I helped elect President Obama.

[Summer Hathaway]

33. Welcome to DU!

Your post is extremely eloquent, and well thought-out.

I can understand those who feel it necessary, even obligatory as citizens, to state their displeasure with this president.

What I don't understand is the notion that many of them feel that he should be on-side with their every belief, and that his actions should be reflective of their personal desires.

I have supported Obama from the time he threw his hat in the ring, and have never wavered in that support. I did, however, recognize from the start that when one is elected POTUS by millions of people with varying opinions on what should be done, and how to go about doing it, it is an impossibility to please all of the people, all of the time.

I can only shake my head in utter bewilderment at those who thought one man was going to do exactly what they wanted, to the exclusion of all others who hold a different position, or have different priorities.

I never expected to agree with Obama - or anyone else among the Democratic candidates, had they gone on to be elected - one hundred percent of the time. I find it rather amazing that some people actually expected such an impossibility, given the diversity of opinion from one Democrat to the other.

"I have been BETRAYED" is a well-worn phrase on this message board, often trotted out when Obama says or does anything someone disagrees with. One can only wonder HOW such people actually believed they were electing someone whose policies and decisions would be in sync with theirs on every issue, without exception.

"These beliefs have NOTHING to do with AUTHORITARIANISM or not being REAL democrats. You do have a right to be angry and criticize Obama, but I also have a right to defend him, and explain why its important to that we band together to defend, support, and advocate on his behalf."

Well said - but gird yourself for the onslaught from a certain, very vocal contingent here: You will be labeled as a Conservadem, a Third Wayer, an Obamabot, an idol worshiper, a mindless member of the sheeple, etc. In other words - as crazy as it seems - supporting a Democratic president on this 'Democratic' website will win you far more enemies than friends.