Is President Obama's 'honeymoon' over?
(PHOTO CREDIT: MANDEL NGAN/AFP/Getty Images)
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
President Barack Obama's honeymoon with the American public might be over.
Princeton professor Julian Zelizer writes in a piece on CNN.com that the president who once seemed invincible is now seen as potentially vulnerable, stating "This is when the sharks start to circle in American politics."
Zelizer points to the tensions between the left and center of the Democratic Party. For example, gay rights activists are disappointed with President Obama for not living up to promises they thought he made. Cracks in party unity will likely make it more difficult to get legislation like health care through Congress.
Then there's the deficit... Republicans have gained some political traction by seizing on the record spending and linking the president's policies to the government's red ink. There's also the wider question of the economy - now that things have stabilized, voters aren't as panicked; and Republicans are asking why the U.S. needs to spend stimulus money if the recession is almost over.
On the international front, the president is facing criticism over his response to crises like Iran and North Korea.
Nonetheless, even though some are taking issue with the president's policies, polls show the president himself remains very popular among Americans.
A CNN poll of polls shows Mr. Obama with a 60-percent approval rating. His average rating has held steady for the last two months and is higher than those of Presidents Bush or Clinton at a comparable time in office.
Here’s my question to you: Is President Barack Obama's "honeymoon" over?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Doug from Dallas writes:
President Obama has tackled more problems in his first five-months as president than most new presidents would see in one or two-years. He is becoming a victim of the American "instant gratification" syndrome. Forget about the fact that all of the issues on his plate not only require tough decisions – they also won't pay instant dividends.
Jeff from Sioux Falls, South Dakota writes:
For the sake of the country, I hope Mr. Obama soon puts an end to his own "honeymoon" by pushing the audacity envelope on a number of issues. Someone has to aim high once in a while. When members of his own party get nervous enough to ape the opposition, he'll know he's on the right track. An end-run around Congress aimed directly at the American people could easily energize the electorate into doing much of the blocking for him.
Agnes from Scottsdale, Arizona writes:
Jack, The president's honeymoon was over the night of the inauguration. His style, wisdom and demeanor are traits that the hard-line DC crowd can't get their hands around. Baffled as they are, they try to spin discord. Barack Obama has shown the courage to take huge steps, intervene as necessary, and stay the course. Let's see what we're thinking 12 months from now - I'll bet a cactus we'll be even better off.
Mike from Guatemala writes:
Jack, His honeymoon has been like a honeymoon with your mother-in-law along. I admire him for most of his ideas but am nearly 100-percent skeptical that they can become reality because there is no money to pay for them. As other politicians, including many Democrats, see the funding problem, his honeymoon will come to an end very quickly.
Don from Racine, Wisconsin writes:
It will be over when Chris Matthews' leg stops tingling.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
It certainly is. I voted for him, and given the same choices I would vote for him again. However, I am very disappointed in what I have seen so far. I thought he was brilliant enough to understand that Americans resent government intrusion into our lives. But he has a blind faith in government shared by most liberals.
He needs to understand that the people in government are just as corrupt and evil as the people in the big business community. We can solve most domestic problems with simple solutions that do not require expansion of bureaucracies. If he does not come to understand this, he will be a one term President.
Nio way Jack! All one had to do was to watch him in today's press conference where he continues to impress any breathing human being. His adroitness in handling any question thrown at him & his intelligence & depth of knowledge about all topics more than convinces me that he is heads & shoulders above ANY reporter in that room, bar none! So sorry GOP & any other detractors.....you cannot compete in his league....which explains the continual rabid froth when any of you try.
Dolores
New York
I don't know about you Jack, but my honeymoon lasted 10 days. Of course it's over!
President Obama has tackled more problems in his first five months as president as most new presidents would see in 1 or 2 or more years. He is becoming a victim of the American "instant gratification" syndrome. Forget about the fact that all of the issues on his plate not only require tough decisions but also won't pay instant dividends.
Let's suppose that McCain had won the election (sorry)! Where do you think we would be right now? The economy in worse shape, getting ready for a third war, forget about any kind of health care reform and I wonder what the deficit picture would look like? The American people forget how much the deficit increased during the eight years of Bush and the Republicans don't want to talk about it. And of course, we would have to put up with Palin trying to learn how to answer a question correctly.
Jack: With all that is going on currently with the Nation-–it is an "agonizing honeymoon" for the President--but watching his press and photo ops--you can' tell. It is not a honeymoon--but rather a "political blood sport,"---and for now--–he is holding--but I don't know for how much longer.
PS--Thank you for reading my comment on the air yesterday--you made my day--and with the state of the economy-–I need every day that can be made.
President Obama really never had a "honeymoon". From day one he was confronted by a country and government in shambles from the ineptness of the previous administration. He is doing what I believe is necessary to get this country back on its feet. I might add that the democrats in congress are acting like the spoiled children that they are and not hanging in with him to pass needed legislation such as cap and trade and the reform of our medical system. Oh, and the republicans stonewalling Mr. Obama every step of the way certainly doesn't help. It is past time that the congress on this country gets on with the business of the people of this country rather than lining their pockets with K Street money.
Do you honestly think he had a honeymoon? I think he had so many things on his plate to deal with, from the very beginning, that he couldn't expect any honeymoon. There has been constant criticism from the second he took office. I think the reason he has maintained a 65% favorability rate is that most people appreciate the way he is conducting business and himself. The man is the definition of genuine.
Jack – President Obama has done more in the last 150+ days than any other President in history. Mostly fixing the bungling that went on for the last 8 years. Obviously there are going to be feathers ruffled with the amount of Change that has had to occur to fix the mountain of problems he was left with.
Many republicans have been drumming the message that he has been spending too much money. What about all of the spending that happened over the last 8 years (much of it – the wars – was hidden from the budgets)??? What good did that spending do us – killed over 4000 of our men to secure oil profits for Bush & Cheney.
How can the Republicans speak negatively about spending that will hopefully benefit the American People? They would much rather make the rich richer – and the major corporations wealthy. They say "the hell with the American People"!
They don't want the American People to have decent medical coverage either. Why isn't the health coverage that the politicians get good enough for the American People??? All they care about are the major medical insurance and pharmaceutical companies who have been denying good people needed coverage and overcharging on perscriptions.
They say the US Government can't run such a complex system. What about our millitary which is much more complex? Maybe the simpleton Senators and Reps. couldn't handle it – which we should remember in the 2010 & 2012 elections.
Not from what I see. The majority of the nation still sees him as the "solution" to all their troubles, because of his willingness to spend government taxpayers money to give them what they think they have a "right" to get. If smarter heads prevail and national health care fails because it can't be funded, if the recovery continues to gather steam in spite of the fact that less than 15% of the Trillion dollar stimulous funds are being spent, than maybe America will wake to the fact that he is NOT infallible. Until then, it seems the people are still blinded by his smile.
For Me, there isn't a better person to be President than President Obama.
He faces the issues head on, not like some that run their mouths to get noticed, and even take off from there responsibilities, to serve themselves?
Dee
Hi Jack,
Coller minds will prevail. Obama is leeding the world away from war....we witnessed Bush taking all of the problems of his world and capsulizing them in a war effort...please be conscious of an effort to devide and concour by US protagonists....a bait that Bush took.
Bush, in one fell swoop, ignored the US commitment to the UN rendering it all but useless....the United Nations? Say no more. All the work laid out and its history laid waste by two hot head leaders, Bush and Cheyney,and even this act was exploited by American allies in yhe ongoing conflict in Israel, in the manner of ...if United States can do that we can do this.
My question to you Jack: why does the American mrdia keep fanning the flames of war and dissunity. This appears to me and many others as a continuous disloyalty towards Obama and his efforts for peace and recovery from the previous impeachable canpaigns of others. How much of this is politics and how much is the effort of a controlled media.
Be very careful in Iran...the disunited nations....and the rest of the nations are awaiting your next move.
I thank God that Americans chose the intellect of the Obamas' to lead them...but what they are lacking is your support.
Yep, it's over with the American people....it's just not over with the national media by a longshot. And when it's over with the media, Obama will start holding "town meetings" instead of "press" conferences.
A "honeymoon" lasts a day or two. Maybe a week or two at the most. Yes the President's honeymoon has been over for some time, now. That does not mean that he has lost his public support. He's doing fine considering with all he is currently dealing. His response to Iran was perfect. His work with the auto industry was not half as good. His mess with the GOP, the ConsevaDems and healthcare is not looking good-at-all from the point of the voters who put him in office. I hope he does not become a "180 degree President" based upon his campaign objectives. He seems not to understand that he has opponents who are working to oppose him, not merely in an esoteric discussion with him.
Appears Mr. Obama's policies have caught up with him somewhat.
He was forced to condemn Iran today (no mention of Mahmoud or Khomeni however). Don't people understand he has sympathy for them as that is his brothers.....and what they have as leaders in Iran now is what his ultimate goal is.
People are catching on but way too late.
Jack C
Wa
It was over two weeks after he took office as far as the GOP cared. As for me, ask me again after he has been in office for two years.
If Health Care gets passed this year, honeymoon will last for a long time. But, if not, he will suffer greatly. But I think all those who opposed health care reform will be dumped as soon as possible. Health Care is the most important issue, and it better be available to all.
Honeymoon is a stupid term.
He's our PRESIDENT - not just something out there to drum up division and hate in your audience.
I don't think the honeymoon is over. President Obama ran more to the center than the liberals wanted and he is governing that way.
Most people realize the danger that the last administration placed this country in, with a collapsing economy and an unpopular, un-neccessary war. Our real enemies are still out there, the Middle-East was de-stabilized and the trickle down economics of the past 25 years had hollowed out the core of our economy with the benefits trickling down to countries like India and China. Like everything else in the country today, the more vocal of the critics represent a small percentage of the country, they are just the loudest (and the most obnoxious!)
Indeed it is over, been over, and its time for him to do his deeds and not shriek responsibility of turning it back at the last president. My confidence is all but gone. His executive branch didn't agree with me. His last speech in Cario disenchanted me as he was giving money away to Pakistan and Afghanistan after telling us a couple of weeks before that, that we were broke. Besides the fact he's building ghost towns here in his own country but telling the world that he will build their countries. There is not much that I have seen this far that I am exuberant about and most of his term has me disillusioned.
No, Obama is still doing terrific. He continues to face down mammoth-size issues every day, and deserves the support of all parties at this time in our history.
It's absurd that Obama's honeymoon lasted this long. I voted for him, and like everything he has done so far, but there are many people who thought the change he promised would happen instantaneously. One man is fighting for change against two other branches of government. It's as if the American people think that the president gets a magic wand and can change what he wants when he wants. Even if all the people in America were behind him, the man still has to fight against bigoted racists, corporate greed, and all around ignorance; and that's just in congress. The American people expected too much too soon from one man. The economy is issue number one. If that doesn't get fixed then it won't matter if gays can be open in the military, if he handles the North Korean crisis with grace that would make Ghandi drop his jaw, or even makes the swatting of flies a crime punishable by death. If the economy goes down the drain, then all those other issues won't matter. Cut the man some slack!
