by Demetrius Minor

In his election victory speech, Barack Obama proclaimed to an ecstatic and jubilant crowd at Grant Park in Chicago that his candidacy was not about him, but about the people. I wish he would’ve transported that same philosophy into his presidency. At this point, we have seen a restraint against the White House and Congress plans for expansive government control.

      The American people voiced opposition to the bailout of the automobile industry. Citizens simply did not want to see their taxpayer money funded to incompetence and lack of management. However, the White House and Congress refused to listen, took matter into their own hands, and once again succeeded in disappointing the American people.

      In regards to the stimulus bill that was passed in February, there was huge resistance to this because the American people knew that this would have no effect on the sluggish economy. However, government failed to listen to the voices of the people and passed the legislation, that has to this date, produced little or none positive results. Unemployment remains hovering around 9-10%, inflation is high, and the big question that is saturating people’s mind right now is: “Where are the jobs?”

      In regards to spending, the American people have demanded a fiscally responsible government to take form; however, the opposite has occurred. At this point, Obama and Congress have increased our deficit, continued the ritual of wasteful earmarks, and has spent more money than his predecessor, George W. Bush. At this point, Obama makes Bush look like an accountant! It is time for government to listen to the people.

      The big issue now is health care reform. The more President Obama makes his case for government overhaul, the more resistance he faces from the American people. More than 86% of Americans are satisfied with their health care and more people are opposed to government interference. Does there need to be health care reform? No doubt. Health care reform needs to be made without endangering the private sector or state rights. The White House and Congress needs to listen to the voices of employers and small business owners who are in danger of falling victim to the governments demands. Employers could be faced with the devastating option of decreasing benefits to the employees or increasing the cost. With the government overhaul, the risk that taxpayers face is that the quality of health care will not totally be sufficient. If the government really wants health care reform, once again, they need to listen to the voices of the people.

      The recent polls numbers showing a disapproval of Obama’s performance is simply because he isn’t listening to the people. I don’t consider myself to be a political expert, but if I could offer a word of advice to our 44^th President and Congress it will be to simply listen.

Demetrius Minor is a new contributor HHR blog he is a senior at Augusta State University and a former White House intern