This editorial from Paul Krugman underscores the difference in what Obama aspires to and what the GOP aspires:
Instead, I want you to consider the contrast: on one side, the closing argument was an appeal to our better angels, urging politicians to do what is right, even if it hurts their careers; on the other side, callous cynicism. Think about what it means to condemn health reform by comparing it to the Civil Rights Act. Who in modern America would say that L.B.J. did the wrong thing by pushing for racial equality? (Actually, we know who: the people at the Tea Party protest who hurled racial epithets at Democratic members of Congress on the eve of the vote.)
GOP, I hope you change your ways. The country needs you to step away from the paranoia and cynicism and step up to the bargaining table.