Redecoration Causes Outrage!

I read an article in the New York Times today about the Obamas having the Oval Office redecorated while they were on vacation. It clearly stated that the money used to redecorate came from a group that pays for updates to the White House and that no taxpayer money was used. It also mentioned that both Presidents Bush and Clinton have redecorated to suit their taste while they were in the Oval Office. But, of course, many of the comments afterward denounced President Obama for using taxpayer money and redecorating at a time when the nation is reeling from a recession.

Let's keep two things in mind here. First, the paint, wallpaper, furniture, reupholstering, and new carpet did not magically materialize at Mr. Obama's will. People had to make them, transport them and, in the case of the paint and wallpaper, apply them. I am sure no one would do all of that for free, so I am thinking a few people had a job because of this. Perhaps they weren't many, and probably some were from overseas companies because in the recent past, President George H.W. Bush and a whole bunch of Republicans thought it would be a good idea to have a free-trade agreement between the U.S., Canada and Mexico. But I digress. Second, President George W. Bush once encouraged the American population to purchase more without concern for how to repay it because this was a great way to patriotically support the war in Iraq. Also, many economists think that people should purchase more to aid the economy. From the way I see it, the President is doing his patriotic duty by redecorating the Oval Office.

So, it seems to me that President Obama has helped the economy and followed in the footsteps of his predecessors. But the naysayers have once again bashed him for his insensitivity and his waste of taxpayer money (did I mention none was used?) They claim that because he won't disclose how much he spent, he is once again being less then transparent. Using Republican thinking though, he has acted admirably. So why are they upset? Is it because they are looking for ways of discrediting him so they can take over the government and cater to the wealthy and influential? Is it because they want to do everything they can to divert the attention of Americans so they can continue to encourage legislation that benefits the fat cats on Wall Street? Is it so they can manage a majority in the House this fall so they can hold government up even more, effectively crippling the country?

You know what? I am getting oturaged!