Whether it's the media or the politicians, the churning of partisan passion into anger, indeed hate, has an ulterior purpose: If Obama's administration is constantly engaged in fighting for its existence, the governing comes to a halt, and his agenda will go nowhere.

CNN: We're pointing a gun at our democracy

After meeting Mike, I got the sense he's not the kind of person who easily shares his feelings, whether it be frustration, anger or sadness.

CNN: Brother of 9/11 victim speaks out after five years