re:  Approval deficit:  It's ironic that the more good bills Obama signs into law, the lower his job ratings sink

The Chronicle editorialists seem perplexed by public approval of President Obama following passage of the economic "stimulus" bill, health care "reform", and now the new financial regulation overhaul, asking the public is having "such negative reactions to measures aimed at improving Americans' lives" and exhorting the President as knowing "the right thing to do for America".

It would seem obvious that President Obama's ratings are sinking because people are disagreeing with his vision of what's right for America — one of a federal government even more expansive and expensive than that left to him by his predecessor.  Neither a President nor any other politician should be judged on what his measures are "aimed" at doing, they should be judged on what they actually do.  Even the editorial writers admit the facts:  despite President Obama having "made unemployment a priority" and enacting measures "aimed" at improving the economy, the unemployment rate continues to soar.  Results, not intentions, are what count.

I have no doubt that Mr. Obama truly believes that his dramatic expansion of government intrusion on the marketplace and forthcoming tax increases are steps in the right direction; however, history and experience show otherwise.  It isn't ironic that the public finds his performance lacking as he continues to pursue well-intentioned but ineffective policies — it's simple common sense.

Sincerely,
Dave Smith
Houston, TX