First, let me just say that I was one of those folks who counted the number of vacation days that George Bush took. It made me crazy that he was playing golf as we were going to war. So I've been pleased to see Barack Obama pushing hard to get things done in his first six months in office. The efforts to move us out of Iraq, to deal with the issues of torture, and to manage to make two laps around the world shaking hands and rebuilding bridges was much appreciated.
Now, frankly, he looks a bit tired. How can you blame him? So, as we sit here the first day of August, with the dog days of summer now upon us, and the health care plan clearly stuck in the mud, it's time to take a few days off. Heck, maybe a week.
Not one of those photo-op vacations with the family and a crew of press. Rather, a real down time vacation. Barack -- you've earned it, and you need it.
Here's why:
The health care "pitch" is off key. It lacks the media focus, the salesmanship, and the confidence that Obama has brought to all his other efforts so far. Yes, the stimulus appears to be working. Yes, he's getting his choice for Supreme Court Justice. But on health care, he seems to be saying: "Trust me," we'll work it out.
The details are sketchy at best. In town hall meetings, the president seems only barely to understand the plan he's promoting. When asked why companies will continue to offer more expensive private health care when a low cost public option is available, he punts. When scared seniors ask him about a rumor that they'll be asked to choose how they want to die, the president jokes that the government doesn't have enough employees to go door to door. That's hardly funny to folks who are scared about losing their health insurance. Even his own Democrats, who will absolutely need him to campaign for mid-term re-election runs, aren't lining up to support the Obama plan. The president's response? "Ok, then create your own plan." Huh? Really? Is he so desperate to reform health care that he'll sign any reform? Shouldn't Rahm Emanuel be over on Capital Hill with a flame thrower getting the Democrats to line up?
The good news is, this is a bump in the road. He'll get it sorted out, and there will be a plan that he can get aggressive and excited about. But not in August. He's human after all, and he needs a break.
The rumor mill buzz is that he's headed to Martha's Vineyard, but that's a mistake. Too many ghosts of presidents past. You may remember that Bill and HIllary with always on the Vineyard. Also, as the Vineyard is known as "Hollywood East." The stories about cozy relationships between celebs and the prez are certain to be fodder for articles like this one.
So, let's figure out where he should go. There are plenty of choices.
Hawaii -- Sure, it's his home turf but it's way off the beaten path. Pros: great surfing and great fishing and amazing weather. Cons: average folks don't relate and it's a long flight.
Chicago -- again, home turf, but not known as a vacation hot spot. In fact, very hot. So maybe save Chicago for Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years.
Jersey Shore -- Ah, now here's an idea. He could hang with Bruce! A bit blue collar, which is good. He's chill'in but he's also not going overboard. He could have have some sand, and still be having a bit of a low key bit of down time.
So, time to pack the RV and head somewhere. Being the president is about leadership after all, and leading the nation on a few days of low cost, low stress R&R isn't such a bad idea.
Health care? Let's dig in after Labor Day -- okay?
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