Changes

The '''Obama Administration''' is the executive branch of the federal government under [[Democratic Party|Democrat]]  [[Presidents of the United States|President]] [[Barack Hussein Obama|Barack Obama]] and Vice President [[Joe Biden]]. It began on January 20, 2009 for a term of four years, and then  for a second four year term.  [[File:Obama deficits 2009-2010.JPG|thumb|330px|]] Under Obama's stewardship the United States has suffered the largest [[Federal budget deficit|deficit]]s<ref>http://www.cbo.gov/ftpdocs/107xx/doc10708/11-06-mbr.htm</ref><ref>http://www.cbo.gov/ftpdocs/118xx/doc11873/NovemberMBR.pdf</ref> in history and a credit downgrade from the rating agency Standard & Poor.<ref>http://www.commentarymagazine.com/2011/04/18/the-sp-outlook-and-obama/</ref>  [[Poverty]]<ref>http://www.census.gov/hhes/www/poverty/data/incpovhlth/2009/pov09fig04.pdf</ref> increased to levels not seen in 50 years.<ref>http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/census/2010-09-16-poverty-rate-income-numbers_N.htm</ref> When his [[economic stimulus]] program was adopted unemployment rose and stagnated in the 10% range, <ref>http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704476104575439172480870774.html?mod=googlenews_wsj</ref> leaving tens of millions without [[hope]] of finding a job.<ref>[http://data.bls.gov/PDQ/servlet/SurveyOutputServlet?data_tool=latest_numbers&series_id=LNS11300000&years_option=specific_years&include_graphs=true&to_month=1&from_month=2 United States Department of Labor], Bureau of Labor Statistics. Data extracted on: July 19, 2010 (4:31:11 PM).</ref> During what the [[White House]] billed as [[Recovery Summer]], one half million workers per week continued losing their jobs. His signature legislative achievement, [[ObamaCare]], the federal courts have found to be [[unconstitutional]]<ref>http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2010-12-13/u-s-health-care-law-requirement-thrown-out-by-judge.html</ref> and is credited as a major cause of uncertainty, high [[unemployment]],<ref>http://www.humanevents.com/article.php?id=33220</ref> lagging job creation,<ref>http://blog.heritage.org/2010/08/05/it%E2%80%99s-official-medicare%E2%80%99s-finances-shadowed-by-uncertainty/</ref> and risk of a credit default crisis.<ref>http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/03/28/AR2010032802353.html</ref><ref>http://www.thestreet.com/story/10703361/cramer-obamacare-will-topple-the-market.html</ref> Since the rejection of his party's agenda in the [[2010 Midterm elections]], Obama has continued [[class warfare]] as a major theme of his second two years and cornerstone of his successful re-election campaign. He then turned to deficit reduction, immigration reform and gun control as major policy initiatives in his second term.

The '''Obama Administration''' is the executive branch of the federal government under [[Democratic Party|Democrat]]  [[Presidents of the United States|President]] [[Barack Hussein Obama|Barack Obama]] and Vice President [[Joe Biden]]. It began on January 20, 2009 for a term of four years, and then  for a second four year term.  [[File:Obama deficits 2009-2010.JPG|thumb|330px|]] Under Obama's stewardship the United States has suffered the largest [[Federal budget deficit|deficit]]s<ref>[http://www.cbo.gov/publication/41400?index=10708 Monthly Budget Review, November 6, 2009] [[Congressional Budget Office]]</ref><ref>[http://www.cbo.gov/ftpdocs/118xx/doc11873/NovemberMBR.pdf Monthly Budget Review, November 4, 2010] [[Congressional Budget Office]]</ref> in history and a credit downgrade from the rating agency Standard & Poor.<ref>[http://www.commentarymagazine.com/2011/04/18/the-sp-outlook-and-obama/ The S&P Outlook and Obama] [[Commentary]]</ref>  [[Poverty]]<ref>[http://www.census.gov/hhes/www/poverty/data/incpovhlth/2009/pov09fig04.pdf PDF] [[U.S. Census Bureau]]</ref> increased to levels not seen in 50 years.<ref>[http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/census/2010-09-16-poverty-rate-income-numbers_N.htm Number of people in poverty reaches highest level in 51 years] [[USA Today]]</ref> When his [[economic stimulus]] program was adopted unemployment rose and stagnated in the 10% range, <ref>[http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704476104575439172480870774.html?mod=googlenews_wsj Jobless Claims Jump in New Sign Recovery Is Sputtering] [[Wall Street Journal]]</ref> leaving tens of millions without [[hope]] of finding a job.<ref>[http://data.bls.gov/PDQ/servlet/SurveyOutputServlet?data_tool=latest_numbers&series_id=LNS11300000&years_option=specific_years&include_graphs=true&to_month=1&from_month=2 United States Department of Labor], [[United States Department of Labor|Bureau of Labor Statistics]]. Data extracted on: July 19, 2010 (4:31:11 PM).</ref> During what the [[White House]] billed as [[Recovery Summer]], one half million workers per week continued losing their jobs. His signature legislative achievement, [[ObamaCare]], the federal courts have found to be [[unconstitutional]]<ref>[http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2010-12-13/u-s-health-care-law-requirement-thrown-out-by-judge.html Health-Care Law Struck Down Over Insurance Mandate] [[Bloomberg News]]</ref> and is credited as a major cause of uncertainty, high [[unemployment]],<ref>[http://www.humanevents.com/article.php?id=33220 Obamacare: Unemployment You Can Believe In] [[Human Events]]</ref> lagging job creation,<ref>[http://blog.heritage.org/2010/08/05/it%E2%80%99s-official-medicare%E2%80%99s-finances-shadowed-by-uncertainty/ It’s Official: Medicare’s Finances Shadowed by Uncertainty] [[Heritage Foundation]]</ref> and risk of a credit default crisis.<ref>[http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/03/28/AR2010032802353.html With health bill, Obama has sown the seeds of a budget crisis] [[Washington Post]]</ref><ref>[http://www.thestreet.com/story/10703361/1/cramer-obamacare-will-topple-the-market.html Cramer: Obamacare Will Topple the Market] [[The Street]]</ref> Since the rejection of his party's agenda in the [[2010 Midterm elections]], Obama has continued [[class warfare]] as a major theme of his second two years and cornerstone of his successful re-election campaign. He then turned to deficit reduction, immigration reform and gun control as major policy initiatives in his second term.

