Obama reminds Republicans, "I won."

When President Obama, in his inaugural address, said that "we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist," he was speaking to enemies abroad.

He's quickly learning that he may have to speak that way to Republicans too. Not content with his compromise of putting $350 billion in tax cuts into the $850 billion economic recovery bill, Republicans are insisting on more tax cuts, complaining about too much infrastructure investment, and saying that they're being left out of the negotiations.

Meeting with Congressional leaders today to hear their views, Obama reminded the Republicans that "I won." It's said that in context the remark sounded less provocatively partisan. But I say: "You go, Mr. President."

It's not just that we won, but the American people overwhelmingly rejected the Republicans and their failed policies. You failed, your people were voted out, and you no longer get to dictate the game.

Sometimes an 80/20 vote on a good plan may be better than a 51/49 vote on an even better plan -- especially when it's a risky business and you want to share the blame if it fails. But not always, not if you have to give up too much to get the 80 votes.

Obama's experience as a community organizer, as a compromiser for the greater good, and his ideals of bi-partisanship are all fine. But there is a line to be drawn and say: OK, I have listened to you, I disagree with your proposal, and we have the power to pass our plan. So let's vote.

I was concerned that he might value bipartisanship and compromise so much that he won't use the power we have given him to forge boldly ahead. Reminding his opposition who won -- on his third full day in office -- is encouraging.

Ralph