ABSTRACT
In the middle of an economic crisis of unprecedented magnitude in modern times, the faltering leadership coming from the George W Bush administration has left a vacuum being filled by the incoming administration's presence, statements, and expectations. Given President Elect Obama's demonstrated penchant for control, moderation, reflection, and expert consultation, it should not be expected that external factors such as the economy or geopolitical issues will in fact be the ones that threaten the core of his presidency. It is in America's interests to shift away from a technological base predicated on low priced oil-dependent energy, and to enable a manufacturing platform based on multiple sources of energy. President elect Obama's coattails have increased the majorities of Democrats in both houses and raised the expectations of his supporters that see in him the possibility of a renewal of the American dream.
