In his inaugural address in January 2009, President Barack Obama promised a new era of diplomacy in foreign affairs. “To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history,” he said. But, he continued, “we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.”
He didn’t know that he might as well have been speaking to the Republicans.
The November 15, 2010 cover of The New Yorker features Obama offering to shake the hand of Republican congressman John Boehner, who is expected to take over as the next Speaker of the House. Instead of offering his hand to shake in return, Boehner offers Obama his fist.
