Articles

Obama's Straw Men

February 25, 2009

President Barack Obama reveres Abraham Lincoln. But among the glaring differences between the two men is that Lincoln offered careful, rigorous, sustained arguments to advance his aims and, when disagreeing with political opponents, rarely relied on the lazy rhetorical device of "straw men." Mr. Obama, on the other hand, routinely ascribes to others views they don't espouse and says opposition to his policies is grounded in views no one really advocates.

On Tuesday night, Mr. Obama told Congress and the nation, "I reject the view that . . . says government has no role in laying the foundation for our common prosperity." Who exactly has that view? Certainly not congressional Republicans, who believe that through reasonable tax cuts, fiscal restraint, and prudent monetary policies government contributes to prosperity.

Mr. Obama also said that America's economic difficulties resulted when "regulations were gutted for the sake of a quick profit at the expense of a healthy market." Who gutted which regulations?

FULL ARTICLE: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123561484923478287.html

Related Article

D47af031f1833b4cedce5301f1409e77
July 30, 2026 |
Article
The Democratic Party’s leadership could easily be overrun by the Democratic Socialists of America. Normal Democrats had better keep that from happening. ...
A039080191aa8446747a6e85ba41025b
July 23, 2026 |
Article
It’s a seductive tale. Nasty villains with evil plans to make us miserable. But they can be beaten. When they are, life will be fuller and more rewarding with peace and harmony forever. All you have to do is elect us. ...
42d93a7bf80d0ce2c83b04d3bdf35791
July 16, 2026 |
Article
While a few primaries are still ahead, each party’s fall lineup is coming into focus. Republicans should have four things going for them, Democrats five. ...
Bc2e1563661b07f73e67f43a094d7b2f
July 09, 2026 |
Article
America is politically polarized and narrowly divided. In the last presidential election, Donald Trump received 49.8% of the aggregate popular vote, while Kamala Harris got 48.3%. By that measure, it was the fourth-closest White House contest since 1888. ...
Button karlsbooks
Button readinglist
Button nextapperance