) elected the exact opposite, failing to realize that it was Obama's opposition that was responsible for their supposed problems.
Forever our shame the way he was treated. Forever our blame what we have just done in replacing him with Trump.
3
President Obama did hit it out of the park nearly every time. Almost everything he did was the correct thing.
And yes there were a few unintended consequences. Things were't always perfect. Some bad things happened as a result of the ACA. But many good things happened because of it. And it would have been a much greater success all around had the Republicans helped even slightly.
He had great optimism in the US Auto worker even if many insulted him with their Trump votes. Obama insisted on domestic production and retooling of several car lines under the bailout deal. And as a result I bought one of those cars; a Chevy. Its a good car. But I'm ashamed of all the US workers whose short memories kept them from thanking him.
Cuba. Just getting back to a human and humane footing with Cuba was such an achievement.
Climate Change. This man understands the science and whats more he believes in the overall worth of the scientific community. I mean, no pun intended, but for God's sake, 20% of the populace thinks the world is 6000 years old. Of course those idiots hate Obama. Obama doesn't hate them but I'm sure he wished they would read well researched books.
And I'll never forget the effect of Sandyhook on this father and president whose composure was so tested during his address to the nation after that horrendous preventable event.
Both Roosevelts, Lincoln and Kennedy would have admired this man so much and be ashamed that some like Trump is now taking over.
And yes there were a few unintended consequences. Things were't always perfect. Some bad things happened as a result of the ACA. But many good things happened because of it. And it would have been a much greater success all around had the Republicans helped even slightly.
He had great optimism in the US Auto worker even if many insulted him with their Trump votes. Obama insisted on domestic production and retooling of several car lines under the bailout deal. And as a result I bought one of those cars; a Chevy. Its a good car. But I'm ashamed of all the US workers whose short memories kept them from thanking him.
Cuba. Just getting back to a human and humane footing with Cuba was such an achievement.
Climate Change. This man understands the science and whats more he believes in the overall worth of the scientific community. I mean, no pun intended, but for God's sake, 20% of the populace thinks the world is 6000 years old. Of course those idiots hate Obama. Obama doesn't hate them but I'm sure he wished they would read well researched books.
And I'll never forget the effect of Sandyhook on this father and president whose composure was so tested during his address to the nation after that horrendous preventable event.
Both Roosevelts, Lincoln and Kennedy would have admired this man so much and be ashamed that some like Trump is now taking over.
3
We have gone from one of our most decent, humane and compassionate Presidents ever, to our most morally reprehensible, without a shred of decency or humanity.
We live in an era of hypocrisy where the ones that assert they are most religious are acting the most uncharitably, where facts are disregarded and totally based on your political views and belief system. This may very well be the end of our Democracy.
It looks like its going to be a chaotic 4 years. I hope I am wrong about my fears about the next world war being triggered by this unhinged, cruel and unstable man.
Supporters of this man should be ashamed that they are blinded to the truth of his utter lack of qualifications or temperament.
We live in an era of hypocrisy where the ones that assert they are most religious are acting the most uncharitably, where facts are disregarded and totally based on your political views and belief system. This may very well be the end of our Democracy.
It looks like its going to be a chaotic 4 years. I hope I am wrong about my fears about the next world war being triggered by this unhinged, cruel and unstable man.
Supporters of this man should be ashamed that they are blinded to the truth of his utter lack of qualifications or temperament.
6
President Obama has been served with grace and dignity. Now sadly we are going from an America of light to a dark dark era with an unsuitable and unstable Trump.
3
Nothing is better than it was 8 years ago with the possible exception of the economy but even the economy is performing badly enough to result in the loss of every branch of government. Tell me what are "solid accomplishments" when half of the Arab world is engulfed in brutal civil war, the other half is more authoritarian, the country is riven by race divisions not seen since the 1970s, not once has there been yearly 3% economic growth, and health care is in a death spiral. He has given credibility to countries with abysmal human rights records (Cuba, Iran) and received what in return? JetBlue flights? China is dominating the South China Sea and he has done nothing. He has abandoned our friends and our moral position in the world and punished Israel.
What does popularity mean when the Republicans dominate every branch of government? He has turned the Democrats into a regional party of three states in which all of their potential nominees are over 70. His signature act the ACA will be overturned because it was passed against the will of the American people. He so alienated any possibility of working with the opposition, and used legislative tactics so extreme to achieve executive decisions that nearly everything he did will be reversed.
He polarized the country. We have race violence unseen in decades. The country is much worse off for this man having been President. His eloquence and "coolness" are undeniable, it's what he did that damaged this country.
What does popularity mean when the Republicans dominate every branch of government? He has turned the Democrats into a regional party of three states in which all of their potential nominees are over 70. His signature act the ACA will be overturned because it was passed against the will of the American people. He so alienated any possibility of working with the opposition, and used legislative tactics so extreme to achieve executive decisions that nearly everything he did will be reversed.
He polarized the country. We have race violence unseen in decades. The country is much worse off for this man having been President. His eloquence and "coolness" are undeniable, it's what he did that damaged this country.
8
I voted for him twice. I really respect his eloquence and the beautiful family he presented to the US and world. Sadly I think he's legacy is going to be very mixed.
Choosing sides in civil conflicts in both Syria and Libya may well have brought down center left power in both Europe and the US. Secret war conducted in Yemen and the continued failed operations in Afghanistan which included the US bombing of a DWB hospital is also part of his legacy.
Worst of all is the expanded legal concept of collecting mega data on US citizens and the failure to get a Democratic majority to pass both a carbon tax and immigration reform.
His legacy is going to be easily taken down.
As far as the economy, while both parties attack the federal reserve, they did most of the heavy lifting along with the American worker to end the recession.
Choosing sides in civil conflicts in both Syria and Libya may well have brought down center left power in both Europe and the US. Secret war conducted in Yemen and the continued failed operations in Afghanistan which included the US bombing of a DWB hospital is also part of his legacy.
Worst of all is the expanded legal concept of collecting mega data on US citizens and the failure to get a Democratic majority to pass both a carbon tax and immigration reform.
His legacy is going to be easily taken down.
As far as the economy, while both parties attack the federal reserve, they did most of the heavy lifting along with the American worker to end the recession.
3
I greatly admire our current President but do not share his optimism. We are no longer one nation, but two. While admirable I suppose, Obama's assertion that we are even now more united than divided sounds to me like what Calvin Trillon called "Easter Bunny stuff".
4
Some of the comments are about how the international community will miss President Obama.
I wonder if that will include the Syrian people, of those in former states of the USSR?
I wonder if that will include the Syrian people, of those in former states of the USSR?
6
Obama's optimism, dignity, decorum, and compassion stand out all the more when comtrasted with what's coming: a selfish, bullying, disrespectful man, leading a Republican majority that ignores reality and doesn't care about the needs of anyone but themselves and their corporate donors.
Thank you, President Obama.
Thank you, President Obama.
3
For all those reasons and many more, we will miss Barack Obama. He has been an extraordinarily fine president.
7
In my view, during my 82 years, two Presidents have stood above the rest. The first died during my childhood. The second will leave office in a few days.
6
I don't believe President Obama is leaving us. His optimism is based on faith in the American people and on the institutions created by a long line of creative believers in freedom and the common good. He will continue to lead the revival of caring for those benefits by inspiring and by identifying the way (i.e. Gerrymandering revision) to promote and protect them. Great leaders always see beyond the now to what could be.
5
As former Monty Python John Cleese used to say 'and now for something completely different.'
1
President Obama did inherit an economy teetering on the brink of depression and a geopolitical crisis of epic proportions courtesy of the right-wing crusaders of the GWB administration.
He also encountered an opposition party of rabid ideologues best personified by Mitch McConnell and his declaration that the Republican's number one priority was a one-term Obama administration and mindless resistance to anything Mr. Obama might propose. The Republican strategy was to let America sink to new, uncharted depths, then blame it on Obama and the Democrats. The cynical opportunism embodied in this strategy staggers the civilized mind.
In many ways, Donald Trump is the logical result of years of mindless Republican orthodoxy. Reality is no longer an element worthy of consideration by the GOP. Their perverse ideology is all they crave. We must watch Mr. Trump assume the presidency, along with a Republican-controlled Congress, and hope the poison works it's way out of our system with minimal damage. These are very dark days.
He also encountered an opposition party of rabid ideologues best personified by Mitch McConnell and his declaration that the Republican's number one priority was a one-term Obama administration and mindless resistance to anything Mr. Obama might propose. The Republican strategy was to let America sink to new, uncharted depths, then blame it on Obama and the Democrats. The cynical opportunism embodied in this strategy staggers the civilized mind.
In many ways, Donald Trump is the logical result of years of mindless Republican orthodoxy. Reality is no longer an element worthy of consideration by the GOP. Their perverse ideology is all they crave. We must watch Mr. Trump assume the presidency, along with a Republican-controlled Congress, and hope the poison works it's way out of our system with minimal damage. These are very dark days.
15
I wistfully think about what could have been achieved if the Republicans saw a President instead of a Kenyan usurper , Muslim and closeted Black Panther. Even with the strong headwinds Mr Obama governed with dignity and grace.
Perhaps more importunately in the current context, without Twitter.
Perhaps more importunately in the current context, without Twitter.
3
And now through ignorance we have replaced the joyous with the noxious.
7
A true statesman is leaving our presidency. His successor will be a pagan, liar, bully, buffoon, clown, and not know it all.
God Bless the United States of America and God help us.
God Bless the United States of America and God help us.
9
What was missing from his administration was someone including the president telling us every day their progress, or not. Few people really know all the great gains, but I bet everybody can tell you how many 'jobs' were saved by Trump in the past week.
Imagine the outcry from Trump if he invited the House Leader Ryan to the next few State Dinners but he always had "prior engagements" like Boehner always had.
Imagine the outcry from Trump if he invited the House Leader Ryan to the next few State Dinners but he always had "prior engagements" like Boehner always had.
7
"The Optimism of BO?" Hardly.
The Obama years are about a legacy that was incidentally a presidency. With his legacy about to be wiped out, Obama is frantic. Only fiat & fake news & the fake courage of someone w/ one foot out the door stand between immortality & oblivion, between Mount Rushmore and the trash heap.
Obama has cemented his legacy; but it is not the legacy of his delusions. Even The Times dared to ask: "Was BO Bad for Ds?"
The carnage & regionalization of the Ds are Obama's doing. BO is not "thoughtful." He is scheming & terminally ambivalent. He is not "dignified." He is detached & divisive. He is not "honest." His detachment makes him look like just an observer of his own failures, corruption & lawlessness…& his sly rhetoric reinforces the illusion.
“I’ve been very clear that Iran will not get a nuclear weapon on my watch” (Obama to TFriedman)
BO's irrational, legacy-driven deal & secret side deals de facto nuclearized Iran, setting up a nuke arms race in the entire insane, apocalyptic region intent on annihilating America & Israel…His deals, IF OBEYED, give Iran nukes in a blink of an eye as they defeat the grim logic of MAD.
These are especially dangerous times. The magnitude & frequency of BO's acts of irreversible damage vary inversely & exponentially w/ his time left in office. (A Hillary pardon pardons him, so he will do it.)
A despot can do a lot of damage in 5 days & a deluded one blinded by his own imagined brilliance will.
The Obama years are about a legacy that was incidentally a presidency. With his legacy about to be wiped out, Obama is frantic. Only fiat & fake news & the fake courage of someone w/ one foot out the door stand between immortality & oblivion, between Mount Rushmore and the trash heap.
Obama has cemented his legacy; but it is not the legacy of his delusions. Even The Times dared to ask: "Was BO Bad for Ds?"
The carnage & regionalization of the Ds are Obama's doing. BO is not "thoughtful." He is scheming & terminally ambivalent. He is not "dignified." He is detached & divisive. He is not "honest." His detachment makes him look like just an observer of his own failures, corruption & lawlessness…& his sly rhetoric reinforces the illusion.
“I’ve been very clear that Iran will not get a nuclear weapon on my watch” (Obama to TFriedman)
BO's irrational, legacy-driven deal & secret side deals de facto nuclearized Iran, setting up a nuke arms race in the entire insane, apocalyptic region intent on annihilating America & Israel…His deals, IF OBEYED, give Iran nukes in a blink of an eye as they defeat the grim logic of MAD.
These are especially dangerous times. The magnitude & frequency of BO's acts of irreversible damage vary inversely & exponentially w/ his time left in office. (A Hillary pardon pardons him, so he will do it.)
A despot can do a lot of damage in 5 days & a deluded one blinded by his own imagined brilliance will.
8
Obama and the First Family have made me immensely proud to be American, especially since being such was a choice and not an accident of birth. Optimism is in scant supply these days, and too often comes down to hedonism or plain consumerism with satisfaction derived from stuff. Deliberately or otherwise, the antics of Trump and the slavish media obsession with them precluded discussion of real issues in the past couple of years.
When Marine Le Pen drops into Trump Tower to celebrate with a right-wing tenant, when Nigel Farage says he’ll be at the inauguration, when the KKK celebrates Trump’s win, we have problems. Obama represents the spirit of the old America: hopeful, joyful, committed to the community of Americans, and willing to work for those ideals. Trump represents the ultimate sell-out of those ideals. The conventions of centuries, the advances of decades, and the trust of our allies are all to be thrown in the garbage. The guiding principal now is not the American community but the status and enrichment of the Trump junta.
When Marine Le Pen drops into Trump Tower to celebrate with a right-wing tenant, when Nigel Farage says he’ll be at the inauguration, when the KKK celebrates Trump’s win, we have problems. Obama represents the spirit of the old America: hopeful, joyful, committed to the community of Americans, and willing to work for those ideals. Trump represents the ultimate sell-out of those ideals. The conventions of centuries, the advances of decades, and the trust of our allies are all to be thrown in the garbage. The guiding principal now is not the American community but the status and enrichment of the Trump junta.
5
Eric Cantor is in today's paper lamenting that the GOP held out a helping hand to the president, and was willing to work with him. According to Cantor, these well intentioned entreaties were rebuffed.
BALONEY. Let's not forget that immediately upon Obama's election Mitch McConnell said GOP priority #1 was to see a 'failed' presidency.
The Founding Fathers anticipated a 'loyal' opposition, not a bunch of deranged ideologies.
Well, they're driving the bus now. Let's not forget what happened the last time they were behind the wheel.
BALONEY. Let's not forget that immediately upon Obama's election Mitch McConnell said GOP priority #1 was to see a 'failed' presidency.
The Founding Fathers anticipated a 'loyal' opposition, not a bunch of deranged ideologies.
Well, they're driving the bus now. Let's not forget what happened the last time they were behind the wheel.
9
"Pulling the nation back from the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression remarkable because the Republicans who made it their priority to ensure he would fail."
That's where the Republican's loyalty was spent to the American people. During our hardest of times, they as a party put themselves above all of us - with making us fail. And look at how they have been rewarded. Is it any wonder that they now support Putin over our own intelligence agencies?
That's where the Republican's loyalty was spent to the American people. During our hardest of times, they as a party put themselves above all of us - with making us fail. And look at how they have been rewarded. Is it any wonder that they now support Putin over our own intelligence agencies?
1
Above all, it is the stunning and stark contrast between the man leaving and the one entering. The election was never really about "issues" or ideology: Trump knows nothing of policy and has no ideology beyond self adulation. Being ideologically "flexible" can be a good thing. In the case of Donald Trump, however, it just drives home the hollowness and banality of the man.
Like many millions of Americans, I view the imminent retirement of Barack Obama with a profound sadness. What is about to happen next Friday should frighten anyone who values thoughtfulness, consistency, and commitment. God bless you Barack Obama.
Jeff Laadt
Like many millions of Americans, I view the imminent retirement of Barack Obama with a profound sadness. What is about to happen next Friday should frighten anyone who values thoughtfulness, consistency, and commitment. God bless you Barack Obama.
Jeff Laadt
3
Just feeling lucky to have been around for these past 8 years.
2
The most upsetting thing about this article and the others concerning Obama and race, are the many negative comments about the president and how he caused the racial division. Forgetting how Mitch McConnell, Cantor and his Young Guns and trump with his covert dog whistles, ffanned the flames, showing how ingrained intolerance is in our society!
1
Fair or not, U.S. Presidents are often remembered, if at all, by their single greatest achievement or disappointment: Roosevelt for winning WWII; Truman for using a nuclear weapon; Johnson for Civil Rights legislation; Nixon for Watergate; Reagan for ending the Cold War; Carter for Iran and the Bushes for Iraq.
But in a country where slavery was legal for much of its first century, and separate was considered equal for much of its second, Barack Obama will be remembered as the first black man to become President of the United States.
President Obama will be forever remembered not for what he did; but for what we did.
But in a country where slavery was legal for much of its first century, and separate was considered equal for much of its second, Barack Obama will be remembered as the first black man to become President of the United States.
President Obama will be forever remembered not for what he did; but for what we did.
From the sublime to the ridiculous: here we go. Despite all the obstruction, President Obama achieved much with class and dignity; how much more could have he achieved if our elected congressmen and senators had done the job we sent them to Washington to do for us.
We will look back on these eight years as golden, a beautiful family full of grace and love in the White House, it would have been so hard to see them go even if they were not being replaced by the worst bunch you could imagine. Even now, with this nightmare getting worse and worse with every new day, the Obamas are telling us to not fear, to have hope where we see none, with the lowest common denominator stolen presidency about to start.
All I can say now is "Thank you, President Obama, for your service to our country, for your shining example to us and the world. It is too soon to lose you."
We will look back on these eight years as golden, a beautiful family full of grace and love in the White House, it would have been so hard to see them go even if they were not being replaced by the worst bunch you could imagine. Even now, with this nightmare getting worse and worse with every new day, the Obamas are telling us to not fear, to have hope where we see none, with the lowest common denominator stolen presidency about to start.
All I can say now is "Thank you, President Obama, for your service to our country, for your shining example to us and the world. It is too soon to lose you."
It is beyond astonishing that after George W Bush's historically un-uequalled, across-the-board incompetence and Obama's heroic success fixing his blunders, and his example of grace and intelligence, America should elect another Republican incompetent, only this time, one who is a vicious, proudly ignorant, sexual predator and habitual liar and quite possibly a traitor. Faux News and Hate Radio have been brainwashed Americans to believe we have lost respect worldwide, when in fact Obama has gone a long ways toward restoring the international respect Bush squandered and tarnished. That is the greatest and most tragic insult to Obama's legacy. Trump has made us once again the object of international derision, and it will only get worse until he is ousted. Fortunately, he is Captain Queeg, and as his inner circle begins eyeing the lifeboats for that Watergate moment when they start asking what he knew and when he knew it, he will soon find himself with nobody but family and crackpots supporting him.
1
History will treat Obama very well. With the principal exception of his not being able to reduce the power of the military to continue warfare around the globe, he was largely successful. When considering the single-minded Republican opposition attempts to block his every move, he did an exceptional job. His star will rise every day of Trump's presidency as the country learns what it has lost with a sensible, good person in the White House. Trump will inadvertently make Obama appear even more successful than he was.
And to continue Obama's legacy we need to set priorities.
Just as Obama put the goal of punishing the real criminals on Wall Street, in banks, and in real estate (without exonerating them) behind accomplishing other more pressing and important goals (health care, financial stability, jobs, environment), so we must not get lost in every real issue, some of which cannot be equally pressing as a national goal, if we are expecting to accomplish things.
Some issues are bet dealt with privately and locally for the time being. On the national level (and to some extent on the state level) we need to focus -- on health care, the environment, and on a taxation system that requires all to pay their appropriate share. Those are most immediate -- for life and to pay for these needs and all the others.
Next, equally important on the grand scale, but leading to distraction from these first priorities if focused on too soon, are equal rights for all, improved resources for educating our youth through college, etc. Don't get me wrong, these latter priorities can be dealt with at the same time as the first ones -- but locally and in a more nuanced way (the wrong rhetoric can lead to more of a backlash than is good for the causes).
Obama got things done through carefully choosing priorities and being flexible -- willing to change as circumstances required. He did not throw everything out in people's faces and denounce them as bigots and antediluvian fools -- and we shouldn't either.
Just as Obama put the goal of punishing the real criminals on Wall Street, in banks, and in real estate (without exonerating them) behind accomplishing other more pressing and important goals (health care, financial stability, jobs, environment), so we must not get lost in every real issue, some of which cannot be equally pressing as a national goal, if we are expecting to accomplish things.
Some issues are bet dealt with privately and locally for the time being. On the national level (and to some extent on the state level) we need to focus -- on health care, the environment, and on a taxation system that requires all to pay their appropriate share. Those are most immediate -- for life and to pay for these needs and all the others.
Next, equally important on the grand scale, but leading to distraction from these first priorities if focused on too soon, are equal rights for all, improved resources for educating our youth through college, etc. Don't get me wrong, these latter priorities can be dealt with at the same time as the first ones -- but locally and in a more nuanced way (the wrong rhetoric can lead to more of a backlash than is good for the causes).
Obama got things done through carefully choosing priorities and being flexible -- willing to change as circumstances required. He did not throw everything out in people's faces and denounce them as bigots and antediluvian fools -- and we shouldn't either.
I can not help but wonder whether these polls are as accurate and the polls for the 2016 election.
6
I will miss his calm demeanor. His willingness to listen, analyses and then respond in complete sentences with respect for the questioner. I will miss his grace and intelligence. I will miss is willingness to work with those spent 8 years vilifying him. I will miss his outward love of his family. I will miss his love of fairness. I will miss his decency.
2
Obama is a community organizer and was never qualified to be a president. He never had a real job in his life and as a senator was a failure. Face facts: he was elected because he was the first black candidate and he promised citizens entitlements thus buying their votes. He is the "if you like your insurance, you can keep it" or "if you like your doctor you can keep your doctor" president who , I do not believe lied. He just knew nothing about the details of the now failed ACA. His foreign policy made a mess of every foreign engagement and his treaty with Iran assures they will have nuclear weapons. In the meantime, he has become the first anti-Israel president. His economic performance is miserable, as one might ask just what did his stimulus plan ever do? He added more to the national debt than all previous presidents combined while producing terrible growth and the lowest labor participation rate in 70 years. Race relations are the worse since the 1960s, with outrageous black organizations actually spewing death threats to police. All I can say is you can paint lipstick on this presidency, but the results were a disaster for the US and the world.
8
I am so grateful to President Obama for, despite the opposing view, gave America what it really needed for 8 years. Recall: America was tired of war and the false pretenses for those wars and the impact those wars had on the budget. America was tired of a financial system (and still is) that won while the vast majority lost. America was tired of two previous presidents who either had failed morally and/ or led us down paths that were neither honest nor successful. For eight years we were led by an honest, ethical, decent man who tried, sometimes unsuccessfully, to do the right thing. A man who tried to help those who had been and still are hurting. But when the first order of business from the opposition is to make the man a failure, well that's a very difficult hill to climb. But I never once thought the President didn't try to overcome that,to try and get around the unwillingness to compromise, to intelligently evaluate every issue and try and choose the best path forward. President Obama: you will always be my president, you have my utmost respect, and I will forever be indebted to you for bringing back honor and dignity to the country.
