One thing I have noticed that probably doesn't make it to the BBC except in summary discussions: Mr. Obama has been busy issuing executive orders rescinding a lot of Mr. Bush's executive orders. There were so many that needed rescinding that it has taken him a while. Guantanamo-related orders have been prominent. Some others relate to a complete credibility review of all intelligence used since the 9/11 disaster. If I worked with the Justice Dept. or Homeland Security rather than the Defense Dept., I would be nervously looking over my shoulder right now.
I wish to make something else clear at this time. I often stand up for my country and will defend the right of the president to make decisions he thinks are necessary. Further, since I work (indirectly) for the U.S. Government, it is career-limiting to say bad things about the seated commander-in-chief. Having made the disclaimer, I find it strangely relieving that Mr. Bush is no longer C-in-C.
Colin, your problem with the USA probably was not really with the U.S. Government, but with some of the people who held the reins at the time. Have you never had the thought that your current Prime Minister or some other high official was off his bloomin' chump despite the lofty office he held?
Trust me, we know full well that election to office doesn't coincide with elevation to divinity. But we are accustomed to supporting the people in office, secure in the knowledge that term limits will solve the problem that a second-term re-election didn't correct. And besides, we have to hope that whoever is in office at any given time has at least some success in running the country. Otherwise we go nowhere at all.
