Why do we need to support the president?

[smokey the elder]

One way to look at it can be to disagree with the individual but respect the office. People disagreeing with a President can lead to either good or bad things, depending on circumstances. Divisiveness (I can't spell today for some reason!) and partisanship can be a barrier to trying to right the USA in our eyes and the eyes of the world.

There is a concept called "the loyal opposition"; I don't remember its origin; it's the idea that people critically think and constructively question the actions of those in power, while at the same time acknowleging their status by election or appointment.

[JenBKR]

I am one who has said that recently. I didn't vote for him, and I probably won't agree with everything that he says/does. However, by saying that I am supporting him now, I just mean that I am giving him a chance. He is brand new in office, and I think that he deserves my respect. I just have to wait and see if he keeps it

Does that answer your question at all? I know what I am trying to say, but sometimes it doesn't come out right (especially online).

[Pembroke_Corgi]

One way to look at it can be to disagree with the individual but respect the office. People disagreeing with a President can lead to either good or bad things, depending on circumstances. Divisiveness (I can't spell today for some reason!) and partisanship can be a barrier to trying to right the USA in our eyes and the eyes of the world.

There is a concept called "the loyal opposition"; I don't remember its origin; it's the idea that people critically think and constructively question the actions of those in power, while at the same time acknowleging their status by election or appointment.

I haven't heard the term "loyal opposition," but I do agree with the concept- I think those in power should be questioned, for the better of everyone, which is why I started this discussion. Maybe I am reading into what I am hearing too much. Thanks for the reply!

I am one who has said that recently. I didn't vote for him, and I probably won't agree with everything that he says/does. However, by saying that I am supporting him now, I just mean that I am giving him a chance. He is brand new in office, and I think that he deserves my respect. I just have to wait and see if he keeps it

Does that answer your question at all? I know what I am trying to say, but sometimes it doesn't come out right (especially online).

I guess I should have clarified that it's not just PT where I've heard this said- I'm not trying to single anyone out! But I see what you mean.

[JenBKR]

I guess I should have clarified that it's not just PT where I've heard this said- I'm not trying to single anyone out! But I see what you mean.

Oh no don't worry, I didn't take it personally I have heard it quite a bit too recently. I am among the hopeful...although I know that things won't get better overnight. Obama himself has said that things will probably get worse before they get better. Time will tell...

[RICHARD]

I said this before.

The president is the guy that 'drives the bus'.

I don't care for him but, I do support the office he represents and think he can do the job.

If, at some point, I don't like the direction or the places that the bus travels, I have every right and intention of getting off it at the next stop.

Of course, there will be the 'BUSHBASHERS' who will look at my feelings as being hypocritical-but I find their opinions as pertinent as the last square on a TP roll during the flu.

Onward, through the fog!

[Karen]

Because he was duly elected, it is our responsibility to support the president, out of respect for the office. This does not mean we cannot disagree with individual opinions or policies or actions. But the majority of our fellow Americans elected whomever is in office, and we - as participants in the democratic process - need to respect their decision.

You need also to realize that your own senator and representative are in office to serve you - much of what the President does is subject to approval by the House and Senate, so you can contact your representatives in Washington on particular matters you feel strongly about.

[Grace]

Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President of the United States.

To announce that there must be no criticism of the President, or that we are to stand by the President, right or wrong, is not only unpatriotic and servile, but is morally treasonable to the American public.

[Edwina's Secretary]

To me...the problem is what does the word "support" mean in this context?

Similar to "Support Our Troops". I do support our troops. I pay my taxes that pay for them. I hope every day that they will come home out of harm's way.

To me that is "supporting our troops."

So perhaps to "support the president" is to pay your taxes and hope he is successful? And not in harm's way?

Nothing in either statement suggests I cannot criticize, complain, or even carp!