THE POWER OF NO.

The article presents the author's reflections on the "biggest ideas of the year" in 2009-2010, suggesting that the concept of partisanship and political opposition was highly significant within the U.S. political culture. Details are given noting the direct and uncompromising opposition of the Republican Party to President Barack Obama's initiatives. Conclusions are offered suggesting that if it is politically rewarded, more oppositional tactics will follow from both parties in the future.