There's little argument that the $800 billion-plus stimulus bill that was President Barack Obama's first "accomplishment" soon became one of his biggest political liabilities.

And so the once-dreamlike story entered its nightmare phase. In the beginning, nothing could go wrong for Barack Obama. Now, it seems nothing can go right.

...chance of success, but he's more likely to find it if he sticks to his recently discovered centrist leanings. E. Thomas McClanahan is a member of the Kansas City Star editorial board.

The House Republicans' decision to take on entitlements now, rather than wait to fight it out after winning back the presidency, was always a very risky gamble. But who would have predicted that the Democratic position would get its biggest boost from a former Republican House speaker, Newt Gingrich?

...Republicans, still casting about for fresh ideas, can translate some of that anger into real support for candidates. E. Thomas McClanahan is a member of the Kansas City Star editorial board.

...for Obama to hit the "reset" button, and do what he said he'd do in the campaign: govern from the center. E. Thomas McClanahan is a member of the Kansas City Star editorial board.

...adversary's ideas. I'd start formulating a program of lower taxes that were broad-based and permanent. E. Thomas McClanahan is a member of the Kansas City Star editorial board. Readers may e-mail him at mcclanahan@kcstar.com.

...euphemisms for terrorism like "man-caused disasters." Palin is plowing some very fertile political ground. E. Thomas McClanahan is a member of the Kansas City Star editorial board. Readers may write to him at: Kansas City Star, 1729 Grand...