While 'turning the page' on the War on Terror, the rate of terrorist attacks in the United States has gone from three under President George W. Bush's  eight years in office ([[9/11]] attacks on the [[World Trade Center|World Trade Towers]], the 9/11 attack on [[Pentagon]] and the 9/11 hijacking of United Airlines Flight 93 that crashed in Pennsylvania) <ref>During Bush's last year http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,335500,00.html</ref> to at least four per year<ref>http://www.latimes.com/news/nation-and-world/la-na-detroit-airline26-2009dec26,0,7673563,full.story</ref><ref>http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/05/us/05explode.html?_r=1&ref=us</ref><ref>http://www.nydailynews.com/news/ny_crime/2009/05/25/2009-05-25_small_bomb_goes_off_outside_upper_east_side_starbucks.html</ref><ref>http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/04/us/04recruit.html?_r=1&ref=us</ref><ref>http://www.nytimes.com/2009/11/20/us/politics/20hood.html</ref> and the Bipartisan Policy Center's National Security Preparedness Group reports [[Al-Qaeda]] leadership has become increasingly ‘Americanized’.<ref>http://www.bipartisanpolicy.org/news/press-releases/2010/09/bipartisan-policy-center-report-finds-homegrown-terrorism-presents-key-c</ref>

While 'turning the page' on the War on Terror, the rate of terrorist attacks in the United States has gone from three under President George W. Bush's  eight years in office ([[9/11]] attacks on the [[World Trade Center|World Trade Towers]], the 9/11 attack on [[Pentagon]] and the 9/11 hijacking of United Airlines Flight 93 that crashed in Pennsylvania) <ref>[http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,335500,00.html Foiled Terror Plots Against America Since 9/11] [[Fox News]]</ref> to at least four per year<ref>[http://www.latimes.com/news/nation-and-world/la-na-detroit-airline26-2009dec26,0,7673563,full.story Jet passengers overpower would-be bomber] [[Los Angeles Times]]</ref><ref>[http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/05/us/05explode.html?_r=1&ref=us Bomb Injures Arkansas Doctor] [[The New York Times]]</ref><ref>[http://www.nydailynews.com/news/ny_crime/2009/05/25/2009-05-25_small_bomb_goes_off_outside_upper_east_side_starbucks.html Small Bomb Goes Off Outside Upper East Side Starbucks] [[New York Daily News]]</ref><ref>[http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/04/us/04recruit.html?_r=1&ref=us Suspect in Soldier Attack Was Once Detained in Yemen ] [[The New York Times]]</ref><ref>[http://www.nytimes.com/2009/11/20/us/politics/20hood.html Lawmakers Call Ft. Hood Shootings ‘Terrorism’ ] [[The New York Times]]</ref> and the Bipartisan Policy Center's National Security Preparedness Group reports [[Al-Qaeda]] leadership has become increasingly ‘Americanized’.<ref>[http://bipartisanpolicy.org/press-release/bipartisan-policy-center-report-finds-homegrown-terrorism-presents-key/ Bipartisan Policy Center Report Finds Homegrown Terrorism Presents Key Challenge for the United States] [[Bipartisan Policy Center]]</ref>

President Obama authorized offshore oil drilling in the [[Gulf of Mexico]]<ref>[http://www.csmonitor.com/USA/2010/0430/Gulf-of-Mexico-oil-spill-imperils-Obama-s-offshore-drilling-plan Gulf of Mexico oil spill imperils Obama's offshore drilling plan,] By Mark Clayton, ''Christian Science Monitor'', April 30, 2010.</ref> stating,

President Obama authorized offshore oil drilling in the [[Gulf of Mexico]]<ref>[http://www.csmonitor.com/USA/2010/0430/Gulf-of-Mexico-oil-spill-imperils-Obama-s-offshore-drilling-plan Gulf of Mexico oil spill imperils Obama's offshore drilling plan,] By Mark Clayton, ''[[Christian Science Monitor]]'', April 30, 2010.</ref> stating,

{{Cquote|oil rigs today generally don’t cause spills<ref>White House Press Release, [http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/remarks-president-a-discussion-jobs-and-economy-charlotte-north-carolina Remarks by the President in a Discussion on Jobs and the Economy in Charlotte, North Carolina,] Office of the Press Secretary, April 02, 2010. Retrieved from whitehouse.gov 3 May 2010.</ref><ref>''[http://members.greenpeace.org/blog/greenpeaceusa_blog/2010/04/30/president_obama_committed_to_endangering President Obama must reinstate moratorium on offshore drilling,]'' [[Greenpeace]] USA blogs, 30 Apr 2010.</ref><ref>http://wonkroom.thinkprogress.org/2010/04/28/obama-katrina-spill/</ref>}}and was widely criticized for his mishandling of the "[[Gulf oil spill disaster|worst environmental disaster]] in US history."<ref>[http://www.examiner.com/x-33986-Political-Spin-Examiner~y2010m4d29-Worst-environmental-disaster-in-US-history-Oil-slick-in-Gulf-of-Mexico-is-set-on-fire Worst environmental disaster in US history,] Maryann Tobin, ''Examiner'', April 29, 2010.</ref><ref>[http://krugman.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/04/30/the-oil-spill-is-obamas-fault/?src=twt&twt=NytimesKrugman Conscience of a Liberal: The Oil Spill Is Obama’s Fault,] Paul Krugman, ''New York Times'', April 30, 2010.</ref>  

{{Cquote|oil rigs today generally don’t cause spills<ref>White House Press Release, [http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/remarks-president-a-discussion-jobs-and-economy-charlotte-north-carolina Remarks by the President in a Discussion on Jobs and the Economy in Charlotte, North Carolina,] Office of the Press Secretary, April 02, 2010. Retrieved from [[The White House|whitehouse.gov]] 3 May 2010.</ref><ref>''[http://members.greenpeace.org/blog/greenpeaceusa_blog/2010/04/30/president_obama_committed_to_endangering President Obama must reinstate moratorium on offshore drilling,]'' [[Greenpeace]] USA blogs, 30 Apr 2010.</ref><ref>http://wonkroom.thinkprogress.org/2010/04/28/obama-katrina-spill/</ref>}}and was widely criticized for his mishandling of the "[[Gulf oil spill disaster|worst environmental disaster]] in US history."<ref>[http://www.examiner.com/x-33986-Political-Spin-Examiner~y2010m4d29-Worst-environmental-disaster-in-US-history-Oil-slick-in-Gulf-of-Mexico-is-set-on-fire Worst environmental disaster in US history,] Maryann Tobin, ''[[Examiner.com]]'', April 29, 2010.</ref><ref>[http://krugman.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/04/30/the-oil-spill-is-obamas-fault/?src=twt&twt=NytimesKrugman Conscience of a Liberal: The Oil Spill Is Obama’s Fault,] Paul Krugman, ''[[New York Times]]'', April 30, 2010.</ref>  

A Republican revival took form as the party won gubernatorial elections in Virginia and New  Jersey, and the Democrats continued in disarray in New York, Texas and California. Even more dramatic was the win by Republican [[Scott Brown]] of the Senate seat held by the late [[Edward M. Kennedy]] in Massachusetts, which was widely interpreted as a referendum on Obama's policies. By the Spring of his second year only 38% of voters surveyed said Obama deserves re-election, with 55% wanting someone new. A [[Gallup Poll]] had the president's support slipping among Hispanics and African-Americans. A large majority of Americans, 69%, believe the nation is on the wrong track.<ref>http://online.wsj.com/article/declarations.html</ref>

