This letter to the editor was originally published in the Chicago Tribune on April 6th, 2010. Written by — Charles F. Falk, Schaumburg

In view of recent actions within the Washington “Beltway,” I find myself wishing that my fellow Americans read more — and remembered what they have read. History and literature are filled with tales of situations where a sometimes mysterious individual comes from relative obscurity, into relationships, families, communities or organizations and causes significant change. Typically the newcomer is attractive, enthusiastic, well-spoken and glib.

In these tales the newcomer is very seductive for those with whom he or she has contact. However, at the end of these stories, readers most often learn that the change brought about by the seductive newcomer has not been positive for those who have fallen under the newcomer’s spell.

And so it was that in 2008 the majority of American voters were seduced by a somewhat obscure, attractive, enthusiastic and very well-spoken newcomer (Barack Obama) and elected him as our 44th president of the U.S. In his campaign Obama magnificently used his extensive vocabulary and profound rhetorical skills to convey many promises to the American people. For example, Obama told us that, if elected, the following would occur:

• A new, more conciliatory tone would be created in Washington.
• There would be an end to “politics as usual” in Washington.
• Earmarks in legislative measures would be reduced to pre-1994 levels.
• Bipartisanship would increase measurably.
• Greater transparency would be brought in government processes.
• It would be the end of the “revolving door” for lobbyists and former government officials.• It would be the end of no-bid contracts where the amount is $25,000 or greater.
• Human missions to outer space would be continued.

We now know these are just a few of promised changes that have not occurred, and that Obama’s many words mean nothing. We’ve discovered that he cannot articulate without nuance and shading — thus fogging his true meaning and intent.

In short, no matter how engaging and verbal he is, Obama is just like so many other characters in history and literature who could not be trusted to fulfill their promises. That is unfortunate for all Americans — readers and non-readers alike.

— Charles F. Falk, Schaumburg

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