Political Gabfest Slate: The Dorcas Gabfest
Feb 27, 2009
This week, the hosts dive into Obama's speech, exploring its potential to restore public confidence amid economic turmoil. They discuss the charm of charismatic leadership while cautioning against over-dependence on it. The conversation shifts to evaluating Obama's $3.6 trillion budget, teasing apart its honesty versus gimmicks. Legal discussions arise with a Supreme Court ruling on government speech, and the panel wraps up with thoughts on the policy change regarding images of fallen soldiers. Engaging insights and lively debates abound!
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Speech As Psychological Policy
- Presidential speeches can restore public confidence even without new policies or immediate effects.
- John Dickerson and Emily Bazelon argued that theatrical reassurance matters during economic anxiety.
Beware The 'Dear Leader' Effect
- Over-reliance on a charismatic leader produces unrealistic expectations and greater public disappointment.
- David Plotz warned that treating the president as a paternal savior is self-defeating politically.
Budget Honesty And Baseline Tricks
- The Obama budget openly accounts for potential additional bank support and large deficits.
- The hosts noted this represents both transparency and political baseline maneuvering.
