I understand your point and I agree with much of it.
The test of leadership is leading people where they don't want to go, even though going there is the right course of action.
He has to make the case and lead the way. Force congress to cut him off at the knees if they dare. Many people can respect that. History will bare out whether or not it was the correct course of action.
To me it seems like we are a drift these days. And time is running out.
Here's another bleat, though:
Reagan was EXCELLENT at going over the heads of the media. I think the media knew this and it irritated them.
I remember that late in Bush41's term he asked for some airtime and the media wouldn't give it to him!
I hate the thought of a government newspaper and TV station. But if the media can deny access to the president (can they really? I don't know) then they win and we lose.
And yeah, while I admire his commitment to Democracy and bless Sharanksy for writing his book, Dubya ain't no Reagan, that's fer shur.
To you it 'seems' like we are adrift these days, but fortunately, you are dead wrong.