The hysterical reactions from right-wing media figures (Beck, Limbaugh et al.) and Congressional Republicans have done more to polarize the country than anything else ["Obama's Journey from Charismatic to Polarizing," usnews.com]. Wild accusations about guns, socialism, and all the other Chicken Little nonsense out there don't appeal to the vast middle of this country. These folks don't seem to understand the implications of their historic electoral losses, and the responsibilities that go with being a small minority party with 25 percent support in the polls. Obama's policies fall within the broad mainstream of American public opinion and tie very closely to what he promised during the campaign. And that's why he'll ultimately succeed, and that's why Kenneth Walsh's story is misleading: Obama's not a polarizing figure; it's the irresponsible, out-of-touch Republicans who are polarizing.
Comment by D. Reis of NJ
As a Republican, I'm really tired of getting blamed for being "partisan" simply because I disagree with what the president is doing. I'm just "being partisan" by pointing it out. It's your grandchildren who will be paying the bill for the trillions of new spending that Obama is pushing. Is Obama more important then your kids? Did you ever stop to think about where that money is coming from? When he talks about giving your kids "free healthcare," did you ever stop to think about the trillions in debt that he's putting us in to give your kids "free" healthcare? Yes, I will continue to criticize Obama. The people who wear a politician's face on their T-shirts and buttons scare me with their blind fealty, and devotion to the man.
Comment by John Abbott of IL
The only people who are polarized, it seems to me, are Republicans. They are so wedded to principles they are blind to their failure. And they are frightened by the loss of their entitled status. Something I find frightening is how little is understood about economic issues. Members of Congress are not well versed about economic issues and members of their constituency even less so.
Comment by M. Moody of PA
Your article is right on. Everyday more and more Americans are becoming engaged and questioning what is going on. Obama's actions are without regard to our founders' intentions. He thinks he has a green light to force his agenda on us without getting a consensus. I'm finding more and more voters are becoming disenchanted (especially small business owners) with our president.
Comment by Greg Trotter of FL
It's not Obama that's polarizing, it's Congress. He has repeatedly reached out across party lines to work together, and it's the Republicans who are being partisan—just to be. Even though he made many concessions to make his stimulus bill more desirable for Republicans, how many ended up voting for it—zero! That's not Obama's doing, it's the "Party of No's" problem.
Comment by Dick of MI
It has become almost amusing, watching how the so-called "news" media are manipulating their own polls to keep the political weather sunny for their hero. The Washington Post kicked off President Barack Obama's European trip with the headline "Blame for Downturn Not Fixed on Obama." Of course, what was "fixed" was the poll itself. If some people want to use 66 percent "like" him rather then supports his actions, believe what works for you. This article was so true among Democrats, Republicans, and independents who did believe his campaign words.
Comment by Kathleen L O'Brien of ND
Reader Comments Read all comments (6)
Smooth Jazz of NY 9:08PM April 12, 2009
Kathleen of NY 6:57AM April 12, 2009
Chris Petty of GA 8:56PM April 11, 2009