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The First 100 Days: Who’s Really Counting?

By: Marlon Hill

MIAMI – It was only yesterday that millions of people in the United States and around the world were recovering from the elation of the election of President Barack Obama. A sea of change swooped into our lives. Literally.

Though our memory is short, we have taken the snapshot of 100 days as a benchmark of presidential achievement and prediction of the future. It is not only a moment of reflection, but it is also an assessment of ability and capacity. It is a historical microscope.

For those who voted (and those who didn’t), it is important to note that our civic engagement played a big role in this election. In this regard, one should be reminded that it is not only President Obama’s record that ought to be evaluated, but also the role we play in the process. As the world pontificates about his first 100 days, we neglect to self-reflect on our job as citizens. Notwithstanding, it is important to pause for a moment.

First and foremost, the image of Barack and Michelle Obama and their family is a powerful reality for many. Their mere presence transcends the color of their skin. The essence of their family is a poignant message and refreshing tone for the White House. Likewise, the openness of the White House is a pleasant reminder of who really owns the House. This will bode well in how we continue to evaluate the Obama Administration’s record in the months and years to follow.

For image, tone, and temperament, he receives an A.

Second, his style of communication is a consistent hold-over from the campaign trail. He is steady, confident, and clear. Conversely, President Obama has not fully utilized opportunities to speak directly to the American people to announce or discuss policy initiatives. He cannot afford to overlook one of his best assets – his popularity among the majority of Americans. It would be highly advisable to take his message into the heart of the country whenever possible. In addition, President Obama tried earnestly and possibly too much, to reach across the aisles of bipartisanship. He was rebuffed. He is learning the balance of power. The Republican Party has not fully recovered and simply is not yet in the mood. Nonetheless, he should keep trying.

For communication style, he receives a B+.

Third, President Obama is likely to be judged more substantively on his crafted and executed policies. With an inherited country in an emotional and financial tailspin, President Obama did not spare seconds in to stabilize and restore confidence in the economy. While setting a new ethical bar for lobbyist influence and a plan for withdrawal from Iraq, he boldly spearheaded vital investments for the creation of jobs and the improvement of education, healthcare, and energy. The verdict is still pending, however, on confidence in all issues related to national security. Undoubtedly, I am certain there is more behind the scenes than to the naked eye. Likewise, I believe his team is still settling in. The first quarter just ended. He must keep his an eye on the ball of fiscal discipline and the necessary tools of homeland security.

For policy development, he receives an A-.

Fourth, President Obama and his wife, Michelle, have taken the world by storm. She is blazing her own trail and he is taking statesmanship to another level. The most fascinating fact for both of them is that they are not fully settled into the role. They appear comfortable. Their mutual upbringing is evident in how they interact with other world leaders. Most importantly, he is communicating a consistent message to the rest of the world that America is ready to lead again. Unapologetic and refreshing. The fruits of this personality trait will be one to watch. It may change the world axis for generations.

On a personal note, it was a pleasure to see him in the land of oil and music. He will have to return for a more personal visit outside of the shadows of Cuba and Venezuela.

For international relations, he receives an A+.

Lastly, President Obama is definitely the star on the court. I am not convinced whether he has picked an all-star team with a deep bench. With the exception of Hillary Clinton, the rest of the team will need to prove their worth. Although the vetting process showed signs of weariness, it demonstrated lapses of complacency. These lapses could leak into other fora. In preserving your all star’s MVP status, there is not much room for error or lack of discipline.

For the administrative transition, he receives a C.

In wrapping up these first 100 days, it is important to note that it is best to shape history than to have history shape you. From the beginning of his campaign, President Obama set out to shape history on a resounding platform of CHANGE. In the process, he shaped himself, shaped our outlook, and changed the axis of history before inauguration. His next hundreds of days will be highly dependent on remaining authentically committed to those core values emanating from the campaign. Until then, you hold the personal power on granting his final grade.


Marlon A. Hill, Esq. is a partner with the law firm of delancyhill, P.A., a past president of the Caribbean Bar Association, and host of the D’ Peoples Politics, every Saturday, 4pm on Caribbean Riddims, 880AM The Biz.

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