The more I watch and listen to the political bobbleheads, the more I think the Republicans are to blame. And believe me, it pains me to come to this sad conclusion.

It would seem a slam dunk to refute and dissect President Barack Obama's world view which runs counter to the principles that made this nation the envy of the world.

Yet, the GOP languishes in mixed messages and internal squabbles while the slow and steady decline continues.

Obama's arrogant bully approach is the true culmination of his warped view to fundamentally transform this nation.

His daily power grabs threaten the very fabric on which we were founded.

To achieve his goals, he tramples the Constitution, ignores Congress, disdains the Supreme Court and divides the population in class warfare.

But none of this would be possible if the Republicans had leadership to point out a different direction.

It's hard to imagine this one-time community organizer has been handed the reins of power with such weak opposition from the voices of conservative logic and common sense.

When welfare rolls skyrocket toward unsustainable levels, the Republicans talk a good game but provide no alternative.

Where are the Republicans when this president pulls this nation down the cesspool of mediocrity? Where are they when he shuns our few remaining allies and panders to those elements who wish us harm?

I don't blame Obama. He's doing exactly what he promised.

We can't expect those millions who survive on the government dole to see how this drift to the left will end. Their sole concern is for their self-interests and Barack Obama provides their daily bread.

Had the Republicans just one ounce of reason to effectively explain how this progressive agenda will end, we would not face this national tragedy.

But infighting and mixed messages will not counter the daily drumbeat of the leftist national media who fawn on the chosen one's every move.

In a normal world, the Obama policies on the economy, foreign affairs and his politics of division would be easy fodder for common sense solutions from conservatives.

But Republicans lack that clear message as well as strong leadership. And absent those two elements, we're held hostage to a frightening man with a frightening agenda that will not bring a stronger and more united nation.

There is no need for this administration to be concerned over the voices of opposition.

At this point, America is simply not listening.

Left unchecked, this president will deliver on his promise of change. The result will be an America in his image.

Until someone surfaces on the conservative side of the ledger, we'll eventually live in a country more divided, less respected and dependent on the help of others.

And for that, I blame the Republicans.

Michael Jensen is the publisher of the Sikeston Standard Democrat.