1
What is truth? The question certainly predates Pilate, and is no less fundamental to this very day.
One of the central struggles of the modern age, indeed one of the primary defining features of modernity, is the way we arrive at a working consensus of what is true. Show me the evidence. And let every person examine it, and judge whether it be true or no.
Truth in a modern sense has taken on a distinctly empirical character - or at least that seemed to be true. Doctors, scientists, historians, journalists, even voters were reckoned to have done their job when they examined actual evidence in a fair and consistent and even-handed way. What is true? Look at the evidence, make your interpretation, give the free market of equivalent examiners a shot at it too, and then decide - as the evidence demands.
So then truth is not defined by an act of will, the status of any individual, or some compelling need. Nor does it proceed from any sort of orthodoxy, but exists apart from swings of popularity. No, truth does not "trend".
The contrast between President Obama and President Elect Trump in this regard simply could not be more stark. An abyss of dark possibilities lies between the thousands of reality-altering decisions that have been made (8 years past) and will be (4 years to come). And Trump's relationship with truth has never been other than ownership or need. He acknowledges no test of truth other than his own imperial and magical will.
God help us all.
One of the central struggles of the modern age, indeed one of the primary defining features of modernity, is the way we arrive at a working consensus of what is true. Show me the evidence. And let every person examine it, and judge whether it be true or no.
Truth in a modern sense has taken on a distinctly empirical character - or at least that seemed to be true. Doctors, scientists, historians, journalists, even voters were reckoned to have done their job when they examined actual evidence in a fair and consistent and even-handed way. What is true? Look at the evidence, make your interpretation, give the free market of equivalent examiners a shot at it too, and then decide - as the evidence demands.
So then truth is not defined by an act of will, the status of any individual, or some compelling need. Nor does it proceed from any sort of orthodoxy, but exists apart from swings of popularity. No, truth does not "trend".
The contrast between President Obama and President Elect Trump in this regard simply could not be more stark. An abyss of dark possibilities lies between the thousands of reality-altering decisions that have been made (8 years past) and will be (4 years to come). And Trump's relationship with truth has never been other than ownership or need. He acknowledges no test of truth other than his own imperial and magical will.
God help us all.
2
I supported President Obama both times, financially as well, and while I like certain things about him, he became just another one of the several occupants of this highest office, who secured the Presidency, with a platform that promised "Hope and Change"
The hopes continue, and except for the change that further enriched the .1%ters, the poor and the middle-class were left treading water, and further abused as they continued on the painful journey to drudgery, economic slavery and penury.
Obama essentially set the stage for the abysmal failure of the entirely corporate owned and corrupt Hillary cabal, and stood mute as the Hillary gang sabotaged Bernie Sanders, the only honorable person to run for President in decades, who today would be our President Elect, if these profiteering charlatans had even a smidgen of honor.
Avarice, pure unbridled avarice got us where we are today, and still the complicit mainstream media mouthpieces for the Democratic party, the party which failed the people, and gave us Trump, refuses to accept the role they played in this catastrophe.
Our nation, our corporate owned government can now be said to be an Oligarchy, made so by the wealthy elites, with the majority being liberal elites.
The hopes continue, and except for the change that further enriched the .1%ters, the poor and the middle-class were left treading water, and further abused as they continued on the painful journey to drudgery, economic slavery and penury.
Obama essentially set the stage for the abysmal failure of the entirely corporate owned and corrupt Hillary cabal, and stood mute as the Hillary gang sabotaged Bernie Sanders, the only honorable person to run for President in decades, who today would be our President Elect, if these profiteering charlatans had even a smidgen of honor.
Avarice, pure unbridled avarice got us where we are today, and still the complicit mainstream media mouthpieces for the Democratic party, the party which failed the people, and gave us Trump, refuses to accept the role they played in this catastrophe.
Our nation, our corporate owned government can now be said to be an Oligarchy, made so by the wealthy elites, with the majority being liberal elites.
8
He was in the right seat at the right time. His popularity vote was achieved by low- information voters who are not familiar with the irreparable damage he did to the U.S. during his eight year term. He did not possess the business skills or business experience to lead the country. His race relations took us back to the 60's and his firing generals and cutting the military proved he is not a patriot. Vilifying all police did not score him any points with the public. He is a socialist and finally we are getting rid of him. Who left anyone in charge to redistribute money from the people who have worked hard for decades and paid taxes.
3
Thank you!
Yesterday I read Peter Wehner's article, "Eight is Enough," arguing that Obama has failed. The ACA is a mess, the country's economy growing at a pathetic rate, the Democratic Party in a shambles, the Mideast on fire ... mostly because Obama has stayed caught in his eloquence, his bubble, and been unwilling or unable to do the dirty work.
This editorial, your editorial, is a better way to begin a Sunday.
Yesterday I read Peter Wehner's article, "Eight is Enough," arguing that Obama has failed. The ACA is a mess, the country's economy growing at a pathetic rate, the Democratic Party in a shambles, the Mideast on fire ... mostly because Obama has stayed caught in his eloquence, his bubble, and been unwilling or unable to do the dirty work.
This editorial, your editorial, is a better way to begin a Sunday.
4
Obama seems to be a very nice guy, but as a politician he's not very good.
11
Please spare me the Barack Obama saint act already. Back in 2008 Barack Obama, then an unknown Junior Senator from Illinois, decided to throw his hat in the presidential ring. Why? Senator Obama was outraged by Senator Hillary Clinton's "aye" vote giving a trigger happy George W Bush the go-ahead to invade Iraq. Obama had great campaign slogans like 'Hope and Change" and a memorable chant of"Yes We Can." The mainstream media immediately fell in love with this handsome stranger and proclaimed that he was "The One". In the blink of an eye, the mainstream media dumped Hillary Clinton. The rest is history. To me Barack Obama became the spoiler who derailed Hillary Clinton's first chance to become our first female president. I had a sinking feeling that Barack Obama wasn't ready for prime time.
I just read Eric Cantor's article and how this got into the Times I'll never know. Even Republicans, then in the minority, seemed willing to work with the new president. However, Cantor was taken aback when Obama reminded the Republican leadership that elections had consequences and he won. Obama misunderstood that there's a huge difference between winning and governing. Sometimes you have to talk to the opposition like it or not. Now both houses of Congress are in Republican hands and I blame Obama's aloof persona for that.
Sorry I just can't share the Times' worshipful editorial on Obama's optimism.
I just read Eric Cantor's article and how this got into the Times I'll never know. Even Republicans, then in the minority, seemed willing to work with the new president. However, Cantor was taken aback when Obama reminded the Republican leadership that elections had consequences and he won. Obama misunderstood that there's a huge difference between winning and governing. Sometimes you have to talk to the opposition like it or not. Now both houses of Congress are in Republican hands and I blame Obama's aloof persona for that.
Sorry I just can't share the Times' worshipful editorial on Obama's optimism.
6
Thank you President Obama for your historic vision, inspiration and dedication in the face of eight years of a do-nothing Congress pledged by Republican leadership, before you were even sworn into office, to make you a one term president. History will shine brightly on you.
5
So optimistic he thought "how much harm could Comey do ?"
Oops.
Oops.
Obama's greatest achievement was to rise to the world's most important office only by the strength of his character, never the color of his skin. Not that he doesn't know what being black is. Only too well. After all, Obama overcame, in living color, the social outcastisism of a mixed marriage. Outcastsism that both his parents took enormous trouble to conceal but succumbed to nevertheless.
In particular, Obama Sr., who ultimately gave up the fight that Harvard launched on his student visa forcing the breakup of his family and retreat to Kenya. A fight nothing to do with academics and everything to do with charming white women, something Harvard reserved for white men only. Meanwhile, another easy charmer of the same period but colored white, went on to become president. Harvard approved, renaming their school of government after Kennedy.
So that's the cloth our president is made of. There's more of course, much much more. Fact is, Barack Obama is one of a rare breed that makes him hugely larger than life, much larger than mere US presidency. Which sort of explains everything about Obama the President doesn't it. He failed as president but only because he towered over all of us as a human being. And in doing so, proved to everyone without doubt, yes we can.
Mr. President, your presidency will be over next week but your life as towering human being will resume. For many of us, that is where you really belong. Thank you for your service sir and Godspeed.
In particular, Obama Sr., who ultimately gave up the fight that Harvard launched on his student visa forcing the breakup of his family and retreat to Kenya. A fight nothing to do with academics and everything to do with charming white women, something Harvard reserved for white men only. Meanwhile, another easy charmer of the same period but colored white, went on to become president. Harvard approved, renaming their school of government after Kennedy.
So that's the cloth our president is made of. There's more of course, much much more. Fact is, Barack Obama is one of a rare breed that makes him hugely larger than life, much larger than mere US presidency. Which sort of explains everything about Obama the President doesn't it. He failed as president but only because he towered over all of us as a human being. And in doing so, proved to everyone without doubt, yes we can.
Mr. President, your presidency will be over next week but your life as towering human being will resume. For many of us, that is where you really belong. Thank you for your service sir and Godspeed.
2
The alternative universe of the GOP has conducted a Fake News campaign for 8 years. You nailed it- Envy. Their institutional hatred for the will of the American people's support of Obama was an ugly echo of the old Confederacy. They will be judged as hypocrites and liars who put their country last.
2
I'm sure you believe every word of that.
More's the pity.
More's the pity.
2
Some Americans probably hated him for his eloquence. It proofed that their racism was racism. They did everything to turn him into a failure. That would have helped their racism. Prejudices becoming true. Now they voted for open racism. I can't listen to Trump. Everything he says is an insult to an emphatic and intelligent person. Who wants to work with him and listen to his stupidity. Not very nice people. They only do it to enrich themselves. The ultimate swamp in power.
I am so sad to see the end of President Obama's term. His hope and optimism was palpable and sustaining. In his farewell address he appealed to young people. I think my baby boomer generation has failed us with the election of he who will not be named. The millennial and the generation that follows them will hopefully work to revive our democracy. I just hope it survives the next 2-4 years.
There are millions and millions of young Americans who know of no other President than President Obama. They have seen a man of dignity, and a man of empathy for his fellow man, occupy the Office of the Presidency for the past 8 years. They have seen how high the bar has been set. And they will remember that.
That may be one of the lasting legacies of President Obama that plays out over time, and becomes crystal clear in the rear-view mirror called History.
That may be one of the lasting legacies of President Obama that plays out over time, and becomes crystal clear in the rear-view mirror called History.
So let me get the author's premise correct ... The fact that Obama was President during the recovery (despite the fact that it was the slowest jobs recovery on record) somehow justifies nearly $1 tn in federal spending (aka "stimulus") and Obamacare. Is that it ?
"They have not learned the simple truth — a truth clear in the New Deal and just as clear now — that timely and significant federal investment can make a real difference in people’s lives. Or accepted that compassionate and well-designed government programs can do the same."
Of course, redistribution can make a difference in people's lives. I suspect that the life of a thief who carries home unearned bounty also improves his life. But it does not justify the action.
Why can't liberals learn the simple truth - that economic growth and correct choices by individuals in education and family - are the only way to assure prosperity for someone without taking something away from someone else ? Obama is the only President in history never to see 3% GDP growth. He has presided over an expansion of government that has gone further and faster than American condoned when voting for him. Witness the rejection of single-payer healthcare by over 79% even in liberal states such as CO and VT.
Americans want the racial harmony that Obama represented. But we do not want the European socialism that he pushed. And we do not believe that one is the price for the other.
"They have not learned the simple truth — a truth clear in the New Deal and just as clear now — that timely and significant federal investment can make a real difference in people’s lives. Or accepted that compassionate and well-designed government programs can do the same."
Of course, redistribution can make a difference in people's lives. I suspect that the life of a thief who carries home unearned bounty also improves his life. But it does not justify the action.
Why can't liberals learn the simple truth - that economic growth and correct choices by individuals in education and family - are the only way to assure prosperity for someone without taking something away from someone else ? Obama is the only President in history never to see 3% GDP growth. He has presided over an expansion of government that has gone further and faster than American condoned when voting for him. Witness the rejection of single-payer healthcare by over 79% even in liberal states such as CO and VT.
Americans want the racial harmony that Obama represented. But we do not want the European socialism that he pushed. And we do not believe that one is the price for the other.
5
I'm all for optimism, but the realist in me sees spiraling environmental and human devastation everywhere that will be exponentially accelerated by Trumpism. While the jarring reality of Trump might bring us back from the brink, we may need alien technology to clean up the mess.
The saddest epitaph to a fair minded America is contained in the last paragraph, where the hope for the future is tossed into the hands of 20 somethings. The problems created during the course of my adult lifetime burgeoned to create Trump - for those of us for whom Clinton 1 and Obama were exactly what this country needed, we have been thwarted constantly by the greed and shortsightedness of the GOP, from Reagan to W to now the horrific Trump. All total failures with the intelligence of a thimble.
It is a terrible thing to feel the level of defeat that now pervades those who believed in this country and worked hard to make it better, despite its flaws. Progress was made over the past 40 years, but not enough. Now we go backwards once again, as Adam Smith's masters of mankind and their "vile maxim", which I'll paraphrase as "Everything to the rich, nothing to the people" are set to place the definition of greed far beyond anything ever imagined.
It will be a very long time before many people wake up to the fact that they will have been steamrolled into nothingness, while those of us who did so much to uphold the principles of this country basically mourn. Obama only failed because he could not overcome the cruelty and machinations that prevail in the GOP. The 20 somethings of whom Obama speaks may prevail some day, but if the country (and planet) is to survive in any sort of meaningful way now, it will take a complete reversal from the GOP policies now being touted.
It is a terrible thing to feel the level of defeat that now pervades those who believed in this country and worked hard to make it better, despite its flaws. Progress was made over the past 40 years, but not enough. Now we go backwards once again, as Adam Smith's masters of mankind and their "vile maxim", which I'll paraphrase as "Everything to the rich, nothing to the people" are set to place the definition of greed far beyond anything ever imagined.
It will be a very long time before many people wake up to the fact that they will have been steamrolled into nothingness, while those of us who did so much to uphold the principles of this country basically mourn. Obama only failed because he could not overcome the cruelty and machinations that prevail in the GOP. The 20 somethings of whom Obama speaks may prevail some day, but if the country (and planet) is to survive in any sort of meaningful way now, it will take a complete reversal from the GOP policies now being touted.
3
What you write is factual and not an historical revision. It is beyond me how the likes of McConnell, Ryan, Trump, and scores of others that describe some of his work as failures and catastrophes. I conclude that their conclusions can only be motivated by hate for a black man. On the other hand, we should not forget that President Obama expanded the reach of his office which may easily fuel the ambition and narcissism of Mr. Trump, that he ran a program (drones) that killed an American citizen without due process and other many innocent women and children, and oversaw, in the some cases, the break up of Latino families and brutal deportation of millions. Compared to his predecessor Mr. Obama faced the difficult contradictions all leaders face with deliberation and integrity, and for that we can count our blessings.
Despite constant opposition to his presidency by the Republican controlled Congress, President Obama created a presidency that had great dignity and his speeches were always very well written, well thought out and very well delivered. It will be a years before we end up with another dignified president. Soon to be President Trump completely lacks dignity. He is a sad excuse for a president. His promised "best people" cabinet nominees are all turning out to be corrupt monsters, selected from the bottom of the barrel. President Trump is a dangerous man. I always thought George W. Bush was in over his head, but Trump is going to be much worse than GWB.
2
He must be referring to his kids, because as a whole the current crop are consumerist, vapid, impressed with symbology, unmoored from common sense, prone to fantasy and incipid role play, self-involved, ignorant of civics, history, and grammar. And absolutely unprepared for a world that will eat their lunch. We present the "leaders" of tomorrow. Now, here's a real reason to emigrate.
1
Like Medicare, Obamacare has to go through one or more rounds of changes to become viable. GOP’s repealing Obamacare is political theatrics fulfilling empty campaign promises. President Obama can help prevent the repeal of this hugely important program by proposing to strengthen the individual mandate.
As it stands now, Obamacare’s goals with regard to the poor, those with preexisting conditions and its other intended beneficiaries cannot be met as well as originally expected. There has been a sharp rise in premiums to make participation financially feasible for insurers because the pool of persons seeking insurance in the exchanges is smaller and less healthy -- and therefore more expensive to cover -- than anticipated.
The root cause of this imbalance is that the individual mandate is too weak to encourage younger and healthier Americans to obey the law and buy insurance. For Obamacare to become sustainable either the penalty for not subscribing should be drastically increased or participation in the program made mandatory. This is the case with Social Security. Persons working in employment covered by Social Security are subject to the FICA payroll tax. Like all taxes, its payment is compulsory.
As it stands now, Obamacare’s goals with regard to the poor, those with preexisting conditions and its other intended beneficiaries cannot be met as well as originally expected. There has been a sharp rise in premiums to make participation financially feasible for insurers because the pool of persons seeking insurance in the exchanges is smaller and less healthy -- and therefore more expensive to cover -- than anticipated.
The root cause of this imbalance is that the individual mandate is too weak to encourage younger and healthier Americans to obey the law and buy insurance. For Obamacare to become sustainable either the penalty for not subscribing should be drastically increased or participation in the program made mandatory. This is the case with Social Security. Persons working in employment covered by Social Security are subject to the FICA payroll tax. Like all taxes, its payment is compulsory.
I want to thank President Obama for his accomplishments that always had everyone in mind. He was able to be successful against the most ugly display of party zealotry as well as the racism that we probably believed was improving. That is strength and class. I also want to thank him for making me and hopefully many, aware that we have to be more active in rooting racism out. Vote Vote Vote!!
1
I, too, will miss the Obamas. To me they personify the personal values I hold dear--respect for women and girls, a fervent desire to make the world a better place, and yes, dignity in the face of vulgarity.
Yes, it probably would have been better for Obama to start his presidency with a jobs program rather than health care reform, which has eluded presidents for generations. But the program he advocated was nothing that Republicans themselves hadn't proposed once upon a time, so I think he can be forgiven for thinking that private-sector-based reform (rather than single payer) would be an olive branch to the Republican opposition.
Maybe it was Obama's basic decency that deluded him into thinking that the GOP hardcore would be willing to meet him halfway on anything. Arm-twisters like LBJ, not known for being even-tempered, may be better at getting things done, yet at the same time I can't recall a president during my lifetime who I respected more as a person than Barak Obama. I look forward to his post-presidency as a platform for him to continue to inspire.
Yes, it probably would have been better for Obama to start his presidency with a jobs program rather than health care reform, which has eluded presidents for generations. But the program he advocated was nothing that Republicans themselves hadn't proposed once upon a time, so I think he can be forgiven for thinking that private-sector-based reform (rather than single payer) would be an olive branch to the Republican opposition.
Maybe it was Obama's basic decency that deluded him into thinking that the GOP hardcore would be willing to meet him halfway on anything. Arm-twisters like LBJ, not known for being even-tempered, may be better at getting things done, yet at the same time I can't recall a president during my lifetime who I respected more as a person than Barak Obama. I look forward to his post-presidency as a platform for him to continue to inspire.
2
I remember the days Henry Paulson was crying and begging "Help! Help!" as the United States economy was crumbling. Who rescued it? Barack Obama.
I remember a late Sunday night we were all beckoned to an acute speech coming from the White House. Osama bin Laden was dead. Who had the guts to order the event and take the chance? Barack Obama.
I remember the day in March, 2010 when people who had no previous chance to help them get needed healthcare, were introduced to the Affordable Care Act, that went on to protect 30 million Americans. Who fought for the ACA and signed the legislation? Barack Obama.
Optimism, yes. And for good reason. The man led with a demeanor of intelligence, calm, compassion, comraderie. When he has come to the podium we have experienced no shame, nor surprise. We could count on him on the side of "us" and "we" for all, truly for all. We could count on his steadfastness.
We never had to wonder "What's he up to now?" We could trust him.
Barack Obama, thank you for the person you are. You have shown us optimism. If we keep your sense of that optimism in our hearts and mind, we will have the sense to do the right things and/or how to demand it. We cannot let it slip away.
I remember a late Sunday night we were all beckoned to an acute speech coming from the White House. Osama bin Laden was dead. Who had the guts to order the event and take the chance? Barack Obama.
I remember the day in March, 2010 when people who had no previous chance to help them get needed healthcare, were introduced to the Affordable Care Act, that went on to protect 30 million Americans. Who fought for the ACA and signed the legislation? Barack Obama.
Optimism, yes. And for good reason. The man led with a demeanor of intelligence, calm, compassion, comraderie. When he has come to the podium we have experienced no shame, nor surprise. We could count on him on the side of "us" and "we" for all, truly for all. We could count on his steadfastness.
We never had to wonder "What's he up to now?" We could trust him.
Barack Obama, thank you for the person you are. You have shown us optimism. If we keep your sense of that optimism in our hearts and mind, we will have the sense to do the right things and/or how to demand it. We cannot let it slip away.
7
The New Deal was the start of the American version of the Welfare State. In exchange for the management of the economy which provided a real safety net for the Capitalist Classes (indeed their very survival)and full employment for the Working Classes there would be a modest amount of redistribution through the tax and spending of the Federal Government which would also use its powers to advance equality in America in pursuit of its Founding Ideal
The Capitalist Classes now want to tear all that up and return to an unregulated market economy with a nightwatchman minimalist government. Whether this will survive the next Great Depression is the experiment on which we are now embarked.
The Capitalist Classes now want to tear all that up and return to an unregulated market economy with a nightwatchman minimalist government. Whether this will survive the next Great Depression is the experiment on which we are now embarked.
1
In addition to these accolades, one might add Mr Obama reduced our engagement in war, led the Iran nuclear treaty and opened relations with Cuba. It's no wonder Republicans vilify him. They have not produced a President since Reagan with such talent or accomplishments.
5
In the fight for justice: pardon Edward Snowden. Be on the right side of history here too, President Obama.
2
Optimism? For sure. A whole lot, in fact. Follow-through? Well, not so much.
So, after eight years of a whole lot of optimism and not so much follow-through, at least at the grass roots, we're left with Donald Trump. Which serves as a cautionary tale of how suddenly blue states can turn red and how quickly optimism can devolve into cynicism. (Or, presumably, vice versa.)
President Obama would have made a splendid philosopher king, but the Founders eschewed such a position, so Democrats are now left to search for a tenacious, empathetic standard-bearer -- preferably under 70 -- who's a doer, but not beholden to the hypocrisies of coastal elitism. Otherwise, we'll end up with not only four years of Trump-Pence, but eight.
