Beyond 2012

Abstract

Although he promised no real left agenda, Barack Obama was elected by hopeful voters who projected onto him a deep desire for a truly transformative and progressive presidency. Instead, the Obama administration expanded US imperialism abroad and economic policies that benefited the wealthiest of individuals and corporations domestically. The following article argues that there are lessons to be learned from this episode in American history and illustrates why we must mobilize a left political agenda that is larger than a single individual and a single presidential term.

Keywords:

• bipartisan
• Black left
• Department of Homeland Security
• Political pragmatism
• political repression

Notes

The Young Turks, “Why the Department of Homeland Security was watching ‘TYT’ and reporter Michael Hastings”, Current TV, http://current.com/shows/the-young-turks/videos/why-the-department-of-homeland-security-was-watching-tytand-reporter-michael-hastings (accessed August 1, 2012).

Michael Hastings, “Homeland Security Kept Tabs on Occupy Wall Street.” Rolling Stone, http://www.rollingstone.com/politics/blogs/national-affairs/exclusive-homeland-security-kepttabs-on-occupy-wall-street-20120228#ixzz26jg2iHjD (accessed February 28, 2012).

Andy Pasztor and John Emshwiller, “Drone Use Takes Off on the Home Front.” Wall Street Journal, http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702304331204577354331959335276.html (accessed April 21, 2012).