Are you kidding? He's only been in office 5 months. For Christ's sake, give the man a chance! Figres. A black man becomes POTUS and he is under more scrutinty and treated more harshly.
Give him at least 1 1/2 years for this mess to be sorted out. Say this time next year.
Jack,
i think it is very unfair to even ask such a question. He has manged his todo list in an organized fashion. If the pundits and lobbyists can stay out of this big government could be tamed, which is ultimately what it needs.
john
white plains, ny
Obama’s honeymoon is a figment of your imagination, Jack. Obama has faced adamant and very vocal confrontation from the not-very-loyal opposition from the get-go. As for fellow Democrats, Will Rogers said it best, it is not an organized party
Presidents taking office are like the old 45 RPM phonograph record. You go buy the record and the "A" sounds pretty good. Then you flip it over and in most cases the "B" side isn't quite as good. With the presidency, we hear the "A" side during the campaign, but once in office all we hear is the "B" side. The honeymoon is over.
Jack, when you have a good and honest marriage the honeymoon is never over. I like to know why questions as this was not asked to Bush.
Jack: The President's honeymoon was over the night of the inauguration. His style, wisdom and demeanor are traits that the hard line DC crowd can't get their hands around. Baffled as they are, they try to spin discord. Barack Obama has shown the courage to take huge steps, intervene as necessary, and stay the course. Let's see what we're thinking 12 months from now – I'll bet a cactus we'll be even better off.
Jack,
I admire him for most of his ideas but am nearly 100% skeptical that they can become reality because there is no money to pay for them. As other politicians, including many Democrats, see the funding problem, his honeymoon will come to an end very quickly.
I think the honeymoon is over. After the honeymoon we go home and mow the lawn, fix the faucet, pay the mortgage, and clean the house. We get on with the rest of our lives. It matters not if the honeymoon is over – President Obama is very busy getting on with the rest of his term as president, and, as you pointed out, 60 percent of us still approve of him. Even if we don’t agree with everything he says and does, even if things are not going as well as we think they ought to, we are still with him. Sounds like a marriage that will work to me.
It better be. Its time the Boss steps up to the plate.
The clock is ticking with N Korea and Kim Jong Il is giving the President his first battle test. It looks like the cuban missle crisis all over again. That's just for starters.
There's a new Sherriff in town who claims he can clean it up.
Let's get a move on Pres. and let's make it happen. We can't wait Mr President.
The "Honeymoon" a marriage does not make. Give him time, folks. He has more on his plate right now than any other president has had at one time in history.
Honeymoon over. Now 70% of us are happily married thank you.
Jamie
Tacoma, WA
Only if Camp David is Closed... Is it???
President Obama's honeymoon may be coming to a close, but he was still without a doubt the Right Man for this Nation. I remain 100 percent behind him.
Honeymoon won't be over until you leftist media elites stop falling over each other praising him...
I've said it once, and I'll say it again; It's NOT a honeymoon it is a love affair. We have a president who is LOVED throughout the World, we should be proud of him. I am.
The easiest way to keep the honeymoon going is to have another date night.
Not until he makes his first MAJOR mistake. He has yet to do that.
If you, the far left Democrat, thinks Obama isn't giving you enough, try another 4 years with a Republican and get nada! Dems, in congress, need to listen to what we want!
He never really had a "honeymoon" with all of the issues that faced him on day one as President and especially with all of the people in the party of NO that want him to fail. Reality is setting in and he is learning that you can't please everyone and sometimes negotiations are not possible with people that have a closed mind to things that need to be done.
As for me? I'm still in love–Let's hope the honeymoon goes on and on.
Its over like Jon and Kate.
What honeymoon? He has been under withering attack from the Right wing since he was sworn in. The American people have been supportive but the snakes and sharks biting at his ankles have an effect over time. I think he will prevail and his policies will bear fruit but it takes time.
If George Bush could run the country for eight years in the befuddled way that he did and survive, surely President Obama has nothing to fear. He will be proven right in the end.
To him its not over.He has kissing the public more than he has Michelle.Its time for Obama to wake and work on his marriage with country.
Jack, Obama never had a honeymoon. He was viciously attacked from all sides from the get-go. He has to do twice as much as any other President has ever done in half the time to prove himself. Why? Because of the color of his skin. He is accused of things that no other President has ever had to deal with, openly and viciously. Why? Because of the color of his skin. He has been called a socialist and ultraliberal, even though his actions have been as moderate as you can get. Honeymoon? You have got to be kidding.
I would say every honeymoon has to end and this is no exception. I am disappointed with his stance on Gay Marriage and Gays in the military yes, but I think he is handling the bloody waters of Washington well all "inheritances" considered. He has been in office long enough for the honeymoon to end if he is to have a meaningful Presidency.
How can that bunch of idiot republicans say anything about the deficit the democrats are running when they doubled the national debt when they were in charge and now the democrats are having to spend trillions trying to get the country back to work. I guess they just forgot how much money Bush and his band of thugs spent.
No way Jack! He is the honeymoon!!!
Amber
Maumelle, AR
The Republicans are out of touch. President Obama is doing a great job with so much that is going on in the world.
No because he's earning the trust of the American people by working very hard on issues that matter. He's not a one song band like the group of bandits that just left office in January. Remember them? George, Dick, Don, Carl, Alberto and the rest....
I think it is ridiculous to even pose the question, "Has Obama done enough for gay rights?" I am a strong proponent for gay rights. I do, however, believe that a man can only do so much in such a short period of time. Calm down, America. Let's let some time pass before we start accusing individuals of not doing enough. We are tackling healthcare, the financial crisis, Iran, energy, etc. In due time, I am confident that Obama will also take a strong stance for gay rights.
Nope. Everytime I see and hear this guy on television I am immediately reminded of what a vast improvement he is over the other guy.
I don't think he ever had a honeymoon!
I don't remember a president ever jumping into action as immediately after winning the election as Obama did!
I have even more respect and confidence in him now than I did the day he won the election.
The predident has so much on his plate to deal with that it will be impossible to please everyone, lhe has a lot to deal with in his first six months and I dont feel that people are giving him enough time to make things happen. It took years to get us in these situations and it will take more than six months to fix it......
It seems that people want the "honeymoon" to be over...my guess is that former Presidents, as well as Presidential candidates, are all breathing a sigh of relief that they are not in his shoes. He has a mess in every direction he turns as well as critics just chomping at the bit to attack him. Give him a chance and ask again in a year.
While I voted for President Obama, I don't honeymoon with dudes. I felt he was the best choice for our country even if I already knew that I would not always agree with all of his decisions. I figure I didn't always agree with all of my mothers decisions so why should it be any different for him?
Jack, Obama didn't get time to honeymoon! Bush honeymooned in Crawford for 8 years while the country went bust. Poor guy is too busy cleaning up after the long Bush vacation.
I certainly hope obama's honeymoon is over. He's screwed us enough.
Jack:
President Obama can keep the honeymoon going by taking those date trips with Mrs. O on AF-1. We the taxpayers can be envious if impotent on government spending etc. Did you say things are "stabilizing"? Why. because the loss of jobs and homes are going to foreign manufacturers and investors? The loss of personal property and a living wage has created Stability ? It is not a honeymoon, it is back to the moon, on us.
yes i think Obama is doing an excellent job so far
and will continue to do so in my opinion you people need to give
him a chance you think he cant handle his job simply because he
is the first African american president he started at a bad time in our
economy he cant just fix this mess within months this may take
time but he will get us through this ...by the way im only 14
Yes, it's over but really surprised it took this long!
Jack. It's not a honeymoon. This is the presidency for crying out loud. Stop confusing our political system with the news that the rest of nation is covering. The White House is not John and Kate +8. Our government is being faced with adversities that previous ones either didnt see or ignored, and our elected president has to chart the course for long term national success. He is our COMMANDER IN CHIEF not our HUSBAND!
he is doing great, his is not a superpresident to change all this mess in less then a year, but he is doing terrific.
No. There is no person alive or one that has or will be alive that will make the 100% perfect decisions that please everyone. That is like wishing for the IRS to disband. It isn't going to happen. But what is important is that he is not prone to knee-jerk reactions to issues. We've had enough of that. That is what the old Washington was. I don't want a president that goes with the polls. I want a president that makes sound decisions whether everyone likes it or not. I voted for responsibility not the same old thing. For what I see, I believe we've gotten that.
The honeymoon may be over, but a lot of people are still looking hard at President Obama for leadership. Our country is facing some of its toughest challenges since the Great Depression and all the wars combined. North Korea and Pakistan with nuclear weapons pose a dangerous threat to people all over the world. Our economy is still teetering and unemployment is a problem for millions of Americans. We all need to rally behind the President because this is our country.
A typical honeymoon period for the President is 100 days and I believe you celebrated that already. It's a superficial term for when the media gives the president a break, which should be never. Their every move should be monitored, and while the nation's problems cannot be fixed by one man in one hundred days, that does not mean they should be given a free pass.
I think that Mr. Obama, like every other president or king or emporor or Pope is a human being. Nothing more nor less. It took Mr. Roosevelt almost 12 years and World War II to get us out of the Great Depression. It took us a little more than 100 days and a lot of greed and hubris to get us in this mess. It's going to take more than 4 years and a heck of a lot of elbow grease to get us back out. For Pete' sake, unless we are prepared to step into his shoes and try to fix this mess, let's ask what we can do to HELP Mr. Obama rather than sit back on our tushes and tell him everything we think he's doing wrong. OI VEH! As to the smoking, let he or she who is without sin cast the first stone. Nough said about that.
Americans are notorious short-sighted and always want immediate gratification. The honeymoon is over for now we realize the big changes we voted for are going to take some time to change.
The honeymoon is not over yet for President Obama, it's definately over for the obstructionist republicans and wimpy right leaning democrats in congress.
Your never going to please everyone. The republicans bash every move Obama makes. They would disagree on everything and anything he says or does. Is the Honeymoon over? No such thing. We live in a country more divided than ever
No, not even close to being over–and a shout out to John McCain for reminding us about the war-monger alternative choice we had. While I do not agree with everything President Obama does, I can always understand how he got to the decisions he makes. I think his popularity will even go up further as people continue to see him as the cool, measured, thoughtful, pragmatic, and well-spoken man he is.
The Honeymoon has been over for a while with many Americans, it's only the media that is still blinded by love. Instead of being "watch dogs" on behalf of the American people, the media has acted more like "lap dogs", for Obama.
