WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama has been railing against Republicans in Congress to pass his jobs bill. The message is beginning to resemble Harry Truman’s approach in 1948.
Obama and Truman share many parallels. Like Obama, Truman’s party lost control of Congress during midterm elections and Truman faced a tough re-election campaign.
Truman overcame low approval ratings and rallied against a “do-nothing” Congress in 1948 to win another term.
The Truman strategy allows Obama to blame Congress for the stagnant economy at a time when Congress’ approval ratings are extremely low. Analysts say it also sets up a clear contrast with Republicans and lets him campaign for jobs during a difficult economic period.
But it could leave Obama vulnerable to criticism that he can’t get things done in Washington.
