Here’s another stunning example of President Obama’s refusal to reverse course after a mistake. You may recall that the administration announced it would transfer the accused 9/11 plotters, currently held at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, from military custody to the civilian courts and hold their trial in New York City, site of the worst terrorist attack on U.S. soil. There was a tremendous backlash from the people and local politicians that had the administration back peddling fast. The notion of 9/11 terror trials near Ground Zero was seemingly put to rest.

But Couric broached the subject during her Super Bowl pre-game interview, and Obama said, “I have not ruled it out, but I think it’s important for us to take into account the practical, logistical issues involved. I mean, if you have a city that is saying no, and a police department that is saying no, and a mayor that is saying no, that makes it difficult.”

That’s just like his response to socialized medicine. Even with overwhelming liberal majorities, Congress can’t get it done. The American people said no in town hall protests last summer. They’ve said no in poll after and poll since then. And Massachusetts voters shouted “Don’t you dare!” and denied Obama his cherished Senate supermajority. But Obama hasn’t gotten the message. Far from the “audacity of hope,” that’s the audacity of arrogance.

By the way, while the president is still pursuing the idea of civilian trials for admitted terrorists, I’d like to observe again that three Navy SEALS accused of giving a high profile terrorist a fat lip are being tried in a military tribunal – the same tribunals that Obama and his allies say would be unfair for terrorists. In what bizarre world do jihadists get more constitutional rights than our brave soldiers?

Think back for a moment to the prevailing wisdom in the days following the November 2008 election. Liberal elites and the media were gloating. The most leftwing candidate in history had just been elected president, and Democrats had secured super-majorities in Congress. “The GOP,” they crowed, “is dead!” “Republicans can’t compete in New England.” “It’s a washed-up, white male party that will never hold national office again.”

Other “wise men” counseled the GOP to move beyond Reagan, to abandon conservatism and to evolve in the age of Obama. Liberal elites, who did not even try to conceal their glee at Obama’s election, were offering the GOP advice on what to do to get along in their new world. Conservatives were repeatedly encouraged to reconsider our most cherished values. The Tea Party activists were mercilessly mocked by contemptuous liberals as “ignorant” and worse. What a difference a year makes!

My point is simply this: Ignore the liberal elites! Our values aren’t the problem, and we don’t need to take advice from folks who aren’t our friends.