Obama as the Podas

Based on Barber's theory, Obama would be categorized as active passive, but in actuality, he is aiming to be active positive but is struggling with congress, especially after his first two years. Obama has until recently used his power as president aggressively, (immigration bill/ vetos) and although he seems to put in attempts to woe over congress he has come out with little success. Republicans have refused to get along with Obama and have not given much bargaining room, ruining his hopes of bipartisanship. This is also partly his fault as he has been more reactive than proactive on making deals at the right time. He met with the Republican Caucus on Capital Hill in an attempt to work out a bargain, however the leadership had already put a heavy foot down on a no vote to the stimulus bill. This shows his aspirations to get things done, however as far as follow through goes there is not much to support his activeness. Despite having powers granted in the constitution, the powers a president has changes depending on the person holding office and Obama lacked the ability to take charge and obtain control. Obama had confidence in his ability and wanted to deal with bigger things than the economy; he wanted to make a legacy and that would not be possible when he's focused on banks. He out in efforts with Mr. Boehner on the stimulus bill but because of the tea pastiest the deal fell through. However, this does not mean Obama's entire presidency is a failure. His optimism never quivers and h still makes effort to bring change. He has the qualities we look for in a president but his environment is not the best. He is bad with the use of his powers as a bargaining tool, but he tries his best to be an active and positive president. He simply isnt as strong of a force to congress as he should be. Republicans show him no respect as commander and cheif. He is a big softy which is not the way to see your agenda set, especially not when the political climate is at its harshest and the government is divided. The president is supposed to seem larger than life, but Obama's too nice and innocent to accomplish his Agenda. America needs a guy who can force congress into making hard deals and not have policy loyal to his party and then expects republicans to agree with it.