Reply #107: It is very likely that he will be forced to change course

[Blasphemer]

http://www.pbs.org/moyers/journal/12182009/transcript4.html

Robert Kuttner on Obama:

I think this guy is nothing if not a work in progress. He's nothing if not a learner. And I think there is a chance. I don't think I would bet my life on it but I think there's a possibility that by the fall of 2010, looking down the barrel of a real election blowout, you could see him change course, if only for reasons of expediency, but hopefully for reasons of principle as well, if he feels that the public doesn't have confidence that he is delivering the kind of recovery that the public needs. This is a guy who is a very smart, complicated man. And I think don't speak too soon, for the wheel's still in spin. I don't want to totally give up.

At this point, I don't believe it will be a matter of principle but if it happens solely because of political expediency, then so be it. As things stand, Congress is in trouble. I believe his Presidency is safe for 2012 no matter what (though I have no doubt that you are 100% right about the forthcoming GOP tactics) but if Obama and the Democrats in Congress see that they are seriously in danger of losing Congress (which I 100% believe to be the case at this point in time), there will be some meaningful policy shifts. I don't know whether it is a question of bad advice or too much advice but the Obama team has completely lost focus. It's funny that you mention Romney and Reagan. I see Team Obama attempting to create a Reagan-esque Presidency (minus the meddling First Lady). This is a huge mistake. A made-for-tv Presidency worked in the 80's but we're long past that now. If he gets REAL, as you suggest, then a Reagan imitator like Romney will be seen for what he is - empty. It would also serve the party well as it would created a mark contrast in the public mind. Romney fluff vs. Obama fluff is business as usual. Democrats need to go back to their roots and actually represent the common man.