Obama can Tackle the Tough Foreclosure Situation by getting Tough

The defeat at Massachusetts has chastened Obama and he admitted to having made mistakes and failed to address the problems of the Middle Class. He said that the Americans were left with a “feeling of remoteness and detachment” from his seat of power – Washington; Obama as disarmingly candid.

He said, “We were so busy just getting stuff done and dealing with the immediate crises that were in front of us that I think we lost some of that sense of speaking directly to the American people about what their core values are and why we have to make sure those institutions are matching up with those values.”

But the time has come for action if he wants results in November – not too far ahead.

Firstly he should put aside the weighty health care bill for a slimmer version that would even now get the support from a couple of Republicans. He should heavily come down on the insurance companies by making them accept more modifications, not refuse borrowers for falling ill and offer simple coverage to many who were not insured. Limits should be placed on ridiculous hikes in premiums without wasting time.

Secondly flow of dollars should be expedited from what is remaining of the $787 billion and target these for job creating. Nearly two thirds of the funds are still there.

Thirdly efforts should be redoubled to force through regulatory changes. Many are furious about the Wall Street bonuses and unless the whole issue is reined in public ire could continue to be dangerously hostile.

Fourthly other issues could be pushed back till another year – even that dealing with laws pertaining to the environment.

Fifthly it is well to remember that the Democrats continue to hold a majority in the Senate (59/41). Moderate victories are attainable instead of big targets like 60 votes. The anachronistic rules of the Senate need overhauling but that would require 67 votes – hence it should be forgotten for the time being.

Sixthly it is necessary to bring back transparency to the moves in Washington – in keeping with the promises made during the campaign. Voters of all shades are impatient with the usual business practices Washington is following – particularly the backroom deals and continued intrusion of the big financing lobby.

Last but not least Obama has to be tough and show his grit. Although the present prospect looks bleak there is still hope. A tremendous effort is required and Obama has shown previously that he can jump back. He gets tough as the going gets rough.