Obama Two Years Later

It is interesting to see all the coverage today of the 50th annniversary of John F. Kennedy's inauguration.

While it is certainly noteworthy occasion it does seem to obscure the fact exactly two years have passed since Barack Obama was sworn into office by Chief Justice John Roberts. We have arrived at the mid-way point of Obama's presidency and his promises of hope and change have made some nostalgic for JFK's high hopes.

Perhaps the most memorable part of Obama's inauguration speech was his proclamation of a "new era of responsibility." Well, President Obama has spent a good portion of his first two years in office holding others responsible for his actions, most notably President Bush. Combine this with his efforts to transform American society beyond recognition the American electorate responded by electing a Republican Congress.

Despite the Democrats recent electoral setback, President Obama's numbers have rebounded. A Gallup Poll from earlier this week had his job approval at 49% while his job disapproval was at 43%. While that is long way from approval ratings of near 70% he enjoyed in May 2009 when the Tea Party was in its nascency. However, it might be all he needs. If Obama is not faced with a Democratic primary challenger it will be nearly impossible for any Republican to dislodge him from the White House next year.

On the other hand, a week in politics is a lifetime. If the economy does not improve, if Obamacare is still an issue and if there is a major terrorist attack on U.S. soil, heaven forbid, it could mean someone other than Barack Obama will be taking the oath of office two years from today.