So, after eight years of a whole lot of optimism and not so much follow-through, at least at the grass roots, we're left with Donald Trump. Which serves as a cautionary tale of how suddenly blue states can turn red and how quickly optimism can devolve into cynicism. (Or, presumably, vice versa.)
President Obama would have made a splendid philosopher king, but the Founders eschewed such a position, so Democrats are now left to search for a tenacious, empathetic standard-bearer -- preferably under 70 -- who's a doer, but not beholden to the hypocrisies of coastal elitism. Otherwise, we'll end up with not only four years of Trump-Pence, but eight.
3
I do not like, but accept, that the Republicans put their lust for power ahead of a functioning democracy. What I cannot and will never accept is that the American people let them get away with it.
24
Simply being reminded once again of President Obama's stunning eloquence, I can't avoid hearing the hideous haranguing voice of the president-elect. As I have said since the presidential campaign: Imagine the first great national disaster, yet another mass shooting, let's say. Now imagine Donald Trump, comforting the nation. Personally I can't imagine it. Yet that is the man that a sizable minority of the American population have inflicted on the rest of us and the world. God save America. Only God can, I'm afraid.
17
Solid accomplishment???
Maybe back home but that phrase is laughable when you look overseas.
There isn't a single region in the world that is safer now than it was in January 2009.
Maybe back home but that phrase is laughable when you look overseas.
There isn't a single region in the world that is safer now than it was in January 2009.
7
Sometimes I think that Americans will never realize how fortunate we have been to have called Barack Obama our president. He saved us from our own deeply misguided election of G.W. Bush, and actually, even many before that including some Democrats.
Now, unbelievably, it looks as if even G. W. Bush would be a more decent president than the extremely dangerous and mentally ill man about to assume the most important position in the world.
God help us! In the past 17 years, we have gone from extremely reckless to extremely deliberative, and now to extremely scatterbrained!
More than ever, democracy is work. And we'd better get to it!
Now, unbelievably, it looks as if even G. W. Bush would be a more decent president than the extremely dangerous and mentally ill man about to assume the most important position in the world.
God help us! In the past 17 years, we have gone from extremely reckless to extremely deliberative, and now to extremely scatterbrained!
More than ever, democracy is work. And we'd better get to it!
15
My Camelot. Oh how I tremble at the loss of optimism heading into the next 4 years.
10
Faced with the toughest challenges imaginable Barack Obama has conducted himself with nothing less than amazing grace these past eight years so sincerest congratulations to him on a job well done and sincerest congratulations as well to the American people for twice electing him to their highest office.
16
"Mr. Obama’s opponents have had trouble accepting that any of this actually happened. They have not learned the simple truth — a truth clear in the New Deal and just as clear now — that timely and significant federal investment can make a real difference in people’s lives." of course it makes a difference to people when you steal their money (taxation IS theft) in order to give it to other people.
2
No, taxation is taxation. Taxation is as much theft as a football is a horse
1
Thanks for bringing up the ending of his farewell address in Chicago, particularly the "You believe in a fair and just and inclusive America..."
I'm a middle age professional. In a company paid trip to Seattle this past week, a colleague and I decided to drive up to Vancouver, then Whistler to ski for a day. In the gondola up the mountains, there were also three young Whistler employees. They were not Canadian nationals, but rather Australians. Upon hearing that the one-day lift costs around $120 and ski rental for $40, they shook their heads in quiet disbelief. Even that, this is still cheaper than $150 for one-day local pass in America.
The younger generation may be born in a time of great economic inequality; a time when their parents and grandparents are more likely to make much more money than them; a time when their parents are also more likely to spend more money on their own children then what they had received as a child; a time of materialistic abundance and technological conveniences; a time when the world population growth rate continues to accelerate, when competition is stiffer; a time when people are living much longer - but one thing is certain: they have a common sense of what is "value."
You cannot know what is "market" value if you don't know what is "fair." You cannot know what is "social" value if you don't know what is "just." Lastly, the "inclusive" America is not just limited to American citizens, but a more globalized life where there is no Rome.
I'm a middle age professional. In a company paid trip to Seattle this past week, a colleague and I decided to drive up to Vancouver, then Whistler to ski for a day. In the gondola up the mountains, there were also three young Whistler employees. They were not Canadian nationals, but rather Australians. Upon hearing that the one-day lift costs around $120 and ski rental for $40, they shook their heads in quiet disbelief. Even that, this is still cheaper than $150 for one-day local pass in America.
The younger generation may be born in a time of great economic inequality; a time when their parents and grandparents are more likely to make much more money than them; a time when their parents are also more likely to spend more money on their own children then what they had received as a child; a time of materialistic abundance and technological conveniences; a time when the world population growth rate continues to accelerate, when competition is stiffer; a time when people are living much longer - but one thing is certain: they have a common sense of what is "value."
You cannot know what is "market" value if you don't know what is "fair." You cannot know what is "social" value if you don't know what is "just." Lastly, the "inclusive" America is not just limited to American citizens, but a more globalized life where there is no Rome.
2
Yes, by comparison to what is coming, Obama , in retrospect, was a dream come true and his departure a nightmare waiting to happen.
But by comparing him to a more "normal" democratic past president like Clinton, Obama was average in his accomplishments and should be remembered more by what he didn't do , like engage we Americans in another horrendous war like Iraq or Afghanistan.
On the more negative side, Obama did nothing to hold Wall Street banksters accountable for the Great Recession and appointed an attorney general who came from Wall Street who made no effort to prosecute those same banksters.
Obama's targeted assassination drone program has resulted in an unknown number of innocent deaths from collateral damage. Many would consider these killings an ongoing war crime that could have been replaced by a more traditional arrest and bring to justice approach.
I left the United States in 2003 because of Bush's war in Iraq and began a new life as an expatriate. Fourteen years later, with Trump on the horizon, I see no reason to return to America from my idyllic life in Provence.
I voted for Obama and gave him my once ever political donation for a political campaign. I thank him for giving us eight years without another unnecessary war!
But by comparing him to a more "normal" democratic past president like Clinton, Obama was average in his accomplishments and should be remembered more by what he didn't do , like engage we Americans in another horrendous war like Iraq or Afghanistan.
On the more negative side, Obama did nothing to hold Wall Street banksters accountable for the Great Recession and appointed an attorney general who came from Wall Street who made no effort to prosecute those same banksters.
Obama's targeted assassination drone program has resulted in an unknown number of innocent deaths from collateral damage. Many would consider these killings an ongoing war crime that could have been replaced by a more traditional arrest and bring to justice approach.
I left the United States in 2003 because of Bush's war in Iraq and began a new life as an expatriate. Fourteen years later, with Trump on the horizon, I see no reason to return to America from my idyllic life in Provence.
I voted for Obama and gave him my once ever political donation for a political campaign. I thank him for giving us eight years without another unnecessary war!
4
President Obama has been a superb President. I was always envious, here in the UK, of the US having such an intelligent, inspiring, worldly, enlightened, insightful, charming, unpompous, charismatic leader. We must make do, here, with uninspiring leaders who have diminished the UK's economy and world standing to appease the increasing right wing trend of much of British politics.
14
I don't want to take anything away from Barack Obama, but I think one reason for his popularity as he leaves office is that he is being succeeded by an utterly disgusting narcissist who is both unfit and unqualified to be president. May we survive the next four years with as little damage as possible and may the American people never sink so low again.
12
I have the deepest respect for President Obama. One important thing was made clear to me during his presidency is that deep experience in and with America's form of governance is a necessity of any president. The ability to develop congenial relationships is critical for any President who harbors a vision of change that goes far beyond great oratory skill. Washington ,if nothing else, is about horse trading and reelection.
6
Many around the world believed that Obama's election signaled a new phase in American politics where prejudice would disappear. Obama's election promised to transform the U.S. into a shining light. Remember the speech to the Muslim world and the Nobel Prize.
In the workaday world of Washington, elation gave way. The ACA dominated the news, and ended up being a 1,000 page law with flaws. The Republicans despised the ACA, back when Republicans were Republicans. And It was obviously too complex, crashing computers from the start. We needed a simple program that helped everyone, like Medicare and Social Security. The ACA was good, but not good enough. Even Democrat support was tepid.
As for the Recession, it was widely blamed on banks too big to fail. We wanted the bad guys punished. Instead, we got a painfully slow recovery. While some counted the many months when jobs were created, many felt they never recovered during the recovery.
In 2010, Democrats lost the House. Thereafter, politics was mostly about gridlock. Some cite Republican prejudice. Some cite an ideological chasm. All knew that Washington was broken. Obama kept at it and had admirable success. But it was outweighed by the Republican's blocking of his Supreme Court nominee.
In broad overview, Obama's presidency started with elation and ended in division. The Obama years were mostly downhill, as we squandered a tremendous opportunity. Blame who you want. We have failed miserably.
In the workaday world of Washington, elation gave way. The ACA dominated the news, and ended up being a 1,000 page law with flaws. The Republicans despised the ACA, back when Republicans were Republicans. And It was obviously too complex, crashing computers from the start. We needed a simple program that helped everyone, like Medicare and Social Security. The ACA was good, but not good enough. Even Democrat support was tepid.
As for the Recession, it was widely blamed on banks too big to fail. We wanted the bad guys punished. Instead, we got a painfully slow recovery. While some counted the many months when jobs were created, many felt they never recovered during the recovery.
In 2010, Democrats lost the House. Thereafter, politics was mostly about gridlock. Some cite Republican prejudice. Some cite an ideological chasm. All knew that Washington was broken. Obama kept at it and had admirable success. But it was outweighed by the Republican's blocking of his Supreme Court nominee.
In broad overview, Obama's presidency started with elation and ended in division. The Obama years were mostly downhill, as we squandered a tremendous opportunity. Blame who you want. We have failed miserably.
8
Obama would have accomplished a lot more without the crazed opposition.
However, that is not reason to pretend the work was done, and a success.
That is not to take away from what Obama did do, nor to take away credit for his trying.
It is just reality. A lot more remains to be done, and I think he'd agree with that himself.
It won't be done under Trump, not a bit.
It won't be done by Democrats either, until they get themselves together into a movement for what they believe, instead of triangulating for an office they think they can buy by selling out.
The next stage of the fight is for the soul of the Democratic Party. THEN we can finish Obama's work.
However, that is not reason to pretend the work was done, and a success.
That is not to take away from what Obama did do, nor to take away credit for his trying.
It is just reality. A lot more remains to be done, and I think he'd agree with that himself.
It won't be done under Trump, not a bit.
It won't be done by Democrats either, until they get themselves together into a movement for what they believe, instead of triangulating for an office they think they can buy by selling out.
The next stage of the fight is for the soul of the Democratic Party. THEN we can finish Obama's work.
8
What makes Obama so special was his heart. He held out hope for this country through thick and thin in his heart and you could tell in the way he kept trying and trying to do the right thing even in the face of implacable Republican opposition. He thought the best of his country. For that, I'll always think the best of him. He's a great orator, a deep thinker, a loving family man, and by the strength of his relationship with the Bidens (and the Bushes) you can tell he is a great friend with a generous heart. I think history will remember him with fondness, not because he was the first black president (although that alone allows him to occupy a special place) but because he was a good president and a shining example to us all of what a president and a good, upstanding man should be. I'm so glad he was the first president my children will really remember and so proud to have voted for him twice. I would have gone a third round for him if I could. All the best to you and your family, President Obama, and thank you.
6
Wonderful human being, rare leader, exceptional speaker, easily the best president in a very long time.
I cried the day he walked up to deliver his acceptance speech and the day he gave his farewell address. He did extremely well given the rabid opposition he faced. He is, as usual, correct, about the country being is good hands with the new generation. Lets hope that comes to pass as soon as possible.
I cried the day he walked up to deliver his acceptance speech and the day he gave his farewell address. He did extremely well given the rabid opposition he faced. He is, as usual, correct, about the country being is good hands with the new generation. Lets hope that comes to pass as soon as possible.
6
It's interesting to read this alongside Prof. Muhammed's op-ed, which accuses Obama of "assimilation" (nothing more than an epithet) and seems to regard those who worked for his election as thinking it would magically solve the problems of American racism. No one was working harder to change structural racism (and other forms of institutionalized inequity) than he--within the constraints in which real politics happens. Obama was not the president of black America. He was, as he insisted, the President of the United States of America--and if that is assimilationist, count me an assimilationist, and proud of it. You will not get structural change if you don't get enough people, across differences, on board with a broad vision of what is right.
2
Required complimentary (corrective) reading for this editorial:
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/01/14/opinion/sunday/eight-was-enough.html?...
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/01/14/opinion/sunday/eric-cantor-what-the-o...
In Eric Cantor's piece note the defeat of the Democrats in the House already in 2010.
While President Obama certainly was a symbol and still is a first class practitioner of rhetoric, to paraphrase the Bard, the editorial doth exaggerate too much, M'thinks.
If I were President Obama, I would not hang up that that Nobel Peace Prize. His heart was certainly not buried at Aleppo, but rather was stone.
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/01/14/opinion/sunday/eight-was-enough.html?...
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/01/14/opinion/sunday/eric-cantor-what-the-o...
In Eric Cantor's piece note the defeat of the Democrats in the House already in 2010.
While President Obama certainly was a symbol and still is a first class practitioner of rhetoric, to paraphrase the Bard, the editorial doth exaggerate too much, M'thinks.
If I were President Obama, I would not hang up that that Nobel Peace Prize. His heart was certainly not buried at Aleppo, but rather was stone.
2
He may be leaving the White House on January 20, but we will still need him and his outlook in the years ahead.
3
Obama’s genuine greatness as a president will become more obvious as the years go by - and as the calumnies of the Extremist Republican Party fade into the background - if we are lucky.
Faced with dishonesty, ugly political motives that put the GOP’s ugly power hunger ahead of the national economy and political health, Obama has remained steady and calm. Few things have angered them longer.
Every cretinous comment by supposed leaders such as Paul Ryan or John Boehner, Mitch McConnell and Republican Senators exceeded their constitutional limits and bordered on Treason in their interference with a President’s role as chief of foreign policy.
Obama carried a terrible burden as president, feeling the weight of the responsibility while the Republican’s felt free to lie about the disaster their party presented the incoming president.
Obana was treated as an interloper in the White House despite the rarely of his victory twice by unusually large and clear popular mandates as well as overwhelming victories in the Electoral Vote. And we have this infantile GOP Jerk-in-Chief who claims a vast movement behind him despite a shellacking in the popular vote.
I cannot consider Trump as a legitimate president. We have seen this disaster coming and yet nothing has moved to insure that American voters are heard, not an antiquated system that allows the GOP to buy elections - or steal them.
We have a triumph of democracy leaving office, a cheap NYC shill replacing him. Sick.
Faced with dishonesty, ugly political motives that put the GOP’s ugly power hunger ahead of the national economy and political health, Obama has remained steady and calm. Few things have angered them longer.
Every cretinous comment by supposed leaders such as Paul Ryan or John Boehner, Mitch McConnell and Republican Senators exceeded their constitutional limits and bordered on Treason in their interference with a President’s role as chief of foreign policy.
Obama carried a terrible burden as president, feeling the weight of the responsibility while the Republican’s felt free to lie about the disaster their party presented the incoming president.
Obana was treated as an interloper in the White House despite the rarely of his victory twice by unusually large and clear popular mandates as well as overwhelming victories in the Electoral Vote. And we have this infantile GOP Jerk-in-Chief who claims a vast movement behind him despite a shellacking in the popular vote.
I cannot consider Trump as a legitimate president. We have seen this disaster coming and yet nothing has moved to insure that American voters are heard, not an antiquated system that allows the GOP to buy elections - or steal them.
We have a triumph of democracy leaving office, a cheap NYC shill replacing him. Sick.
6
# 4thgreatest. that's it
The Obamas are exceptional, but unfortunately we are not. And by electing Donald (The Jerk) Trump, we've proven that we're ultimately irredeemable. Anyway, it was good while it lasted. So long America!
5
President Obama will grit his teeth and paste on a smile on inauguration day, shake Trumps hand and say good luck - now you are on the hot seat.
Whatever this next administration does in dismantling Obama's accomplishments will not change his legacy.
Whatever this next administration does in dismantling Obama's accomplishments will not change his legacy.
5
There goes the last, great statesmen we'll ever have as President for a long time. The bar is set so low now- it will take decades before we see another critical thinking intellectual as Obama. But don't fret- I still think his greatest work lies ahead of him within the private sector.
Now about America- We've reached the nadir of our stupidity and we are going to hang around down here for a while- deservedly so I suppose. We have sold our trust to a con man and his family of scam artists. We looked for a quick fix with simple, no nonsense answers- blunt, forceful populist talk bathed in glittering generalities and empty promises. We park our cars close to the store entrance because we are too lazy to walk- then frown when there are three people ahead in line because we are too selfish to wait. We are intolerant, impatient and enraged when the short cut isn't short enough. This is what America voted for- a cheap quick fix, a one way ticket to nowhere.
I hate the fact Trump is our President- but I am grateful Hillary lost.. That lady would have had us in a war with Russia in 6 months. Things will be bad here for many years- but at least we won't be at war with Russia. Take the lemons and make lemonade I guess. Nevertheless- hold on to your emotional support animal cause it's going to be a rough ride.
Now about America- We've reached the nadir of our stupidity and we are going to hang around down here for a while- deservedly so I suppose. We have sold our trust to a con man and his family of scam artists. We looked for a quick fix with simple, no nonsense answers- blunt, forceful populist talk bathed in glittering generalities and empty promises. We park our cars close to the store entrance because we are too lazy to walk- then frown when there are three people ahead in line because we are too selfish to wait. We are intolerant, impatient and enraged when the short cut isn't short enough. This is what America voted for- a cheap quick fix, a one way ticket to nowhere.
I hate the fact Trump is our President- but I am grateful Hillary lost.. That lady would have had us in a war with Russia in 6 months. Things will be bad here for many years- but at least we won't be at war with Russia. Take the lemons and make lemonade I guess. Nevertheless- hold on to your emotional support animal cause it's going to be a rough ride.
Can we just say:
For years Trump demanded President Obama's birth certificate, literally trolling and misrepresenting facts. Pretending he had investigators in Hawaii.
Now we find Trump quickly singled out and denounced John Lewis, a living martyr of the movement for civil rights....beaten and tear-gassed when he stood up against injustice.
As many point out, Trump took a really long time before he would denounce KKK Grand Dragon David Duke.
Which he did weakly, and without conviction. And only after pressed repeatedly by Jake Tapper.
His reactive attack on Congressman Lewis for speaking an opinion is outrageous, it is an attack on free speech, and it coincides with the memorial of civil rights icon Martin Luther King, Jr.
And belatedly, without a hint of irony, Trump's propaganda minister tells us Trump will lay wreath to honor MLK.
For years Trump demanded President Obama's birth certificate, literally trolling and misrepresenting facts. Pretending he had investigators in Hawaii.
Now we find Trump quickly singled out and denounced John Lewis, a living martyr of the movement for civil rights....beaten and tear-gassed when he stood up against injustice.
As many point out, Trump took a really long time before he would denounce KKK Grand Dragon David Duke.
Which he did weakly, and without conviction. And only after pressed repeatedly by Jake Tapper.
His reactive attack on Congressman Lewis for speaking an opinion is outrageous, it is an attack on free speech, and it coincides with the memorial of civil rights icon Martin Luther King, Jr.
And belatedly, without a hint of irony, Trump's propaganda minister tells us Trump will lay wreath to honor MLK.
5
I was so proud to have voted for Obama in 2008 - my first vote as an American citizen. I threw an election party for colleagues at my abode, and when it became clear that Obama will win I raised a toast. My colleague next day brought a copy of WSJ stating Obama had won for me to keep for my records.
Over the years I was impressed and solaced by his eloquence, his call for the higher purpose and dignity for all human beings.
I saw the need for stimulus and appreciated how he drove the Affordable Care Act.
Then when Maureen Dowd would write about a failing presidency, that Obama was an elitist I would not understand what would prompt her to write so.
Then things changed. I voted for Trump as the alternative in my opinion was just downright corruption and incompetence.
Then Obama's legacy started to unravel before his eyes, and he started to get back? Some of his actions last few weeks reek of vendetta; and then giving the medal of honor to Biden - I mean did Obama think of it over breakfast one day?
History would definitely reckon that Obama was more words and speeches than a sincere desire or ability to work for the people -enough to make him overcome racial hatred and reach across the aisle to broker some lasting deals.
The man played more golf last few years than bring his Presidency to work. Mr Obama - you stood against hatred when you sought office; by the time you were leaving, you were giving it back as it came your way- read Israel, and Comey.
Over the years I was impressed and solaced by his eloquence, his call for the higher purpose and dignity for all human beings.
I saw the need for stimulus and appreciated how he drove the Affordable Care Act.
Then when Maureen Dowd would write about a failing presidency, that Obama was an elitist I would not understand what would prompt her to write so.
Then things changed. I voted for Trump as the alternative in my opinion was just downright corruption and incompetence.
Then Obama's legacy started to unravel before his eyes, and he started to get back? Some of his actions last few weeks reek of vendetta; and then giving the medal of honor to Biden - I mean did Obama think of it over breakfast one day?
History would definitely reckon that Obama was more words and speeches than a sincere desire or ability to work for the people -enough to make him overcome racial hatred and reach across the aisle to broker some lasting deals.
The man played more golf last few years than bring his Presidency to work. Mr Obama - you stood against hatred when you sought office; by the time you were leaving, you were giving it back as it came your way- read Israel, and Comey.
We can only hope that Barack will continue to serve as the voice of progress, reason and sophistication during the troubled days ahead.
9
A leader worthy of being described as a leader. With the added bonus of genuine conviction, brains, style and grace. A rare treat.
10
"A new kind of leader indeed," the likes of which we may see, if we're lucky, maybe once again in this Century. Farewell captain, friend and role-model. Believe the polls just as your countrymen and women believe in you.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
www.endthemadnessnow.org
10
That the man who spread the 'birther' lie for years is succeeding Obama is a scandal of cosmic proportions. Have you no shame, America? But I am also an optimist. From now on, we will witness countless heroic struggles to reestablish the dignity of the only democracy which has what it takes to save this world from the horrors the new autocratic mafias have in store for all of us.
10
Congratulations for surviving 8 years of President Obama ... a man who the GOP was determined to thwart every day of those 8 years. A man who Gingrich said Day One the GOP should obstruct every bit of legislation regardless of merit. A man who McConnell said Day One he would work to make a one-term president. A man who Trump accused Day One of not being born in the U.S. A man who rose above petty political vindictiveness to successfully contain the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression. A man who worked to bring affordable health insurance to millions of uninsured Americans. Obama is a class act; Trump is not fit to carry his shoes. He will be missed.
