Perspectives

Current issues

In the "Yes We Can" speech, Barack Obama mentions several issues that he intended to tackle as US President. In your analysis, you could reflect which of his policies were put into effect during his two terms.

For example, the speech mentions the “the division and distraction that has clouded Washington” (ll. 35-36). Unfortunately, Barack Obama did not manage to bridge the gap between Democrats and Republicans. On the contrary, for much of his time in office, Obama was in conflict with the Republican-dominated Congress and political divisions grew.

Obama talks about his intention to “challenge the money and influence that stood in our way” (l. 38) and about the “the tax breaks for corporations that ship our jobs overseas” (ll. 46-47). The economic crisis of 2008 prevented Obama from achieving significant results in these areas. The US economy was at a serious low point when Obama took office. It was also during his first term that, to avoid bankruptcy, big banks received financial help from ...