Obama Ready and Willing to Revise Plans
In an interview with Matt Lauer for NBC’s “Today Show” Senator Barack Obama said the economic crisis may very well cause him to revise some of his plans.
“Does that mean that I can do everything that I’ve called for in this campaign right away?” Obama said. “Probably not. I think we’re going to have to phase it in. And a lot of it’s going to depend on what our tax revenues look like.”
He also lashed out at John McCain saying: “I think what has been clear during this entire past 10 days is John McCain has not had clarity and a grasp on the situation.” This came in response to McCain’s opposition to the plan brought forth by the Bush administration. His opposition to it is not rooted in a general opposition to government interference, but in a belief that the plan does not give Congress or others enough oversight. ‘Too much power in the hands of too few,’ is Senator McCain’s take on the plan.
Whether that means that McCain has no “grasp on the situation” is left up to you to decide.
As for Obama’s words about revising his plans; it is refreshing to see a candidate for the highest office speak so bluntly and honestly. Normally, candidates all too often pretend that they will be able to implement their plans regardless of what may happen. Obama’s honesty is, in that regard, a refreshing break with history.
Then again, it would be difficult if not impossible for him to pretend that he could continue with his plans as promised. Most experts had already noted that the plans could not be implemented if the economic crisis would persist, and even if it does not persist, Obama will not be able to cash in on all his proposed policies.
In how far he would scale back his plans if elected, and what it would mean for his overall economic policy remains unclear at this point in time. Perhaps he will come with more specifics in the coming weeks.