Dee McDonald, Evanston IL
Compared to the last few presidents he is still a good husband.
We are just lingering in bed having a final smoke.
I am very happy with president Obama and the initiative he takes towards his position as president. It has been a long time since the U.S. has had this type of proper attention from a careful, thinking person. I also do not appreciate all of the propaganda linking the deficit and red ink to Obama. This was created during Bush's administration and was caused by the general greed of both government and big business. Very convenient though for the republicans to put it on the new president who, unfortunately, had to walk into this mess and try to fix it!
Not with me. But I don't expect him to save the world. I think he is doing a great job considering what he was left to deal with. I say leave Pres. Obama alone and let him get back to making America a great place to liv in.
I love Pres. Obama1
What honeymoon?! This whole notion of a 'honeymoon' is a myth. President Obama has had his each and every move scrutinized and criticized as soon as he stepped into office (and in some cases, even prior to that). With today's 24/7 news coverage and reporters' predilection for creating rather than reporting on the news, the whole era of 'honeymoons' is over when it comes to presidential coverage.
Jack his honeymoon was over with me when he had the cross covered up when he spoke at georgetown university. I knew he was not who he said he was!
The honeymoon may be over but I guess that's when the real relationship starts. I think the majority of Americans see the value in havings a President who has someone unhappy at both ends of the bell curve (you know, where the nut jobs live). Also don't belittle the fact that people like him more then his policies. In the end Leadership comes from the willingness of people to follow.
Democrats lost four consecutive elections to Ronald Reagan while pointing to poll results that his policies weren't as popular as the man.
Don't underestimate the fact that the Americans as a group simply like the President.
Besides, there's the truism that "You can't beat somebody with nobody." Right now the GOP doesn't have anybody who comes close to President Obama.
Bob Shapiro
Goleta CA
No. With all the problems he inherited I am thankful we finally have a president with an actual brain. Just think about what a mess we would be in today if the Repubs and been in office!!!!!!!
Linda in Columbus
No, I don't think so. He is still popular with the majority of Americans, but I wish people wouldn't let Republicans warning of gloom and doom influence their opinions of him. Healthcare is expensive now and will always be expensive, but the Republicans aren't interested in an affordable government plan for people.....only private insurance should be available. What about the millions who can't afford that? That shows me the utter lack of any compassion on the part of the Republican party for the American people, unless they are the rich people who don't need help.
What "honeymoon" are you talking about, Jack? This president's only honeymoon was with the people. From day one, the vicious republicans were trying to destroy him and make him a one-term president. I have never seen such a concerted attack on a new president in my life, and I'm old. Compared to Obama, Clinton was coddled. The only thing I can attribute it to is the inherent racism of the republican party. They should be ashamed, but republicans don't feel shame, no matter how vile their behavior is.
Of course not..... People know that our President is the best thing that has happened to the US in years.
We are finally getting respect from world countries and if we want to stay the most powerful country, we have to be respected. Our President is doing a great job.
He cares about this country unlike the last administration.
After what we have been through for eight years, and the partisan insensitive behavior by the republicans, his Honeymoon should go on forever.
I think President Obama's honeymoon is over but that is normal. During the campaign, I tried to warn my fellow gays and bisexuals that Obama was not a good choice if we really expected him to go against his beliefs about gay marriage. I had a discussion with an official at the Human Rights Campaign whose organization endorsed Obama for President rather that Ralph Nader who has always been in favor of full and equal rights, including marriage, for ALL Americans. We saw that it was the flood of Obama voters, in particular black voters, in California who were responsible for passing Proposition 8. Unless President Obama immediately takes action to allow gays to serve openly in the military and reverses his stand on gay marriage, Washington, D.C. will be the host of hordes of angry and demanding gays, bisexuals, and our friends and families for the march in October. This will be a great embarassment for the President.
Brownwood, Texas
Not with me it's not. And my message to Democrats–get together and get behind the President's financial, health insurance and other plans before you find yourselves voted out next time around.
Jack-
I think it is too early to tell if his 'Honeymoon' with the public is over yet. Its only been a few months. It took much longer for the public to realize George W. Bush wasn't the best candidate to represent our country, in fact, it took two elections to realize that George W. Bush was decreasing largely in popularity. I think that America is still happy with Barack Obama, seeing that he doesn't take world politics lightly, however I think that many from other parties would like to see him cross more party lines and be more bi-partisan.
Carter
Sioux Falls, SD
Nope. But the Republicans' funeral procession has begun.
Eve – AZ
The Honeymoon never started. The toy magic wand he has isn't working.
Mr Obama???!!! He is President Obama!! President!!!! This constant use of Mr. is a total sign of disrespect for someone in the highest office of our nation!
I wish you people would start calling him by his respectful name!!!!!
If this past time has been his honeymoon I cant wait to see what he can do once he goes to work, keep up the good "work" Mr. President
It's approximately five months into a 48 month term, and the Cable News Cassandras are already stoking the fires of pessimism and negativism over a President who has a 60 % plus approval rating. But I guess it's to be expected.
Hopefully. The honeymoon period is full of unreasonable expectations. Obama hit the ground running getting real work done. Reality isn't as nice as people would like. But reality is what needs to be changed and Obama is changing it as fast as possible.
Jim, Craig, CO
No, not for folks that see him at least trying to get something done. Of course for the Republicans there never was a honeymoon, as a matter of fact to them there wasn't even a wedding.
W Miller
Proctorville, OH
Obama never had one! From the get go, the Republicans went on the attack. While the confirmation process was going on, Rush Windbag said he hoped Oama failed and bi-partisanship never materialized. Obama watered down the stimulus package to bring Republicans on board and they stabbed him in the back and voted against it anyway. No, he never had a honeymoon and this won't be forgotten and the next Republican president is going to be treated the same way.
Honeymoon over? How sad that this is the way we judge our President. constanly taking the temperature and giving way too much air time to loser airbags. All to manufacturer something for the 24 hour news cycle to talk about.
He is doing a wonderful job and needs to ignore all the noise and sore losers.
Jack
No Way, No How. The Honeymoon is still "on"
Obama is on the right side of the debates that the right wingers seems to want to stir up on everything.
Stimulus is still needed, for average Americans for new jobs and infrastructure. His take on the Iran crisis is pitch perfect. His health plan is the right way to go, and if the opponents on the left and right don't include a public option, they will pay the price at the polls. Big Pharma and insurance lobbies paid for those bozos, and have no interest in what is best for Americans.
I am sick of the stupidity of so many in Congress, and their deafness to the will of the people. They are the ones losing credibility.
Jack,
Think the WH press corp are wishing it was so but the 'Smackdown' was from Obama today...He does it with humour but pointedly!...Such Stupid questions between Todd and Tapper –they made fools of themselves and their networks but not nearly like 'Major'...Think they need to go to the drawing board this guy is cool, calm and informed...unlike the lackys in the press corp!
We need some Brit reporters like Dan Damien...in this group!
He's had a free ride so far, I wish someone would question his policies, like scaling back missle defense while NK and Iran launched missles this year.
i voted for him but i will not again we will be lucky if we have a country when he is done
What honeymoon? President Obama has been attacked viciously from day 1 by The Right and the media has given voice to the dissent. With the total mess he inherited in so many critical areas–foreign affairs, Iraq, Afghanistan, finance, employment, health care, housing, to name just a few-he deserves a honeymoon for his first term. It will take that long to just begin to turn things in a positive direction.
Beaverton, OR
President Obama is doing an outstanding job for the short time he has been in office. I support him 100%. For all the haters - ditches you dig for our President is waiting for you!
Considering the state of our country when Obama took over, I'd say he has handled the problems extremely well. It has taken years to get us into this mess and we're expecting him to turn it around in less than 200 days....get real!
For those who says it's over your wrong.. Why because you have no idea, of what this man is doing, your just blind like the party of NO
When the honeymoon is over, it doesn't mean the marriage is. That signals a new phase where both parties can decide whether to work on the relationship or snipe at each other. It takes two.
If the honeymoon is over already that explains the high divorce rate in our country. Any lasting and successful relationship is based on compromise, understanding, patience, trust and commitment. President Obama took a vow. In essence we did too. Let's honor it for at least the length of the "contract".
No the honeymoon is not over, my opinion hasn't changed a bit. He has my full support (now and in 2012). He's a smart and cabable leader and politian. One message should be from the US on the Iranian issue, we all should stand by the President, including the Republicans. But they care more about their own individual policital games than about the Iranians or the President of the United States. Shame!! Shame!!
The honeymoon lasts as long as there is love, faith, hope and respect. This honeymoon is just beginning!
Simply put, people love this man. Just think if McCain had won. The question instead would be, "Why didn't poor old Johnny boy even get a honeymoon?"
No, this is not just a honeymoon. This is a real love affair. What makes Obama special - and such a contrast to the misguided Republicans - is that he really cares about the Country. Not only that, but that he is so brilliant that he is 10 steps ahead of the pack at all times. No doubt it is very frustrating to the Republicans, and obviously is to McCain, they have no one to blame but themselves. But that they cannot help, as it is their very nature.
I'm disappointed, but still hopeful. I don't think it's over. We're just getting adjusted and being impatient. I still love him even though I'm a liberal.
Apparently Not! Date night in Manhattan and date night in Paris! All issues he just blames on Bush… Life is good! The Honey Moon will never end with this guy!
Hey Jack,
Nobody ever polled me!!!
No, his honeymoon is not over. The man is right on with the Iran situation and he has passed more billed in the last four months than the last two administrations passed in 16 years. I think he is just getting started and has my support 100%.
The Republications should go sit in a corner somewhere and think about all the trouble they have created for our country.
Even if the president's honeymoon is over, I think the President is a very wise and smart man. I think he has the wisdom of David and the patients of Job
Jerry Adams
Shelby, NC
I sure hope the light comes on very soon in the American public. If my wife went off and spent like this guy is spending in the first months of the marriage, the divorce papers would be served tomorrow!!
Scott
Wilmington NC
The Republicans would like us to believe it is, but thinking people know it's not. President Obama is doing the right thing. His critics are the same ones who cried "Bomb, bomb Iran" during the campaign and their agenda is transparent. They want us to alienate Iran even further so that the option of war can be exercised. Obama is behaving very presidentially. The media should not fuel these tactics.
What honeymoon? Maybe you guys have'nt been keeping up on current events. He may be popular but his political agenda has been attacked from the start. First by the Right and now the Left is joining in.
If this was a honeymoon, he needs a divorce.
No the Honeymoon isn't over Jack, I refuse to bite into the Republicans strategy of trying to make to President look bad every chance they get. He has an approval rating of over 60% from the American people because the man is genuine, transparent and sincere about fixing this nation's economy. He has a lot of work ahead of him to fix what has been ruined from the past administration. I hope he keeps to his game plan and not be influenced by the good old boys political rhetoric.
