Reality Destroys Rhetoric, in Record Time

REMARKS OF THE PRESIDENT AT THE EXPORT-IMPORT BANK'S ANNUAL CONFERENCE,  MARCH 11, 11:30 AM EST:

We’ve got some of the most innovative companies in the world –- and we should be advocating on their behalf to boost local economies and create jobs here.

This is an effort I will personally lead as President. Next week, I’ll take my second trip to the Asia Pacific –- a region that will be fundamental to America’s ability to create jobs and to thrive in the 21st century. We can’t be on the sidelines -– we have to lead, and our engagement has to extend to governments and businesses and peoples across the Pacific. So while I’m there, I’ll visit Indonesia and Australia, two vibrant economies and democracies that will be critical partners for the United States. And in both countries, I’ll highlight the role that American businesses play there, and underscore how strong economic partnerships can create jobs on both sides of the Pacific while advancing both regional and global prosperity. Going forward, I will be a strong and steady advocate for our workers and our companies abroad.

THE WASHINGTON POST, MARCH 12, 2010, 9:04 AM EST:

President Obama will leave for Indonesia three days later than planned, departing March 21 rather than March 18, in an effort to move stalled health-care legislation through Congress, the White House said.

"The President will delay leaving for Indonesia and Australia - will now leave Sunday - the First Lady and the girls will not be on the trip," tweeted Press Secretary Robert Gibbs Friday morning.

The White House had set a March 18 deadline for the House to complete work on the health-care bill, so it could be finished by the time Obama left the country. But Democratic leaders in the House and Senate have refused to commit to that date.

DURATION OF COMPLETE RHETORICAL DISINTEGRATION: 21 HOURS, 34 MINUTES.

A new record!!