A subdued Obama appeared on my favorite Sunday morning talk show today, and parried some pointed questions from Tim Russert. Overall, I was impressed with his intelligence and his understanding of the issues. Every time he was about to get on a roll, though, he got interrupted by Mr. Russert.
Aside from the interruptions, Obama made the case for:
1. preserving social security by lifting the cap on taxable earnings above $97,500 (possibly with a "donut hole" to protect middle income earners)
2. withdrawing troops from Iraq except for those needed to conduct counter-terrorism against Al-Qaeda-in-Iraq and protect the embassy.
3. diplomacy with Iran including possibly meeting with Iran's leaders and offering carrots and sticks.
4. civil unions with all federal protections and benefits of marriage for homosexual couples (but not gay marriage).
All of these positions are somewhat complicated, but I think the American people are capable of understanding them and coming together behind them.
What Obama didn't get to talk much about:
1. health care
2. his biography
All in all, a good discussion for Obama. Here's the link to the show's website, which should have a transcript up soon.
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