BDBoop
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The beef that I, and many I identify with most closely, have with much of the criticism being pitched at Barack Obama is simply that it is not constructive. Each time a decision is made that is not whatever enough for The Best Progressives, the knee-jerking, the hysteria, and the hyperbole is *immediately* turned up to eleven. The past week is a perfect example, with ScheduleGate and OzoneNationalAmbientAirQualityStandardsGate. Or whatever were calling it.
The Obama Administration provided explanation on both of these items. ScheduleGate is not a big deal. Its just not. As for OzoneEtcGate, the letter from Cass Sunstein to the EPA on the air quality standards decision is a particularly important read. Im not a policy wonk, I dont claim to understand every detail of this issue, but I understand enough to know my hair shouldnt be on fire over it. The explanation in the letter makes sense to me. Part of my job has me working within the confines of regulatory cycles and individual rule issuance. I can attest wholeheartedly to the confusion and headaches caused by conflicting regulations and rules that are put in place as a result of poor planning and shitty governance. It makes compliance impossible, it creates unnecessary risk, and more often than not winds up costing a lot of money. Effective planning and governance means making the right decisions at the right times to encourage the right behaviors and appropriate accountability. I repeat: my hair is not on fire over this issue.
So heres the frustration: stuff happens, and The Best Progressives are immediately thrown into a tizzy. Fueled by a toxic combination of media talking points, visceral outrage, and a deep insecurity that weve all been suckered by a Republican plant by the name of Barack Obama, the pitchforks come out.
Obama caved!
Obama is just like Bush!
Obama needs a spine!
Obama needs to act like a real Democrat!
Obama doesnt deserve to be reelected!
Obama is betraying the base!
Palin was right Obama doesnt have any executive experience!
(Oh sorry about that last one. I dont know how that made its way in there.)
Those familiar with the IT industry may have heard of the Gartner Hype Cycle. I know, I know just bear with me on this, I promise I have a point. The Hype Cycle has five phases, and even though its supposed to be about new technology, the same shit applies
Virtual Daze» Blog Archive » On Criticizing the President
Good points.