9
Obama's intellect, compassion, and morality stir my deepest respect. Turning the page to Trump is like leaving a library filled with great works of literature by Dickens, Hardy, Eliot, Dumas, Steinbeck, and Hugo, and facing a rack at a grocery store check-out with the National Inquirer, TV Guide, and People Magazine.
11
As a foreigner I will certainly miss Obama, but only because the barrier for U.S. Presidents has recently been set so low: The good intentions represented by his domestic efforts at genuine healthcare reform and reduced racism were unfortunately nullified by his efforts at regime change in Libya and Syria, resulting in increased chaos in the Middle East and the strengthening of extreme right-wing parties all across Europe.
His weapons sales to Saudi Arabia were, as Trump would write, 'unpresidented', permitting (among other Saudi-Wahhabi atrocities) a holocaust in Yemen.
Mind you, the bar for all political leaders is now at ground level following disastrous refugee decisions by German Chancellor Angela Merkel and the Brexit referendum introduced by P.M. David Cameron.
Our steady and relentless march towards war with China and Russia reflects the complete absence of visionary leaders and statesmen in both the U.S. and Europe. It is a case of the blind leading the blind.
His weapons sales to Saudi Arabia were, as Trump would write, 'unpresidented', permitting (among other Saudi-Wahhabi atrocities) a holocaust in Yemen.
Mind you, the bar for all political leaders is now at ground level following disastrous refugee decisions by German Chancellor Angela Merkel and the Brexit referendum introduced by P.M. David Cameron.
Our steady and relentless march towards war with China and Russia reflects the complete absence of visionary leaders and statesmen in both the U.S. and Europe. It is a case of the blind leading the blind.
Barack Obama is an honorable, decent man. But he failed on a scale that history will judge to be epic, and possibly the last chance for
Mr. Obama failed to realize his time was to be for reversing what Reagan started. But out of displaced trust in human nature, an ignorance of his country coming from a childhood disconnected from the American reality, outsized naivete, a personality allergic to political conflict, and the inherited political stupidity of neo-liberalism as the Democrats' failed answer to Reagan, Obama did nothing but to pick up the dying malignant creation of Reagan, resuscitate it, send it going in the same direction, and strengthen it in the same way tuberculosis is when it is treated inadequately.
Obama wasted eight of the most important years in the nation's history. He failed -- he didn't even try -- to change the economic conversation of the American right, and because of his and the feckless Democrats cowardice, the right is back stronger than ever, more emboldened than ever, and ready to tear down the political 20th century. When the country could have been transformed by complete Democratic power, Obama and Democrats showed what they're made of: gelatin. They changed nothing. The country and world do not have the political and environmental overhead capacity to deal with the damage.
*That* is Obama's legacy.
Mr. Obama failed to realize his time was to be for reversing what Reagan started. But out of displaced trust in human nature, an ignorance of his country coming from a childhood disconnected from the American reality, outsized naivete, a personality allergic to political conflict, and the inherited political stupidity of neo-liberalism as the Democrats' failed answer to Reagan, Obama did nothing but to pick up the dying malignant creation of Reagan, resuscitate it, send it going in the same direction, and strengthen it in the same way tuberculosis is when it is treated inadequately.
Obama wasted eight of the most important years in the nation's history. He failed -- he didn't even try -- to change the economic conversation of the American right, and because of his and the feckless Democrats cowardice, the right is back stronger than ever, more emboldened than ever, and ready to tear down the political 20th century. When the country could have been transformed by complete Democratic power, Obama and Democrats showed what they're made of: gelatin. They changed nothing. The country and world do not have the political and environmental overhead capacity to deal with the damage.
*That* is Obama's legacy.
4
Pres Obama has a world view of inclusiveness, respect for all religions, races and cultures, which are in sharp contrast with American Exceptionalism practised by the political right and the uninformed and narrow-minded citizens of all ideologies. Obama was a statesman first and a politician next; he has a monk-like detachment to all the political muck that passes for governance these days in DC. This made his eight years less effective than it could have been. But what he achieved - righting the ship after '08 crises, treaties on climate change, Iran nuclear deal, ACA, financial regulation - despite GOP obstruction, will be honored by history. It is sad to see how effective Trump's devil-may-care, lying, cheating, lecherous, autocratic personality has been with a large swath of the public, especially the voters in those few states that put him in the WH, despite losing nationally to HRC by 3 million votes. Obama's dignity, intellugence, wisdom and sheer goodness of heart is an inspiration. One hopes truth and goodness will ultimately prevail...
8
Let me start by saying that I voted twice for Obama. And, I agree that he has been a decent, well meaning individual. But, I have come to realize that great speeches will only get you so far. The "many accomplishments" discussed in this editorial all have many blemishes: the recovery has been very slow and vary painful mostly because Obama has been unable - and probably unwilling - to work with the Republicans on tax reform. Immigration is still a mess - and no amount of Presidential decrees will solve that. And then there is Obamacare: other than a major windfall for the insurance companies, this law has done very little. Sure, it has given some form of very limited insurance to people who did not have to pay for it; but, the law has failed to change the basic approach to health care and its ever growing costs. This was a perfect example of trying to get lots of interest groups to "buy" into the law sacrificing any type of real reform, like going to single payer and Medicaire for all. Unfortunately, not getting there means it will be far easier for the Republicans to repeal it. Finally, I hope that the Iran deal will work; but I would not bet on it.
Great human being; rather pool politician and statesman.
Great human being; rather pool politician and statesman.
3
Barack Obama did not need Republican help to make him fail: his policies alone sufficed. A piddling and anemic economy, after the huge deficits Obama ran up in the name of spending us out of recession, hardly represents "puiling the nation back from {its} worst economic crisis." "Climate change" achievements succeeded only because Obama unconstitutionally froze the Senate out of its advice and consent function. And Obamacare, a tax that wouldn't call itself a tax, built on the lie that "you can keep your own doctor" when you can't, and with escalating premiums .... well, the one positive thing to say is that, in the next few weeks, it will be history, as evanescent an achievement as much of the rest of the Obama "legacy."
3
President Obama starts each day with one thing on his mind: what he can do to move the country a little further forward. At the end of each day he stays up late to study reports and read letters written to him by everyday Americans. He was always the smartest guy in every meeting and tirelessly challenged participants to dig deeper into issues and provide better solutions. He kept drama to a minimum and in spite of the avidity of Republicans to bring him down, his administration was virtually scandal-free. He will be the new gold-standard for future presidents. They have a very hard act to follow.
9
When will voters learn?
Never, it would seem for roughly half of them.
The Republican Party poses the greatest threat this nation has faced in half a century.
They haven't the least interest in the Constitution, nor in the people they are sworn to serve.
Thank you Mr. Obama.
We will not likely see a President as bright, as compassionate and as statesmanlike again.
We the People love you.
Never, it would seem for roughly half of them.
The Republican Party poses the greatest threat this nation has faced in half a century.
They haven't the least interest in the Constitution, nor in the people they are sworn to serve.
Thank you Mr. Obama.
We will not likely see a President as bright, as compassionate and as statesmanlike again.
We the People love you.
12
44 and 45. Galaxies apart.
Many who voted for 45 will miss 44. They just don't know it yet.
They will.
Soon enough.
Many who voted for 45 will miss 44. They just don't know it yet.
They will.
Soon enough.
13
I was born in FDR's last year in the White House. I honestly believe that Barack Obama may just be the greatest American president during my lifetime.
16
While a sense of reality is leaving with the viewing of 'The Trump Show', there will be no wailing for this American because I will always remember with joy that Mr. Barack Obama was 'My President'.
6
"That’s when Mr. Obama inherited a ravaged economy that was rapidly shedding jobs and forcing millions of people from their homes. The Obama stimulus, which staved off a 1930s-vintage economic collapse by pumping money into infrastructure, transportation and other areas, passed the House without a single Republican vote."
I agree that Obama's policies lilkely saved the US and the world from another great depression. I disagree about which of his policies did that and how they were executed. For example, in addition to fiscal stimulus, the US bailed out the banking and auto industries. It is debatable about which bailout was more important. But what is not debatable is the way these industries were bailed out. With GM and Chrysler, the shareholders were properly forced to lose everything. With the largest banks, i.e., Wall Street, they were provided billions of dollars in government money while their shareholders were permitted to keep their stakes-a win-win proposition for shareholders. Their equity stakes were worthless, but if government funds permitted them to be turned around, they would profit. To me, this is a refelection of Obama's ability to be dazzled by Wall Street flim-flam. It does not diminish his accomplishments; it provides a wider perspective on what could have been, and should have been a more important change to the way Washington works.
I agree that Obama's policies lilkely saved the US and the world from another great depression. I disagree about which of his policies did that and how they were executed. For example, in addition to fiscal stimulus, the US bailed out the banking and auto industries. It is debatable about which bailout was more important. But what is not debatable is the way these industries were bailed out. With GM and Chrysler, the shareholders were properly forced to lose everything. With the largest banks, i.e., Wall Street, they were provided billions of dollars in government money while their shareholders were permitted to keep their stakes-a win-win proposition for shareholders. Their equity stakes were worthless, but if government funds permitted them to be turned around, they would profit. To me, this is a refelection of Obama's ability to be dazzled by Wall Street flim-flam. It does not diminish his accomplishments; it provides a wider perspective on what could have been, and should have been a more important change to the way Washington works.
I thought the Republican Party was committing suicide with the bizarre Primary and the nomination of Trump, which would surely lose the election. I was wrong about the election, but not the suicide. I see now that they are still bent on suicide, by having (dubiously) won the election and now working to expose in practice how stupid and corrupt has been their political shell game.
10
I twice voted for President Obama. I didn't agree with every one of his policies, but I can't deny he has been a great president and I'll miss him dearly.
How ironic and unfortunate that one of the most remarkable presidents succeeded one of the worst and is likely to be succeeded by the worst ever.
President Obama, may your name and great achievements be remembered for generations to come.
How ironic and unfortunate that one of the most remarkable presidents succeeded one of the worst and is likely to be succeeded by the worst ever.
President Obama, may your name and great achievements be remembered for generations to come.
16
Almost everything that's said in this editorial is spot-on true.
But it doesn't matter one bit. We now live in a post-truth country, where facts don't matter, tangible evidence doesn't matter, recorded statements don't matter, etc. We've even been instructed by his own staff that we shouldn't take anything that Trump says literally.
Limbaugh, Coulter, Hannity, Beck, Levin, the Swift-Boaters, the Birthers, O'Reilly, Palin, Bannon, McConnell, Boehner, Ryan, Conway, etc., etc., etc.; they've won. They've obliterated any baseline of truth and reality. The world might as well be flat again.
Will any of the intransigent and power-hungry Republicans stand up for a return to a world of facts and truths? No; they've already shown that they're so smitten with their new power that they'll just ignore the contradictions, shrug, and look the other way.
How can we ever step back from this precipice? We can't, because at least 40% of our citizenry is ill-informed and is willing to vote against their own self-interests; and because too many Republicans are willing to cynically play into that populace just for their own sense of power, rather than working for the good of the country.
I don't know how President Obama and his family managed to survive the hateful attacks they've constantly lived through, much less having accomplished all that they, and comported themselves with dignity and grace. A few of us will remember the truth; but most people will simply be dismiss it as "fake news."
But it doesn't matter one bit. We now live in a post-truth country, where facts don't matter, tangible evidence doesn't matter, recorded statements don't matter, etc. We've even been instructed by his own staff that we shouldn't take anything that Trump says literally.
Limbaugh, Coulter, Hannity, Beck, Levin, the Swift-Boaters, the Birthers, O'Reilly, Palin, Bannon, McConnell, Boehner, Ryan, Conway, etc., etc., etc.; they've won. They've obliterated any baseline of truth and reality. The world might as well be flat again.
Will any of the intransigent and power-hungry Republicans stand up for a return to a world of facts and truths? No; they've already shown that they're so smitten with their new power that they'll just ignore the contradictions, shrug, and look the other way.
How can we ever step back from this precipice? We can't, because at least 40% of our citizenry is ill-informed and is willing to vote against their own self-interests; and because too many Republicans are willing to cynically play into that populace just for their own sense of power, rather than working for the good of the country.
I don't know how President Obama and his family managed to survive the hateful attacks they've constantly lived through, much less having accomplished all that they, and comported themselves with dignity and grace. A few of us will remember the truth; but most people will simply be dismiss it as "fake news."
10
Restrained, measured and realistic optimism exchanged for energetic, emotional and reactionary pessimism that is used as a tool to make any minor accomplishment, say saving 800 jobs through methods that are typically anathema to your own party, seem like an inspiring accomplishment.
6
We have been more than lucky to have a leader like Barack Obama. He and his family have demonstrated time and again what real intelligence and class is. The next occupant could not be more unlike him, in every way possible. We will miss him greatly, the best President in my 61 years, bar none.
9
Policies matter. The New Deal and its legacy created a strong middle-class. Eisenhower and Nixon did not harm that legacy. But conservative and reactionary forces never accepted the regulatory discipline imposed by the New Deal. They worked to weaken and finally overturn the consensus from 1980 to 2008. The right-wing's push has consistently aimed to redistribute from the poor and middle-class to the rich through tax-cuts for the wealthy and corporations and cuts in social expenditures and public goods other than defense, and to deregulate on the argument that all regulation is bad. The current GOP majorities in the House and Senate persist in that approach. They are led by a President-elect who has not thought through any policy issue, is mired in conflicts of interest, and who takes populist positions aimed at projecting a personal image for maximum immediate media coverage rather than the public welfare. Surely the outcomes cannot be good four years from now, even starting from the positive legacy of the Obama presidency.
3
His own continuing faith in the American people is a life-line right now. My own faith is frayed. But I listen to him and I think his grace, his resolve must strengthen mine. The Republic has lived through worst times. Not worse presidents, but worse times.
9
The Times balances this favorable evaluation of Mr. Obama's administration with columns by Cantor and Wehner depicting the president as a divisive force who prepared the way for Trump's victory, while also virtually singlehandedly weakening the Democratic party. I doubt if even Mr. Obama's most ardent supporters ever imagined that he had the power to reshape American politics so fundamentally.
Cantor accuses Obama of a refusal to compromise on the recovery program and the healthcare law. But his notion of compromise centered on Democratic acceptance of standard GOP proposals for business tax cuts and high-risk pools, which could not possibly cope with the serious problems of recession and uninsured Americans. In effect, Cantor demanded that Obama abandon his platform, in the name of bipartisanship.
Wehner, for his part, paints a grim picture of conditions in the Middle East and attributes the chaos to Obama's policies. He makes no attempt, however, to identify the defects in the president's approach, nor does he even mention the Iran agreement, arguably a major contribution to stability in the region. As in domestic affairs, Wehner credits the president with amazing powers to alter the course of history.
The editorial may exaggerate somewhat the achievements of the Obama administration, but compared to the misleading and unsupported allegations of these two Republican critics, its judgments ring true.
Cantor accuses Obama of a refusal to compromise on the recovery program and the healthcare law. But his notion of compromise centered on Democratic acceptance of standard GOP proposals for business tax cuts and high-risk pools, which could not possibly cope with the serious problems of recession and uninsured Americans. In effect, Cantor demanded that Obama abandon his platform, in the name of bipartisanship.
Wehner, for his part, paints a grim picture of conditions in the Middle East and attributes the chaos to Obama's policies. He makes no attempt, however, to identify the defects in the president's approach, nor does he even mention the Iran agreement, arguably a major contribution to stability in the region. As in domestic affairs, Wehner credits the president with amazing powers to alter the course of history.
The editorial may exaggerate somewhat the achievements of the Obama administration, but compared to the misleading and unsupported allegations of these two Republican critics, its judgments ring true.
6
Touché. History will regard President Obama as one of our great Presidents. I, for one, will miss him and his beautiful family terribly.
19
I'm confused.
How could President Obama be so highly regarded after Mitch McConnell made him a one-term President?
And I heard he "destroyed America" sometime after that 8year term. So shouldn't people hate him?
How could President Obama be so highly regarded after Mitch McConnell made him a one-term President?
And I heard he "destroyed America" sometime after that 8year term. So shouldn't people hate him?
7
No, usually failure is rewarded at the ballot box. In a democracy that obvious repudiation is usually enough but we have a NYT/MSM propaganda megaphone in full operational mode.... 2 and 2 equals 5 don't you know so we can paint a nice picture for the all important legacy. History calls and the myth makers start spinning.
1
The essence and irony of President Obama's legacy are that it also necessarily embraces the Republicans' legacy. Yes, much can be said about President Obama's successes, his scandal-free administration, and his obvious skills, but when programs are discussed in the years ahead the Republicans' lock-step and absolute opposition to contributing to those programs in any constructive fashion, to the real detriment of our citizens and national interest, will also be studied. President Obama's yang is forever tied to the Republicans' yin. To the Republicans' ever-lasting shame, Clio will instruct her students well.
7
There are many ways that savvy investors, financial managers, traders, etc. profited by playing AGAINST an “expert” named Barack Obama! Some non-PC people call some “The Obama Crashes”!
[By the time Obama took office, trillions of dollars had been pumped in, especially by the Fed. Plus, Bush’s bailout actually was based on stock, loan, warrant, etc. deals. He got charged for the initial amounts, but Obama took credit for all the money that came back from stock sales, dividends, interest, etc. Even Obama’s own Treasury says that the bailouts were about break even. Good luck trying to find a lot of the money from Obama’s “stimulus.” Some even wound up overseas.]
E.g., one of the early big “Obama Crashes” was caused by his 2/10/09 “financial” plan. The S&P welcomed it by crashing 4.91% in ONE DAY! INTELLIGENT people repeatedly sold or sold short in response to his speeches, announcements, etc. Then they bought after they thought the market had stabilized --- usually at lower levels. The stock market, GDP, employment, etc. were trying to go up DESPITE Obama --- not because of him.
There also were many financial world jokes about Obama’s incompetence, dogma, lies, etc. E.g.,
Q: What’s the best stimulus plan?
A: Keep Obama off TV!
Here is another from oil analysts: “U.S. oil production is booming, and Obama can’t seem to stop it!”
Obama takes credit for successes that he did not create and even opposed! Plus, he tries to pin his numerous failures on others.
[By the time Obama took office, trillions of dollars had been pumped in, especially by the Fed. Plus, Bush’s bailout actually was based on stock, loan, warrant, etc. deals. He got charged for the initial amounts, but Obama took credit for all the money that came back from stock sales, dividends, interest, etc. Even Obama’s own Treasury says that the bailouts were about break even. Good luck trying to find a lot of the money from Obama’s “stimulus.” Some even wound up overseas.]
E.g., one of the early big “Obama Crashes” was caused by his 2/10/09 “financial” plan. The S&P welcomed it by crashing 4.91% in ONE DAY! INTELLIGENT people repeatedly sold or sold short in response to his speeches, announcements, etc. Then they bought after they thought the market had stabilized --- usually at lower levels. The stock market, GDP, employment, etc. were trying to go up DESPITE Obama --- not because of him.
There also were many financial world jokes about Obama’s incompetence, dogma, lies, etc. E.g.,
Q: What’s the best stimulus plan?
A: Keep Obama off TV!
Here is another from oil analysts: “U.S. oil production is booming, and Obama can’t seem to stop it!”
Obama takes credit for successes that he did not create and even opposed! Plus, he tries to pin his numerous failures on others.
3
Thank you for reminding us of the things President Obama did right. We have a tendency to forget just how dire things were when he first took office. He gave us hope when we most needed it. More importantly he kept us safe.
I will miss having a President who is dignified. I shudder to think about how Trump will respond to the challenges that President Obama navigated with calm. The next four years are going to endear us to President Obama even more.
I will miss having a President who is dignified. I shudder to think about how Trump will respond to the challenges that President Obama navigated with calm. The next four years are going to endear us to President Obama even more.
6
I campaigned for then senator Obama in 2008 and I shared his optimism and he was inspiring and the best possible democratic nominee and the better of the 2 presidential candidates. I also have no regrets that he was the president who was inaugurated in 2009. During his 8 years as president, the economy has come out of the recession and unemployment has been greatly reduced. I was hoping he will not raise the national debt and as promised by him I was hoping he would go line by line in the federal spending items and would cut waste. This is unfinished business with 20 trillion dollars of national debt. I am not too optimistic that the repeal of Obamacare is going to be accompanied with prompt replacement with an insurance plan that will ensure those insured under Obamacare will not be left to the vagaries of a better plan being put forward by Republicans. I am not too optimistic that relations with major powers, Russia and China will be reasonable. I quite optimistic that President Obama's strategic partnership with India will be further strengthened by president Trump when he takes office next weekend. The inner city murder rates in mega cities of the USA has reached epic proportions and cannot get any worse and I think under Trump I am optimistic that the situation will improve significantly. So while we welcomed Obama and appreciate his presidency, the optimism of President Obama should continue beyond his departure. As we celebrate MLK day on Monday it is time to unite.
1
What's really sad is how this story has gotten distorted, twisted, and buried under the avalanche of the disinformation campaigns by right-wing talk radio, Fox, etc., etc. For that, I'm afraid Mr. Obama bears a certain responsibility -- as do the Democrats, and large segments of the media. I will never forgive the media for allowing the pejorative "Obamacare" to become accepted media parlance. Yes, Obama himself eventually said he didn't mind, but that's no excuse.
2
Knowing what is coming, Obama is missed before he even leaves.
7
Could he just leave....please.
1
Thank you President Obama!
6
To many of us, he will always represent the high school popular kids that authority loved to showcase over the wallpaper people.
2
Of course Obama is optimistic! He ran America into the ground for 8 years at home and abroad, played 400 rounds of golf on the tax payer dime, took 4 week vacations to Hawaii every year, and is about to get a 20 million dollar advance for a book nobody will read. 4 days and 14 hours. Good riddance!
8
Well, after the Bush debacle (a destabilized Middle East and the worst financial crisis since the great depression) he made America great again. Nothing you can says will change that.
1
are you sure you were awake for the last 8ears? I think if you check you'll see that we would have far less trouble if we had not gone into Iraq and or Afghanistan under the less than capable leader bush the younger with cheney as his master. And if you really look closely you might discover that those two also were "in charge" when our economy went to a fairly low point in our history and certainly lower than most of us who are alive today can remember....just sayin, and as for vacation who can forget the brush cutting extravaganzas in texas to show us how extraordinary little George was (kinda like putin riding a horse shirtless)
During the "Hope and Change" campaign, I was not particularly moved by the Obama phenomenon. In fact, I was still on the fence about Obama when I walked to the polling station to vote, but vote for him I did after considering the alternative (an on-and-off again moderate McCain paired with his absurd V.P. choice).
