America the capable

Assessing the first 100 days of a presidential administration has become a political ritual, as revered as hot dogs at a baseball game. Admittedly, the analysis is often far less substantial than a “foot-long.” In our current circumstances, however, an overview of even such a short period is unusually revealing.

It’s difficult to imagine a greater change between two administrations. Donald Trump’s four years seemed encapsulated in the 45 days following the lost election: outrageous lies, ego-gratifying frauds, scene-stealing pronouncements, all rooted in a profound disdain for democracy and revealing a self-arrogating autocrat. All of which culminated in the chaotic January 6 insurrection.

With steel-willed intent, Joe Biden exudes calm. Within the first hours and days, the old order was restored. Custom-shredding Executive Orders were rescinded. Familiar names were put in familiar posts, and known quantities were placed elsewhere. Daily press conferences were held with Q’s and A’s. It was far more than a finely orchestrated pantomime. A consistent and vitally important message was being conveyed: America can work; government works.

Although there is no “normal” time for a first presidential speech to Congress and the nation, Biden’s was the latest in memory. That, too, was planned. Either a legislative success could be hailed or congressional opponents assailed. As it turned out, the passage of the American Relief Plan and the remarkable success of organized vaccination efforts provided the president with precisely the story he wanted to tell: America is capable.