when making such choices it should not be between populist or statists...very often a real leader has to take a position that is not popular for the masses or the politicians.

Real tried and true leaders are very often not very popular. They do what has to be done...NO MATTER WHAT... the end result is usually the proof in the making.

Leaders usually have more information at their disposal than all others and there are times when he/she cannot share certain information to make what they do or did more palitable to the masses.

Politicians by nature are unable to make risk involved decisions to do what ever it takes....mainly because it conflicts with one the ability and capability and most certainly could affect their re-election.

It is one thing to lead by having the appropriate staffing to cover one's weaknesses or compliment their strengths. Politicians like Obama and far too many before him only have staff as rewards to owed individuals, hence there is no covering of weaknesses and certainly no strengths to match.
Hence, like Obama (and those before him) they tend to sit on the sidelines and see which way sentiment is blowing before taking a position. Many like Obama take no position at all like he did when in the senate by voting "present" on select controversial issues.

I will take a real leader each and every time one is available. There is a reason why they are not found in politics...they too cannot stomach mediocrity and non performance!!!

btk