Popular image is that lame duck presidents are powerless , just serving out their term . David Brooks : lame ducks actually can accomplish things , by responding to circumstances . ( CNN ) -- Do n't write off the chance of Mideast breakthrough by President Obama , he said . Zelizer : Circumstances can create powerful opportunities for change .
Popular image is that lame duck presidents are powerless , just serving out their term . David Brooks : lame ducks actually can accomplish things , by responding to circumstances . Do n't write off the chance of Mideast breakthrough by President Obama , he said . Zelizer : Circumstances can create powerful opportunities for change .