Mike,
Clinton, MD
Is this really a left/right issue in the classic sense? I wonder.
As a gay American, who is ostensibly also a Democrat, I'm here to say that just because this President is criticized in our community doesn't mean the "honeymoon" is over. The absence of rhetorical attack from the White House in itself is "change" for the better and no one has forgotten where the Republican party is on our basic rights today.
Most of us are more annoyed with Democrats in Congress–who seem to have more leeway to do important things for our community, and for some reason, less willingness to act on our behalf.
I, for one, accept the President's remarks last week about DOMA at face value–and don't blame him for not leading off with (ENDA, Don't Ask/Don't Tell)–esp. when all these policies ALSO take congressional action. When was the last time anyone actually heard Nancy Pelosi, a Democrat from ahem...San Francisco...mention action on or even prioritization of these important issues? Color me skeptical, but not of the President.
Jack, the media should leave the president alone. How many times are we gonna hear about this honey moon. It is obvious that the media want it to be over and still claim that he is not getting severe coverage. The media should contribute to USA growth instead of reporting who is up and who is down. Let them give us how the health care can be better, how to bring down the deficit, become number one in education again and so on and so on. MacFab from Nacogdoches
During the campaign President Obama said make me do it and many are attempting to do so but McCain, with his neocon ranting of late, has made many of us really grateful that Obama won.
Ask me in 4 years. I am still in love with him.
I hate to say that the "honeymoon" is over, but it might be because of all the ignorant people who think that the President's reforms are going to be over night.
It's not President Obama's fault that things take time but that's the way the cookie crumbles and if the American people don't understand that, they certainly have no right to say anything against him and the amazing things he is doing.
Jack,
How long did your honeymoon last? Mine lasted about a year. When reality sets in , it's about how much are you willing to do to solve the problems. The 'loyal?' opposition have to be treated like in-laws, listened to, but not influencing your choices.
no, most people these days don't even pay attention to policy's, just personality.
Obama's not all he was cracked up to be. However, so long as the Republicans remain so pathetically inept and keep acting so childishly spiteful, I think Obama will stay popular. Everything's relative.
When Obama entered the marriage that is the Presidency, he wed to a bitter and bankrupt spouse who is the USA. The man never had the pleasure of a honeymoon.
Sheldon – Ft. Lauderdale, FL
As a gay man, sure, I'm a little disappointed that Don't Ask and the Defense of Marriage Act have not been reversed yet, but the President has done a remarkable job in 5 months especially considering what's on his plate. I will never regret my vote for Barack Obama and I have no doubt he will address Don't Ask and DoMA. Patience, Jack!
I fervently hope not!
I think the problem is those in Congress who just are too chicken to really do something RIGHT for a change, in case they don't get re-elected. Click, click, click!!!
I think the President is doing all he can and after all HE really can't do anything. Congress can, and will not.
It's that kind of politics that made everyone so ANGRY during the last election, and I hope that the voters stay angry and get those who will do nothing OUT OF OFFICE and fill their jobs with those who WILL, do something!
Jack Cafferty,
Some of the presidents critics ( big empty drums)
would like it if he were saber rattling....sure we could handle 3 wars.
it is diificult for many Americans to understand they have an intelligent, thought ful president in office; one who understands the value of restraint
All presidential honeymoons end sooner or later. Obama has done well with the mess he inherited. Thats why his popularity is still high. We could have had McCain and Palin handling these problems(nightmare).
Where is the stimulus money going? Where are the billions of dollors ACORN and their 250 subsidiaries is getting from the taxpayers going? FYI! ACORN changed their name to Organizational Community International. WHY? The American taxpayers and all the workers who have been layed off in the last 6 months need answers.
The "honeymoon" may be over, but the polls show we'd still rather be married to this guy than the last one. He's genuinely trying. He explains why he does what he does and says what he says.
I believe his status is growing. It is quite a change from irresponsible remarks from irresponsible politicians. So, it is quite expected that the public doen't fully understand him. After all, those are the same people that believed Iraq had weapons of mass destruction when Bush had the helm.
What honeymoon? He never had one. He was handed a total MESS from the Republicans yet they have criticized every single thing he's done since the beginning as if they had nothing to do with anything that has happened! Incredible! I think 98% of Republicans have earned the right to remain silent. I think Obama is the right man for the right time. Unlike the Republicans, Obama can see past his nose. He knows what he's doing. Give him time and just watch what happens. He'll get the job done.
After, Bush, Cheney & Rumsfeld getting us in a terrible situation, he's doing a fine job of digging us out of a big hole. He's only been in office a few months so lets give him a fair chance to get things on the right path. I'd like to see us take care of our people in the United States instead of the whole world. We can't take care of everybody elses problems because they soon become our problems.
Jack, here in the socialist republic of ann arbor we think he's doing a terrific job cleaning up the collosal mess left by the party of Herbert Hoover.
have a nicee day, jeff
President Obama's honeymoon has been over. The only one he's had was with his wife Michele.
No. Obama has as still got it.
The Honeymoon might be over, but the party is just beginning! With the backing of a majority of the American people, President Obama still has a lot of political capital in the bank. With a democratic majority in congress, he needs to spend it; pushing infrastructure investments, renewable energy advancement and public health care options. Our President has a mandate!
I voted for him and I am with him all the way, except I would really like to see the insurance companies dumped in favor of One Payer.
It makes no difference if President Obama's so called "honeymoon" is over, as regardless, he will continue to be a man of great thoughts and ideas and a man capable of complex thinking ...and a man capable of communicating complex and textured, nuanced ideas to the American people. The American people know he will not be perfect, but we also know we are ready to be spoken to as adults. there are no easy answers and the American people know that. Obama is a terrific leader and it makes me proud once again to say I am an American.
great to have this marrige, i hope more the 4 yr. strong e smart man all famile cam be praud.
One thing is for sure: Obama's honeymoon with the GLBT community isn't only over but it never began! That's what happens when you aren't allowed to marry. You don't get a honeymoon.
Nop, if for anything the President's honeymoon has just begun. The critics of his policies seems to be more vocal than those who at home with his policies and that explains why ti's like it is over. the truth is that it has just begun. The President is doing exactly what we expected of him. The honeymoon indeed has just begun.
No, President Obama's honeymoon is not over. There are so many problems with our country its unbelievable. He cant ignore any of the issues or it will be bad for your country. Not only is there problems with our country the President has to deal with two wars that where started by the former President and also has to deal with North Korea and Iran. I think the president is handling his job incredibly. He is honest to the American people and motivated the American people to unite and change our country. He is very motivating. Its about time we have a President like Barack Obama. If people think these things are going to be free to fix then they are just wrong! Just remeber, our last President dug the deficit to be what it is. People need to relax..if they want these problems fixed its going to cost money. I trust President Obama alot more then President Bush. So get off his back.
I think it's an interesting proposition that Pres. Obama is "entitled to" and has enjoyed any kind of "honeymoon." Have all past Presidents been given a honeymoon? I don't seem to recall Bush2 being given any special leeway.
Why do we over analyze everything. We want Obama to be the magic man, heal our problems, but without doing anything that will upset the left or the right. I think both sides are extremely subjective on their topics. Ever hear of listening to all sides before spouting off?
The American public is now seeing what many of us saw long before he was elected to be our commander in chief. All glory and no guts.
This idea of this American "honeymoon", with the vast set of problems facing this this country, this president, and the world, is as trite a concept as the idea of America hosting the world's most functional health care industry. In order for our country to move forward, many Americans have to let go of deeply embedded, yet outdated concepts (a result of either laziness, fear, or the tendency to advocate ideas on which they prosper but leaves behind so many), and though a relatively insignificant topic, this undue attention regarding a president's honeymoon" says more about the people's weaknesses than the president's.
Jack,
The problem with Americans is they want everything right now! The mentality of "I want it now" is indicative by the nature of your question.
If I got married and my new husband brought financial collapse, 2 wars, health insurance companies who kill and bankrupt people everyday, a GOP wo can't get over losing two elections and just want to whine and say NO like a bunch of spoiled brats and do everything they can to bad mouth the President, would I divorce him in 5 months?
Point is Jack, the American people LOVE our new President and WE will give him time to clean up the mess left by the last resident in the Whitehouse. Seriously, give the guy a break!! He's dancing as fast as he can, and from where I am sitting he's a pretty good dancer!!
I wish the media had scrutinized Bushs march to war and the near bankruptcy of our country like you do president Obama's every decision. He doesn't represents the media. Try to be helpful.
President Obama is exactly what our country needs right now...he cares about the American people on all levels. He thinks outside the box at all times. He is highly intelligent, compassionate....and is not intiminated by those that choose to attempt to bring him down. He stays on course....his goals are always in the best interest of the United States. He has stirred things up...things that needed to be....he promised us change and he will honor this promise.
I think that Obama has done a wonderful job since relieving Bush of his duties. It will take a little time for him to fix what it took Bush 8 years to mess up. Needless to say, the honeymoon is just begining.
Dear Jack,
He is still INVINCIBLE but the Republicans will criticize him for no reason,
for whatever good or bad he will do – they never come with something
constructive but try to undermine all his efforts, good ideas and hard, hard
work : he will succeed!
Stella / from Chicago
I think the severity of this assessment is ridiculous. If Obama had been in 2 years, at least 1 year, THEN write his obits (AND HE COULD STILL COME BACK MOSTLY VICTORIOUS)...When you have 20 major plates in the air, like he has, YOU ARE BOUND TO HAVE NAYSAYERS...particular the GOP...they are drowning and any controversial or perceived vulnerability issue he has (and they are legion) they will run, run, run with it. And let's face it, most of the populations of other countries vote... too many Americans are apathetic and don't even bother to properly educate themselves on these issues, and don't even vote.
This is why our health care system is broken, even though we pay more than any other country in the world for it.
He is the best president ever in my eyes. I never get tired of hearing him. Dont know about honeymoon !!!! but he has just started and there is so much to do . If only he would get some positive from the GOP and even from the DEMS ....It would get done a lot faster
I loved his speach today ...He is so RIGHT in his answers...so Keen...
Just love the man
Gobama
Hey Jack, His honeymoon was over the day he took office. I never seen so many Americans want so much from a president in 5 months of service, despite what people think he is not God. Everybody needs to slow down and give him a chance. My wife- Captain Jennings just arrived home from Iraq with the 1st Cav. division 3 months early. Thanks President Obama!
The honeymoon (what a dumb term) is nearly over, but the marriage is strong. It's time for an adjustment, like agreeing on which way to roll the toilet paper.
It's the neighbors who are having the biggest adjustment – they don't all want to play nice, even some of the ones he's known a while and who live on his block. The bellicose blowhards and bigots on the next block don't want to play at all and just yell across the fence they've built.
