Is the Tech World Done With Obama?

U. S. President Barack Obama's popularity has been dwindling these days, and he is out chasing after any good publicity he can get. After losing the battle over congress, it seems Obama is on the verge of losing yet another one- the battle for the average "techie's" heart.

One can remember better days for Barack Obama. In the 2008 election, Obama undoubtedly dominated the tech angle, with his smart phone packing social media swagger, all the while his opponent not knowing how to use a computer. But now, some in the tech business feel pretty much abandoned.

It seems the cause of it is a result of Silicon Valley types not getting what they think was promised, or at least what they personally expected, resulting in a general and very public feeling of disappointment. Indeed, Obama did run as the tech savviest candidate in US history—but is his administration giving back to the corporate geek base? "There's a strong feeling that this government really lacks direction," explains Gary Shapiro, the chief of the Consumer Electronics Association.

Shapiro's claims are a bit vague, but in the bottom line, they break down to one thing: money. "We're praised for creating jobs, while being spanked at the same time," says the head of the National Venture Capital Association.

On the other hand, corporate America whining about taxes and outsourcing is nothing new, and certainly not an Obama nor his administration specific complaint. The Economist, who recently published an article regarding the subject, also notes that the tech sector has been a heavy recipient of federal stimulus money, which is quietly accepted without protest.

Finally, the disconnect between Silicon Valley’s hopes and presidential delivery hasn't prevented tech firms from donating to the Democratic party with a volume that mocks that of cheques written out to the Republicans. Clearly, then, the relationship may be on the rocks - but not yet broken up.