Inaugural Observations: Bush Relieved – Obama Nervous

White watching the Inauguration of the 44th President yesterday, most striking was the expressions and general demeanor of both George W. Bush and Barack H. Obama, as they prepared to exchange, what has become, for all intents and purposes, Party Leadership of the nation. (The later based on the premise that the President of the United States is the Titular Leader of his/her specific political party.)

While President Bush made his way to the ceremony, walking through crowds and past camera’s, one could not help but notice that his demeanor was relaxed and that he looked somewhat relieved. The burden of the office being what it is, the responsibility to the people, cannot be taken lightly or with certain arrogance – George Bush was elected to that office twice, he understood the responsibility all too well, and made decisions (unpopular as they may have been), which he truly felt were in the best interest of the nation (being privy to information that even the New York Times could not ferret out).

Enter Barack Obama, smiling, ever-so-slightly, appeared somewhat subdued, as if he was just given the keys to the dungeon (or, in truth, the codes to nuclear Armageddon). It was no wonder then, that during the oath, some stumbling of words took place – the responsibility of a position that is bestowed upon very few individuals by the people – those people who have the power to turn on a dime from adoring fans to detractors.

Therefore, as a Conservative, who has watched the pounding that President Bush took from a relentless press, as well as his own constituents who were expecting more in the line of social reforms, I feel some pity for the 44th President. The bar has been set so high, and expectations, once set, are difficult to damper (even with a call for sacrifice), that it is a matter of time before the detractors begin to vocalize, and the opposition, poised for the least mistake, will take full advantage of any missteps made along the way. His biggest challenge will be curtailing the excesses of a Congress in concert, one in which the strong personalities of Reid and Pelosi are driven by both ego and ideology. It is imperative, at this point, that support for the President be given by all Citizens of the United States of America, unless and until, the man makes credible errors that are cause for debate.

Although it is understood that half of America follow a more “conservative” frame of reference, the fact remains that Barack Hussein Obama is our President and should be treated as such. One cannot help but believe that certainly, he has the best interest of the people and the nation in mind, not unlike his predecessor, President George W. Bush. The difference between the two is simple, conservative are quietly critical (some), while those on the left will be exceptionally vocal should they not see every single campaign promise come to pass, and quickly. President Obama understands that he walks a fine line between breaking campaign promises and angering the left, while trying to maintain a middle-of-the-road governing style that will appease the center. (Not to mention that he now understands and is privy knowledge regarding every crisis this nation faces.) Should he fail at both, then his tenure, like Carters, will be shortened, regardless of any accomplishments he may make.