Movies such as 'Mr. Smith Goes to Washington' in 1939 to 'Dave' in 1993 portray Washington leaders as the ultimate Everymen - decent people just like you and me, only thrust onto greatness.

With gridlock the norm, Congress's approval rating is below 10 percent and the public has lost faith in its national leadership.

In Washington, compromise has become a dirty word.

Obama considers himself above deal-making and back-slapping, political necessities he often delegates to Vice President Joe Biden and other lesser sorts.

One of Obama's most impressive attributes is his quiet confidence: Voters sense that he is comfortable in his own skin, a dedicated father and friend who won't waste time with the phony rituals of Washington.

Anything may be possible in America, but a Palin presidency is virtually implausible.

At his best, Obama promised to work with Republicans to reduce the deficit in a way that honors both individualism and community.