CHeck out spintreebob’s post in relationship to post 7,8,13.
Michelle relationship with JJ has BO playing both sides again....His own version of present so he doesn’t have to commit.
Obama’s transition point was teleprompter reader at John Kerry’s National Convention when Obama became a bigger than life national figure.
Before that speech, there were hundreds of Blacks in Chicago, and thousands of politicians in Chicago more powerful than Obama.
After that speech, it was clear to everyone in Chicago that Obama was the future. He instantly became the most powerful person in the Black community. The other leaders still had their institutional power.
Before the speech Obama positioned himself in reference to the other leaders. After the speech others positioned themselves in reference to Obama.
Given this dynamic, the past power relationships have little bearing on the present or future. For example, suppose the poweerful Emil Jones had scandal on Obama. Before the speech, Emil could use that dirt to extort a favor from Obama. After that speech, Emil cannot use that leverage. Obama can now crush Emil if Emil so much as hints at bringing out the dirt.
In short, Obama has the power to throw under the bus anyone from his past that he wants and none of them can do a thing about it except think about how they can best take care of themselves.