What honeymoon? I don't think he has ever had one. Let's face it. He is the first person of color to hold the title of President of the United States. What he does will set the bar for other minorities that have a chance to follow him into office.
The last six months, especially with the media and the GOP, have been more like "let's see what he can do" instead of out right trusting him like people have done previous Presidents.
Honeymoon? that's only for movies. Not reality.
It's been over. He promised far,far more in the race than any president could ever hope to deliver,and he knew it. one week into office he said that things would't change overnight and it may take 5-6 years. To me, he was already starting his re-election campaign, I lost all confidence right then, he will strech out until tomorrow what he might could do today just to get re-elected.
He didn't even have the chance to enjoy a so-called honeymoon! As far as his popularity; no president, has ever had the ability to make every single person in this "nation of whiners" happy! He, obviously, has had to make some very difficult decisions, and I for one, do not expect him to walk on water!
Honeymoon implies a time of pleasure and leisure. A time of getting to know each other in a nice and relaxed manner. When did this president have the time or possibility of presenting himself to the people in that manner? He has had to deal with massive problems with very little leeway for mistakes.He has had a significant percentage of the population (note Republicans) constantly berating him for anything and everything hoping to find traction in some criticisms. At least the guy tries to keep his promises, realizes his responsibilities and is able to enunciate his intentions to bring peace and prosperity for all Americans instead of clearing brush at a ranch somewhere. Give him a BREAK!!!!!!
No! It's not over. You and the mainstream media still support him and he still has Bush to blame.
I agree with the posting above. He's been in office for a few months and the media expects the chosen one to change the world.
Give us all a break.
People, you gave Bush 8 years to mess up the country, the economy, start a war etc. and now in just 6 months you expect President Obama to have solved all of our problems and the world's too??? This president is trying not to repeat the mistakes of the former administration. I think he is using good judgment and making wise decisions. You can't just rush into things without thinking. Look what happened with "Shock & Awe"!
Jack,
President Obama never asked for a honeymoon. That's a media created term. He hit the ground running, went to work the first day and has yet to slow down. I'm exhausted just watching him. We need to be patient for a while longer before turning on him like a pack of wolves...
Arlene in Atlanta
Yep! Just like my old grandpa Bradley used to say, all that riding the fence will get you is a sore rear. While trying to make everyone happy, he`s turning his back on the people that supported him throughout his run for the Whitehouse.
jack we voted for this president because of his calm demeaner and excellent ability to lead.the sooner john mccaine realize that he was not chosen because of his arrogance he will just shut up and let the wise leader do his job.president obama is doing the right thing given the situation he inherited from the G.O.P.
I'm not sure why the "honeymoon" term even exits in politics. That is a media fabrication to me. President Obama is doing a great job, dealing with the issues, being visible, talking to the American people. The Republicans and media are on a feeding frenzy, picking the President apart at every turn. Why can't they just let the man do his job? That aside, I would go on a honeymoon with President Obama any day, any time. Oops, guess that's an inappropriate girlie thing to say .... sorry, First Lady Michelle.
Honolulu, Hawaii
I don't think the honey moon has started yet !!!! He was faced with so many problems and issues when entering office, he didn't have time for the honeymoon. I feel he is doing a competent job addressing national and international problems, and when he feels he has things under control the honeymoon will begin with even higher personal ratings.
Far from it, after 6 months of constant obstructionism by the GOP and yet President Obama's poll numbers are 60 percent tells you that people aren't falling for the same old Republican talking points they once did. We can't wait until the 2010 elections so the GOP can once more get their butts kicked once and for all. People have had enough of their crap.
By the light of the silvery moon, he will stay on his projected course if that is to align him on a honeymoon so to speak.
He's the first President that reaches out to Americans, that commuicates with Americans. It's a welcome change.
His critics bark about just about anything, I'm so tired of listening to their whining and bickering. It servs no purpose.
Where was the outcry of Americans when the Presidency was robbed from Al Gore? I didn't hear Boehner or McCain asking Republicans to take a stronger position and right a fundamental wroing of sabotaging an American election.
Keep a shinin' President Obama, you are a great President.
Whahahahaha! Honeymoon? What Honeymoon? With President Obama taking up challenges prior to his inaguration (and therefore hitting the ground running BEFORE day one), moving to shutdown Gitmo, facing opposition from both republicans and some democrats, as well as trouble abroad from N. Korea to Iran, not to mention health care reform and dealing with climate change, the word Honeymoon has no place here.
In my hummbled opinion, THERE WAS NO HONEYMOON OR ANY THING WHATSOEVER! Get it out of your heads already Media!
What honeymoon? The conservatives have been on his case since the day he took office and many ultra progressives are flogging him for not going forward fast enough. FOR GOODNESS SAKE GIVE HIM A BREAK. He has been in office for a whole five months of a four year term and I can't remember any president since FDR who has done as much in that length of time. The American people are the most spoiled brats in the world. Maybe all you naysayers would like to go back to the last 8 years.
No, the honeymoon is not over, and I am not ready to divorce President Obama. I am happy to see a thoughtful, considerate, intelligent President who has a grasp of the multiple issues before him. Americans want instant gratification, and I am gratified to see this President at work on all fronts! I just hope I can measure up to HIS expectations of what he needs from his fellow Americans.
Simply said. Not in the least.
Jack,
Honeymoons are short-lived, and this one has been longer than most. Pres Obama has been in office 5 months, and his policies will take time to bear fruit. The Republicans are out to destroy Obama's administration. For my part, Obama still has my confidence.
Louisa
Hingham, MA
I love you Jack but Honeymoon? We aren't married to the man. He is a leader. We voted for him because he is the most qualified person to solve the tough problems that plague this country: health care, a dying planet, jobs, etc., etc. When leaders make tough decisions there are always those who disagree, speak out or just complain. Speak out. Disagree. This is America. But let's all be part of making this a better country. President Obama is still an intelligent, compassionate, strong leader. That hasn't changed.
It is for everybody but the Americans who want America to be a Socialist country and those who are not paying attention to where he is taking America. This includes most of the American media who have given him a pass and now are defending him. His real loss of popularity will come when this country goes the way of GM because we can’t meet our financial commitments because of the path he, and the Democratic party is leading us down.
I think comparing the American people’s relationship to President Obama as a “honeymoon” is perhaps the wrong metaphor. He’s more like the new custodial parent to a bunch of truculent children who have lived under the care of an indulgent and complacent guardian for too long.
As the new guy in charge, he seemed pretty cool at first, but now we’re beginning to chafe a bit under his no-nonsense, disciplined regimen. One by one, he’s been aggressively addressing our deeply ingrained bad habits. At times we’re a little outraged, and, sure, we’re bound to have questions and concerns, but I think if we’re honest with ourselves, we know he has our best interests at heart.
No way is President Obama's honeymoon over! This American thinks he's only just begun! He's doing an awesome job and no naysayer can bring him down! Keep up the great job, President Obama.
Jack! Obama faced worst criticism during his campaign. As far as iran is concern, Obama is just being careful because the option to negociate with iran is still on the table and he doesn't want to be in position that will alter that option.
I don't believe his honeymoon is over, but just that reality is meeting fantisy. Instead of people accepting what obama says and passes it without debate, they are takening another look at his plans. I'm sure once the unemployeement rate hits 10% then his honeymoon will be over, with his approval rating barely hitting 50%.
No, it's not over. I am an Iranian students in the United States. My parents and brother are still in Iran. I talked to all the Iranians that I know (including those in Iran) and we all believe that President Obama is doing the right thing by not interfering with Iran's situation. We know that his current strategy is in favor of Iranian people in Iran in the long run. He is a very wise president and we know that he knows what he is doing. On behalf of all the Iranian people, I would like to thank President Obama for his support and sympathy for us.
Obama's honeymoon phase ended the day he stepped into office. If the past 5 months have been a honeymoon then I would hate to see what a divorce would look like for him and the country.
Can't say that I remember there being a honeymoon, at least among the politicians. Why in God's name would they listen to us. Approval ratings have been steady and high since the inauguration. The honeymoon is still on as far as the people are concerned, so maybe the politicians should try listening to us for a change, the smear tactics don't seem to be working any more.
He is doing fine addressing issues that no other president has ever faced at one time. Honeymoon over ? Those who think you can set in motion instant resolution for complex and delicate challenges at home and abroad think so.
I agree with Marianne. President Obama has had to deal with more crises than any other president in history.
I think he's doing terrifically.
People need to quit shooting from the hip on health care. The reason we haven't had health care reform before this is too many congressmen have been on the take from the insurance industry. That's changing now.
Let's see the final plan and judge it then.
Larry
Cincinnati, OH
No, President Obama is showing true leadership at a very difficult time in America.
1) I don't think the gay community expects Obama to address every promise in his first 5 months!
2) It is hypocritcal for Republicans to use the words deficit and spending after the past 8 years of reckless behavior. How much did it cost taxpayers to blow up Iraq and then rebuild it while being ripped off by Halliburton? I want to know how much money Cheney made while in the White House.
3) The stimulas package is going to be critical in creating jobs to replace the millions that have been lost. Since jobs are the lagging indicator of a recession, it is good that the majority of stimilus is spent over the next 2 years.
4) The American people are smarter than we get credit for!
Why should we rush to judge President Obama and he has only been in office for a few months? He's had and still has ENORMOUS TASKS to tackle. Who cares about a so-called honeymoon? Obama was left with basically nothing after the Bush administration. Did we judge Bush's honeymoon period? The only reason that these so-called issues come up is because of his "pre-elective" popularity, not because of his duties. Based upon what state the Nation was in, and what He had to work with, I think that President Obama is doing a wonderful job .The Nation was in serious decline when President Obama was Senator Obama and He does not hold a magic wand that can wave all of the Nation's problems away. Support our President because He is trying to get the Nation back working and that includes some of y'all.
I believe most rational people realize that President Obama faced more problems than any incoming president since President Franklin Roosevelt. We unfortuneately have become a nation of instant gratification, so anything less than instantaneous solving all of our problems will make for dissatisfaction among some of the masses. We need to learn patience. It took many years and many circumstances to cause the myriad of mistakes that now need corrected to put our nation back on track. I believe he is the man for this daunting job.
it will never be over for me. I have sign up for O duty for the next 8 year. If u know what that mean. He need 8years to fix Bush mess.
Joy from new York.
All honeymoons must come to an end. But that is not a negative thing.. Once the honeymoon is over it is time to buckle down together and build a future. Each doing their part and being honest with each other. American people need to realize that Obama can not do this alone. Obama needs to stick to his principles and be open and honest as possibe. If we all work together we can do just about anything.
President Obama is doing great and I don't think the "honeymoon" is anywhere near being over. I'm hoping for a second honeymoon with his next term.
He's doing everything we've been trying to get done for decades (thanks to the GOP fending us off). If something doesn't get done these days it's because the Republicans are stamping their collective foot and saying "no".
