Final answer:
Barack Obama avoided becoming a lame duck by choosing experienced Joseph Biden as his vice president, using a strong campaign promise of hope and change, engaging voters through social media, and focusing on healthcare reform despite facing a divided Congress.
Step-by-step explanation:
To avoid becoming a lame duck president, Barack Obama took several strategic steps during his tenure. Initially, he chose an experienced running mate, Joseph Biden, to boost his foreign policy credentials. Obama's campaign was characterized by its promises of hope and change, which resonated with a wide variety of voters, including independents, first-time voters, and a significant portion of the African American and White voter base.
During his first term, Obama faced a gulf with congressional Republicans, which affected his legislative agenda. Despite these challenges, Obama's popularity within his party and his ability to connect with Americans on various platforms, including social media, ensured his re-election in 2012. More importantly, Obama sought to fulfill key campaign promises such as enacting healthcare reform, which bolstered his support among Democrats.
Understanding the importance of maintaining momentum, Obama continued to engage Americans directly, used technology effectively, and addressed partisan challenges head-on. Such strategies were vital in preventing the perception of his presidency as a lame duck even amidst political gridlock and widespread polarization.