Question

in what ways did the obama administration diverge from the policies of other recent administrations? in what ways was it similar?

Answer 1

The Obama administration was distinct from past administrations in areas like healthcare with the Affordable Care Act, its approach to the war on terror, focus on climate change, and efforts in promoting inclusion and diversity. Simultaneously, there were continuations in economic policies with bailouts and educational reforms building on past federal initiatives.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Obama administration diverged and converged with past administrations in several key areas. Unlike the policies of George W. Bush, President Obama implemented the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Obamacare), aimed at expanding healthcare access and affordability. This represented a substantial shift in domestic policy towards a more universal approach to healthcare, in contrast to Bush's more market-based healthcare solutions.

Regarding the war on terror, Obama followed a policy of reducing large-scale military interventions, instead focusing on targeted operations, such as the use of drone strikes. This was a continuation of a policy shift that began during the latter part of the Bush administration. The Obama administration also saw a reduction of military commitments in Iraq and Afghanistan.

On the economy, both administrations responded to severe financial crises with significant bailouts, but Obama's use of the TARP funds and the stimulus differed in its scope and emphasis on certain industries, such as the automotive sector. Education under Obama also underwent changes with a significant push for reform, including the Race to the Top initiative which incentivized innovation and reforms at the state level, a shift from Bush's No Child Left Behind policy.

Environmental policies also diverged sharply with President Obama focusing more on climate change initiatives and clean energy, whereas President Bush had a more traditional focus on energy independence.

In terms of inclusion and diversity, the country evolved to be more heterogeneous in the 21st century, and under Obama, there was an acceptance of same-sex marriage and a dialogue on immigration that pointed towards progressive inclusivity. In contrast, questions of immigration and civil rights became more polarized towards the end of Obama's term and into the Trump administration.

Answer 2

President Obamas' administration diverged from policies of previous administrations by a theme of change around the repudiation of the foreign policy of his predecessor, President, George W. Bush.
President Obamas Grand strategy plan, a collection of policies and plans used by U.S leadership to mobilize and deploy the country resources to achieve national goals. The Obama administration plan spelt out in the 2010 National Security Strategic (NSS) was similar to George W. Bush 2006 NSS. They both emphasized on American leadership.