The President doing the right thing with Iran, with the economy and health care (and pretty much everything else). We can't just let those that are sick left to die with no alternative as the Republicans and insurance companies would have them do.
I'm gay, I can wait until the second term to get our issues addressed. I'd rather see him in office for a second term first.
All I've seen from the Republicans is a concerted effort to make him look bad and block anything he's doing. This only weakens the GOP more because they are still doing nothing and President Obama keeps moving along.
Obama keeps doing what we want, and we will remember the GOP holding him and us back.
Jack, as far as Im concerned it never was a honeymoon. I wish the man well as an individual, as well as his family, however I knew that he would be weak on Foriegn Policy , while very restrictive on Conservative Values. I also knew he would be extremely Pro Amnesty. I apologize , but coming from a long legacy of Americans who have fought for this Nation I do not support his "values".
t's over. The regulatory obsession with restricting third-party appraisers and tight underwritng mortgage guidelines will be the coffen to the self employed and people who lost their homes never again able to own one.
We are loosing over individual rights in favor of bureaucracy and the red tape.
My President never had honeymoon. He was President Obama not only in US, but in Europe before taking the oath. Mr. Cafferty he is the first one I can proudly call him my President since I became a US citizen over 30 years. I"m Muslim, Turkish, American.
Tulay C
Fort Worth, TX
OBAMA is doing fine, with what he has to work with, its sorry to think that there are a few that want him to fail, i did my 20yrs in service and backed every president. its funny why didn't bush do all of this on his way out? Time wasted? or Mission Accomplished!
Not only is the honeymoon over, but I am ready to file for divorce.
Can we get this marriage annulled? With all the spending he is doing and will triple the national debt in 1 year, I feel like he is trying to hard consumate this marriage without my consent.
Obama's budget and helth care plan will spend more many than all the previous presidents.....combined!! Look it up and when you have to pay more taxes in a time where you already have less money, tell me how that makes you feel.
I have to pay a large insurance premium every month and now I will have to pay for people to lazy to work for it themselves.
Not by a long shot. He is like the energizer bunny. He takes a licking and keep on ticking. When it looks like he is down, he comes back even stronger. There are enormous issues facing this country that would break a lesser person. I may disagree with some of his policies and directions he has taken, but I'm still behind him 100%. Give him a break..the honeymoon is not over by a long shot.
Terri,
Charlotte, NC
Jack, the honeymoon was over before it started. How soon we forget what the Bush administration left behind for Pres.Obama to inherit. Record deficits and the worst financial situation left for any president in recent memory and then there is 2 unfinished wars. It has only been since January ! His critics probably could not get their lawn's mowed in this amount of time. He is really holding his own considering we are still finding out where all the bodies are buried from the past 8 years.
Marcus in Malibu
The honeymoon may or may not be over, but I have never seen a US president work so hard to tattle so many problems. I am grateful for his leadership and his commitment to the American people and to the world. His critics either don't have the wisdom or patience to grasp all he is accomplishing. Being shortsighted for so long got us into these problems. Now we are seeing what intelligent leadership looks like and some just don't recognize it yet.
The honeymoon still on. Do you have any altirnatives? As for me he is doing a good job. He's been in office for 5 months now. Have he taken any vacation yet? Congress will be in recess pretty soon. He should just pass the healthcare by himself without them.
I am no liberal, but I did vote for Obama and I attended his inauguration. I don't know if the honeymoon is over yet or not, but his presidency will be a failed presidency. He is all hat and no cattle. He is not a leader in the mold of a Roosevelt (take your pick) or an LBJ. Bob Young Atlanta, GA
I don't think he ever have any honeymoon
The man was running the show since he was a president elected back in November08
give me a break! All the GOP does is complain about EVERYTHING.
President Obama has done more to help this nation in 5 months than
George W. did in 8 years, and Obama is doing it with grace and
professionalism . It was the GOP that pushed us into the war with Iraq.
Now do they want to start another war? Just shut up and sit down for once!
What has Obama really done since he assumed office to deserve such high ratings in the polls?Not much.Obama mania is actually a state of mind unrelated to any actual achievements of the President.Therefore it is natural for such celebrity admiration to go south with the lapse of time alone.
The glow has dimmed for sure. Although I admire his forthright demeanor, at the end of the day, it's all about reality and the reality is that WE, the taxpayers, are going to get slammed and slammed hard. The Presidents health care reform proposal smells of rot because there is no way that we can provide health care to all..impossible. Providing illegal immigrants with no cost health care will sink the ship. I do agree that this is a need situation to address quickly but he needs to completely speel out to the public how and who is footing the costs. As for Iran and North Korea, he is faced with extreme sitiautions and I will stick by him in the short term as this requires a great deal of tact and diplomacy...something the last administration had neither of.
Hello Jack,
The Honeymoon was over when the Republicans started their "NO NO NO" campaign. Lets face it – When was the last time the Republicans were right??? About anything?? That's why we're in this mess we're in and don't let anyone forget it! They are all irresponsible and petty.
Even the best paint job won't hid a lemon forever. it's over, stick a fork in it.
Jack, we as citizens better hope "it ain't over". Obama was passed a "full plate" of problems PLUS a divided country. WE THE PEOPLE must insist, no, DEMAND that our elected officials get their acts together and come up with REAL solutions to those problems OR it won't be long before WE CITIZENS won't even have a "plate", full or empty to pass on to our children"!!!! The division must stop and WE all need to pray hard that solutions are found so that future Americans will also realize how great we were, are and will be.
I don't know about his 'HoneyMoon' but I sure do feel proud of him and his work so far.
If we can learn anything I hope it's that we really need genius-level intelligence in our President.
I wish him good luck and divine inspiration.
60 year old white guy.
Honeymoons are meant to be momentous, so if President Barack Obama’s with the American people is over, that's good news! Times for flimsy excuses are over.
Yes, the honeymoon is over. Howerver, this president has had the courage to take on serveral problems our nation is facing and because of this he does face all kinds of flack the right and some from his own party. Honeymoons are not meant to last a long time. I can attest to this as I have been married twice and the honeymoons usually last about an hour! I just hope my current wife does not watch this program today.
Yes. Finally people are realizing that Obama is the same kind of president as he was a candidate: great speaker, not much of a doer.
I think Obama is doing a good job. It is true that with Iran and North Korea there will be some really hard decisions to make with the economy being rough and the current wars we are waging, so let's see how he confronts these issues. Let's judge a person by what they do, not what we think they might do. As for criticism towards the president, I believe in free speech. I did not like Bush nor do I like the neo-conservative agenda and I feel that if I have something to say about it I can and will. People on the other side of the fence have the same right. Criticism and debating are healthy for a Republic such as ours.
President Obama NEVER had a honeymoon. He came into office running at top speed. I wonder how the McCains would have faired in this environment.
The President has eight years of "mess" to clean up....why expect him to resolve it in less than six months. The fact that someone is running at such break-neck speed and can continue to address international, war (Iraq), Korea, Iran problem, financial concerns, VIP's who come for government money with NO PLAN.....that is no HONEYMOON.
Inevitably it will be. Obama is a very likable guy but I believe that he bit off more than he can chew. A wise man knows his limitations, our young President is just scattering energy everywhere and not concentrating on a few priorities. If he accomplishes very little because of this unfocused behavior it ultimately will cost him reelection. People want results – not unfulfilled promises.
The "honeymoon" won't end until people realize they've been hoodwinked by BO and the media...and that is coming soon.
If the President's honeymoon is over it is only because the marriage has begun it's real purpose. That purpose is a long faithful relationship between partners that seek the greatest potential for the "Union". If America is unprepared to give this brilliant and dedicated man a fair chance, I don't believe anything can save her from the painful path of self destructive behavior.
He never had one! maybe after 8 years. After inheriting the worst deficit, two wars and an economic collapse, what honeymoon? dinner in Manhattan?
Since he is been in office, he is been signing legislation after legislation, he is even stood against the tobacco industry for which, he is been a customer for years. If there was a time the tobacco industry had a friend in the WH this would be the time, but the man is doing what we asked him to.
Honeymoon? give me a break!
Jack, why don't you and buddy Wolff tell us how a honeymoon feels like by working 4pm-6pm shift ?
Chama,
Dover, NH
Not by a long shot.
Eric R.
Towson, MD
As all honeymoons things come down to earth,some soon some later. I don't think Obama is super stud. At the sametime I don't think divorce is imminent.
I was ready for an anulment the day the stimulus "package" was signed by our President. Change can be difficult for those of us living through the present but the "economic and moral change" the administration is piling on to future generations is just wrong. It is one thing to fall into a hole, another to see the hole, jump in and command others to join you. Mr. President, kindly consider what you are doing to those ahead of us!
No, it's far from over, he just started. There is so much on his agenda, the American people need to be patient. He has inherited a mess, I can't believe anyone would say the honeymoon is over, he's doing a good job.
Karen
Yes its starting to go down hill for him. He was a true shooting star, got to the top super fast & now that people are getting a sense of what they bought, they are having buyers remorse. He is more popular then his policies & in politics that means you are dead meat when people fall out of love with you.
The honeymoon continues as long as the media allows the president to skirt tough questions as he did today on healthcare. When asked today if he was concerned that employers would choose a government funded insurance plan over their current health insurance, which is at odds with the presidents' "If you like what you currently have, keep it" campaign, he quickly spins: It's better than the employer cancelling coverage all together. The press corps doesn't even challenge.
Honeymoon still on.
President Obama is doing just great. Apparently people have a short memory, since Sept. 2008, one financial disaster after another has hit this country al while there are 2 wars going on. Remember he is the president, not a miracle worker.
The "honeymoon" is not quite over, but there are some signs that his popularity is starting to slip a bit. His slow and measured responses to Iran and North Korea are not sitting well with around half the people of our nation and thetrillion dollar health care plan is quickly losing steam. Some reform will likely pass, but a public option is going to be a near impossible sell with the current price tag.
Unfortunately the demise of President Obama's honeymoon will be rather dependent upon what set of media people read/watch/listen to. If you get daily doses of right-wing radio, TV named after a small four-legged creature, and tweets from Republican Politicians, and not much else, the honeymoon could meet an artificially early end. He must enact the things he set out to do, like healthcare and energy reform, now to be sure to get them done, and to ensure his own legacy. We must not forget what a pile of mess he was handed and how briefly this team has been running things.
Hi Mr. Cafferty,
As a Canadian, I must admit that I find the queston of a honeymoon period to describe the presidency a bit comical. He is the president and as such deserves at th very least a bit of respect.
It is appaling the disrect that is hurled at this president by some bloggers, and I find that some of the media personnel have a hard time addressing him as president.
In my humble opinion, I think that the president is doing an amazing job, considering the unsurmountable tasks that were and are placed in his path.
