I am pretty surprised to have done a diary and story search on "Maddow" for the past 24 hours and to not see this particular segment of Maddow's show last night (12/21/2010) written about.
The video clip below the fold is must-see TV as far as I'm concerned. I'm going to give it with only a brief preamble and you can judge for yourself.
((More))
I've always like Maddow - not because I always agree with her, but because I think she's frighteningly intelligent and she doesn't put forward opinions that she hasn't researched and considered carefully. She's also been quite critical of the current Administration and Congress at various points, very much in line (though not quite as shrill as some) of the criticisms here. It was painful to watch her at times - because I recognized the truth in what she was saying even if I didn't really want to hear it.
What I also like about her is her willingness to give credit where credit is due. And last night's 11:00 + minute opening segment is something that everyone - Kossacks, non-blogger Democrats, liberals, progressives, moderates, conservatives, and Republicans should watch. So without further delay, here it is:
(For those with trouble getting the embedded vid to play, here's a link to it on MSNBC's site - it's the very first video from 12/21/2010's show.)
I understand that there's much to criticize, that key things could have been done oh-so-much better. But it doesn't take away, to me (YMMV) the breathtaking accomplishments of this White House. There simply MUST be a way to celebrate accomplishments while working - perhaps differently so that it's more effective - for better policies, fairer opportunities, and a better Democratic ideal.
Is there?