Still Basking in the Glow by J. F. Kelly, Jr.

A commentary by J. F. Kelly, Jr. President Barack Obama continues to enjoy high levels of domestic and foreign approval. About two-thirds of Americans have a favorable opinion of him, high marks under any circumstances, given the polarization of Americans, and extraordinary, considering the decrepit state of the American and world economies. It is all the more remarkable in view of the fact that nearly one in ten Americans is unemployed with more almost certain to follow. At the same time, polls show most Americans are worried about the direction the country is heading and whether or not the president’s policies will work to turn the economy around. There is much concern, also, that the compounding federal deficits will hinder future growth, place a huge burden on our kids and grandkids and fuel crushing inflation. And there is growing unease over the intrusion of government into the private sector. So how is it that most Americans and many foreigners seem wildly enthusiastic over the man but somewhat skeptical regarding his policies? Could it be that, as columnist Peggy Noonan recently observed, there is a widening gulf between Mr. Obama’s personal popularity and the popularity of his policies and programs? Barack Obama won election to the most powerful office in the world for several reasons, none of which had anything to do with experience. Negative feelings regarding the Bush presidency and a lackluster campaign by an aging candidate who seemed somehow out of touch all but assured a Democratic victory. But Mr. Obama won the nomination over the heavily favored former first lady, Hillary Clinton by running a masterful grassroots campaign that showcased his youth, determination, message of hope and rock star personality. His vigor and optimism made people forget his thin political resume and lack of executive experience. Mr. Obama captured the mainstream media and academia, whose members are always seeking change, a fresh face and a new direction. The media’s love affair with the candidate was enough to make one blush. Recall the looks of rapture on the faces of certain news anchors as they interviewed the photogenic candidate with the rock star qualities. Contrast that with the querulous frowns they wore while interviewing the aged one. The charisma and appeal has carried over into Mr. Obama’s presidency and has, thus far, served him well. When he speaks on the road, audiences often react like concert-goers, growing faint and fairly weeping for joy. At one town hall event, fans shouted, “We love you, Barack!” Mr. Obama replied, “I love you back.” For a moment, I thought I was watching American Idol. Crowds were also enthusiastic in Europe where his crowd appeal was enhanced by first lady Michelle Obama who inspired comparisons to Jacqueline Kennedy. Europe treated the couple as royalty. In one poll, nearly half of respondents said they’d rather have Obama as their head of government than their own chief of state. All this personal affection, however, did not translate to any notable affection for America and its policies which they blame for the world’s recession and their own miseries. In fact, Brazil’s Luis Inacio Lula da Silva used the occasion of the G-20 summit to blame the world’s economic troubles on blue-eyed white men. That didn’t do much to promote harmony. It didn’t stop Mr. Obama, however, from holding hands with him and saying, “I love this guy. He’s the most popular politician on earth.” Can’t you just feel the love? All this personal affection keeps Mr. Obama’s ratings high but will it translate into continued support for his policies as the economy, which he now owns, continues to founder and as he is confronted by challenges to our security? With respect to the former, his economic cures and stimuli, combined with his budget, has resulted in a projected commitment of about $12.8 trillion, or about $42,000 for every man, woman and child in America. And threats to our security, which are certain to come, may require more than just endless talk about sanctions. Love and affection for a popular, personable and cool president will carry one just so far in the real world role of the presidency. Copyright 2009 by J. F. Kelly, Jr.