Who is Barack Obama? What does he stand for?

Clive Crook, a commentator Adam respects, wrote this column before the G20.

During last year’s election campaign, Barack Obama’s supporters stressed his promise as a leader who could restore US standing in the world. Even at home, despite the worsening economy, many of Mr Obama’s fans deemed this his most important virtue. The rest of the world agreed. Understanding that nothing happens unless America takes charge, few other governments were opposed to a renewal of US leadership. On the contrary, most longed for it.

Crook then discusses reality as opposed to fantasy. He highlights how rhetoric in some areas has replaced substantive change. This is a column well worth reading.

Make sure you read the conclusion:-

Opinion polls in the US show a disparity between Mr Obama’s personal approval rating, which remains high, and views about his policies, which are less favourable. A poll of world leaders would likely echo the sentiment. At home and abroad, then, the same two questions arise. How long can Mr Obama remain popular if his actions, for one reason or another, are not? And what is popularity worth anyway, where the calculus of ends and means remains unmoved?

Crook identifies the key issue. Who is Barack Obama and what does he actually stand for?  He may not have framed it that way, but that to Adam is the essence of the column.

Why? Crook highlights how many aspects of policy follow Bush, the same if not increased condescension to allies; plus a degree of arrogance and dictatorial action that is unprecedented in recent history.

Is Obama the Imperial President?

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