Unlike many early Obama enthusiasts, however, I grew to admire Obama more and more as the years passed. As I came to respect the complexity of the issues our country faces, I thought he reliably made reasonable decisions. As the "hope and change" crowd grew disillusioned by the lack of rapid progress they envisioned, I became more impressed by Obama's steady hand on the wheel and his essential decency.
The photo of the recently elected conman and creep Donald Trump sitting in the White House with a stunned Obama was simply devastating.
Like a (slim) majority of Americans, I can only hope that the long term damage Trump does to this country is minimal and that his presidency is brief.
Unlike many early Obama enthusiasts, however, I grew to admire Obama more and more as the years passed. As I came to respect the complexity of the issues our country faces, I thought he reliably made reasonable decisions. As the "hope and change" crowd grew disillusioned by the lack of rapid progress they envisioned, I became more impressed by Obama's steady hand on the wheel and his essential decency.
The photo of the recently elected conman and creep Donald Trump sitting in the White House with a stunned Obama was simply devastating.
Like a (slim) majority of Americans, I can only hope that the long term damage Trump does to this country is minimal and that his presidency is brief.
9
Thank-you President & Mrs Obama. I am grateful that your Presidency is part of our history. I am so sorry that it will be followed by Trump. Neither you nor our country deserved that.
8
President Obama is a class act, and I will miss him. And it is so...dare I say it...deplorable that the Republican Party was so selfish and pitiable that they put the nation on the back burner and sought only to defeat the president. And now we have the most graceless, careless, selfish charlatan ascending to the presidency. The Republicans have rebuked a good man, and created a monster.
11
Barack Obama is enthusiastic about the gene pool of America, about its coming "unselfish, altruistic, creative, patriotic" generation that soon will outnumber any of us. I hope he is right. Because hope is in short supply now.
6
This evaluation of Obama is an alternative reality. Recovery has been weak, ergo the election of Trump. Obama continued Bush's policy of moral hazard, paying off Wall Streets gambling debts while refusing to prosecute wrongdoers. Obama completely squandered the infrastructure and jobs program funds and they had zero effect.
ACA, one of Obama's few legislative victories is self destructing and an albatross around the neck of the Democratic Party and all his executive order triumphs - a constitutionally challenged end run around Congress - will last as long as an ice cube on the sidewalk in August under the Trump administration.
I suppose this fantasy review of the Obama administration is to be expected from people who thought Hillary Clinton would have made a fine President.
ACA, one of Obama's few legislative victories is self destructing and an albatross around the neck of the Democratic Party and all his executive order triumphs - a constitutionally challenged end run around Congress - will last as long as an ice cube on the sidewalk in August under the Trump administration.
I suppose this fantasy review of the Obama administration is to be expected from people who thought Hillary Clinton would have made a fine President.
10
President Obama will go down in history as one of our greatest Presidents. As for Mitch McConnell and Paul Ryan, the verdict will not be good.
24
For what exactly? You can't name a significant accomplishment that America agrees was an accomplishment besides, "he got Bin Ladden". intellectually honest people must admit Barack Obama was the first black president a major accomplishment and his sole claim to greatness. A mediocre president, he used race/gender/sexuality to divide then attack people daily. Leading is non divisive, and puts pettiness aside. You can deny this but a good leader has an opposition who respects them because they earned it. Both Bill Clinton and Ronald Reagan earned the respect of their opposition and were GREAT leaders.
Meanwhile the majority of Democrats agree with Republicans that his signature legislation Obamacare is a disaster. Even radical leftists who want full blown Communism and state control call it a failure.
You can argue this is due to hyper partisanship, yet this is nothing new. Republicans attempted to impeach Bill Clinton over his sexcapades, yet Republicans and Democrats admit Bill Clinton had many notable accomplishments. A balanced budget, wages went up significantly (unlike 16 years of Bush/Obama), welfare reform, and economic boom.
The same can be said of Reagan, who was savaged daily by Democrats, yet most Democrats and nearly all Republicans agree he had many accomplishments. Detente, bringing the cold war to a halt, causing the breakup of the USSR, pulling us out of a deep recession, and then actually growing the economy for everyone.
Meanwhile the majority of Democrats agree with Republicans that his signature legislation Obamacare is a disaster. Even radical leftists who want full blown Communism and state control call it a failure.
You can argue this is due to hyper partisanship, yet this is nothing new. Republicans attempted to impeach Bill Clinton over his sexcapades, yet Republicans and Democrats admit Bill Clinton had many notable accomplishments. A balanced budget, wages went up significantly (unlike 16 years of Bush/Obama), welfare reform, and economic boom.
The same can be said of Reagan, who was savaged daily by Democrats, yet most Democrats and nearly all Republicans agree he had many accomplishments. Detente, bringing the cold war to a halt, causing the breakup of the USSR, pulling us out of a deep recession, and then actually growing the economy for everyone.
1
Twice I read his "Audacity of Hope."
He did what he promised. No surprises. The president is exactly that man from the book, pondering compromise, trade-offs + moving to the middle to accomplish policy thru diplomacy. To make real change happen...in a democracy. where opinions should matter. Common ground should matter.
His philosophy has been the same as the pragmatic strategist in the book.
Now, Republicans thwarted his every effort.
And historians will closely document what that was all about. None of it proper, none of it heroic, and over time, interviews, quotes, the congressional record, and the library of C-Span will reveal the unprincipled, undemocratic duplicity of the Republican opposition against him for 8 years for historians to record.
He did what he promised. No surprises. The president is exactly that man from the book, pondering compromise, trade-offs + moving to the middle to accomplish policy thru diplomacy. To make real change happen...in a democracy. where opinions should matter. Common ground should matter.
His philosophy has been the same as the pragmatic strategist in the book.
Now, Republicans thwarted his every effort.
And historians will closely document what that was all about. None of it proper, none of it heroic, and over time, interviews, quotes, the congressional record, and the library of C-Span will reveal the unprincipled, undemocratic duplicity of the Republican opposition against him for 8 years for historians to record.
18
The president's power emanates from the Bully Pulpit. Obama refused to use his Bully Pulpit to force the hand of congress. He disarmed himself.
Trump's Bully Pulpit will be "awesome," "really huge." What will you do about it?
Trump's Bully Pulpit will be "awesome," "really huge." What will you do about it?
What first puzzled and then infuriated me about the Republicans' implacable opposition to everything President Obama ever proposed, from the infusion of federal funds to bailout the failed economy to the automobile company rescues to tax reform to affordable healthcare (and I could go on) is that it was and is demonstrably irrational. It was rooted in an Inauguration evening decision in 2009 that was calculated and cruel: to oppose everything Obama proposed and to mislabel him as the partisan politician. It metastasized over 8 years into a refusal even to consider a nomination to the Supreme Court. How much more prosperous and fair could our society have become in 8 years if there had been a modicum of cooperation? But that would have meant giving Obama legitimacy and would have risked Republican electoral defeats. We will not soon see another person of his talent in that office, a brilliant and eloquent man who graced the office even in the face of sustained, irrational and hypocritical criticism.
35
And yet the Democratic Party treated them as an honest bargaining partner. Why?
Please, Mr. President Obama,
Use your great dignity, eloquence, and courage to speak out forcefully against the crude slurs made by Donald Trump against John Lewis, who is among our most courageous and heroic Americans..
This cannot be let to pass by, on the weekend of MLK's honoring.
Use your great dignity, eloquence, and courage to speak out forcefully against the crude slurs made by Donald Trump against John Lewis, who is among our most courageous and heroic Americans..
This cannot be let to pass by, on the weekend of MLK's honoring.
16
Why is Mr. Lewis to be exempt from repercussions of his comments and statement that Mr. Trump is not legitimate? Is his race to be some sort of shield against criticism? Disagree with Trump if you will, but when another politician impugns ones election to office history and common sense says they are liable for a retort.
1
There are only 660 days until the mid term elections. If you don't like Trump, take the advice of John Oliver and:
1) subscribe to a fact based news source [actually send them some money]
2) donate money or time to a progressive cause
Now
1) subscribe to a fact based news source [actually send them some money]
2) donate money or time to a progressive cause
Now
18
Yes and put your feet on the ground. If you wait for the midterms, it will all ready be over.
Here's an idea. When Trump names his Supreme Court pick, the next day (or the day after if necessary) make a sign and stand on the Great Lawn, and demand that he name Merrick Garland. You Democrats know this was a complete hacking of the rules. Will you do anything about it?
Here's an idea. When Trump names his Supreme Court pick, the next day (or the day after if necessary) make a sign and stand on the Great Lawn, and demand that he name Merrick Garland. You Democrats know this was a complete hacking of the rules. Will you do anything about it?
I admire President Obama and will greatly regret losing him as President.
The cut of his jib. His smile. His cool. His tallness. His thinness. His way of telling a joke. His very evident intelligence. His great attractiveness to young people. His affection for basketball. His overcoming of an absent father and a mother who went away too much. His close attention to the ceremonial and moral-leader-of-the-country duties of his office like visiting with hurt soldiers and disaster and crime victims.
Along the way, I have been willing to forgive or rationalize away some of his more grievous shortcomings like Obamacare and the Syrian red-line disaster on the grounds that his choices were limited by unwarranted and vicious Republican opposition or, at least, were well intended.
The Iran nuclear deal and his imposing of the awful U.N. resolution on Israel and his multiple failures to adequately confront Mr. Putin
I cannot forgive.
They have left me and the rest of the country with a naif and a dangerous fool by the name of Donald J. Trump.
The cut of his jib. His smile. His cool. His tallness. His thinness. His way of telling a joke. His very evident intelligence. His great attractiveness to young people. His affection for basketball. His overcoming of an absent father and a mother who went away too much. His close attention to the ceremonial and moral-leader-of-the-country duties of his office like visiting with hurt soldiers and disaster and crime victims.
Along the way, I have been willing to forgive or rationalize away some of his more grievous shortcomings like Obamacare and the Syrian red-line disaster on the grounds that his choices were limited by unwarranted and vicious Republican opposition or, at least, were well intended.
The Iran nuclear deal and his imposing of the awful U.N. resolution on Israel and his multiple failures to adequately confront Mr. Putin
I cannot forgive.
They have left me and the rest of the country with a naif and a dangerous fool by the name of Donald J. Trump.
5
Make that:
They have left me and the rest of the country under the thumb of a dangerous fool by the name of Donald J. Trump.
They have left me and the rest of the country under the thumb of a dangerous fool by the name of Donald J. Trump.
Perfect
1
Writing from overseas, why do the Republicans seems to be the enemy of the USA? Why do the Republicans do so well when they drag the US down?
24
You could write books on this. I'm not sure any of us here in the country itself can answer that question except to say they're more concerned with opposing Democrats than actually leading or governing. Most of us here are scratching our heads and wondering what's going on too.
Obama's famously erroneous policies,over eight years, cost the Democrats the House, the Senate, the Presidency, all but eleven governorships and countless state senate seats. The voters have been speaking to the leftists for quite some time and they still just can't get their arms around their rather robust rejection.
I guess that's what feeds his optimism ?
Funny, really...
I guess that's what feeds his optimism ?
Funny, really...
10
Objectivist, the attack on voting rights and gerrymandering are what have taken a toll. A toad running as a Republican would be assured of winning my district.
19
it was not the ideas of the President that was rejected rather it was the steady diet of misinformation and lies, the all too consuming racism towards the President...let's not forget gerrymandering and voter suppression... DEMs shot themselves in the foot by not turning out in the mid terms...and some DEMs ran from the President instead of standing with him...thinking that white voters would vote for them if they used racist dog whistles...they lost ...why vote for a pretend GOP when they could have the real one...and finally what was the DNC thinking when they allowed Sanders to run on our dime...all he did was trash the DNC...demonize Hillary and trashed the President...
the true winner of the election is Hillary Clinton...more citizens voted for her than trump...time to put the Electoral College to bed...
Electing Trump to office...has temporarily stopped the forward progress in America...healthcare ...climate change....immigration reform..voting rights...are all targets of the GOP Congress who have been salivating as the prospect of destroying the safety net.....
so all the trumpsters who voted for trump and all unicorn clan who voted 3rd party...i hope you are satisfied at what you have wrought...
the true winner of the election is Hillary Clinton...more citizens voted for her than trump...time to put the Electoral College to bed...
Electing Trump to office...has temporarily stopped the forward progress in America...healthcare ...climate change....immigration reform..voting rights...are all targets of the GOP Congress who have been salivating as the prospect of destroying the safety net.....
so all the trumpsters who voted for trump and all unicorn clan who voted 3rd party...i hope you are satisfied at what you have wrought...
It is not the left that the voters are rejecting, but the center right corporate party that finds excuse after excuse to hand endless victories to the oligarchy, through massive "incompetence." Under the neo-liberal Clinton wing of the Party, whose job is to "Normalize" ( in current jargon) the Republican Party's unAmerican policies by treating them with respect, the Democrats have been thoroughly rejected at every level.
Democrats are down to a 1/3 of Governors, and 1/3 of sate legislatures. Its not because people don't want free healthcare, and don't want free college, and don't want good roads and nearly free, clean, renewable energy (despite the big investment up top). Its not that the People don't want to tax the Super Rich, and especially raid their tax havens.
Even the base of the (now astroturf) Tea Party is against the crony capitalists and know we have an oligarchy. (And Koch was at least smart enough, like Bernie and Trump to recognize the People's anger.) Patriots don't want our sovereignty given away to global corporations. And when Democrats tell them they should, with deals like NAFTA and the TPP, they are to the right of the Tea Party!
The Democrats don't even support people on "their side," like when the left forced recall elections in Wisconsin, and the Democrats gave little money, but pushed an unpopular establishment candidate to confuse things. Then they expect to win Wisconsin?
This election was a repudiation of the Corporate-Washington "Center."
Democrats are down to a 1/3 of Governors, and 1/3 of sate legislatures. Its not because people don't want free healthcare, and don't want free college, and don't want good roads and nearly free, clean, renewable energy (despite the big investment up top). Its not that the People don't want to tax the Super Rich, and especially raid their tax havens.
Even the base of the (now astroturf) Tea Party is against the crony capitalists and know we have an oligarchy. (And Koch was at least smart enough, like Bernie and Trump to recognize the People's anger.) Patriots don't want our sovereignty given away to global corporations. And when Democrats tell them they should, with deals like NAFTA and the TPP, they are to the right of the Tea Party!
The Democrats don't even support people on "their side," like when the left forced recall elections in Wisconsin, and the Democrats gave little money, but pushed an unpopular establishment candidate to confuse things. Then they expect to win Wisconsin?
This election was a repudiation of the Corporate-Washington "Center."
Thank you for giving President Obama his due. Thank you, President Obama, for your outstanding service to this country. You'll be greatly missed.
35
I shall be wearing black on Friday along with all those who mourn the direction the US has taken in allowing Trump to win the White House.
I also mourn the fact that for all of Mr Obama's optimism, integrity and grace, the GOP still refused to give his Supreme Court nominee a Senate hearing. His gift of decency, in the face of GOP hatred, were as pearls before swine.
I also mourn the fact that for all of Mr Obama's optimism, integrity and grace, the GOP still refused to give his Supreme Court nominee a Senate hearing. His gift of decency, in the face of GOP hatred, were as pearls before swine.
41
When Democrats don't stop Trump's Supreme Court Nominees, will you still believe they are on your side?
I do think the type of opposition Obama faced was unprecedented. The Republicans behaviour over the last eight years has been despicable, borderline treasonous in my opinion. When you think what a mess America was in, the problems Obama had to face; and the GOP (the party that was actually to blame for much of that mess) decided to stand in the way of any attempt to improve people's lives. In many ways, the most awful thing about the 2016 election was that the Republicans were rewarded for their bad behaviour.
51
I wonder how Donald Trump will handle being proven by Congress to be a liar time and again, rather than to be falsely accused of it as was Obama, who gracefully ignored the racist insults?
Actually, I don't wonder. Trump can't even handle Alec Baldwin doing him so well on SNL. Brilliantly, last night.
Actually, I don't wonder. Trump can't even handle Alec Baldwin doing him so well on SNL. Brilliantly, last night.
Yes and it was obvious that the Republicans would obstruct everything from before the inauguration. Why did Democrats play along, instead of changing their strategy?
Yes, always "unprecedented" for poor, poor Obama. No one in office has EVER had to deal with such animus - not Nixon, or Clinton, or FDR - nope, only poor Obama. A glance at history might be in order. And sorry, but opposing a president is hardly treasonous unless you're prepared to start an indictment of Democrats who are already planning to work against Trump.
1
As an observer from the other side of the world, I reluctantly say “farewell” to a fine, upstanding man who is widely admired overseas as a diplomat, orator, and statesman. President Obama wasn’t perfect by any means, but compared to his successor he is in a different universe. And yet his reward will be to have his political legacy, particularly Obamacare, vindictively trashed by the incoming government. Many people will suffer as a result.
It is difficult to comprehend what America is losing in this transition. For the next four years Donald Trump will be the face and voice of the nation. It’s like walking into a dark alley and being confronted by Freddy Kreuger and Godzilla rolled into one.
It is difficult to comprehend what America is losing in this transition. For the next four years Donald Trump will be the face and voice of the nation. It’s like walking into a dark alley and being confronted by Freddy Kreuger and Godzilla rolled into one.
7
I’m a white woman in my early 60s. I enthusiastically volunteered to work for, and cast my vote twice for, Barack Obama. I feel fortunate to have done my part to elect such an exemplary and extraordinary man as president. I doubt I’ll see another like him and his amazing family in the White House in my lifetime.
That said, I will never forgive—nor forget--the group of Republicans who made it their singular mission to undermine his presidency at every turn, pledging to work against anything he was for. And this, at a time of great economic peril for our country. I can only imagine what might have been accomplished if they had worked together to reach compromises on important issues, as Democrats and Republicans did in the past. Rather, they took up the Tea Party’s cry of “No compromise, ever.”
Now they’ve reaped the whirlwind by paving the way for this new administration and a president-elect at the helm who appears to have a very limited knowledge of American history, how government works, is ethically and morally-challenged and wholly erratic in temperament. I fear for America and our democratic system.
That said, I will never forgive—nor forget--the group of Republicans who made it their singular mission to undermine his presidency at every turn, pledging to work against anything he was for. And this, at a time of great economic peril for our country. I can only imagine what might have been accomplished if they had worked together to reach compromises on important issues, as Democrats and Republicans did in the past. Rather, they took up the Tea Party’s cry of “No compromise, ever.”
Now they’ve reaped the whirlwind by paving the way for this new administration and a president-elect at the helm who appears to have a very limited knowledge of American history, how government works, is ethically and morally-challenged and wholly erratic in temperament. I fear for America and our democratic system.
12
President Obama and his team saved us from the brink of a second Great Depression. History reminds us that the last time we found ourselves in complete economic collapse, FDR had 4 terms to fully right our nation's course. While our current recovery hasn't moved across our nation as robustly as many might hope, Mr. Obama has well steadied a previously foundering economy and has tackled a host of other issues despite Republican intransigence. He has promoted all manner of equity and justice, including with his Supreme Court nominees. He has strongly advocated for the health, education, safety and general well-being of our children and indeed all Americans, including with the ACA. He has worked to protect our global environment, including with the Paris Agreement. He has fostered domestic and global alliances to help curtail a range of threats in our increasingly interdependent and often chaotic world, including with his outreach to numerous communities affected by varying forms of gun and other violence.
In a vain attempt to return us to an anachronistic era that benefitted only certain segments of society, the next administration and Congress have vowed to dismantle much of the progress our nation has made under Mr. Obama (and since the 1960's, perhaps even the 1860's). Whatever damage these retrogrades may inflict, history will not erase the grace, dignity, intellect, level-headedness and compassion with which Mr. Obama has led us these past 8 years. I'm so grateful to him!
In a vain attempt to return us to an anachronistic era that benefitted only certain segments of society, the next administration and Congress have vowed to dismantle much of the progress our nation has made under Mr. Obama (and since the 1960's, perhaps even the 1860's). Whatever damage these retrogrades may inflict, history will not erase the grace, dignity, intellect, level-headedness and compassion with which Mr. Obama has led us these past 8 years. I'm so grateful to him!
7
History will recognize that Mr Obama was a man of vision and wisdom and that his two terms in office where stolen by a thuggish party known as the Republican party.
10
President Obama's greatest strength has also served as one of his most critical weaknesses. It is his optimism that all men are reasonable and can be reasoned with. It is the Harvard training in "negotiating to yes."
Unfortunately, what is looking more and more like the duplicitous and highly probable traitorous acts and conspiracy to commit treason by Trump, Flynn, Giuliani, and likely others high in that campaign, including Trump Tower neighbor and former campaign manager and Ukraine flack, Paul Manafort, continue to multiply without credible explanation or excuse.
There are more and more reasonable and long time Democrats, like Jerrold Nadler who are questioning why executive action against Trump, Giuliani, as well as possibly Comey, wasn't taken prior to November's election.
According to the criteria used in Sorenson/JFK's "Profiles In Courage" October, 2016, may be reflected upon as missed swing in a crucial game in an otherwise exemplary career and presidential run by Barack Obama. Taking action then may have turned out to have saved thousands of American lives and Billions of Dollars in our assets from the rapacious Trump and his corrupt cronies.
Unfortunately, what is looking more and more like the duplicitous and highly probable traitorous acts and conspiracy to commit treason by Trump, Flynn, Giuliani, and likely others high in that campaign, including Trump Tower neighbor and former campaign manager and Ukraine flack, Paul Manafort, continue to multiply without credible explanation or excuse.
There are more and more reasonable and long time Democrats, like Jerrold Nadler who are questioning why executive action against Trump, Giuliani, as well as possibly Comey, wasn't taken prior to November's election.
According to the criteria used in Sorenson/JFK's "Profiles In Courage" October, 2016, may be reflected upon as missed swing in a crucial game in an otherwise exemplary career and presidential run by Barack Obama. Taking action then may have turned out to have saved thousands of American lives and Billions of Dollars in our assets from the rapacious Trump and his corrupt cronies.
29
Obama felt the need to reconcile racist America. Like Abraham Lincoln, he has fallen to obdurate racists. Trump played this for his own material gain, or as a Russian Agent under control, take your pick.
As the victim of a Harvard education, I'm afraid I have to agree with the characterization of the Harvard, "negotiate to yes" mindset impairment that blinded President Obama to the futility of attempting rational discourse with an apparent psychopath: Trump. The nation would have been better served if Trump had been called out for espionage and placed under arrest. Jefferson would have done no less. But, President Obama was faced with the threat of being blamed for the armed rebellion of racists and Nazi-gun owners that would have ensued. Putin, truly didn't care which way it went. For him it was a 'win-win.'
So the best case to hope for is that Trump is impeached and jailed quickly and our nation goes into a "post-Watergate cleansing period" a la 21st Century Schitzo Man.
