Even when legislation is intended to ding the 1%, it still bears their name, and it's still with the permission of at least some of them -- whether it be Buffett or the four donors with whom Obama shared the stage this week -- that it's even on the political agenda.

CNN: 'Secretary' title is a blast from the past

After losing to Obama in last week's Iowa caucuses, it was unclear whether she could overcome what appeared to be Obama's ability to electrify American voters who had previously taken a sour and skeptical view of politicians and the political process.

CNN: Clinton wins back women, narrowly takes New Hampshire

It remains uncertain whether entrepreneurs will ultimately be considered in a broad immigration package, but Mr. Obama made it clear in a speech last month that he wants comprehensive reform to include provisions that would allow immigrant entrepreneurs to stay in the U.S. to grow their companies.

WSJ: Small Firms React to President's Proposals

But as with Obama, it is unclear whether McCain will be an effective negative icon.

CNN: Republicans use Obama as the bad guy in negative ads