EVENTS LEAD:

Dealing with unexpected problems the Obama way (CAROL E. LEE, 12/29/09, Politico)

There is a sense of déjà vu in the Obama administration’s response to the attempted terrorist attack on Christmas Day. A by-now familiar pattern has been established for dealing with unexpected problems.

First, White House aides downplay the notion that something may have gone wrong on their part. While staying out of the spotlight, the president conveys his efforts to address the situation and his feelings about it through administration officials. After a few days, the White House concedes on the issue, and perhaps Obama even steps out to address it.

Every administration learns this lesson. This is the only one that pretends that the first day, when the UR doesn't react, represents a radical break with the past.

Posted by Orrin Judd at December 29, 2009 6:40 AM