So the best case to hope for is that Trump is impeached and jailed quickly and our nation goes into a "post-Watergate cleansing period" a la 21st Century Schitzo Man.
President Obama is a good man and a good president. Nevertheless, with hindsight, one can see that he could have done some things better. He should have focused on the economy first instead of health care. He might have been able to inject a robust Keynesian stimulus into the economy of at least several billion dollars. That might have created more demand and therefore more business investment. What happened instead is that while the stock market rose a great deal, and unemployment went down, a lot of people quit looking for jobs, and wages remained stagnant.
So even though he is leaving with remarkably high poll ratings, the economy remains stagnant, an authoritarian, neo-fascist successor will take office in less than a week, and his signature health care law is in deep trouble.
So even though he is leaving with remarkably high poll ratings, the economy remains stagnant, an authoritarian, neo-fascist successor will take office in less than a week, and his signature health care law is in deep trouble.
1
I agree. If Obama had attempted to push through a jobs bill first- even if the Republicans had defeated him- it would have provided even more ammunition for single payer to have the outrage and momentum to get through instead of ACA. But, that's hindsight.
Is it the same polls talking about Obama's popularity that predicted Hillary's victory in the election? excuse me for being sceptical! out of hundreds of people I personally know only a few are going to miss this "classy" President!
My heart aches to watch this man go. Such class, such respect, such presence, so presidential, all to be replaced by what? A brand, a blowhard, and a tool. The mind reels. Please Obama, don't leave our midst.
7
Given the dire straits the American and the Global economy was in at the time
President Obama was inaugurated he has done a remarkable job in creating an environment of recovery.
Of course growth did not match the pace of previous recoveries as our economy was going through structural change , for example decades of the erosion of the manufacturing sector the creator of so many well paid jobs.
We also need to remember the continuous effect of automation and innovation.
The Trump Administration will soon find out that the growth they have promised the American people will be very difficult to deliver because of these factors.
One last thought I have just got back from the Detrout Auto Show and could not help reflect where the Auto Industry would be without the thoughtful actions of our President.
We are going to miss this great President , his family and the Biden family
I hope they stay actively involved and not be to considerate of opposing Trump.
Thank you President Obama
President Obama was inaugurated he has done a remarkable job in creating an environment of recovery.
Of course growth did not match the pace of previous recoveries as our economy was going through structural change , for example decades of the erosion of the manufacturing sector the creator of so many well paid jobs.
We also need to remember the continuous effect of automation and innovation.
The Trump Administration will soon find out that the growth they have promised the American people will be very difficult to deliver because of these factors.
One last thought I have just got back from the Detrout Auto Show and could not help reflect where the Auto Industry would be without the thoughtful actions of our President.
We are going to miss this great President , his family and the Biden family
I hope they stay actively involved and not be to considerate of opposing Trump.
Thank you President Obama
6
Optimistic as he may be, some of us can't understand why he handed the government over so easily without mounting a challenge to the illegitimate-appearing Trump presidency and the electoral college as a tool of voter suppression--the kind of legal challenge we know Republicans would have mounted if their party had won by millions of votes but lost anyway. http://www.alternet.org/election-2016/activist-files-federal-suit-declar...
4
Indeed, Barack Hussein Obama would never have been voted our President without his unflagging optimism, which we have seen since he electrified us during his Keynote Address at the Democratic National Convention of 2004. In his great presidency, Barack Obama represented Integrity, grace, elegance, pride and gratitude in his bi-racial American life. How we love him! President Obama's extraordinary legacy for future Americans is assured. And yet, when he made his deeply moving farewell speech in Chicago days ago, he said "the future is in good hands". Alas, the near future is in bad hands, President-elect Trump's hands. We can only hope and pray that our 45th President's administration - the Tweeting President - will be brief and reflect his utter lack of empathy and kindness for e pluribus unum in his mean and unending Tweets.
9
Dear President Obama,
Thank you for everything you have done for America. I have no doubt that history will look upon you as one of the finest Presidents of any era.
And these same historians will realize that obstructionists like McConnell and Ryan had zero game, no heart or soul, and absolutely nothing to contribute to our country. You were, and always will be, superior to these reprehensible men who must have made your job intolerable. But you persevered, and you did it with the highest level of dignity imaginable.
You will be missed, and it is indeed cruel that your successor is a charlatan without legitimacy, but you have inspired us to forge on. And we will!
Thank you for everything you have done for America. I have no doubt that history will look upon you as one of the finest Presidents of any era.
And these same historians will realize that obstructionists like McConnell and Ryan had zero game, no heart or soul, and absolutely nothing to contribute to our country. You were, and always will be, superior to these reprehensible men who must have made your job intolerable. But you persevered, and you did it with the highest level of dignity imaginable.
You will be missed, and it is indeed cruel that your successor is a charlatan without legitimacy, but you have inspired us to forge on. And we will!
29
While the generation that is coming up may believe in a fair and inclusive America, that was not the generation that elected Donald Trump. This was an election that revealed a dark side of our character; where civility, dignity, compassion, diligence and inclusiveness are viewed with skepticism and contempt; where truth is relative; where scientists, scholars and thinkers are routinely viewed with suspicion; where long-term goals surrender to instant gratification; where political adversaries are more dangerous than external threats; where tweets replace thoughtful discourse. We elected an immature amateur and in so doing shifted our reference point so far to the right (or perhaps left) that what was once extreme is now common.
14
Obama is a charismatic man but his promise of "Change" was a sad joke.
An endless war in Afghanistan. Failure in Iraq. The rise of ISIS. Pervasive surveillance of US citizens. Obamacare collapsing under it's own weight. Worthless "Bronze"policies. Record numbers of journalists and whistle blowers prosecuted. Drones killing innocent people. Bombing Pakistan, Somalia, Yemen, Afghanistan, Syria, Iraq and Libya. Increasing inequality. No prosecutions of the banksters. Trade deals like the TPP written by corporations and kept secret from American citizens. And now after years of hacking everyone, and being hacked on several occasions by China, hacking has only become an issue after Hillary lost.
Obama, who I backed twice, has sadly proven to be the "Bait and Switch" President.
An endless war in Afghanistan. Failure in Iraq. The rise of ISIS. Pervasive surveillance of US citizens. Obamacare collapsing under it's own weight. Worthless "Bronze"policies. Record numbers of journalists and whistle blowers prosecuted. Drones killing innocent people. Bombing Pakistan, Somalia, Yemen, Afghanistan, Syria, Iraq and Libya. Increasing inequality. No prosecutions of the banksters. Trade deals like the TPP written by corporations and kept secret from American citizens. And now after years of hacking everyone, and being hacked on several occasions by China, hacking has only become an issue after Hillary lost.
Obama, who I backed twice, has sadly proven to be the "Bait and Switch" President.
4
JMC: There are things that I too wish Obama had accomplished. But I think he is a truly decent guy who tried his best to move the ball forward. With some notable successes. Despite steadfast opposition from the entrenched old white guard (in congress and boardrooms). He was president, not emperor, so there was a limit to what he could accomplish.
But you feel disappointed now?! You better start some serious anti-depressants and engage a good counselor to gird yourself for the Trump/Ryan/McConnell wrecking ball that has started its swing.
But you feel disappointed now?! You better start some serious anti-depressants and engage a good counselor to gird yourself for the Trump/Ryan/McConnell wrecking ball that has started its swing.
Photographed at his desk yesterday, Trump has entire stacks piled high of "Time Magazine Person of the Year" featuring him. Really. It's true.
He's surrounded by images and symbols---of himself.
His desk looks stage-crafted, as if no work is ever done, ever.
He was meeting with a labor leader. Who sat in front of stacks and stacks piled high of Time Magazine where Trump is immortalized on the cover.
The irony just drips.
Paul Ryan is dropping off extra copies of "Atlas Shrugged,"
Signed,
Mean Joanne
Compare/contrast with Barack Obama.
He's surrounded by images and symbols---of himself.
His desk looks stage-crafted, as if no work is ever done, ever.
He was meeting with a labor leader. Who sat in front of stacks and stacks piled high of Time Magazine where Trump is immortalized on the cover.
The irony just drips.
Paul Ryan is dropping off extra copies of "Atlas Shrugged,"
Signed,
Mean Joanne
Compare/contrast with Barack Obama.
Emotionally speaking I weep. And weep again and again at the loss of this great man as our leader; at the loss of the comfort he provided being at the helm; at the loss of having someone wise and articulate whose words of wisdom and deep understanding I hung onto and learned from.
And that's not even mentioning his compassion and unflappable nature and his sense of humor and always looking at the positive side; seeing the glass half full. (His mother and father would be so proud.)
Also, I've repeatedly ached and even at times felt a mothering instinct to protect him from maltreatment perpetrated repeatedly by the other side who I believe found his intellect and deep mind intimidating. Small minds, unable to understand large minds, often feel that way. Thus they are driven to squash the source of that uncomfortable feeling. That's happened through history.
I also ache that he can't skip the inauguration Friday but instead has to suffer the humiliation (although he won't experience it that way) at having to turn over the keys of "his" White House and years of dedication and hard work to the very man (with the flawed character) who crassly challenged his very legitimacy.
Life is often unfair especially when bad things like that happen to good people whose shoes the president elect, the culprit, isn't worthy of shining.
So, God Speed, Dear Mr. President, thank you from the bottom of my heart and that of many others and know that you will be greatly missed.
And that's not even mentioning his compassion and unflappable nature and his sense of humor and always looking at the positive side; seeing the glass half full. (His mother and father would be so proud.)
Also, I've repeatedly ached and even at times felt a mothering instinct to protect him from maltreatment perpetrated repeatedly by the other side who I believe found his intellect and deep mind intimidating. Small minds, unable to understand large minds, often feel that way. Thus they are driven to squash the source of that uncomfortable feeling. That's happened through history.
I also ache that he can't skip the inauguration Friday but instead has to suffer the humiliation (although he won't experience it that way) at having to turn over the keys of "his" White House and years of dedication and hard work to the very man (with the flawed character) who crassly challenged his very legitimacy.
Life is often unfair especially when bad things like that happen to good people whose shoes the president elect, the culprit, isn't worthy of shining.
So, God Speed, Dear Mr. President, thank you from the bottom of my heart and that of many others and know that you will be greatly missed.
2
One of the worst attacks on Obama's legacy, and
for that matter, the American people, is the clumsy repeal of the ACA. Honestly, it's completely political. There are several parts of the ACA which should never be repealed and are well liked, but Republicans must not have this accomplishment attributed to President Obama, so they will try and erase it from the record books. They will do it despite the suffering of 20 million Americans. They will do it before building bridges, roads or highways, or high-speed trains. They won't build anything but walls. There is a mean-spiritedness in it, something ugly that shows how excited they are to smash that hopeful message that propelled Obama to the highest office twice. They've been waiting to do this for 8 years. However, I still believe Obama's legacy will be a strong one, despite everything.
for that matter, the American people, is the clumsy repeal of the ACA. Honestly, it's completely political. There are several parts of the ACA which should never be repealed and are well liked, but Republicans must not have this accomplishment attributed to President Obama, so they will try and erase it from the record books. They will do it despite the suffering of 20 million Americans. They will do it before building bridges, roads or highways, or high-speed trains. They won't build anything but walls. There is a mean-spiritedness in it, something ugly that shows how excited they are to smash that hopeful message that propelled Obama to the highest office twice. They've been waiting to do this for 8 years. However, I still believe Obama's legacy will be a strong one, despite everything.
2
It's so incredibly sad to see the brilliance and eloquence of President Obama being replaced by bigotry and brutishness. The "audacity of hope" has been replaced by the fear of repression along with a spiteful rollback in Obamacare and a frightening embrace in governance and policy of Vladimir Putin's authoritarian, anti-democratic oligarchy. Perhaps President Obama and the Democrats who ran from him were too timid and too hopeful, and not wary enough of the Republicans and the scorched-earth Tea Party ideologues. Now they control all three branches of government and the threats to democracy listed in his farewell address are all too palpable. I am left like Pandora looking into the box that has released so many toxic threats to our way of life and only have hope to rely on.
1
Barack Hussein Obama is incredibly naïve and arrogant. Obama has no stone cold South Side Chicago common streetwise sense. Obama is all Honolulu Ivy League Law School Professor.
Unlike Obama I was born and bred black and poor on the South Side of Chicago. I am a product of the Chicago Public Schools K-12 in a family that expected educational success and demanded hard work. Never making any threats nor disrespecting anyone is the base of street wisdom. Never letting any strangers know what you really think or intend is power.
Because our lives and livelihood depend upon it black folks know what white people really think and feel about blacks. We cannot afford to be distracted nor deluded by white verbal and written rhetoric. Action and inaction reflects white folks intent regarding justice for those Americans colored other than white.
Barack Obama's moral rectitude is nice. But he is a politician. Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela and Martin Luther King. Jr. were all streetwise barnyard rooster skirt chasers. Being the first black President I know he was not dumb enough to risk getting cut by my home girl FLOTUS. And Obama knows that he is only colored half-white while playing against black inferior stereotypes.
My brown grandsons have only known a President colored like them. American history demanded that he be a smiling comforting exotic eunuch Super Good Negro. One day there will be a black Bill, W and Donald heading to 1600. Free at last?
Unlike Obama I was born and bred black and poor on the South Side of Chicago. I am a product of the Chicago Public Schools K-12 in a family that expected educational success and demanded hard work. Never making any threats nor disrespecting anyone is the base of street wisdom. Never letting any strangers know what you really think or intend is power.
Because our lives and livelihood depend upon it black folks know what white people really think and feel about blacks. We cannot afford to be distracted nor deluded by white verbal and written rhetoric. Action and inaction reflects white folks intent regarding justice for those Americans colored other than white.
Barack Obama's moral rectitude is nice. But he is a politician. Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela and Martin Luther King. Jr. were all streetwise barnyard rooster skirt chasers. Being the first black President I know he was not dumb enough to risk getting cut by my home girl FLOTUS. And Obama knows that he is only colored half-white while playing against black inferior stereotypes.
My brown grandsons have only known a President colored like them. American history demanded that he be a smiling comforting exotic eunuch Super Good Negro. One day there will be a black Bill, W and Donald heading to 1600. Free at last?
3
Mr. Obama's current popularity has little, if anything, to do with his accomplishments. Polls show that his popularity languished below 50% until McConnell pulled his fast one on the Supreme Court nomination. That action made it official that Obama was a lame duck, Moreover, he became the underdog, which always boosts popularity. Since then, Obama hasn't done much. His supporters feel nostalgia. Moderates are no longer troubled by his policies and are finding they like the man. Obama kept a relatively low profile through the campaign, and angered next to no one. For all the talk of his legacy, the prospects of its effective repeal are substantial. So Obama's current popularity is largely unrelated to his accomplishments. Instead, people are seeing that, stripped of all the controversy, he really is a nice guy.
1
What President Obama did in the face of not just opposition but sheer vitriol on the part of the whole republican establishment was amazing. To be able to continue to show grace and class was extraordinary. He was blamed when the other side refused even moderate solutions. It was supposedly his fault they couldn't meet in the middle. When he led the ACA development, based on largely conservative ideas, he was completely rebuffed. Sure, it would be nice if he had accomplished even more. In fairness, he did make some mistakes. Considering the challenges and the united, feet -dug -in opposition, I'm satisfied.
3
Man never appreciates what he sees in a store window and then buys, bring it back home. Then custom breeds familiarity and one soon forgets what he got.
How easy is it to remember a broken finger, a torn heart? Once mended, soon forgot.
How easy is it to remember a broken finger, a torn heart? Once mended, soon forgot.
President Obama. A remarkable record of achievement for any president, truly amazing in the face of unrelenting opposition and contempt. So very hard to see him go.
3
Optimism turned into arrogance.
4
"Mr. Obama’s opponents have had trouble accepting that any of this actually happened. They have not learned the simple truth..."
Why? How? For how much longer? They have not learned many, many truths. Please, can someone tell me that there is enough wisdom, compassion and patriotism in enough Republicans to reject the poison that has been infecting and deteriorating our democracy for years.
Why? How? For how much longer? They have not learned many, many truths. Please, can someone tell me that there is enough wisdom, compassion and patriotism in enough Republicans to reject the poison that has been infecting and deteriorating our democracy for years.
2
Obama's legacy in so many domains is enormous. He has shifted ways of thinking from defence to healthcare through to climate change.
With the end of his presidency, I feel I am losing a moral and intellectual compass.
I nevertheless want to remain hopeful that his legacy will outlast Trump's presidency eventually.
With the end of his presidency, I feel I am losing a moral and intellectual compass.
I nevertheless want to remain hopeful that his legacy will outlast Trump's presidency eventually.
1
We Democrats are the group most in need of optimism, now that our political future looks so bleak. I hope that Obama, after a well-deserved rest, will once again speak out in public forums with his message of hope and optimism. Even in the face of the most egregious acts by the upcoming administration, Obama's measured, sincere, urgent speeches could help to lead us out of these dark days.
2
Simply a great man who gave us all he had. Will miss viewing his dignity, compassion and intelligence for the rest of my life.
2
Obama's presidency exposed the racism in this country.
He did not cause it. Nor did he feed it.
We saw it emerge immediately after his inauguration with the likes of the infamous Tea Party, and their insulting signs + images of President Obama.
Trump rode the wave of exposed racism and turned it into a tsunami--
a seismic sea wave, wave after wave caused by the displacement of a large volume of our national sanity.
He did not cause it. Nor did he feed it.
We saw it emerge immediately after his inauguration with the likes of the infamous Tea Party, and their insulting signs + images of President Obama.
Trump rode the wave of exposed racism and turned it into a tsunami--
a seismic sea wave, wave after wave caused by the displacement of a large volume of our national sanity.
2
The editorial states that it all started for Barack Obama on Inauguration Day. That statement is incorrect. Barack Obama started his presidency 2 months before his Inauguration, when President George Bush left the job in November.
1
Obama's heart was always devoted to Central-State socialism, and his optimism was only a sales effort for his achieving the goals handed to him by his idol, Saul Alinsky.
You cannot understand Obama without reviewing ''his'' autobiographies and the manual he lives by, Rules For Radicals.
Good luck on the after-dinner speech circuit, Mr. Obama. All that matters there is your one success, appearances and speaking well.
You cannot understand Obama without reviewing ''his'' autobiographies and the manual he lives by, Rules For Radicals.
Good luck on the after-dinner speech circuit, Mr. Obama. All that matters there is your one success, appearances and speaking well.
6
The republican presidents are the ones who play golf and collect speaking fees after they retire from the presidency. Remember Reagan collecting $2 Millions in Japan for 3 very controversial speeches. President Obama whom historians will rate very highly, will have a very different agenda, I assure you. You won't like it !
President and Mrs. Obama, as well as their beautiful daughters, had to be almost perfect in order to have had any chance at occupying the White House. Despite brilliance, elegance, impeccable standards of decency, and grace under constant attack, large swaths of White America showed them utter disrespect.
Their crime, being black and having the “audacity” to occupy the ultimate Public Housing complex--the White House. For many, this was tantamount to treason.
When elected in 2008 and reelected in 2012, winning both the Electoral College and the national vote, a large swath of White America called for Redemption—“take our country back”—a country not theirs to begin with, just ask the indigenous people of this land. While reciting of the Oath of Office in 2008, white republican congressman made it their raison d’etre to ensure that the Black President would not be successful; they failed.
President Obama is the personification of the words spoken by the iconic Nelson Mandela, “Honesty, sincerity, simplicity, humility, pure generosity, absence of vanity, readiness to serve others—qualities which are within easy reach of every soul—are the foundation of one’s spiritual life...The ideals we cherish, our fondest dreams and fervent hopes may not be realized in our lifetime. But that is beside the point. The knowledge that in your day you did your duty, and lived up to the expectations of your fellow men is in itself a rewarding experience and magnificent achievement.”
Their crime, being black and having the “audacity” to occupy the ultimate Public Housing complex--the White House. For many, this was tantamount to treason.
When elected in 2008 and reelected in 2012, winning both the Electoral College and the national vote, a large swath of White America called for Redemption—“take our country back”—a country not theirs to begin with, just ask the indigenous people of this land. While reciting of the Oath of Office in 2008, white republican congressman made it their raison d’etre to ensure that the Black President would not be successful; they failed.
President Obama is the personification of the words spoken by the iconic Nelson Mandela, “Honesty, sincerity, simplicity, humility, pure generosity, absence of vanity, readiness to serve others—qualities which are within easy reach of every soul—are the foundation of one’s spiritual life...The ideals we cherish, our fondest dreams and fervent hopes may not be realized in our lifetime. But that is beside the point. The knowledge that in your day you did your duty, and lived up to the expectations of your fellow men is in itself a rewarding experience and magnificent achievement.”
196
As someone who cast his very first vote for Barack Obama, my political life as a citizen of this nation has been defined by his optimism in our institutions and commitment to civil exchange in pursuit of making our country a better place—ideals I truly believe in.
But doesn't Republican control of Congress—driven by the foremost strategy of total obstruction—and the winning of the presidency—marked by a complete disregard for those very same ideals—bely that optimism? America has rewarded the dissolution of norms and castigated a belief in governance, leaving me in a precarious, impossible position: Uphold these ideals, lose elections, and see the policies I care about dismantled piece by piece, or betray these ideals, win elections, and see those policies enacted and safeguarded.
But doesn't Republican control of Congress—driven by the foremost strategy of total obstruction—and the winning of the presidency—marked by a complete disregard for those very same ideals—bely that optimism? America has rewarded the dissolution of norms and castigated a belief in governance, leaving me in a precarious, impossible position: Uphold these ideals, lose elections, and see the policies I care about dismantled piece by piece, or betray these ideals, win elections, and see those policies enacted and safeguarded.
2
If things were as rosy for America as this article indicates, why is it that so many Americans voted Republican this past election? Republicans won the presidency and both houses of Congress. Obamacare was not as popular as Democrats had hoped and jobs created were low paying ones. Had the Democrats been as successful as they state Hillary Clinton would be heading to Washingon and entering the White House.
President Obama divided the country along racial lines and caused tension between the police and blacks. He did not care about middle America or those in rural areas. They were the forgotten Americans. His hometown of Chicago has seen an increase in crime against blacks and he and Mrs. Obama rarely addressed this. He is not going to be remembered as a great president years from now as we unravel the damage he has caused to the US. Many of us are glad to see him go and will not miss him.
President Obama divided the country along racial lines and caused tension between the police and blacks. He did not care about middle America or those in rural areas. They were the forgotten Americans. His hometown of Chicago has seen an increase in crime against blacks and he and Mrs. Obama rarely addressed this. He is not going to be remembered as a great president years from now as we unravel the damage he has caused to the US. Many of us are glad to see him go and will not miss him.