A honey lasts for as long as the the person(s) who are married feels it should last and based on my observation this president will have a very long one.
Have a good one Jack and keep up the good work. totally love your commentary each day. Give a shout out to Wolf as well.
PEACE
Carmelita
He's Toast – it could take decades to undo the damage he is doing to our economy
Yeah, pretty much. People are starting to realize he doesn't actually walk on water. His main problem is going to be keeping his democratic buddies in line.
Obama's Honeymoon is not over! He is the right man for the time, for the challenges we face and to help unite the world. I am amazed at what he is attempting to accomplish and I wish him all the best.
The People has to give our new President more than five months to get the mess cleaned up. They tooted Reagan's horn about tearing the wall down and it was already started before before he said anything. He had a fortune teller running the white house. The Republicans did not run Bush down until a few months before the 08 election, then they didn't stand so close to him.
Honeymoon? What honeymoon? President Obama, in my opinion, has more on his plate at this point in history than any of his predcessors. I did not and do not expect the economy to change in just six months and it would be unrealistic to expect such a thing.
President Obama has set the presidential tone with regard to Iran. America needs a thinker as opposed to a reactionary.
I voted for this man because of his intelligence, sincerity, poise, and presidential attributes. BTW, not that it matters, I am a moderate Republican.
Jeanne
California
President Obama inherited the worst possible scenario when he took office. He is doing his best to address a myriad of issues, any one of which would cause most people to just give up. I cringe at the thought of John McCain's being in charge of the country right now! We have a generation of Americans who expect instant gratification/success. We didn't get ourselves in the mess we're in overnight, and no one is capable of solving these problems in a just few months.
People also need to realize that solutions won't necessarily be painless. We need to stand behind our President and urge Congress to listen to him. He has the best minds available analyzing and attempting to map out strategies address our problems.
Thank God that we live in a country where our votes are heard. Now is the time to let our congressmen hear from all of us.
Deb n Texas wrote, "Jack, when you have a good and honest marriage the honeymoon is never over. I like to know why questions as this was not asked to Bush."
Good question and a great response Deb n Texas!!!
To those who think this man is doing a wonderful job, when was the last time a president spent $29,000 to take his wife on a "date?" When was the last time we allowed this without a wiff of disapproval. Sure it's great they love each other - so does George and Laura Bush! So did the Reagons; so did the first Bush president; so did the Carters. It's not unusual to love a spouse - what was unusual was the Clinton's relationship!!! So to all you voters and citizens who think he's doing a great job, let's see how you feel and believe when North Korea lands a rocket in your backyard.
Americans aren't going to start giving up on a President that finally listens to the people and is respected all over the world like President Obama is at the present time. And I would like to know how much money did Pressident Bush spend on an unnecessary war in Iran. At least this president is trying to spend money to make things better for Americans. Fred-Livingston, Al.
the anwer to your question is NO! This Pres. is faceing more problems than the last 5 Pres. combined. He's only been in office for less than 5 months and the media act as if he was suppose to fix everything in the first 2 weeks in office. Give the man a break! He inharited the worst economy since the great depression, a failed health care system, 2 wars, North Korea, Iran, a failing educational system, high unemployment, Pirates, a tanking stock market, cleaning up the mess of Gitmo and a Republican party whos answer to everything is NO! The media has the right to ask tough questions, thats their jobs, but unlike the media The American ppl are willing to give him the time he needs to fix what has been broken for more than 30 yrs.
Honeymoon? He can't even take Michelle out without Sean Hannity and Rush Limbaugh blowing a fuse!
It was over a long time ago. Dubya and Tricky Dick would have kicked N. Korea's, and Iran's -– a long time ago.
No, not unless he makes a major screw up. Everyone but the GOP likes him because he is real and one of the people. Obama acts like a person in power should and thinks before he speaks. He is methodical, likes to take his time and work to the root of the problem before he proposes anything (unlike the former President). The days of shoot first and ask questions later are over. With the economy settling down, so is the President. He has a four year term, not a 6 month term. Acting too quickly, arrogantly, having a poor plan with no regard to the consequences is what Bush & Co did to put the U.S. in the mess that it is in. Obama is the right man at the right time to clean up the mess. But if you think about it from his eyes with all the problems he’s had to face since taking over….what honeymoon?
The honeymoon is typically over by or before the 100th day. However, in President Obama's case, given the degree of economic, political and social upheaval he has favorably influenced – – not just in the United States, but globally, our 44th President has engendered enough global goodwill that affords him an undefined extended honeymoon period. As he influences democratic and economic reform at home and abroad, that leadership image will continue to earn him political goodwill at home – – contrarians, notwithstanding.
For the Repugs, he wasn't even sworn in and they were reporting his failures. For the Dems – a few months in and harsh reality has somewhat softened the initial glow, but as "newlyweds," we're still excited about our future together.
America needs to get over it's "sitcom timing" addiction. We seem to want everything sewn up and repaired in 1/2 hour. Our various crises will take years to get out of and I don't think there was a honeymoon. He had to hit the gates running and he has been doing that. If this mess is resolved in four years that would be a miracle. America needs to get real and have realistic expectations.
Hope not , I'm still having fun with the 1st true world President. From the looks of his popularity ratings in other countries, its not over for them either.
I was ready for an anulment the day the stimulus “package” was signed by our President. Change can be difficult for those of us living through the present but the “economic and moral change” the administration is piling on to future generations is just wrong. It is one thing to fall into a hole, another to see the hole, jump in and command others to join you. Mr. President, kindly consider what you are doing to those ahead of us!
A honeymoon is idealic...Obama is real. The so called press needs to sell time and creat controversary but they have forgotten how to be reporters so the discussion is is the honeymoon over. The discussion should be health care...Diane Feinstein did you read the polls lately. 87% Democrats and 72% all polled wanted universal health with choices. Come on guys forget the honeymoon...get with the people.
I agree with the opinion polls in which 60% still view the President favorably. I believe that the recession is ending due to his talent in juggling multiple crisis at the same time. He is not solving the problems left by the Bush administration one at a time, but actively pursuing solutions all at once.
I think that the honeymoon will end when all the major problems are resolved because then He risks being boring! What will be have to talk about?
I'm impressed that Obama has spent his time addressing the tough issues on the table rather than politicking about why what he's doing is the best course. We've needed someone who'll take action, rather than preparing for the next election. I voted for Obama, have always had my doubts about him, but I respect that he's working instead of talking about how well he's doing.
TO: Brian Smith PhD
Kudos! That is the best comparison I have heard in a very long time!!
*************************************************************************
Brian Smith PhD
June 23rd, 2009 4:06 pm ET
Presidents taking office are like the old 45 RPM phonograph record. You go buy the record and the “A” sounds pretty good. Then you flip it over and in most cases the “B” side isn’t quite as good. With the presidency, we hear the “A” side during the campaign, but once in office all we hear is the “B” side. The honeymoon is over.
It is a shame that this country is so fragmented that Obama cannot function without constant opposition. I don't see anyone with any better ideas.
NOPE! It's only just begun! People want results YESTERDAY! I can understand that. Three of my four kids have lost their jobs, only one got a new one and he had to move out of state to get it. But Rome wasn't built in a day, and our problems won't be solved as quickly as we'd like. But, the best of the best are working on it! Their programs have to be given time to work. (I'm praying they'll work before my kids are out on the streets!)
When 400 years of White Male Anglo Saxon Porstestant Rule ended on Jan 20, 2009, the outlook got a little better.
Partisan, partisan, partisan. Viewing the circumstances through "open" eyes is important to answering this question honestly Jack. After following the campaign and last 5 months of the new administration very closely one would have to say the honeymoon is definitely over. It's one thing to want to make all the improvements that Obama campaigned about and a completely different one to be able get everyone else to go along. That's just the nature of a rule by committee form of government.
Obama is quickly settling into the routine of a real marriage and you watch, those gray hairs will start popping up on his temples shortly.
Honeymoon as someone before posted is a stupid term, I agree. I used to be shocked at the level of public stupidity but now, I just sit back and watch as it gets worse. The republicans will complain all day long. They are more interested in bad-mouthing Obama and his policies than the good of the nation. After all, they have Rush, Newt and a religion to make decisions for them, they don't need to think for themselves. The man inherited a huge deficit and two unwinable wars. So now we as a county expect things to be fine and dandy already. He is trying to repair the damage of the past eight years (at least). The increase in our deficit is alarming, but what would have happened if he had done nothing? Yes we are even deeper in the hole, but at least we still have an economy. Health care reform? With all the republicans stirring up propaganda and the general stupidity of our public, he has his work cut out for him. Give the man a chance. I really wouldn't expect to see real results for at least two or three years.
When the Honeymoon is over you get to see if all of the things promised during the courtship can be kept. You may say a lot of things to get where you think you want to be. Once you get in the bed you have been jockeying for there are a lot of other influences that interfere with what really happens. Promises are one thing. When the rubber meets the road it is time to find out if you have any skin left and if you can perform or are found to just be a lot of smoke and mirrors. For all of our sake, I hope he has a few more rabbits than smoke.
What Honeymoon? Presidents don't get a so called honeymoon.
Leading a country is like steering a large ship, you change heading a little and things develop slowly. It is not like handling a sport car where things happen quickly. People need to be patient with their leaders.
The Democratic Party has a lot of 'interests' , not all can be completely satisified at any time; that is just the reality and has nothing to do with a Honeymoon being over.
There is going to be policy conflicts, that is why we have more than one branch of government and more than one political party and more than one news station.
Presidents tend to rule from the middle, within one standard deviation of the mean/norm; so of course the outlier opinions will always be dissatisfied that not enough is done in their direction.
Obama never had a honeymoon. Not only did he inherit a mess, he's got some pretty ugly opposition. He gets an A+ from me. Rome wasn't built in a day, you know.
I don't think so. The only problem is the American people like to drink "Instant Coffee" Good coffee takes time!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
To add to, most of these companies that was bailed out by the govt, had White CEO.
Dear Jack, you cannot be serious. For once we have thinking President. I love this guy. We should be thinking about a Constitutional amendment that will offer third and forth term options. Do you really think that the American public cares what some nitwit professor from an ivy league school thinks? Stick to the facts man. Can you remember a time in this Country’s history when a President has truly, and intelligently, addressed the monumental problems we need to fix? I don’t think of President Obama as a Democrat or as any other kind of politician. He is not a liberal or a conservative—he is a genuine, first class, American. He thinks about our people first and puts nothing ahead of their safety, their prosperity, or their well being. We have needed him for a long time, and thank God that he is here. Is the Honeymoon over—you cannot be serious. John
The honeymoon may not be quite over but it is getting a little long in the tooth. With so many problems to be faced, it is not surprising that the bloom is starting to come off the roses. Too many agendas both personal and group related to be able to keep everyone happy. It's still early in the game, however, and we will have to wait and see how he continues to play to the many, many diverse groups in this country.
yes!!!! i didn't marry him. as for me i wouldn't date let alone marry a socialist! the american people deserve a president who truely understands the need for strong borders and firm foriegn policy. Iran and N. korea will lead to another attack here. When will we stop blaming Bush and start holding Mr. Obama accountable.
