President Obama’s appearance at the House Republican Conference retreat in Baltimore today was political PR at its best. Apparently, the White House insisted on bringing cameras. Good move. Obama has a talent for “playing the dozens” in a way that you’re slightly shamed into being your better self. Perhaps it’s that amiable demeanor. Perhaps it’s the “President as parent” posture. It’s the kind of exchange that doesn’t leave anyone destroyed. This was a talent share by men of my father’s generation. If they didn’t tease you or challenge you, that was a bad sign. You could be left speechless by the best of them, but came away knowing they cared because they knew you could be better. IMHO, this topped the State of the Union. And based on this event, maybe the President needs to have a little chat with the Speaker of the House.