i wouldn't expect obama to get in the way of a republican-controlled congress. rather, i'd expect it will mostly break the gridlock. it's what obama's really wanted the whole time.

he can't introduce the kind of legislation he wants because it'll expose him for who he is, and the republicans are so intent on their absurd framing that they'd have voted it down anyways.

but by simply refusing to veto the onslaught of right-wing legislation that is coming, under arguments about not abusing power (while he's drone striking people), obama can get what he wants done without the problems with the optics from either side.

it's going to open a coalition between the white house and the republican congress against the hopeless congressional opposition.

so, finally, here comes your hope and change....

....but i think you're going to be a bit disappointed by it.