A Republican revival took form as the party won gubernatorial elections in Virginia and New  Jersey, and the Democrats continued in disarray in New York, Texas and California. Even more dramatic was the win by Republican [[Scott Brown]] of the Senate seat held by the late [[Edward M. Kennedy]] in Massachusetts, which was widely interpreted as a referendum on Obama's policies. By the Spring of his second year only 38% of voters surveyed said Obama deserves re-election, with 55% wanting someone new. A [[Gallup Poll]] had the president's support slipping among Hispanics and African-Americans. A large majority of Americans, 69%, believe the nation is on the wrong track.<ref>[http://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052748704569404576299241421694066 Obama's Unspoken Re-Election Edge] [[Wall Street Journal]]</ref>

==Economic Policy==

==Economic Policy==

===Background===

===Background===

Following the [[Recession of 2008]] Obama declared that failure to pass his [[Economic stimulus]]  would turn a "crisis into a catastrophe," and promised [[Unemployment]] would not rise above 7.8%.<ref>[http://www.time.com/time/business/article/0,8599,1910208,00.html Obama's Stimulus Plan: Failing by Its Own Measure,]  Stephen Gandel, ''TIME'',  July 14, 2009.</ref><ref>[http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/31165217/ Obama promises economic relief this summer], AP, 6/8/2009.</ref> The House on Jan. 28 passed a stimulus package‎ of $819 billion in [[Direct_spending#New_spending|new spending]] and tax increases, despite unanimous Republican opposition. A revised bill passed the Senate with three Republican votes. A compromise bill known as the "[[American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009]]" was passed, providing for $789 billion in new spending and stimulus.

Following the [[Recession of 2008]] Obama declared that failure to pass his [[Economic stimulus]]  would turn a "crisis into a catastrophe," and promised [[Unemployment]] would not rise above 7.8%.<ref>[http://www.time.com/time/business/article/0,8599,1910208,00.html Obama's Stimulus Plan: Failing by Its Own Measure,]  Stephen Gandel, ''[[TIME]]'',  July 14, 2009.</ref><ref>[http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/31165217/ Obama promises economic relief this summer], [[MSNBC|MSNBC/AP]], 6/8/2009.</ref> The House on Jan. 28 passed a stimulus package‎ of $819 billion in [[Direct_spending#New_spending|new spending]] and tax increases, despite unanimous Republican opposition. A revised bill passed the Senate with three Republican votes. A compromise bill known as the "[[American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009]]" was passed, providing for $789 billion in new spending and stimulus.

Detroit spread gloom on Feb. 17 as GM starkly warned of impending bankruptcy unless it gets more aid. By August, both Chrysler and GM had entered bankruptcy, and come out again in much smaller size, as they closed a fourth of their dealerships, slashed wage rates, and repaid creditors with 29 cents on the dollar.  The government gave Chrysler away free to Fiat of Italy, which acquired ownership without investing any money. Meanwhile the part makers, which employ more workers than the Big Three automakers, verged on disaster and begged for billions.  The "[[cash for clunkers]]" proved to be a boondoggle for the rich at a cost of $3 billion to the Treasury.

Detroit spread gloom on Feb. 17 as GM starkly warned of impending bankruptcy unless it gets more aid. By August, both Chrysler and GM had entered bankruptcy, and come out again in much smaller size, as they closed a fourth of their dealerships, slashed wage rates, and repaid creditors with 29 cents on the dollar.  The government gave Chrysler away free to Fiat of Italy, which acquired ownership without investing any money. Meanwhile the part makers, which employ more workers than the Big Three automakers, verged on disaster and begged for billions.  The "[[cash for clunkers]]" proved to be a boondoggle for the rich at a cost of $3 billion to the Treasury.

===Obama policies problematic, say economists and public===

===Obama policies problematic, say economists and public===

In the view of 51 mostly conservative economists polled by the ''Wall Street Journal'' in July 2009, the Obama administration's economic program is problematic. President Obama and Treasury Secretary Geithner both got an average grade of 70 out of 100 for their handling of the financial crisis, but those grades varied widely.<ref>Obama scored 59 in March 2009, Geithner 51, and Bernanke 71. See Phil Izzo, "Obama, Geithner Get Low Grades From Economists,"  [http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123671107124286261.html  ''Wall Street Journal'' March 11, 2009]</ref>  Former President Bush and ex-Treasury chief Paulson received average grades of 50 and 60, respectively, when economists were asked how they handled the crisis while in office. By contrast, Fed chairman Bernanke scored much better, with an average grade of 85.<ref>Phil Izzo, "Few Economists Favor More Stimulus," [http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124708099206913393.html ''Wall Street Journal'' July 10, 2009] </ref>

In the view of 51 mostly conservative economists polled by the ''Wall Street Journal'' in July 2009, the Obama administration's economic program is problematic. President Obama and Treasury Secretary Geithner both got an average grade of 70 out of 100 for their handling of the financial crisis, but those grades varied widely.<ref>Obama scored 59 in March 2009, Geithner 51, and Bernanke 71. See Phil Izzo, "Obama, Geithner Get Low Grades From Economists,"  [http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123671107124286261.html  ''[[Wall Street Journal]]'' March 11, 2009]</ref>  Former President Bush and ex-Treasury chief Paulson received average grades of 50 and 60, respectively, when economists were asked how they handled the crisis while in office. By contrast, Fed chairman Bernanke scored much better, with an average grade of 85.<ref>Phil Izzo, "Few Economists Favor More Stimulus," [http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124708099206913393.html ''[[Wall Street Journal]]'' July 10, 2009] </ref>

[[Image:Stim1.jpg|thumb|380px|Cartoonist Chuck Asay summarizes the debate]]  

[[Image:Stim1.jpg|thumb|380px|Cartoonist Chuck Asay summarizes the debate]]  

In June 2009 public opinion was favorable toward Obama personally, but increasingly dubious about his plans to overhaul health care, bailout the auto industry and close the prison at Guantánamo Bay. With a positive job approval rating of 63% , Mr. Obama had the backing of Democrats and independents alike, with only 23% of Republicans expressing approval.  Support for Obama's foreign policies and terrorism policies originally was high at 57-59%.   

In June 2009 public opinion was favorable toward Obama personally, but increasingly dubious about his plans to overhaul health care, bailout the auto industry and close the prison at Guantánamo Bay. With a positive job approval rating of 63% , Mr. Obama had the backing of Democrats and independents alike, with only 23% of Republicans expressing approval.  Support for Obama's foreign policies and terrorism policies originally was high at 57-59%.   