All Polititians are President "Want to be" so the president should fire his entire cabinet and have them run the country into the ground
Is the honeymoon over?? I sincerely hope so. What has BoBo done except turn the United States into a broke 3rd world nation, embarassed the entire country by apologizing for being an American, shown the world that he is a weak, mealy mouthed individual who is hell bent on turning what is left of our nation into a socialist state. We can only hope and pray that a divorce comes quick before what we call the United States disappears forever.
Subject: Some Things Are Simple
An economics professor at a local college made a statement that he had never failed a single student before but had once failed an entire class.
That class had insisted that Obama's socialism worked and that no one would be poor and no one would be rich, a great equalizer.
The professor then said, "OK, we will have an experiment in this class on Obama's plan". All grades would be averaged and everyone would receive the same grade so no one would fail and no one would receive an A.
After the first test, the grades were averaged and everyone got a B.
The students who studied hard were upset and the students who studied little were happy.
As the second test rolled around, the students who studied little had studied even less and the ones who studied hard decided they wanted a free ride too so they studied little.
The second test average was a D! No one was happy.
When the 3rd test rolled around, the average was an F.
The scores never increased as bickering, blame and name-calling all resulted in hard feelings and no one would study for the benefit of anyone else.
All failed, to their great surprise, and the professor told them that socialism would also ultimately fail because when the reward is great, the effort to succeed is great but when government takes all the reward away, no one will try or want to succeed.
Could not be any simpler than that.
It may be that the honeymoon is over, but the divorce with the GOP is just about finalized. And with 60% approval rating after the honeymoon - I'd say this marriage is going to last for about another 7 years and 5 months.
His honeymoon was over when he failed to walk his talk. There is no change we can believe in, there is a constant running for a second term and his legacy. Guantanamo, white house logs, allowing more strip mining. Guile and cunning will get you only so far then you have to actually do something. It takes audacity to publically sign a bill against smoking when you cant kick the habit even as President of the United States. Wasn't that a promise?????
Jack , We gave the man a job we didn't marry him. He said he could do the job better than anyone else now we expect him to do do it from day one. Jack From Nice Ca.
Not with me. He has done more in less than 6 months for getting this country on the right track then the republicans even thought about the last 8 years. He is a phenomenal President. For once, Americans got it right!
I don't think so. President Obama is doing his best to get this economy back on track..and I think people (the media included) should give him the time to do so. President Obama has been in office for 6 months..and one is crazy to think that he can wave a magic wand and fix the economy just like that. He said from day one..that it's not goig to happen overnight..so I don't know why everyone is "tripping". GIVE THE MAN A CHANCE..and don't be so quick to judge.
No. President Obama has a lot to take care of and he is doing a great job.
President Obama is a man of the people, not of politics.
President Obama is not afraid to do what is necessary even if he meets with opposition from Republicans and even some Democrats. The louder they cry the more I know he is doing the right thing for us, the American People.
Jack,
The President and most conservative Republicans – especially Limbaugh and Hannitty – never had a honeymoon. They decided to annul the marriage even before Obama took the oath of office. You can't have a honeymoon when one of the partners believes it is a shot gun wedding and is illegitimate. By the way, who would want to marry Limbaugh or Hannitty anyway?
Jack,
I sincerely hope the honeymoon is finally nearing an end. We have record deficits, the government taking over major corporations, unemployment above 9%, continued insults to our allies and appeasement to our enemies.... I think Iran will be the tipping point. Now, perhaps, Americas will see that he is an appeaser and that there was a reason why Bush and Natanyahu refuses to deal with Ahmedinijad. I think it was also disgusting that he wants women to be free to wear hijabs.... but not free to not wear them. He also supported legislation to deny medical care to babies born alive after a botched abortion while denoucing waterboarding of known terrorists (3 total).
TO: Deb n Texas
What makes you think this question wasn't asked of President Bush? This is a common question asked of every president I can remember in my lifetime (47 years). If Obama's Administration can't handle a softball like this one, it's no wonder all the reporters tip-toe around him like they're walking on eggshells! And as far as President Bush is concerned, Obama's still using him as an excuse for his mistakes. I think it's time Obama started taking some blame for the TRILLIONS of dollars in debt that HIS administration has put this country in.
Deb n Texas June 23rd, 2009 4:07 pm ET
Jack, when you have a good and honest marriage the honeymoon is never over. I like to know why questions as this was not asked to Bush.
Obama isn't Jesus – and he's not going to turn water into wine in 5 months. While I'm a die-hard republican, I want to give him a chance for success - it's the only way we can survive. Personally, I didn't care for JWB, and Obama inherited a heck of a lot of probs. I can only wish him (and us) the best.
Jack:
Quick! Get the GOP on the phone and tell them the American people made a mistake – we really need John McCain and Sarah Palin to save us from ourselves. No wait! George, Dick, Karl, and Scooter might still be available – lets try to get them back.
You know what they say: you can't please everyone all of the time. Add to that the constant background chatter of anyone who disagrees with the President's decisions regardless of their personal motives. I think we are lucky to have this Administration handling these problems, at least I have hope that my tax dollars will not be used as tax breaks for greedy, self-interested, valueless corporate types. Yes, there are groups who are trying to push their agenda ahead of the President's mission to the country as a whole but if people step back and remember as little as 8 months ago – I think they will be thankful for their choice now.
Janell – Sanford, FL
Obama is a zero and I can not wait for his liberal, give-away policies to be done. He is spending this nation into oblivion and giving this country away. We will Never be the super country we were in the past, as he is going to see that we are a facist nation. I can not wait for his 'reign' to be over!
I hate the term "honeymoon" when it's related to politics. We didn't get married to the man. I do worry about who is going to pay the price for all this spending. Even key Democrats are now saying out loud that Obama's healthcare reform doesn't have a good chance of passing. If we don't stop spending and start seeing results, then this "honeymoon" will last 4 short years.
The fact that you brought up some criticisms and controversies proves that the Honeymoon is indeed over. While he is doing a decent job so far, the hype is starting to fade a bit and people will gradually become more used to the idea of him being the President
It soon will be Jack, the press that stimulates him, NBC, ABC & CNN will soon start turing away, and facing reality with his about face agenda's. Reality is about to sink in, even for his most faithful followers who for some reason think he is their answer to all that is good. He is digging himself into a hole that he wont be able to climb out of. N Korea will bring him to his kness, and when that happens and he is forced to react militarily hsi supporters will go ape.
I hope the honeymoon is over, it's about time the public wakes up to the unreversable damage he is about to do to this great nation.
Heck no!! In my opinion, its only just begun! !
President Obama had neither Honey or Moon; he has had to deal with massive problems EVEN before he took office.
Jack, do you remember weeks before he was sworn in; people wanted to know what they should do about the economy? This President has not had a honeymoon and will not be fortunate to get one in his first term.
Until healthcare is passed and the economy is back on strong ground; I am sorry, he'll be unable to take a vacation.
Hello President Obama, go on a burger run if and when you can; sorry man, no getting away to Hawaii anytime soon...even those you believe are your friends will certainly complain.
Take heart my friend, you rest will be long time coming so take of the kids; they'll remember what you are doing much more than the average person.
If the president's well stated " honeymoon " is about to be over like you are implying, it's because the liberal media such as CNN finally realized that Obama is not the chosen one after all. I guess ! promised fortunes are becoming more important than being charismatic.
Unfortunately, the "honeymoon" continues. I just wish the average, center-right American voter would realize that this political neophyte does not govern, but rather he is on a personal mission to destroy the class structure of America, to punish the rich through oppressive taxation, and to create a permanent liberal legislative majority that makes the people forever dependent on the federal government. He is a Statist who believes that government is the answer to every problem. Entrepreneurship, hard work and the American Dream will soon be remnants of the past as our President, the modern version of Karl Marx, slowly erradicates the foundational principles of our great society in favor of the UAW, abortion rights activists and the religion of liberalism.
This whole "honeymoon' period is incredibly stupid. This man has done more in the five months since he has been president than any other I can recall in my lifetime and I'm not young. Would that you in the media had given "W" and his NEOCONS the same scrutiny that this poor guy has to go through. It took a heck of a long time to get in this mess and it will take time to get out of it. You media people make me crazy – go get a real job like welding, digging ditches, go sweat a bit then come back and ask questions that make sense.
Give our President a break. He is doing a great job at a most critical time in our history both domestically and internationally.
My day was made when Wolfowitz came out of his cave to critiicize the President about not being more strident in tone about Iran. This from the man who took us to Iraq with no exit plan. Mr. Wolfowitz go back to your dark place with Mr. Cheney and all your other Neocons!!
No, the Republicans want it to be so but the people in overwhelming votes showed that Obama is what we need in this country. He will not jump into something for political gain, he is the most moral and honest man we have had in the white house in a long time. We are so lucky to have him.
That's a stupid question. Once my honeymoon was over it didn't mean that my husband no longer cared for me. It meant that it was time to get off cloud 9 and get down to the business of living each day. If that's the case, then let's hope his honeymoon is over. He has a lot of work to do to get this country back on track.
not over with me, and I used to be a Republican until George Bush Jr's second term.
I appreciate his commitment to the country, but I am uncomfortable with all the spending. It still has not trickled down to main street.
I'll get a tax break and then I have to turn around and pay taxes, where is the benefit?
I wish that the spending would stop and allow these initiatives to work. I for one would not mind my social security taxes to increases because I don't the burden of this spending to fall on the shoulders of my grandchildren and their children.
Not with me! This Guy has so much on his plate it's not funny. He's done more to shake up this country in 5 mere months of his administration than -uh, compare that with the last 8 years of stagnation. Shake up the Economy, Shake up Health Care, Shake up the Enviornmental Issues. At last, I can see the US being in the competion for the 21st century and Beyond! God Bless Obama. We are really fortunate to have one so classy and polished yet down to earth. If you were looking for role models-There you go!
teric:
"Mr. Obama" is a very polite refference, which stands in stark contrast to what the haters on the Left called Bush. Mr. Obama is a man, one who needs to move unabashedly to the middle and govern on behalf of the US-not the Democrats. So the question of the " is the honeymoon over?" should really not be asked. Leadership does not mean being popular; it means making tough decisions, accepting responsibility and suffering unending criticism from all quarters. Sounds like a great job, huh?
Mr. Obama won the office, now he needs to get out there and lead the nation-for better or worse. History will take care of the rest.