You know why Barack Obama is an awful human being, according to Fred Barnes today? Obama just won't compromise:
He faults congressional Republicans for his inability to achieve the impressive compromises that other presidents attained. But the biggest hindrance to a bipartisan breakthrough has been the president's own style in dealing with the GOP opposition.Yes, that's terrible! And I'm sure it would be equally terrible if Republicans were similarly uncompromising! Right, Fred Barnes on August 23, 2009?
Unlike prior presidents, Mr. Obama doesn't believe he is obligated personally to bring about a compromise....
He is strikingly un-conciliatory....
The essence of bipartisan deals is win-win: Both sides are satisfied, even if not elated. Mr. Obama's approach is that he alone gets to win.
Republicans are discovering just how effective an opposition party can be in Washington. Their strategy is simply to aggressively and relentlessly oppose the liberal agenda of the president and the Democratic Congress. As a result, Barack Obama's agenda is in jeopardy, and the president is disconcerted, less popular and on the defensive....And if the party in power wins on Election Day and then tries to assert that power? Why, that's divisive! Logically!
What the GOP has done best has been to make and win arguments. This is the key to successful opposition. Seeking compromise, being conciliatory, pretending bipartisanship exists when it doesn't all play into the hands of the majority. These tactics are a ticket to permanent minority status. By making the case against Mr. Obama's policies, Republicans have given themselves a chance to again win favor with voters.
...many Republicans wince when accused of being obstructionist and "the party of no." They shouldn't. The willingness of the GOP to oppose is a deterrent.
... The party out of power must first discredit the majority's ideas and agenda. Public approval comes later. It shows up on Election Day.