Billionaire [[Warren Buffett]], former Federal Reserve Chairman Paul Volcker, and former Clinton Treasury Secretary [[Robert Rubin]] constituted Obama's transition team of Economic Advisers.<ref>[ http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601110&sid=aSzNv81CYh0c Obama to Meet With Buffett, Daley, Economic Advisers], Bloomberg, Nov. 6 2008.</ref>  Rubin was being sharply criticized for his role in the collapse of [[Citigroup]] which needed $45 billion in federal [[bailout]] money.<ref>[http://www.reuters.com/article/topNews/idUSN0930738020090109 Robert Rubin quits Citigroup amid criticism], Reuters, Jan 9, 2009</ref>  Buffett, after the inauguration, spoke out against the administration's declared objective of not allowing "a crisis to go to waste" [http://www.swamppolitics.com/news/politics/blog/2009/03/buffett_hits_obama_congress_on.html] and Obama's massive tax increase on the needy and those least able to afford it. [http://greeninc.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/03/09/buffett-cap-and-trade-is-a-regressive-tax/]

Billionaire [[Warren Buffett]], former Federal Reserve Chairman Paul Volcker, and former Clinton Treasury Secretary [[Robert Rubin]] constituted Obama's transition team of Economic Advisers.<ref>[http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601110&sid=aSzNv81CYh0c Obama to Meet With Buffett, Daley, Economic Advisers], [[Bloomberg News]], Nov. 6 2008.</ref>  Rubin was being sharply criticized for his role in the collapse of [[Citigroup]] which needed $45 billion in federal [[bailout]] money.<ref>[http://www.reuters.com/article/topNews/idUSN0930738020090109 Robert Rubin quits Citigroup amid criticism], [[Reuters]], Jan 9, 2009</ref>  Buffett, after the inauguration, spoke out against the administration's declared objective of not allowing "a crisis to go to waste" <ref>http://www.swamppolitics.com/news/politics/blog/2009/03/buffett_hits_obama_congress_on.html</ref> and Obama's massive tax increase on the needy and those least able to afford it.<ref>[http://greeninc.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/03/09/buffett-cap-and-trade-is-a-regressive-tax/ Buffett: Cap-and-Trade Is a ‘Regressive’ Tax] [[The New York Times]]</ref>

==== FY 2010 Budget ====

==== FY 2010 Budget ====

The Democratic controlled Congress by a party line vote in late April passed the  budget Obama proposed in late February. It called for $3.4 trillion in [[Direct_spending#New_spending|new spending]], not counting the $787 billion in stimulus spending approved in February, nor the trillions in loan guarantees to banks.  The 2010 budget allocated $1.2 trillion for defense, and an additional $130 billion for the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Nondefense spending increased by 8% or $40 billion. The budget allowed the Obama health plan, which had not yet been written, to move through Congress on a fast track with no risk of filibuster.  

The Democratic controlled Congress by a party line vote in late April passed the  budget Obama proposed in late February. It called for $3.4 trillion in [[Direct_spending#New_spending|new spending]], not counting the $787 billion in stimulus spending approved in February, nor the trillions in loan guarantees to banks.  The 2010 budget allocated $1.2 trillion for defense, and an additional $130 billion for the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Nondefense spending increased by 8% or $40 billion. The budget allowed the Obama health plan, which had not yet been written, to move through Congress on a fast track with no risk of filibuster.  

The Tax Foundation says that 44% of all tax filers have no tax liability and most of those will get a check from the government, especially from the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)<ref> EITC is a conservative idea first proposed by Milton Friedman, enacted under Republican presidents Ford and Reagan.</ref> and credits for college tuition and child care. The ''Wall Street Journal'' noted about Obama's plan that, "Once upon a time we called this 'welfare'". <ref>http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122385651698727257.html</ref>

The Tax Foundation says that 44% of all tax filers have no tax liability and most of those will get a check from the government, especially from the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)<ref> EITC is a conservative idea first proposed by Milton Friedman, enacted under Republican presidents Ford and Reagan.</ref> and credits for college tuition and child care. The ''[[Wall Street Journal]]'' noted about Obama's plan that, "Once upon a time we called this 'welfare'". <ref>[http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122385651698727257.html Obama's 95% Illusion] [[Wall Street Journal]]</ref>

The Budget assumes a federal deficit of $1.75 trillion for 2009, or 12.3% of GDP--the highest deficit in percentage terms since World War II. The budget reordered priorities to provide national health care and raise the federal spending on schools.  

The Budget assumes a federal deficit of $1.75 trillion for 2009, or 12.3% of GDP--the highest deficit in percentage terms since World War II. The budget reordered priorities to provide national health care and raise the federal spending on schools.  

The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates the Obama plans will raise the national debt far more than Obama admitted. The CBO says the Obama plan will cause total deficits over the next ten years of $9.3 trillion, compared to Obama's estimate of "only" 7 trillion.  The annual GDP by contrast is about $15 trillion.<ref> Jackie Calmes, "New Deficit Forecast Casts Shadow on Obama Agenda," [http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/21/washington/21deficit.html?th&emc=th ''New York Times'' Mar. 20, 2009]</ref> Senator Jedd Gregg says that Obama's budget will double the national debt in five years and triple it in ten. <ref>http://www.politifact.com/truth-o-meter/statements/2009/mar/25/judd-gregg/judd-gregg-says-obamas-budget-doubles-national-deb/</ref>

The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates the Obama plans will raise the national debt far more than Obama admitted. The CBO says the Obama plan will cause total deficits over the next ten years of $9.3 trillion, compared to Obama's estimate of "only" 7 trillion.  The annual GDP by contrast is about $15 trillion.<ref> Jackie Calmes, "New Deficit Forecast Casts Shadow on Obama Agenda," [http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/21/washington/21deficit.html?th&emc=th ''[[The New York Times]]'' Mar. 20, 2009]</ref> Senator Judd Gregg says that Obama's budget will double the national debt in five years and triple it in ten. <ref>[http://www.politifact.com/truth-o-meter/statements/2009/mar/25/judd-gregg/judd-gregg-says-obamas-budget-doubles-national-deb/ Judd Gregg says Obama's budget doubles the national debt in five years] [[PolitiFact]]</ref>

Obama proposed a carbon [[cap and trade]] system, increasing taxes for families and businesses. The cost to energy consumers would be an additional $645 billion between 2012 and 2019, which will result in higher prices. Rep. John Boehner said, "Let's just be honest and call it a carbon tax that will increase taxes on all Americans who drive a car, who have a job, who turn on a light switch, pure and simple."<ref>see [http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123566843777484625.html comment from conservative newspaper]</ref>

Obama proposed a carbon [[cap and trade]] system, increasing taxes for families and businesses. The cost to energy consumers would be an additional $645 billion between 2012 and 2019, which will result in higher prices. Rep. John Boehner said, "Let's just be honest and call it a carbon tax that will increase taxes on all Americans who drive a car, who have a job, who turn on a light switch, pure and simple."<ref>[http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123566843777484625.html Carbon Trading to Raise Consumer Energy Prices] [[Wall Street Journal]]</ref>

The chairman of the Senate Budget Committee was conservative Democrat [[Kent Conrad]] of [[North Dakota]], a deficit hawk who said he was "very uncomfortable with the build-up of debt" and urged Obama to make good on his promise to overhaul federal retirement and health-care programs. Conrad called for "more discipline on the spending side."<ref> [http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/02/28/AR2009022801960.html?hpid=topnews ''Washington Post'' Mar. 1, 2009]</ref>

The chairman of the Senate Budget Committee was conservative Democrat [[Kent Conrad]] of [[North Dakota]], a deficit hawk who said he was "very uncomfortable with the build-up of debt" and urged Obama to make good on his promise to overhaul federal retirement and health-care programs. Conrad called for "more discipline on the spending side."<ref>[http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/02/28/AR2009022801960.html?hpid=topnews Battle Lines Quickly Set Over Planned Policy Shifts] ''[[Washington Post]]'' Mar. 1, 2009</ref>

