The Hiller Instinct: State of the Union Analysis

Perhaps the best he could hope for was to stop his slide, and begin re-connecting with the nation that had so much hope and confidence in him just a year ago.

The president acknowledged there's a "deficit of trust" and a "credibility gap" between Americans and their government, but didn't say how he’s contributed to them.

He did take some blame...but still tried to separate himself from what's been happening in Washington, even though he's been a big part of it.

With the economy the top issue--no surprise--he spent most of his speech on jobs, and a new jobs bill. He'll make news with his call for a spending freeze, but--in fact--it's just a small ice cube, because it only covers part of the budget.

When it came to health care reform, the president punted. He promised not to walk away from Americans without insurance, but didn't say how far he's willing to go to make sure they get it

As always, the president was eloquent; as usual, his words were beautiful. The problem is, I'm no longer certain I can take him at his word, because I'm not sure exactly what his words mean.

I’m Andy Hiller, that’s my instinct.

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