---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------The campaign is over, the transition is through and the first 100 days of the new administration are almost over - only 84 more to go - how time flies! Barack Obama and his family have moved into their new house and are able to share dinner together in the apartment above the work office. Our president has tremendous challenges before him, with great opportunities for success and ... lack of success.
For the time being, President Obama is still on a popularity roll. Although he has run into some road bumps in the form of Republican blockage and nominees slipping out the door, he continues to enjoy a 75% popularity rating.
We must remember, however, that Dubya also enjoyed high ratings during his first term, especially after 9/11. His ratings tumbled, though, and as he left office his positive percentage hovered around 25 points.
Some would point out that Obama's personality is what touches the heart of America. He appeared on Oprah and Ellen, where he appeared relaxed, caring, thoughtful and fun. He also made a visit on The View, a show where he appeared less comfortable as he constantly tugged at his socks while he was interviewed by Woopie, Barbara, Joy, Elisabeth and Sherri.
Others would say that it 's Obama's leadership style that brings him good fortune. He's focused, well-read, and open to working across the aisle, with mixed results thus far. His ability to collaborate is something we haven't seen in Washington for all too many years.
Leadership connected to popularity? Nah. We're talking about the American people here. They demand substance after all.
Recently, Andy Card - Dubya's Chief of Staff - criticized President Obama for embracing a shirt-sleeve work environment in the Oval Office. He feels that the wardrobe policy, which Obama certainly implemented through executive order, diminishes the regal nature of the presidency. Card must actually believe that a suit coat is required by the Constitution, which of course is a reflection of the respect that was always afforded that central document by the Bush administration...
Card's right about the importance of clothing. Indeed, it could have an effect on Obama's popularity rating. I would agree that Obama's wardrobe has had a impact on the polls - a positive one - but it has nothing to do with shirtsleeves or jackets.
It's gotta be the shades. Behind those Ray Bans, Barack gives off the appearance of being cool, relaxed and under control.
Chris Matthews feels they make Obama seem "elite" -- kind of like arugula, I guess. Maybe for Barack to look official and powerful it would be better for him to pack a shotgun, a la Cheney. Now, that might bring a spike in the polls!
For true, knowledgeable input, it would make sense to refer to a better pundit than Matthews to make such judgment. After all, what does a talk show host know about stylish eye wear?
So, who are you going to believe - Chris Matthews or...me? We definitely need a tie-breaker. So I called one of the most highly reputed and renowned journalists within the beltway. "Yo, Wonkette, you there? Pick up!" Finally, Wonkette picked up the receiver and gave me the info I was looking for.
Celebrated D.C. blogger Wonkette gave me the inside scoop. She saw true potential for popularity in Obama, who she calls the "President of Sunglasses." Evidently, they make him look "hot" and encourage all kinds of people to want to do all kinds of things with him -- kind of like six-pack abs, I guess.
Hmmmm. Yes, presidential...
So, there, you have it, all of you kiddies who aspire to the presidency. For a rapid rise in the polls, slip on those Ray Bans, throw your jacket over your shoulder, and slide on over the tarmac to your waiting jet.
You can't go wrong. At least it's worked for Barack.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Click in the box to begin.