The President seemed surprised that the post-Newtown momentum (for lack of better word) to advance gun control laws has faded.

“The notion that two months or three months after something as horrific as what happened in Newtown happens and we’ve moved on to other things? That’s not who we are. That’s not who we are. And I want to make sure every American is listening today. Now, I want to make sure every American is listening today. Less than a hundred days ago that happened. And the entire country was shocked, and the entire country pledged we would do something about it and that this time would be different. Shame on us if we’ve forgotten. I haven’t forgotten those kids. Shame on us if we’ve forgotten.”

He’s wrong. That’s exactly who Americans are. Passing laws in the heat of the moment, with passions aflame, is bad policy. Waiting till tempers cool, and thinking things through, is much more beneficial. Laws never go into effect right away (you have to pass laws to find out whats in them nowadays). The President certainly knows that. An immediate law would provide no immediate relief. Now, with time (barely 100 days) we see that when people have had a chance to reflect, and the President’s desired laws are no longer popular.

The President understands the power of urgency very well. He knew that if he did not pass the Affordable Care Act when he did, he never would. The opposition and unpopularity did not deter him. He will likely try to stir up passions for his laws again.