The Obama Administration based its domestic policies on the assumption of a rapid economic recovery generating the tax revenue needed to fund [[Direct spending|permanent new spending]] program for [[Obamacare]] and "greening the economy".  Administration forecasts were more starry-eyed than private sector forecasts. Both parties agree that stimulus spending is needed to deal with the recession but Congress is unlikely to approve permanent new spending programs unless the economy improves, since a large number of conservative Democrats were elected who may vote with Republicans to keep down spending and deficits.<ref> Peter S. Goodman, "Sharper Downturn Clouds Obama Spending Plans," [http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/28/business/economy/28recession.html?_r=1&th&emc=th ''Washington Post'' Feb. 27, 2009]</ref>

The Obama Administration based its domestic policies on the assumption of a rapid economic recovery generating the tax revenue needed to fund [[Direct spending|permanent new spending]] program for [[Obamacare]] and "greening the economy".  Administration forecasts were more starry-eyed than private sector forecasts. Both parties agree that stimulus spending is needed to deal with the recession but Congress is unlikely to approve permanent new spending programs unless the economy improves, since a large number of conservative Democrats were elected who may vote with Republicans to keep down spending and deficits.<ref>[http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/28/business/economy/28recession.html?_r=1&th&emc=th Sharper Downturn Clouds Obama Spending Plans], Peter S. Goodman, ''[[The New York Times]]'' Feb. 27, 2009]</ref>

==== FY 2011 Budget ====

==== FY 2011 Budget ====

Obama's first two budget deficits (FY 2009 and FY 2010) were more than $1 trillion, or 9% of [[GDP]]. The [[Democrat]]ic Congress failed to pass, and President Obama did not sign, a budget for fiscal year 2011, as required by law. But the administration continued spending anyway with a deficit projected to be at least another $1 trillion again for 2011. Combined with a shrinking economy, the publicly held federal debt increased by over 20% of GDP in Obama's first two years, and was projected to increase by another 7% in 2011. Experts warned the President that deficits of this size were not sustainable in the long run because the federal debt cannot indefinitely grow faster than economic output. Eventually a greater and greater share of national income would be devoted to interest payments, until eventually the government would be forced to finance the debt through money creation ([[inflation]]) or [[default]].

Obama's first two budget deficits (FY 2009 and FY 2010) were more than $1 trillion, or 9% of [[GDP]]. The [[Democrat]]ic Congress failed to pass, and President Obama did not sign, a budget for fiscal year 2011, as required by law. But the administration continued spending anyway with a deficit projected to be at least another $1 trillion again for 2011. Combined with a shrinking economy, the publicly held federal debt increased by over 20% of GDP in Obama's first two years, and was projected to increase by another 7% in 2011. Experts warned the President that deficits of this size were not sustainable in the long run because the federal debt cannot indefinitely grow faster than economic output. Eventually a greater and greater share of national income would be devoted to interest payments, until eventually the government would be forced to finance the debt through money creation ([[inflation]]) or [[default]].

The president emphasized his proposal to freeze for three years non-defense [[discretionary spending]]. Economist Martin Feldstein observed the president's plan would not apply to [[backdoor spending]]: increases in [[mandatory spending]] programs and [[tax ependiture]]s -- new tax rules that substitute for increased government spending,<ref>[http://www.nber.org/feldstein/wsj02182010.html How Obama Should Shrink His Deficit], Martin Feldstein, ''Wall Street Journal'', February 18, 2010. Retrieved from nber.org </ref> like refundable tax credits.<ref>[http://www.concordcoalition.org/publications/facing-facts/1996/0913/back-door-entitlement The Back-Door Entitlement], The Concord Coalition.</ref><ref>[http://oversight.house.gov/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/10-27-11_Obamacares_Subsidies_and_Tax_Distribution_Final.pdf Impact of the Obamacare Tax Credits], House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, Staff Report, October 27, 2011. <br><small>"The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) projects that Obamacare’s refundable health insurance tax credits and Medicaid expansion will increase the nation’s debt burden by $1.36 trillion in the first seven years that these provisions are fully implemented...85 percent of filers who claim the credit will end the year with zero or negative income tax liability. Since the tax credit is refundable, nearly all 11.3 million of these filers will have negative income tax liability and will no longer pay the cost of government by contributing federal income taxes....For example, a family of four at 200 percent of the [Federal Poverty Level] (about $48,677 in 2016) cannot pay more than 6.3 percent of their income for health insurance...The CBO estimates that the average cost of the reference insurance plan (the plan used to calculate the tax credit) will be $14,100 for family coverage in 2016. Therefore, a family of four that qualifies for a credit in 2016 and that makes $48,677 would be required to pay about $3,067 for health insurance (6.3 percent of household income). The difference, $11,033, is the value of this family’s refundable tax credit...According to the CBO, 20 million Americans will receive health insurance tax credits in 2020 at a cost of $130 billion."</small></ref>

The president emphasized his proposal to freeze for three years non-defense [[discretionary spending]]. Economist Martin Feldstein observed the president's plan would not apply to [[backdoor spending]]: increases in [[mandatory spending]] programs and [[tax ependiture]]s -- new tax rules that substitute for increased government spending,<ref>[http://www.nber.org/feldstein/wsj02182010.html How Obama Should Shrink His Deficit], Martin Feldstein, ''[[Wall Street Journal]]'', February 18, 2010. Retrieved from nber.org </ref> like refundable tax credits.<ref>[http://www.concordcoalition.org/publications/facing-facts/1996/0913/back-door-entitlement The Back-Door Entitlement], The Concord Coalition.</ref><ref>[http://oversight.house.gov/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/10-27-11_Obamacares_Subsidies_and_Tax_Distribution_Final.pdf Impact of the Obamacare Tax Credits], House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, Staff Report, October 27, 2011. <br><small>"The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) projects that Obamacare’s refundable health insurance tax credits and Medicaid expansion will increase the nation’s debt burden by $1.36 trillion in the first seven years that these provisions are fully implemented...85 percent of filers who claim the credit will end the year with zero or negative income tax liability. Since the tax credit is refundable, nearly all 11.3 million of these filers will have negative income tax liability and will no longer pay the cost of government by contributing federal income taxes....For example, a family of four at 200 percent of the [Federal Poverty Level] (about $48,677 in 2016) cannot pay more than 6.3 percent of their income for health insurance...The CBO estimates that the average cost of the reference insurance plan (the plan used to calculate the tax credit) will be $14,100 for family coverage in 2016. Therefore, a family of four that qualifies for a credit in 2016 and that makes $48,677 would be required to pay about $3,067 for health insurance (6.3 percent of household income). The difference, $11,033, is the value of this family’s refundable tax credit...According to the CBO, 20 million Americans will receive health insurance tax credits in 2020 at a cost of $130 billion."</small></ref>

