Sawz:

Your discussion about tribalism is correct, and well observed, but it is not complete. The tribal aspect of politics is its most boring and inefficient aspect. In addition to that, though, there are real decisions and individuals who do well or ill, regardless of right their tribe is doing. There are some who deal with realpolitik, not the ass-kissers and cheerleaders.

Obama has always gravitated to the center. The energy move may have been a political manuver to help get his cap and trade pociies more easily adopted, I don't know.


A