"I'm sorry there's not a more intelligent and well-meaning opposition."

I think it's appalling for the nation that there's not a sane, consructive, intelligent opposition party in sight. My guess is that Obama thinks the same and is trying to coax the GOP into acting as one; but surely he must resign himself pretty soon, if he hasn't already, to the fact that the current crop of fruitbats, mythologists and treasonous crooks is unlikely ever to come round. He'd be better off, if keen on public bipartisanship, to import a few Greens into his cabinet.

As you imply, he might as well start simply ignoring the Congress GOPers and their rabid media attack dogs and concentrate on getting the job done.