3
Umm. Who got more votes for the Presidency? Not the guy about to take office. Gotta remember that this is a country where the amount your vote counts depends on where you live--some democracy, eh?
Who got more votes for House of Representatives, Democratic or Republican candidates? Not the folks who have most of the seats. Gotta remember where this is a country where gerrymandering is standard practice.
Of all the candidates for president, who lied the most? Not the candidate who got the most criticism from even the NYT for not telling the truth. An ironic moment was a New Yorker article where someone said she would vote for Trump "because I could never vote for somebody who lies."
I guess John Donne was wrong, but I don't expect you to understand that point.
Who got more votes for House of Representatives, Democratic or Republican candidates? Not the folks who have most of the seats. Gotta remember where this is a country where gerrymandering is standard practice.
Of all the candidates for president, who lied the most? Not the candidate who got the most criticism from even the NYT for not telling the truth. An ironic moment was a New Yorker article where someone said she would vote for Trump "because I could never vote for somebody who lies."
I guess John Donne was wrong, but I don't expect you to understand that point.
1
The choice to vote for Trump, who settled up a 25 million dollar Fraud case for cheating his own customers is an odd one for anyone concerned with "damage".
Good news however if you want a career at Hardees for less than minimum wage or don't want healthcare.
Good news however if you want a career at Hardees for less than minimum wage or don't want healthcare.
1
Just think where our country would be today if the Republicans would have worked with our President instead of digging in their heels in the name of Party over Country.
One day, they might be ashamed of how they failed to act. But first up, more foolishness on their part.
One day, they might be ashamed of how they failed to act. But first up, more foolishness on their part.
2
I can think of only one big mistake. Reportedly Hillary talked him into surreptitious "regime change" in Libya, of which he later acknowledged "we didn't do it right." One is not supposed to invade countries that pose no threat to us. A sad moral exception to an otherwise distinguished presidency.
1
"[Americans] will also miss an impassioned speaker whose eloquence ranks with that of Abraham Lincoln."
I understand that the historical theme of the new National Museum of African-American History and Culture in Washington D.C. is highly critical of Abraham Lincoln. I find that to be unimaginable. When President Abraham Lincoln took office in 1861, there were 4 million slaves in the United States.
It was President Abraham Lincoln who was largely responsible for Amendment XIII to the Constitution and therefore the freedom of 4 million slaves: "Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction."
Why is it that President Barak Obama has not voiced his own "impassioned" disapproval of the negative characterization of President Lincoln within the National Museum of African-American History and Culture? Lincoln is and has been my unequaled hero for quite some time. I thought that Lincoln was the hero of President Obama, also.
And, by the way, Guantanamo Prison in Cuba is a "place subject to the jurisdiction" of the United States. To the best of my knowledge, no person held there by the United States government has been "duly convicted" of any crime. Why is it then that no one has made the constitutional argument that the imprisonment of these men is a violation of Amendment XIII to the United States Constitution?
I understand that the historical theme of the new National Museum of African-American History and Culture in Washington D.C. is highly critical of Abraham Lincoln. I find that to be unimaginable. When President Abraham Lincoln took office in 1861, there were 4 million slaves in the United States.
It was President Abraham Lincoln who was largely responsible for Amendment XIII to the Constitution and therefore the freedom of 4 million slaves: "Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction."
Why is it that President Barak Obama has not voiced his own "impassioned" disapproval of the negative characterization of President Lincoln within the National Museum of African-American History and Culture? Lincoln is and has been my unequaled hero for quite some time. I thought that Lincoln was the hero of President Obama, also.
And, by the way, Guantanamo Prison in Cuba is a "place subject to the jurisdiction" of the United States. To the best of my knowledge, no person held there by the United States government has been "duly convicted" of any crime. Why is it then that no one has made the constitutional argument that the imprisonment of these men is a violation of Amendment XIII to the United States Constitution?
1
Thank you, Sir.
1
Obama was the right man at the right time, but Republicans successfully shifted time to pre-1980. The forces of capitalism make it all possible. By the time we learn our fate it will be too late.
4
Obama was optimistic that the Republicans would work with him in good faith; big mistake. Obama was optimistic that the "Arab Spring" was a movement to democracy; the examples of Iran in 1979 and Iraq in 2003 should have made it clear that it would only be a chance for Islamic extremists to move in. Obama was optimistic that the voters would punish the Republicans for their obstructionist policies; again, no. Obama was optimistic that a flawed Hillary Clinton would win, when it was clear the people were looking for change - like a Bernie Sanders. No, Obama's optimism was a bug, not a feature.
4
Just read Eric Cantors take on Obama and had to hit my head against the wall to keep from writing him a nasty letter. He writes that bit was Obamas fault the two parties could not agree on anything. Butb if one recalls that on day one Eric Cantor and his 'Young Guns met in a D.C. steak house to undermine Obama at every turn followed by that strict 'constiltusionist (sp) McConnell that it was his purpose to make Obama a one term president. Seems like million dollar sa year man Cantor has a short memory.
7
I was so happy to see Eric Cantor go.
Interesting he reappears several days before Barack Obama leaves.
Cantor could never be so happy. However, even so, Cantor needs to be reminded he's out of the DC loop. Too bad for him. But good for us.
Interesting he reappears several days before Barack Obama leaves.
Cantor could never be so happy. However, even so, Cantor needs to be reminded he's out of the DC loop. Too bad for him. But good for us.
1
President Obama was an intellectual giant who retreated to a private area in the White House to pore over stacks of documents every night to be fully prepared and informed on matters to address the next day.
As our president.
He studied, acquired knowledge, and worked on our behalf.
Tirelessly, earning every gray hair. Analyzing. Deducing. Inferring. Confirming.
We will not see that in the Trump administration.
We will merely experience some silliness of a Saturday Night Live skit that is actually Trump's presidency.
More Reality Television--filmed in the White House.
As our president.
He studied, acquired knowledge, and worked on our behalf.
Tirelessly, earning every gray hair. Analyzing. Deducing. Inferring. Confirming.
We will not see that in the Trump administration.
We will merely experience some silliness of a Saturday Night Live skit that is actually Trump's presidency.
More Reality Television--filmed in the White House.
4
Thanks, Obama!
I mean it. That you President Obama for eight years of leadership I can be proud of as an American.
I mean it. That you President Obama for eight years of leadership I can be proud of as an American.
6
The only remarkable things about Obama's achievements are how few there are and how quickly they will be repealed and rolled back. Perhaps if he and his staff give each other a few more medals they can strut around like peacocks.
9
Perhaps things might have been different, America would have made more progress if Eric Cantor and 14 other Republican leaders hadn't met in the Caucus Room the night of Obama's Inauguration and hadn't committed to opposing everything he proposed, starting with the stimulus package to pull us out of recession.
Robert: Obama's most remarkable accomplishment is that he remained decent and civil for eight years, in the face of ceaseless ugly, personal, and unwarranted attacks from the opposition in Washington DC (and their constituents--apparently you among them--incited to blind fury by their "leaders"). Interesting that you compare the current administration to strutting peacocks, seeming to imply that team Trump is going to be modest and self effacing??? Sadly, it does appear that much of what Obama accomplished WILL be rolled back, and the first of those legacies to go will be reasoned, respectful discourse.
This article may have been more helpful before the election, in case any intelligent swing voters were reading it.
2
>
Obama and the Dems could have deployed less optimism and more pessimism. The latter may have taught both that the GOP will never cooperate, moreover, may have taught HRC many things, e.g., don't use your own server you won't get away with it and you'll just feed the GOP monster, the blue wall may not hold etc...
I put before you one simple question: would you rather fly in an airplane engineered by an optimist or pessimist? The latter would NEVER overlook the need for backup systems, while the former would see no need for them at all, until it was too late.
I rest my case.
None of this is to imply that Obama wasn't a great POTUS and that he will not be missed. It's just not my fault that the universe is pessimistic.
"Reality is a pessimist to whose treasonable talk one must shut one’s ears. Since the truth is often enough unpleasant, it must be trumped by the unflinching will. It is a vein of optimism not easy to distinguish from mental illness. Cheerfulness of this kind is a form of psychological disavowal. For all its square-jawed vigor, it is really a moral evasion. It is the enemy of hope, which is necessary precisely because one is able to confess how grave a situation is."
Terry Eagleton
Obama and the Dems could have deployed less optimism and more pessimism. The latter may have taught both that the GOP will never cooperate, moreover, may have taught HRC many things, e.g., don't use your own server you won't get away with it and you'll just feed the GOP monster, the blue wall may not hold etc...
I put before you one simple question: would you rather fly in an airplane engineered by an optimist or pessimist? The latter would NEVER overlook the need for backup systems, while the former would see no need for them at all, until it was too late.
I rest my case.
None of this is to imply that Obama wasn't a great POTUS and that he will not be missed. It's just not my fault that the universe is pessimistic.
"Reality is a pessimist to whose treasonable talk one must shut one’s ears. Since the truth is often enough unpleasant, it must be trumped by the unflinching will. It is a vein of optimism not easy to distinguish from mental illness. Cheerfulness of this kind is a form of psychological disavowal. For all its square-jawed vigor, it is really a moral evasion. It is the enemy of hope, which is necessary precisely because one is able to confess how grave a situation is."
Terry Eagleton
4
During his Tuesday night speech, President Obama captured the magnitude of his time in office by going back to the beginning. He asked us if, at the beginning of his office, it would have seemed far-fetched for the nation to have climbed out of the worst recession in decades; jump-started our auto industry; realized guaranteed health care; achieved marriage equality; broke through a half-century freeze with Cuba; stopped Iran's nuclear program without firing a single shot; and even more.
And yet, despite a Congress prioritizing hobbling our President over helping the nation, President Obama oversaw so many accomplishments. And now it is up to us to keep the faith. We have to stop President Obama's opponents from re-writing history and diminishing his legacy. We must hold all of our representatives accountable for the courses they take. And when things look bleak, we must remember President Obama prompting us "Yes, we can."
And yet, despite a Congress prioritizing hobbling our President over helping the nation, President Obama oversaw so many accomplishments. And now it is up to us to keep the faith. We have to stop President Obama's opponents from re-writing history and diminishing his legacy. We must hold all of our representatives accountable for the courses they take. And when things look bleak, we must remember President Obama prompting us "Yes, we can."
12
Democrats are doing to President-elect Trump which is hoping he will fail that they accused the Republicans of doing to President Obama. At least Obama had a grace period where they gave him the benefit of the doubt. Donald Trump has not yet entered the White House and they are being vicious to him, most of his cabinet choices and family. They are telling lies and half truths which never occurred to Obama. They have not treated the Republicans or shown the amount of respect to President-elect Trump that was accorded to Obama. There is definitely a double standard which is due to the fact that Obama was a liberal Democrat who espoused progressive views and Trump's were the polar opposite. This bias is very evident and only seems to grow with each new article about Donald Trump. It is maddening to say the least and is why many of us voted for Mr. Trump. We see the hypocrisy and it is unbecoming.
2
Obviously, the difference, you fail to mention, is that President Obama is a good man, who wants the best for EVERY American, while trump is an evil man who doesn't care at all about every American, only himself, and his rich friends. So, in fact you are comparing Gold to iron, and calling it hypocrisy. Twisting words won't change the fact that trump, and his followers, are some of the worst people in the world, while President Obama is one of the BEST people in the world. Hypocrisy is not unbecoming on you.
4
I really don't think Obama got any grace period, but the is a different issue. Trump's problem is that the majority of voters did not vote for him. He will always be seen as the actual loser and that is a bad position to be in.
5
Obama did not settle a criminal Fraud case just weeks before his win. He did not suggest sexual assault. He didn't have 3 families with conflicts of interest.
Trump's Birther nonsense and attacks on the press are self chosen acts. Traditional America says Respect is earned.
Trump's Birther nonsense and attacks on the press are self chosen acts. Traditional America says Respect is earned.
4
Thank you Editors of the New York Times for this eloquent editorial. You have been able to summarize President Obama's presidency exceedingly well and really there is not much more to add.
To me the ultimate irony is that for five out of his eight years in office, President Obama had to fight off the carping and disgraceful taunts of the man who will succeed him. He did so not with anger, but with class and ultimately stopped him in his track with wit. When Donald Trump went low, Barak Obama went high.
To me the ultimate irony is that for five out of his eight years in office, President Obama had to fight off the carping and disgraceful taunts of the man who will succeed him. He did so not with anger, but with class and ultimately stopped him in his track with wit. When Donald Trump went low, Barak Obama went high.
13
Thank you for this editorial and for this reminder of how truly remarkable this presidency has been. Unfortunately we seem to have very short memories in this country as many don't seem to remember how bad things had gotten before President Obama took office. There is also an alarming amount of collective amnesia about the dire state of healthcare in the US prior to the ACA. Not only will we miss President Obama's unfailing optimism, but even more so his intelligent and considered approach to problems and crises. We are already witnessing the chaos that results when incompetence and impulsiveness substitute for actual governance. I predict that even Republicans will soon find the contrast striking, and not in a good way.
166
Good Morning, Wendy....Republicans have had 2 yrs to "find the contrast striking", and to act in accordance with their supposed Christian-influenced top-tier grip on ethics and morality. In typical fashion, however, all but a few (fingers of one hand) have shown their true and remarkable intellectual/spiritual hypocrisy, not to mention their compliance in subversion/treason. This is the monstrosity that has morphed from "traditional conservative principals", a movement that was as terrifying 40 yrs ago, even in its "innocent" reaction to the decade before....
Presidents get too much credit and too much blame.
The best thing that ever happened to Obama was to come to office after the banking/mortgage debacle. It's hard not to look good when you come to power at the bottom (or near it in this case).
Obama didn't actually DO anything substantial about how bad things were except to hire on people (including the usual crowd of NYC insider bankers/brokers) who, it turned out, were constantly criticized by know-it-alls like Paul Krugman, a fave of the NYT readers. That whole bank bailout and consequential rise in the stock market had nothing to do with Obama. And he really shouldn't be criticized for the lackluster economic growth during his presidency. He can yap all decade about job growth, but wage growth has been terrible, the actually unemployment rate is much higher than advertised and millions are still out of work (partially due to the incredible rise in entitlements).
Can we focus on outcomes please and not romanticize about Obama's style points.
The best thing that ever happened to Obama was to come to office after the banking/mortgage debacle. It's hard not to look good when you come to power at the bottom (or near it in this case).
Obama didn't actually DO anything substantial about how bad things were except to hire on people (including the usual crowd of NYC insider bankers/brokers) who, it turned out, were constantly criticized by know-it-alls like Paul Krugman, a fave of the NYT readers. That whole bank bailout and consequential rise in the stock market had nothing to do with Obama. And he really shouldn't be criticized for the lackluster economic growth during his presidency. He can yap all decade about job growth, but wage growth has been terrible, the actually unemployment rate is much higher than advertised and millions are still out of work (partially due to the incredible rise in entitlements).
Can we focus on outcomes please and not romanticize about Obama's style points.
1
As I watched this president, for whom I voted twice, guide the nation through the most difficult times in three generations, I could not help also thinking the nation undeserving of this man who is destined to take his place among the great humanitarians of all time. His appeal to our reason and our better nature too often fell on deaf ears, met by extremism at nearly every turn. His measured, thoughtful, methodical approach to virtually every issue is a rarity in these hurried, frenetic times, an intellectual counterbalance to careless, even reckless, gut reaction. I do not think it hyperbole to say that we are about to experience the very opposite extreme at the worst possible time, and in my view the future of the planet hangs in the balance. My fervent hope is that the nation's institutions, fragile though they have become of late, are durable enough to withstand whatever lies ahead, and that our nation will soon reawaken to an ideology of inclusiveness, and once again adopt a progressive agenda grounded in Obama's optimism. Sadly, at this moment, that hope seems most naïve.
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It is important to point out President Obama's optimism is authentic and achievable grounded in American pragmatism and can-do attitude.
Too bad many people are too selfish for short sighted self-gain forgoing long term prosperity for all. If America is well, everyone, rich and poor, will be well. This critique is not just about the plutocrats and obstructionists but also the turncoat who are supposed to be in Mr Obama's corner. Mr Obama has implored the latter, "don't boo, vote!" But they chose to stay home, or even voted the other way, simply because they are not getting immediate gratification. So they opted to sell their soul to the highest bidder. Who are these people? There is another column in NYT about the women who decided to vote for POTEUS by looking the other way.
In conclusion, America should appreciate Mr Obama's optimism because it is rational but she decided to respond with negativity instead. Sad!
Too bad many people are too selfish for short sighted self-gain forgoing long term prosperity for all. If America is well, everyone, rich and poor, will be well. This critique is not just about the plutocrats and obstructionists but also the turncoat who are supposed to be in Mr Obama's corner. Mr Obama has implored the latter, "don't boo, vote!" But they chose to stay home, or even voted the other way, simply because they are not getting immediate gratification. So they opted to sell their soul to the highest bidder. Who are these people? There is another column in NYT about the women who decided to vote for POTEUS by looking the other way.
In conclusion, America should appreciate Mr Obama's optimism because it is rational but she decided to respond with negativity instead. Sad!
91
Bos, it is sad that the women quoted decided to vote for a man whose opinion of women in general is so low that he has groped them whenever and wherever he has been. I knew many women like this in college and they invariably were the ones who hooked up with guys who abused them emotionally or otherwise showed terrible behavior. It would seem that there is no cure for lack of self protective thinking and inability to distinguish the con from the real McCoy. Worse yet is the Republican Party itself whose policies are wrapped in red, white and blue "concepts" like self-reliance and ideas of "Christian charity" but whose laws are invariably skewed to support those who already have much and to not provide for those with little.
1
Bos--Without hard core regression, and barely hidden racism/fascism, all of President Obama's goals could have been accomplished. It also would have helped if the Democratic Party had truly supported him, and had worked on the red state legislatures, and if people, who will be most harmed, had actually voted. I'm looking forward to the time when there won't be enough low life, backward white people, in this country, to let this happen again.
1
Obama told us that American wasn't exceptional, in fact he told the entire world
The occasional NYT Obama hater often brings up how awful his presidency was. But they never point to any fact like unemployment skyrocketed or he lied about WMDs or let banks make bad loan decisions which nearly brought the whole economy down. Nor did he take away health insurance coverage from millions, get rid of Medicare or Social Security. I guess the worst thing he did was appoint way too many women and minorities to visible positions in government. Oh and he started making employers provide health insurance to his employees. Maybe that's what they hate about his presidency. Or maybe they just hate African Americans. Maybe their biases make them think that an African American is too lazy or stupid to be president. And of course they think that a mean spirited, immoral, bragging, insulting, ignorant white guy with fake yellow hair should be president.
152
Wrong - he sowed division between cops and blacks, rich and poor, Christians and Muslims, and ignored the fear Americans have in regards to the growing terrorist threat.
1
37 total responses; 45 recommend? Wow!
Obama will be sorely missed by the international community. He is highly revered for his integrity and prudence. Unfortunately the white supremacists and racist bigots of the Tea Party and intransigent far-right within the GOP see a half-white president as a blemish on their image of a white America.
The Tea Party folks gained momentum during Obama's first term. As a result the US lost its tripple A rating in 2011, amid a political battle that took the country to the brink of default. Then they rallied behind Mark Meadows, architect of the 2013 shutdown, forcing Obama to cancel his APEC participation and his trip to Asia. This allowed Xi Jinping to expand China's influence in the region.
Nevertheless history will be kind to Obama, and his efforts will live on, even though Trump and the GOP seek to dismantle his legacy.
The Tea Party folks gained momentum during Obama's first term. As a result the US lost its tripple A rating in 2011, amid a political battle that took the country to the brink of default. Then they rallied behind Mark Meadows, architect of the 2013 shutdown, forcing Obama to cancel his APEC participation and his trip to Asia. This allowed Xi Jinping to expand China's influence in the region.
Nevertheless history will be kind to Obama, and his efforts will live on, even though Trump and the GOP seek to dismantle his legacy.
147
well in America's defense we did elect Obama twice when the world most needed level headed thinking. please bare with us through the trump years.
sorry bare -> bear, it's early.
Inaugurating his historic presidency with a strong belief in "the audacity of hope" and a meaningful inclusive change to concluding his exemplary memorable innings at the White House through the Chicago farewell speech asking the fellow countrymen not to be swayed by the currently introduced hateful divisive discourse and rather work for reviving the lost substance of pluralist and tolerant democracy in America does not only summarise the public persona of Barack Obama but also reinforce the strength of his character and ability to strike live connect with the people. All this will be missed now but the hope Obama has invoked in the hearts of the American youth and the trust which he has reposed in the people would certainly motivate them to carry forward his message for the revival of the founding vision of America.
98
Obama will be remembered as the president that split this country into massive racial and social divisions. Democrats appear to have forgotten this major point. History will look back at his failure to heal this country. I can think of so much more that he could have accomplished. He acted immature when he ran into an obstructionist Republican Congress that came about for the most part by the Dem majority Senate forcing the ACA upon the country with absolutely no discussions "You have to pass it if you want to see what's in it." But on a positive note, the left is acting about 100 times worse before DJT even is in office, many of Congress will not even go to the inauguration which celebrates a peaceful transfer of power. This again will be reflected, rightfully or not, on Obama since he left the country in this shape. History will show him to be the wrong president at the wrong time. The 60's would have been so much better for him and this country.
President Obama is a very decent human being.
Unfortunately he does not possess the political skills of an LBJ or an FDR in getting his programs enacted.
Obama came into office believing it was necessary to reduce somewhat social programs including Social Security and Medicare.
Not as much as the GOP wants but some reduction.
He envisioned a 'grand bargain" where taxes on the rich could be raised in exchange for cuts in social programs.
That is why Obama appointed Erskine Bowles as co-head of the Simpson Bowles deficit committee. Obama knew what Bowles would propose when Obama appointed Bowles.
Obama believed [mistakenly] that he could reach a compromise with the GOP.
He was unprepared to deal with a GOP that would oppose ANY Obama program just because Obama proposed it.
Obama was totally wrong in his belief that programs like Social Security and Medicare need to be cut. For that I fault him.
Unfortunately politicians [and voters] who remember the 1930's , the depression and the fight for social legislation and labor rights have nearly all died.
Unfortunately he does not possess the political skills of an LBJ or an FDR in getting his programs enacted.
Obama came into office believing it was necessary to reduce somewhat social programs including Social Security and Medicare.
Not as much as the GOP wants but some reduction.
He envisioned a 'grand bargain" where taxes on the rich could be raised in exchange for cuts in social programs.
That is why Obama appointed Erskine Bowles as co-head of the Simpson Bowles deficit committee. Obama knew what Bowles would propose when Obama appointed Bowles.
Obama believed [mistakenly] that he could reach a compromise with the GOP.
He was unprepared to deal with a GOP that would oppose ANY Obama program just because Obama proposed it.
