One of my favorite scenes in the movie Patton (1970) occurs when the legendary general has his staff add the third star to his uniform. Omar Bradley—played by the recently-departed Karl Malden—looks on in amazement. Patton (George C. Scott) says, “What’s the matter, Brad? I’ve been nominated by the president.” Bradley’s response: “I know, but it doesn’t become official until it’s approved by the Senate.” Patton’s classic response, “Well . . . they have their schedule, and I have mine.”
Unfortunately, President Barack Obama will not have that luxury when he travels overseas, first to his summit meeting with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, and then on to Italy for the annual G-8 meeting. The Senate’s timetable will complicate Obama’s efforts to reach agreements with other states—increasing the likelihood that this major trip will be long on symbolism and public relations and short on substance.
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