==== FY 2012 Budget====

==== FY 2012 Budget====

Obama was roundly criticized for ignoring recommendations of his own Deficit Reduction Commission in his proposed 2012 Budget.<ref>http://www.askheritage.org/where-does-obamas-budget-proposal-fall-short/</ref> Obama's proposals did nothing to address the burgeoning budget deficit responsible for lagging job creation and the persistent [[unemployment]] which has become the hallmark of his time in office.<ref>http://www.businessweek.com/ap/financialnews/D9MOJ3VG0.htm</ref> In response to [[Republican]] counter-proposals, rather than address substantive issues of reform, Obama descended into ''[[ad hominem]]'' attacks against advocates of improving the delivery of government services.<ref>http://www.mcclatchydc.com/2011/04/24/112725/obama-paints-rep-ryan-as-the-gop.html</ref><ref>http://www.realclearpolitics.com/articles/2011/04/23/the_unhappy_president_109638.html</ref>

Obama was roundly criticized for ignoring recommendations of his own Deficit Reduction Commission in his proposed 2012 Budget.<ref>[http://www.askheritage.org/where-does-obamas-budget-proposal-fall-short/ Where does Obama’s budget proposal fall short?] [[Heritage Foundation]]</ref> Obama's proposals did nothing to address the burgeoning budget deficit responsible for lagging job creation and the persistent [[unemployment]] which has become the hallmark of his time in office.<ref>[http://www.businessweek.com/ap/financialnews/D9MOJ3VG0.htm Obama's deficit plans run into economic reality] [[Associated Press]]</ref> In response to [[Republican]] counter-proposals, rather than address substantive issues of reform, Obama descended into ''[[ad hominem]]'' attacks against advocates of improving the delivery of government services.<ref>http://www.mcclatchydc.com/2011/04/24/112725/obama-paints-rep-ryan-as-the-gop.html</ref><ref>[http://www.realclearpolitics.com/articles/2011/04/23/the_unhappy_president_109638.html The Unhappy President] [[RealClearPolitics]]</ref>

Rather, Obama proposed increasing spending, taxes, and debt to historic highs, and doubling the [[national debt]] over pre-[[2008 recession]] levels, with no significant proposal to reform the underlying problems. Obama's proposal failed to meet his own pledge to cut the deficit in half during his first term.<ref>Barack Obama, [http://www.whitehouse.gov/the_press_office/remarks-of-president-barack-obama-address-to-joint-session-of-congress“Address to Joint Session of Congress,”] February 24, 2009. Retrieved from whitehouse.gov, April 27, 2011.</ref> By summer of 2012, the [[Gallup Poll|Gallup organization]] reported that merely 35% of business owners approved of Barack Obama's job performance.<ref>[http://www.gallup.com/poll/156206/Business-Owners-Among-Least-Approving-Obama.aspx U.S. Business Owners Now Among Least Approving of Obama]</ref>

Rather, Obama proposed increasing spending, taxes, and debt to historic highs, and doubling the [[national debt]] over pre-[[2008 recession]] levels, with no significant proposal to reform the underlying problems. Obama's proposal failed to meet his own pledge to cut the deficit in half during his first term.<ref>Barack Obama, [http://www.whitehouse.gov/the_press_office/remarks-of-president-barack-obama-address-to-joint-session-of-congress“Address to Joint Session of Congress,”] February 24, 2009. Retrieved from [[The White House|whitehouse.gov]], April 27, 2011.</ref> By summer of 2012, the [[Gallup Poll|Gallup organization]] reported that merely 35% of business owners approved of Barack Obama's job performance.<ref>[http://www.gallup.com/poll/156206/Business-Owners-Among-Least-Approving-Obama.aspx U.S. Business Owners Now Among Least Approving of Obama] [[Gallup Poll|Gallup organization]]</ref>

===Obama Care===

===Obama Care===

:''Main article: '''[[ObamaCare]]'''''

:''Main article: '''[[ObamaCare]]'''''

With a monopoly on power in Obama's first two years, the Democratic Congress moved to create a government run insurance program that would put private sector insurers out of business. Obama proposed funding the program with higher taxes "on wealthy Americans". <ref>http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-na-health-care26-2009feb26,0,1056744.story</ref> The new law mandates private citizens to purchase health insurance under the threat of legal sanctions for non-compliance.<ref>http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2009/07/02/senate-democrats-trim-cost-health-care/</ref> Critics dubbed the law [[Gestapo care]].

With a monopoly on power in Obama's first two years, the Democratic Congress moved to create a government run insurance program that would put private sector insurers out of business. Obama proposed funding the program with higher taxes "on wealthy Americans". <ref>[http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-na-health-care26-2009feb26,0,1056744.story Obama plans 'down payment' on healthcare overhaul] [[Los Angeles Times]]</ref> The new law mandates private citizens to purchase health insurance under the threat of legal sanctions for non-compliance.<ref>[http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2009/07/02/senate-fine-people-refusing-health-care-coverage/ Senate Bill Would Fine People More Than $1,000 for Refusing Health Care Coverage] [[Fox News]]</ref> Critics dubbed the law [[Gestapo care]].

Obama was unconvincing to most Americans. Few saw any advantage in his proposals, and everyone can see the monumental  costs.  Contrary to his campaign vows for openness and transparency in government, Obama cut closed door back room deals with big drug companies and insurers, and was not upfront with the American people. Polls show a steady decline in support for [[Obamacare]] as the public learned more about it. (By contrast, he had  57% approval on health issues in April 2009).<ref> ''Washington Post'' July 20, 2009</ref> Conservative Democrats in Congress--who call themselves  "[[Blue Dog Democrats]]"--were reluctant to sign on to any proposal costing a trillion dollars over the next decade.  The controversy lowered Obama's overall approval and was a major factor in the [[2010 Midterm elections]] which ousted the Democratic majority from the House.

Obama was unconvincing to most Americans. Few saw any advantage in his proposals, and everyone can see the monumental  costs.  Contrary to his campaign vows for openness and transparency in government, Obama cut closed door back room deals with big drug companies and insurers, and was not upfront with the American people. Polls show a steady decline in support for [[Obamacare]] as the public learned more about it. (By contrast, he had  57% approval on health issues in April 2009).<ref>[http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/politics/polls/postpoll_042609.html Washington Post-ABC News Poll ] ''[[Washington Post]]'' July 20, 2009</ref> Conservative Democrats in Congress--who call themselves  "[[Blue Dog Democrats]]"--were reluctant to sign on to any proposal costing a trillion dollars over the next decade.  The controversy lowered Obama's overall approval and was a major factor in the [[2010 Midterm elections]] which ousted the Democratic majority from the House.

===Tax increases===

===Tax increases===

On January 1, 2013 President Obama permanently increased taxes on the middle and [[working class]]es by raising the payroll withholding 2%, effectively costing working families and anyone with a job on average $1000 per year. <ref>http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887324581504578231721868759336.html </ref> <ref>[http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/fact-checker/post/president-obamas-unspoken-payroll-tax-increases/2012/07/25/gJQArLRq9W_blog.html Fact Checker ''Washington Post'']. </ref>

On January 1, 2013 President Obama permanently increased taxes on the middle and [[working class]]es by raising the payroll withholding 2%, effectively costing working families and anyone with a job on average $1000 per year. <ref>[http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887324581504578231721868759336.html The Next Tax Increase] [[Washington Post]]</ref> <ref>[http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/fact-checker/post/president-obamas-unspoken-payroll-tax-increases/2012/07/25/gJQArLRq9W_blog.html Fact Checker] ''[[Washington Post]]''</ref>

===Bailouts===

===Bailouts===

The Federal Reserve in June said conditions deteriorated in many regions of the country, with commercial real estate and labor markets in deep trouble.  The Fed did not forecast a significant boost in economic activity in 2009. Despite costly government efforts to encourage borrowing, it remained very difficult for consumers and businesses to obtain loans.