Obama was totally wrong in his belief that programs like Social Security and Medicare need to be cut. For that I fault him.
Unfortunately politicians [and voters] who remember the 1930's , the depression and the fight for social legislation and labor rights have nearly all died.
31
Mr. Obama never felt social programs should be cut.
1
Except this President never argued for cutting Medicare or Social Security.
He successfully moved around $717 billion in excess payments to Medicare Advantage providers into regular Medicare, thus extended the financial viability of the program to around 2035.
He proposed "chained CPI," which would have linked SSI increases to the inflation rate.
I sure wish leftists would take a little time to find out what they're talking about.
He successfully moved around $717 billion in excess payments to Medicare Advantage providers into regular Medicare, thus extended the financial viability of the program to around 2035.
He proposed "chained CPI," which would have linked SSI increases to the inflation rate.
I sure wish leftists would take a little time to find out what they're talking about.
1
Obama's optimism was his downfall -- not only did he believe a sufficient majority in the swing states were decent human beings who would never vote to betray their country by putting someone so infinitely unqualified in a position where he could harm so many fellow Americans, he also was optimistic that the Republicans in Congress actually cared enough about the country to work with him in good faith to solve the problems their 8 years of incredible mismanagement had caused.
It may be a charming characteristic, but it was not one based in reality, and it hurt our country because it made him a weaker president than he needed to be.
None of this detracts from what he accomplished. But had he saw his opposition in Congress for what it was, and stood up to the bullies from the outset, and compromised far less, he could have achieved far more.
It may be a charming characteristic, but it was not one based in reality, and it hurt our country because it made him a weaker president than he needed to be.
None of this detracts from what he accomplished. But had he saw his opposition in Congress for what it was, and stood up to the bullies from the outset, and compromised far less, he could have achieved far more.
We are so fortunate that President Obama, Michelle Obama, Eric Holder and others who helped bring about so much social justness and awareness plan to work as hard as ever to help US restore democracy, civility and civil education in America.
Thanks to everyone who worked in the President's administration and OUR governments to move America forward. Now it's up to the rest of us to move ahead even further. Many things are happening at grassroots level that give me great hope. Here are just a few:
Indivisible.us has gotten over 3000 request from organizations that have formed to fight the incoming administration at every level:
https://www.indivisible.us/who-we-are/
The women's march - for all women and the men who love them and for all social and economic justice concerns - will have "sister marches" in over 30 cities across America:
https://www.womensmarch.com/
Many other organizations and individuals are organizing, cooperating and protesting across the nation.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/jan/14/inauguration-protests-guid...
Every one of us must choose one thing we value about democracy, get involved and fight like hell to save it. WE are the answer.
Thanks to everyone who worked in the President's administration and OUR governments to move America forward. Now it's up to the rest of us to move ahead even further. Many things are happening at grassroots level that give me great hope. Here are just a few:
Indivisible.us has gotten over 3000 request from organizations that have formed to fight the incoming administration at every level:
https://www.indivisible.us/who-we-are/
The women's march - for all women and the men who love them and for all social and economic justice concerns - will have "sister marches" in over 30 cities across America:
https://www.womensmarch.com/
Many other organizations and individuals are organizing, cooperating and protesting across the nation.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/jan/14/inauguration-protests-guid...
Every one of us must choose one thing we value about democracy, get involved and fight like hell to save it. WE are the answer.
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I have a jaundiced view of the activity of protesting groups. I hope they can succeed but I know that without a consistent inflow of money and coordinated plans these groups tend to be quite flaccid and eventually they haven't the grit to carry anything through. Couple this with gerrymandered districts until 2020 and you have four years of governmental destruction by a Trump Cabinet as well as an enfant terrible as Prez. The future for all those especially who voted for DT is grim. As soon as Congress makes the cuts in the budget that they are talking about the economy will begin to contract, as is usually the case when you have a so-so economy and less government money flowing through it.
Things for Obama were actually substantially worse than just " with no help from Congress ", as revealed in Robert Draper's tome discussing the infamous Inauguration Day 2009 meeting of GOP'er conspirators, plotting against the interests of the U.S., pretending it was just politics:
http://www.vanityfair.com/culture/2012/03/The-Conspiracy-to-Commit-Legis...
How interesting that these facts don't appear in Eric Cantor's epistle, appearing elsewhere on this page.
http://www.vanityfair.com/culture/2012/03/The-Conspiracy-to-Commit-Legis...
How interesting that these facts don't appear in Eric Cantor's epistle, appearing elsewhere on this page.
210
R. Law is right, of course, and both Eric Cantor, the discarded extremist, and Peter Wehner, the slightly skeptical but still loyal Republican, are attempting to deny the generally admitted fact that the GOP tried to block Obama at every turn.
197
Mr Cantor probably just did not to bring up the Republicans failure to work with the new president (Obama,) because not even they tore into him as much as the left is doing before Trump has even been sworn into office. Many comments here today as well as for the past 8 years rightfully scolded the right for not working more with Obama but that was on major issues between the party's. The vitriol and hate being spewed by all of the left on every single thing that is being discussed by Trump is being trashed before even a seconds worth of thought for pure childish spite. How many Republican members of Congress (remember the left said that they "hated" Obama for being black) boycotted his inauguration? And not only boycotted it but led "Not my President" marches? The left still must not get why the majority of states put the right into power of all forms of government since they are just doubling down on the nasty and vile behavior in splitting this nation up that helped them fall on their face with each election for the past 8 years. It is as if the left is walking with blinders on towards some major radical social engineering experiment lab with blinders on and come hell or high water, even if it means their own implosion they will not vary off course. If they do not stop this petty behavior, their self destruction will be complete. But go ahead and believe your media and polls, worked great for you so far.
1
Thank you for a straightforward statement of Mr. Obama's accomplishments. As a man and as a leader he has been strong and decent. He has served with integrity. Is he perfect? Of course not, but he has cared about America and her people deeply; given the job his best; and withstood unrelenting claims that tried to tear him down in every way possible. Claims that he is "not one of us" are but a thinly veiled racism; claims that he "hates America and wants to destroy it" are beyond comprehension in reference to anyone who takes on the job of President.
It is sad that the GOP is so blinded by hatred that they will seek to erase his "legacy" all the while refusing to acknowledge any good at all in what he has done. What they don't get is that while they can indeed tear down much of what he has done they can not destroy Barak Obama nor can they truly tarnish his "legacy," for he will be known to history as the man of integrity, decency, hard work, thoughtfulness, and grace he will always be.
It is sad that the GOP is so blinded by hatred that they will seek to erase his "legacy" all the while refusing to acknowledge any good at all in what he has done. What they don't get is that while they can indeed tear down much of what he has done they can not destroy Barak Obama nor can they truly tarnish his "legacy," for he will be known to history as the man of integrity, decency, hard work, thoughtfulness, and grace he will always be.
425
Yes. When I hear people say that Obama will be remembered badly by future historians, I have to remind them that historians are scholars and intellectuals who tend to be kind to liberals.
1
...tear him down every way possible." I think that distinction is taken away by the right now, before the new president is even sworn into office. How many Republicans did not go to either Obama inauguration? How many riots were in the streets after Obama's election? How many news organizations were publicly encouraging conservatives to civil disobedience and saying Obama is not my president? How many performers were shamed into not attending inauguration? But go ahead and say the right is too blame and hold on as when Trump does get "his pen and his phone" next week the Dems juvenile tantrums will be returned in full force. There was a time to actually work with Trump but the "inclusive" progressive party will just not accept white Christian America. Talk about racist.
Yes, Obama pulled us back from economic crisis. But it is still a lingering crisis.
It is like 1938, as the Depression stubbornly lingered, rather than like 1955 when we were well established in the start of a post-War boom.
We can't rest in 1938 and call it success, even if we can be very grateful it did not go all the way to 1933 disaster out of Grapes of Wrath.
Give Obama credit due, and from that draw inspiration to finish the job, not an excuse that the job was done.
It is like 1938, as the Depression stubbornly lingered, rather than like 1955 when we were well established in the start of a post-War boom.
We can't rest in 1938 and call it success, even if we can be very grateful it did not go all the way to 1933 disaster out of Grapes of Wrath.
Give Obama credit due, and from that draw inspiration to finish the job, not an excuse that the job was done.
33
Obama tried to do much more, including another infrastructure-building stimulus to help "finish the job"; Republicans blocked his every step.
318
FDR's New Deal programs WPA / PWA /CCC reduced Hoover's 25% unemployment to under 15% by 1937.
Concern about the debt then resulted in the Fed raising interest rates and a reduction in government spending.
These misguided measures caused the downturn in 1938.
Government spending for defense then ended the Depression.
Concern about the debt then resulted in the Fed raising interest rates and a reduction in government spending.
These misguided measures caused the downturn in 1938.
Government spending for defense then ended the Depression.
75
I basically agree. It's true that the numbers don't tell the whole story about the economy.
But Trump seems like the last man alive who could "get the job done."
But Trump seems like the last man alive who could "get the job done."
5
As Donald Trump becomes closer and closer to assuming power, the popularity of Barack Obama continues to rise. As the nation moves from campaign rhetoric to actions that directly affect the lives of countless millions, the contrast between childish bravado and sound, deliberative reasoning becomes ever more clear.
We have seen this week high ranking officials of the Republican party breaking with Trump and saying whoa, lets take a bit of time on healthcare. Let's make sure we actually have something to replace the ACA with. Just maybe those Russians aren't quite ready to be our BFF's. Just maybe the CIA possesses some degree of competence.
Talk is cheap. Anyone can say anything. I for one have been critical of the President on some issues like Syria and problems with the ACA. Easy for me to say. I don't have my hands on the levers of power. Trump tweets nonsense for hours on end. That's even easier. At least here, my comments must meet rules of participation. Trumps's tweets meet no standard, including having any bearing on reality.
The sound, deliberative decision making of Barack Obama is about to be replaced with grade school name calling and juvenile hissy fits. These tantrums, no doubt driven my mental instability and personality disorders, will now present the world with grave consequences. On Jan. 20, that "boy talk" will have the weight of authority and power.
Barack Obama understood that which made him cautious in word and deed. Trump does not.
We have seen this week high ranking officials of the Republican party breaking with Trump and saying whoa, lets take a bit of time on healthcare. Let's make sure we actually have something to replace the ACA with. Just maybe those Russians aren't quite ready to be our BFF's. Just maybe the CIA possesses some degree of competence.
Talk is cheap. Anyone can say anything. I for one have been critical of the President on some issues like Syria and problems with the ACA. Easy for me to say. I don't have my hands on the levers of power. Trump tweets nonsense for hours on end. That's even easier. At least here, my comments must meet rules of participation. Trumps's tweets meet no standard, including having any bearing on reality.
The sound, deliberative decision making of Barack Obama is about to be replaced with grade school name calling and juvenile hissy fits. These tantrums, no doubt driven my mental instability and personality disorders, will now present the world with grave consequences. On Jan. 20, that "boy talk" will have the weight of authority and power.
Barack Obama understood that which made him cautious in word and deed. Trump does not.
492
Correction: "We have seen this week high ranking officials of the Republican party breaking with" their own declared platform, which they are beginning to realize could alienate many voters and interfere with their plan for a permanent Republican failed state.
39
Sometimes the most effective truths are spoken in direct, non-esoteric language. This response is such an effective truth.
Readability Formula Grade
Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level 7.7
Gunning-Fog Score 9.7
Coleman-Liau Index 12.5
SMOG Index 10.7
Automated Readability Index 7.1
Average Grade Level 9.5
Simply stated truths are the most effective.
Readability Formula Grade
Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level 7.7
Gunning-Fog Score 9.7
Coleman-Liau Index 12.5
SMOG Index 10.7
Automated Readability Index 7.1
Average Grade Level 9.5
Simply stated truths are the most effective.
I shudder to think what Mr. Trump will say when there's another mass shooting. I can't imagine him consoling us like Mr. Obama did.
I know how much I'll miss President Obama. But I wonder how many others won't realize they miss him too, after a few months under the new "regime."
I can't recall a President who took more steps to improve people's lives. And he did it all with a steady hand, an unflappable temperament, and a deep-seated passion and belief in the American spirit that continued to amaze me watching him undergo the slings and arrows of outrageous Republicans. One of whom with his shameless birther attacks, is now taking over that desk in the Oval Office.
Given the vulgarity of the campaign, I can't imagine what faces us as Trump tweets from that office. He managed to find a way to attack John Lewis without directly impugning his race. I guess, for Trump, that spells discipline.
But this editorial is about all that our wonderful well-spoken departing President has done. And I think that of all his personal integrity and distinctive accomplishments, one stands out above all the rest. It's a quality that seems to have gone missing in our self-absorbed age, in our demands for instant gratification and desire to lash out at the unacceptable.
That quality is this: dignity, the ability to rise to any occasion and the patience to not lash out when challenged. I can't remember any recent President that treated the office with such dignity, even graciously welcoming a man who had tormented him for almost five years for his first visit to the White House.
Thank you, President Obama.
I can't recall a President who took more steps to improve people's lives. And he did it all with a steady hand, an unflappable temperament, and a deep-seated passion and belief in the American spirit that continued to amaze me watching him undergo the slings and arrows of outrageous Republicans. One of whom with his shameless birther attacks, is now taking over that desk in the Oval Office.
Given the vulgarity of the campaign, I can't imagine what faces us as Trump tweets from that office. He managed to find a way to attack John Lewis without directly impugning his race. I guess, for Trump, that spells discipline.
But this editorial is about all that our wonderful well-spoken departing President has done. And I think that of all his personal integrity and distinctive accomplishments, one stands out above all the rest. It's a quality that seems to have gone missing in our self-absorbed age, in our demands for instant gratification and desire to lash out at the unacceptable.
That quality is this: dignity, the ability to rise to any occasion and the patience to not lash out when challenged. I can't remember any recent President that treated the office with such dignity, even graciously welcoming a man who had tormented him for almost five years for his first visit to the White House.
Thank you, President Obama.
648
I’ve offered my sincere thanks in this forum this past week to Barack and Michelle Obama for eight years as honorable, decent, highly civilized and transformational occupants of the White House; and that’s my limit – ask me again next week.
For this editorial, I need to offer honest counterpoints.
The nature, diversity and inherent strength of the U.S. economy is what brought us back from “the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression”, not the actions of President Obama. It should have taken three-to-four years, and would have but for the near-single-minded focus of undivided Democratic government 2009-2010 not on creating the conditions for the saving and generation of millions of new, solid private sector jobs but for a healthcare transformation that froze our politics solid; for a stultifying mantle of regulation on business that caused corporations to focus primarily on how to avoid it – increasingly by leaving the country – than on growth; and on attempts at divisive environmental and immigration legislation that failed, then dictated policy that largely failed for being ruled unconstitutional.
Responders will object that Republicans obstructed the president’s attempts, but that’s a cop-out. NO president enters the lists without ideological opponents, but most have sufficient talent at sausage-making and a willingness to intensely engage in it to obtain a fair extent of their agendas despite resistance; and the successful ones have a lot of both.
For this editorial, I need to offer honest counterpoints.
The nature, diversity and inherent strength of the U.S. economy is what brought us back from “the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression”, not the actions of President Obama. It should have taken three-to-four years, and would have but for the near-single-minded focus of undivided Democratic government 2009-2010 not on creating the conditions for the saving and generation of millions of new, solid private sector jobs but for a healthcare transformation that froze our politics solid; for a stultifying mantle of regulation on business that caused corporations to focus primarily on how to avoid it – increasingly by leaving the country – than on growth; and on attempts at divisive environmental and immigration legislation that failed, then dictated policy that largely failed for being ruled unconstitutional.
Responders will object that Republicans obstructed the president’s attempts, but that’s a cop-out. NO president enters the lists without ideological opponents, but most have sufficient talent at sausage-making and a willingness to intensely engage in it to obtain a fair extent of their agendas despite resistance; and the successful ones have a lot of both.
25
Mr. Obama’s eight years were characterized by a barely-disguised contempt for anyone who disagreed with him and an unwillingness to work for half-a-loaf when it was clear he was not going to get the full one. America got no loaf.
The color-barrier in our presidency is forever shattered, Osama was offed on his watch, we enacted financial regulatory reform, we have an “accord” with Iran that always looked suspiciously like a treaty, and for a few months it appears that we and Raúl Castro will make nice-nice. Those are his material legacies that can be argued (by some) as productive; but the Iran Accord may be history within months, ObamaCare will be history within weeks, Dodd-Frank will be unraveled piecemeal over the next year, and unless Raúl utterly transforms himself (after sixty years of being a Marxist tyrant), nice-nice soon will go the way of the Dodo.
The Detroit “save” was purchased by robbing legitimate equity holders to benefit the auto unions, just about as frank a one-sided expression of socialism as is imaginable.
And on the unambiguously negative side, we have a world immensely less stable than when Mr. Obama took office, a destroyed Syria and Libya, long-standing allies not fleeing us hair-afire ONLY at the prospect of better treatment almost immediately, a dangerously resurgent Russia and China, and domestic politics that may take a generation to recover any sense of balance. Our racial politics may not have been so bad since the 1960s.
The color-barrier in our presidency is forever shattered, Osama was offed on his watch, we enacted financial regulatory reform, we have an “accord” with Iran that always looked suspiciously like a treaty, and for a few months it appears that we and Raúl Castro will make nice-nice. Those are his material legacies that can be argued (by some) as productive; but the Iran Accord may be history within months, ObamaCare will be history within weeks, Dodd-Frank will be unraveled piecemeal over the next year, and unless Raúl utterly transforms himself (after sixty years of being a Marxist tyrant), nice-nice soon will go the way of the Dodo.
The Detroit “save” was purchased by robbing legitimate equity holders to benefit the auto unions, just about as frank a one-sided expression of socialism as is imaginable.
And on the unambiguously negative side, we have a world immensely less stable than when Mr. Obama took office, a destroyed Syria and Libya, long-standing allies not fleeing us hair-afire ONLY at the prospect of better treatment almost immediately, a dangerously resurgent Russia and China, and domestic politics that may take a generation to recover any sense of balance. Our racial politics may not have been so bad since the 1960s.
10
Sorry, folks: I like the Obamas as people, too. But truth, however painful, must be accepted if we’re to avoid the signal mistake of kidding ourselves when we evaluate our leaders.
10
How magnanimous of you to acknowledge that Michelle and Barack Obama are "highly civilized." In Republican circles, that qualifies as an enormous concession.
"NO president enters the lists without ideological opponents..."
We've heard all of this before. It ignores the fact that there's an enormous difference between ideological opponents--say, the opponents of Ronald Reagan and GW Bush--and committed obstructionists. Also, it overlooks the fact that the quiver presidents draw from in order to persuade no longer contains earmarks. So LBJ-style cajoling and arm-twisting is a pretty much thing of the past. My goodness, Obama was dealing with a GOP that had a two-chamber majority but couldn't fund the Department of Homeland Security or renew the Patriot Act. That says more about the splintered state of Congressional Republicans under Obama than it does about the president.
"NO president enters the lists without ideological opponents..."
We've heard all of this before. It ignores the fact that there's an enormous difference between ideological opponents--say, the opponents of Ronald Reagan and GW Bush--and committed obstructionists. Also, it overlooks the fact that the quiver presidents draw from in order to persuade no longer contains earmarks. So LBJ-style cajoling and arm-twisting is a pretty much thing of the past. My goodness, Obama was dealing with a GOP that had a two-chamber majority but couldn't fund the Department of Homeland Security or renew the Patriot Act. That says more about the splintered state of Congressional Republicans under Obama than it does about the president.
177
According to the Quinnipiac Poll of January 10, 2017, 55% approve of President Obama, while only 37% approve of President-elect Trump.
In the same poll, 52% say Trump is not honest, 53% say he does not care about the interests of average Americans and 62% say he is not level headed. Less than half seen him as an effective leader.
That Americans would be disillusioned by Trump is no surprise, but it is unprecented to be so unpopular even before taking office. But Twitter has accelerated his unpopularity and 64% say he should close his account.
His ridiculous press conference with planted applause (someone tell Trump that the press do not applaud at press conferences) piles of folders, incorrectly accusing journalists and campaign style bragging are a spectacle worthy of a tinpot dictator.
His planned destruction of several Federal agencies, including EPA, Energy and Education, initiated by witch hunt surveys, show a contempt for governance, while loading his Cabinet with Goldman Sachs and billionaires and plans for huge tax cuts for them shows the real agenda. And then there is the nefarious Putin connection, trade war with China, loss of health insurance and climate degradation.
It's going to be 4 long years, or maybe less :)
In the same poll, 52% say Trump is not honest, 53% say he does not care about the interests of average Americans and 62% say he is not level headed. Less than half seen him as an effective leader.
That Americans would be disillusioned by Trump is no surprise, but it is unprecented to be so unpopular even before taking office. But Twitter has accelerated his unpopularity and 64% say he should close his account.
His ridiculous press conference with planted applause (someone tell Trump that the press do not applaud at press conferences) piles of folders, incorrectly accusing journalists and campaign style bragging are a spectacle worthy of a tinpot dictator.
His planned destruction of several Federal agencies, including EPA, Energy and Education, initiated by witch hunt surveys, show a contempt for governance, while loading his Cabinet with Goldman Sachs and billionaires and plans for huge tax cuts for them shows the real agenda. And then there is the nefarious Putin connection, trade war with China, loss of health insurance and climate degradation.
It's going to be 4 long years, or maybe less :)
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"It's going to be 4 long years, or maybe less :)"
Trump is old, fat, sleeps badly, and is prone to extreme emotion. There is nothing in his lifestyle that is healthy, certainly not to carry a very heavy burden of responsibility.
Don't start cheering the idea of less than four years of Trump, even if there are many reasons that might be the case. Consider carefully a second term won by an incumbent President Mike Pence, possibly ten years of him if Trump makes it to only two years and a day.
Is there anything to like better about a President Pence? Unless you are Paul Ryan, that is a really bad thought.
Trump is old, fat, sleeps badly, and is prone to extreme emotion. There is nothing in his lifestyle that is healthy, certainly not to carry a very heavy burden of responsibility.
Don't start cheering the idea of less than four years of Trump, even if there are many reasons that might be the case. Consider carefully a second term won by an incumbent President Mike Pence, possibly ten years of him if Trump makes it to only two years and a day.
Is there anything to like better about a President Pence? Unless you are Paul Ryan, that is a really bad thought.
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So Matk are you still proud of all the nasty things you said about Hillary?
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If it's less, look who the next President would be - a religious zealot.
At least I'm too old to have to call in monthly to the government to let the watchdogs know that I'm not pregnant, miscarried or had an abortion.
At least I'm too old to have to call in monthly to the government to let the watchdogs know that I'm not pregnant, miscarried or had an abortion.
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