Bursting Obama’s Balloons

Just a few reasons why the president-elect needs to lower expectations.

Howard Fineman
Newsweek Web Exclusive
Jan 2, 2009 | Updated: 5:35 p.m. ET Jan 2, 2009

I understand why Barack Obama was lingering over the shave ice in Hawaii. Once he hits the ground here in Washington, his famous aloha spirit is going to be tested even before he is inaugurated.

No one has come to Washington draped in loftier expectations—or facing a more challenging and ever-growing to-do list. Obama and his aides are determined to send a jolt of electricity through the city, but the realities get more immobilizing by the minute.

In Washington, Republicans don't want to be viewed as obstructionists, but don't want to be patsies, either. And globally, the drift of events is not necessarily in the president-elect's direction.