President Obama demonstrated anew last night why he’s a political force not to be underestimated. Congressional Republicans need to reassess picking a fight with a President who is smart, articulate (and clean, as Joe Biden would say). Not to mention one who has the biggest microphone in the world.

Obama made his reputation as an orator. He was pretty damn good in the news conference setting.

His opening statement was strong and crisp. His answers to questions were long, thoughtful and compelling.

He did what he has needed to do for some time: define the problem, defend the spending and debate the solution.

Congressional Republicans, being the geniuses they are, believed they were winning the argument because the chattering commentators said they were winning the argument.

Obama spoke directly last night to the audience that counts: voters. My guess is that he won them big time.

His critics keep forgetting the President is no longer the halting, tongue-tied George Bush.

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