One of the most common criticisms of presidents – especially struggling ones during their second term – is that they have lost control of events. …
Under favorable circumstances, presidents seem to be in command of events, but that’s largely a reflection of the context they face. It’s not hard to seem in control when the economy is booming, the president’s party has a large majority in Congress or the nation is rallying around the president after a national tragedy.
Once unfavorable circumstances arise, though, even the most accomplished chief executives seem to lose control. CONT.
Brendan Nyhan (Dartmouth), New York Times