The last longread of this week is about the value of the bully pulpit in American politics. It is often assumed that through poignant speeches and dedicated rhetoric that the POTUS can shape public opinion and public policy. However, evidence suggests otherwise and even indicates that in some cases these tactics may hinder the President's agenda. Given the rampant political divides in America, I think this article provides a useful, albeit disappointing, dose of reality for those who expect Obama to truly change policy or how things are done in Washington.
"The Unpersuaded" by Ezra Klein
Publishes in the New Yorker, March 19, 2012
http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2012/03/19/120319fa_fact_klein
Eric
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