I don’t usually get too political over here. Sure, I have my opinions, but I don’t claim to be a political guru, by any means. Last night, however, I watched Obama’s news conference focusing on the economy, and felt the urge to comment.
I can’t lie – for a little while, I was having bad flashbacks to my college econ classes, hearing him throw around terms like “gross domestic product” and “structural deficits” and “fiscal responsibility.” (Responsibility? That’s just crazy talk.) And I was really only partially tuned in at first, as I was finally sitting down to do my taxes (woo.freaking.hoo.). But then, during the questions on AIG and why it took so long to react, Obama said one of the best things I’ve heard from him since he’s taken office:
“It took us a couple of days [to react] because I like to know what I’m talking about before I speak.“
Why am I so struck by this comment? I mean, you should expect politicians to know what they’re talking about, right? Right…? Or maybe:
You know why someecards are funny? Because they’re usually true.
It’s been said before, but the bar was set so low that anything even moderately acceptable that Obama does, is a happy surprise. Even speaking coherently. (Granted, that sentiment has faded a bit in these past couple months.)
Ideally, we should be able to look to our leaders as role models. So, maybe this whole “knowing what you’re talking about before you speak” idea will eventually sweep the nation.
Who knows? Stranger things have happened.
The only downside is there is a hell of a lot less to make fun of.
Hmm…what about…no, you’re right. I got nothing.
Also? Having our president actually talk to us about what going on?
its a crazy idea. Now we are all going to feel “informed” and stuff.
Informed? What’s that?
You know, I purposefully didn’t watch it yesterday because there’s been so many of these speeches since he came into office and my brain hurts so much from all the news about the economy.
But this quote? Is why I admire the man. It’s nice to hear that a politician wants to think about something before reacting to it.
Loved this post!
I’m on the other side – I felt a little guilty because I haven’t been watching the speeches. But after that line, I was glad I caught this one!
I just like looking at Obama’s NCAA tournament bracket.
I’m pretty sure his success in his bracket will determine his success with the country. Just sayin’.
Hooray for someecards. They make the world go round.
Well, them and lolcats. Can’t forget the kittehs.
The kittehs are growing on me. Slowly but surely.
I didn’t watch; not on purpose, I’m just slow-witted like that. But I heard about that line, and if there had been a checklist of moments that would validate my vote last November, this would have been one.
Here’s a little secret: if I hadn’t already had the TV on for Biggest Loser, I might not have watched either…
Obama’s presidency is a sorta double edged sword- on one hand we are impressed he’s working hard, coherent, and can pick one hell of a NCAA bracket. He’s a leader, hopeful, and cool.
On the other hand we chose him to be the guy to get us out of the mess we are in now- and a lot of us are going to judge his presidency and election on his results. Why did we vote for him? Because we want change- now he has to do it.