Final answer:
Obama's loss of power escalated after his first term in office due to heightened opposition from congressional Republicans, leading to government shutdowns, failure to pass significant legislation, and declining approval ratings.
Step-by-step explanation:
President Barack Obama's loss of power became even worse after his first term. Although he managed to win reelection in 2012, his second term was marred by consistent opposition from congressional Republicans. This manifested in government shutdowns, threats of credit default, and inability to pass significant legislation, such as the 2012 jobs bill. Additionally, challenges like the 2011 debate over the debt ceiling and high federal debt further exemplified the struggles during his presidency. Obama's approval ratings also declined as a result of his perceived failure to deliver on campaign promises such as the immediate repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell (DADT), closing Guantanamo Bay, ending the war in Iraq, and enforcing stricter regulations on the banking sector.