The Federal Reserve in June said conditions deteriorated in many regions of the country, with commercial real estate and labor markets in deep trouble.  The Fed did not forecast a significant boost in economic activity in 2009. Despite costly government efforts to encourage borrowing, it remained very difficult for consumers and businesses to obtain loans.

The General Motors bailout, which Obama promised would make taxpayers money, resulted in an $11 billion loss;<ref>http://www.outsidethebeltway.com/taxpayers-to-lose-at-least-11-billion-on-general-motors-bailout/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+OTB+%28Outside+The+Beltway+%7C+OTB%29</ref> however Democratic Congressional seats in the areas affected that recieved the aid, remained Democratic in the [[2010 Midterm elections]] despite the persistent high unemployment among workers who were not directly employed in the auto industry in those same districts.

The General Motors bailout, which Obama promised would make taxpayers money, resulted in an $11 billion loss;<ref>[http://www.outsidethebeltway.com/taxpayers-to-lose-at-least-11-billion-on-general-motors-bailout/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+OTB+%28Outside+The+Beltway+%7C+OTB%29 Taxpayers To Lose At Least $11 Billion On General Motors Bailout] [[Outside The Beltway]]</ref> however Democratic Congressional seats in the areas affected that recieved the aid, remained Democratic in the [[2010 Midterm elections]] despite the persistent high unemployment among workers who were not directly employed in the auto industry in those same districts.

===Education===

===Education===

To the angst of liberal supporters, the administration's first proposals for school reform relied heavily on Bush-era ingredients and adds others that make unions gag. They include standardized testing, school accountability, performance pay, and charter schools -- all of which are integral to Obama'a $4.35 billion "Race to the Top" grant competition to spur innovation. Liberals dislike all these new ideas. "It looks like the only strategies they have are charter schools and measurement," protested Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers. "That's Bush III."<ref> See [http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/09/24/AR2009092403197.html Nick Anderson, "Unions Criticize Obama's School Proposals as 'Bush III'"],  ''Washington Post'' Sept. 25, 2009</ref>

To the angst of liberal supporters, the administration's first proposals for school reform relied heavily on Bush-era ingredients and adds others that make unions gag. They include standardized testing, school accountability, performance pay, and charter schools -- all of which are integral to Obama'a $4.35 billion "Race to the Top" grant competition to spur innovation. Liberals dislike all these new ideas. "It looks like the only strategies they have are charter schools and measurement," protested Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers. "That's Bush III."<ref> See [http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/09/24/AR2009092403197.html Nick Anderson, "Unions Criticize Obama's School Proposals as 'Bush III'"],  ''[[Washington Post]]'' Sept. 25, 2009</ref>

Obama and the Democrats successfully killed the Washington D.C. school voucher program which granted school choice to primarily poor African-American and minority families and children.<ref>http://articles.cnn.com/2009-03-11/politics/martin.vouchers_1_vouchers-school-choice-democrats?_s=PM:POLITICS</ref> After the 2010 Midterm elections the [[Republican]]s revived the program.<ref>http://www.bluecollarphilosophy.com/2011/03/republicans-care-more-about-poor-children-than-democrats-d-c-vouchers-restored-in-house-vote.html</ref>

Obama and the Democrats successfully killed the Washington D.C. school voucher program which granted school choice to primarily poor African-American and minority families and children.<ref>[http://articles.cnn.com/2009-03-11/politics/martin.vouchers_1_vouchers-school-choice-democrats?_s=PM:POLITICS Commentary: Obama, Dems wrong to kill school vouchers] [[CNN]]</ref> After the 2010 Midterm elections the [[Republican]]s revived the program.<ref>http://www.bluecollarphilosophy.com/2011/03/republicans-care-more-about-poor-children-than-democrats-d-c-vouchers-restored-in-house-vote.html</ref>

===Internet Regulation===

===Internet Regulation===

Before the Obama administration began forcing its [[big government]] agenda into all spheres of the economy, the [[Internet]] was open and adaptive because it was free of government regulation.<ref>Conn Carroll. [http://blog.heritage.org/2010/12/27/if-the-fcc-had-regulated-the-internet/ If the FCC Had Regulated the Internet], blog.heritage.org, December 27, 2010.</ref> A ''[[Rasmussen Reports]]'' survey found that only 21 percent (21%) of likely U.S. Voters wanted the [[Federal Communications Commission]] (FCC) to regulate the Internet as it does [[radio]] and [[television]]. Fifty-six percent (56%) of voters said they believe that the FCC would use its regulatory authority to promote a political agenda.<ref>The survey of 1,000 Likely Voters nationwide was conducted on December 23, 2010 by Rasmussen Reports. The margin of sampling error is +/- 3 percentage points with a 95% level of confidence. [http://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/politics/general_politics/december_2010/just_21_want_fcc_to_regulate_internet_most_fear_regulation_would_promote_political_agenda Just 21% Want FCC to Regulate Internet, Most Fear Regulation Would Promote Political Agenda], ''[[Rasmussen Reports]]'', December 28, 2010/</ref> But [[President Obama|President Obama's]] appointed FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski, along with three other Democrats on the commission, helped craft a plan to impose so-called "[[net neutrality]]" rules on [[Internet service providers]], by taking an unprecedented step to expand government's reach into the Internet by attempting to regulate its inner workings.<ref>James Gattuso, “FCC’s Christmas Gift for the Internet: Net Neutrality Regulation,” The Foundry, December 1, 2010, at [http://blog.heritage.org/2010/12/01/fcc%e2%80%99s-christmas-gift-for-the-internet-net-neutrality-regulation http://blog.heritage.org/2010/12/01/fcc%e2%80%99s-christmas-gift-for-the-internet-net-neutrality-regulation].</ref><ref>'[[Net neutrality]]' sounds nice, but the [[World Wide Web|Web]] is working fine now. The new rules will inhibit investment, deter innovation and create a billable-hours bonanza for lawyers. [http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703395204576023452250748540.html The FCC's Threat to Internet Freedom], ''[[Wall Street Journal]]'', By Robert M. McDowell, December 19, 2010.</ref><ref>The Federal Communications Commission approved a plan to regulate the [[Internet]] despite warnings that it could strangle industry investment and damage an economy that is still struggling to recover. [http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2010/12/21/fcc-poised-pass-network-neutrality-rules/ FCC Approves Plan to Regulate Internet], [[Fox News|FoxNew.com]], Published December 21, 2010.</ref> In doing so, the agency will circumvent [[Congress]] and disregard a federal court ruling; a federal appeals court in [[Washington D.C.]] previously ruled that the Telecommunications Act of 1996 did not authorize the FCC to regulate Internet use, and therefore that the FCC had no statutory authority to do so.<ref>Lachlan Markay. [http://newsbusters.org/blogs/lachlan-markay/2010/12/21/opponents-fccs-new-internet-regulations-vow-swift-recourse Opponents of FCC's New Internet Regulations Vow Swift Recourse], ''[[NewsBusters]]'', December 21, 2010.</ref><ref>[http://blogs.findlaw.com/courtside/2010/04/fcc-and-net-neutrality-supporters-lose-case-against-comcast.html F.C.C. (and Net Neutrality Supporters) Lose Case Against Comcast], By Joel Zand on April 6, 2010.</ref><ref>[http://www.heritage.org/Research/Reports/2010/12/Red-Tape-Under-the-Tree-FCC-Plans-Internet-Regulation-for-Christmas Red Tape Under the Tree: FCC Plans Internet Regulation for Christmas], heritage.org, Published on December 17, 2010 by James Gattuso.

