They Also Won

clipped from www.powerlineblog.com But Obama may soon face a more ominous problem than any perception of incompetence arising from the botched nominations -- the perception of weakness. Events have conspired to make economic stimulus legislation the first major substantive issue Obama faces as president, and it's obviously a critical one. So far, it is painfully apparent (1) that the congressional Democrats, not the president, are in control of this issue and (2) that congressional Democrats are running amok. Obama is reduced to pleading with the Dems to show restraint, while trying to induce Republicans to provide him cover by signing on to the boondoggle. His failure (so far) to succeed with Dems ensures his failure to succeed with Republicans. And Obama cannot play the "I won" trump card with the Democrats. They also won, and thus feel entitled to the spoils. Obama also faces a substantial risk of appearing weak in the realm of foreign policy. That risk is self-created. Now, some of these regimes are kicking Obama.