Speaking near the Key Bridge in Washington D.C. Tuesday, President Obama used the opportunity to ask Congress to continue funding for the Federal Highway Trust Fund, an action which would ensure employment for hundreds of thousands of workers. “It’s not that hard,” said the President who has clearly reached his limit of frustration with the uncooperative Congress.
There is talk of suing the President for excessive use of executive orders – a further waste of time and energy by Republicans. It’s worth noting that nothing was said when President Bush issued 291 executive orders. It wasn’t an issue when Reagan issued 364! President Obama issued 168 and the rumor is, he has declared himself ‘King.’ Suddenly we’re living in an ‘authoritarian dictatorship.’ America, you are crazy.
The President explained why he used the process to help the beleaguered middle class:”obstructionism keeps the system rich for those who are doing fine, at the very top. It prevents us from helping more middle class families.” Speaking of Congress he continued; “As long as they insist on not taking actions that will help anybody, I’m going to take actions on my own that will help the middle class.”
Obama delineated projects he has undertaken. “Like the actions I’ve already taken to speed up construction projects and attract new manufacturing jobs, lifting worker’s wages and helping students pay off their student loans.”
Indignant, and rightfully so, he added, ” And they criticize me for this. Boehner sued me for this.”
Many Democrats have been frustrated at the President’s repeated attempted to reach across the aisle, only to be rebuffed. His actions and level if indignation have been a long time coming. Some articles about the speech call Obama’s attitude “Arrogant” – clearly an intentional misconception. This is a man who has reached his limit after numerous attempts to engage Congress. Speaking of that august body, Obama maintained that he had attempted to work with them. “And I told them I’d rather do things with you to pass some laws!
“As long as they’re doing nothing, I’m not going to apologize for trying to do something,” he declared.
Amen, and about time!