Before the Obama administration began forcing its [[big government]] agenda into all spheres of the economy, the [[Internet]] was open and adaptive because it was free of government regulation.<ref>Conn Carroll. [http://blog.heritage.org/2010/12/27/if-the-fcc-had-regulated-the-internet/ If the FCC Had Regulated the Internet], [[Heritage Foundation|blog.heritage.org]], December 27, 2010.</ref> A ''[[Rasmussen Reports]]'' survey found that only 21 percent (21%) of likely U.S. Voters wanted the [[Federal Communications Commission]] (FCC) to regulate the Internet as it does [[radio]] and [[television]]. Fifty-six percent (56%) of voters said they believe that the FCC would use its regulatory authority to promote a political agenda.<ref>The survey of 1,000 Likely Voters nationwide was conducted on December 23, 2010 by Rasmussen Reports. The margin of sampling error is +/- 3 percentage points with a 95% level of confidence. [http://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/politics/general_politics/december_2010/just_21_want_fcc_to_regulate_internet_most_fear_regulation_would_promote_political_agenda Just 21% Want FCC to Regulate Internet, Most Fear Regulation Would Promote Political Agenda], ''[[Rasmussen Reports]]'', December 28, 2010</ref> But [[President Obama|President Obama's]] appointed FCC Chairman [[Julius Genachowski]], along with three other Democrats on the commission, helped craft a plan to impose so-called "[[net neutrality]]" rules on [[Internet service providers]], by taking an unprecedented step to expand government's reach into the Internet by attempting to regulate its inner workings.<ref>James Gattuso, “FCC’s Christmas Gift for the Internet: Net Neutrality Regulation,” The Foundry, December 1, 2010, at [http://blog.heritage.org/2010/12/01/fcc%e2%80%99s-christmas-gift-for-the-internet-net-neutrality-regulation http://blog.heritage.org/2010/12/01/fcc%e2%80%99s-christmas-gift-for-the-internet-net-neutrality-regulation].</ref><ref>'[[Net neutrality]]' sounds nice, but the [[World Wide Web|Web]] is working fine now. The new rules will inhibit investment, deter innovation and create a billable-hours bonanza for lawyers. [http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703395204576023452250748540.html The FCC's Threat to Internet Freedom], ''[[Wall Street Journal]]'', By Robert M. McDowell, December 19, 2010.</ref><ref>The Federal Communications Commission approved a plan to regulate the [[Internet]] despite warnings that it could strangle industry investment and damage an economy that is still struggling to recover. [http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2010/12/21/fcc-poised-pass-network-neutrality-rules/ FCC Approves Plan to Regulate Internet], [[Fox News Channel]], Published December 21, 2010.</ref> In doing so, the agency will circumvent [[Congress]] and disregard a federal court ruling; a federal appeals court in [[Washington D.C.]] previously ruled that the Telecommunications Act of 1996 did not authorize the FCC to regulate Internet use, and therefore that the FCC had no statutory authority to do so.<ref>Lachlan Markay. [http://newsbusters.org/blogs/lachlan-markay/2010/12/21/opponents-fccs-new-internet-regulations-vow-swift-recourse Opponents of FCC's New Internet Regulations Vow Swift Recourse], ''[[NewsBusters]]'', December 21, 2010.</ref><ref>[http://blogs.findlaw.com/courtside/2010/04/fcc-and-net-neutrality-supporters-lose-case-against-comcast.html F.C.C. (and Net Neutrality Supporters) Lose Case Against Comcast], By Joel Zand on April 6, 2010.</ref><ref>[http://www.heritage.org/Research/Reports/2010/12/Red-Tape-Under-the-Tree-FCC-Plans-Internet-Regulation-for-Christmas Red Tape Under the Tree: FCC Plans Internet Regulation for Christmas], [[Heritage Foundation]], Published on December 17, 2010 by James Gattuso.

*WebMemo On [http://www.heritage.org/Issues/Regulation Regulation], ''[[The Heritage Foundation]]''.</ref>

*WebMemo On [http://www.heritage.org/Issues/Regulation Regulation], ''[[The Heritage Foundation]]''.</ref>

===Guantanamo Bay===

===Guantanamo Bay===

On November 16, 2008, in an interview with Steve Kroft of [[CBS]]'s ''[[60 Minutes]]'' program, Barack Obama promised to close [[Guantanamo Bay Detention Facility]] by [[Executive Order]], "to regain America's [[moral]] stature in the world."<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQXZoM__vU0 60 Minutes: Obama Reiterates Promise To Close Guantanamo Bay].  Youtube.</ref>  A press release on January 22, 2009 claimed Obama ordered closing the camp within the year. <ref>http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=barack+obama+guantanamo+bay&aq=4&oq=Barack+Obama+g&aqi=g10</ref> In January of 2013 President Obama signed an authorization refusing to allow the transfer of detainees from Guantanamo.<ref>[http://www.democracynow.org/seo/2013/1/8/4_years_after_vow_to_close Years After Vow to Close Gitmo, Why Has Obama Signed NDAA Bill Barring Transfer of Its Prisoners?].</ref> As of the president's second inaugural, the promise to regain America's moral stature remained unfulfilled.

On November 16, 2008, in an interview with Steve Kroft of [[CBS]]'s ''[[60 Minutes]]'' program, Barack Obama promised to close [[Guantanamo Bay Detention Facility]] by [[Executive Order]], "to regain America's [[moral]] stature in the world."<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQXZoM__vU0 60 Minutes: Obama Reiterates Promise To Close Guantanamo Bay].  Youtube.</ref>  A press release on January 22, 2009 claimed Obama ordered closing the camp within the year. <ref>[https://www.whitehouse.gov/the_press_office/ClosureOfGuantanamoDetentionFacilities Closure Of Guantanamo Detention Facilities ] [[White House]]</ref> In January of 2013 President Obama signed an authorization refusing to allow the transfer of detainees from Guantanamo.<ref>[http://www.democracynow.org/seo/2013/1/8/4_years_after_vow_to_close Years After Vow to Close Gitmo, Why Has Obama Signed NDAA Bill Barring Transfer of Its Prisoners?].</ref> As of the president's second inaugural, the promise to regain America's moral stature remained unfulfilled.

===Libya===

===Libya===