I voted for President Obama and I like some of what he's accomplished in a short time. But while he's my President, he's far from "my hero". As I explained in an earlier post, it's not likely that he'll even get my vote in 2012. I just think it's fair to give the new President more than 170 days before we decide that he's changed the fundamental system of governance of the country. (I know that Joe Biden says they've only been in charge for 140 days, but sometimes Joe has 'senior moments' and forgets a few days here and there.)

Regarding who's responsible for what, I agree with SteveZ on the culpability of the U.S. Congress. Yes, the President has the bully pulpit and the power of the veto, but the pattern of significantly outspending the revenue stream is and has been the result of a special interest-driven and irresponsible Congress moreso than either of our last two Presidents. I'd be happy to begin with replacing 'the 435' even before I got to the other 100 that make up 'the 535'.