And he reacts well.

President Barack Obama had strong word for BP, Transocean, and Halliburton for their finger-pointing-filled testimonies during recent Congressional hearings.

Recent polls show the Gulf environmental catastrophe has had no adverse effects on Obama’s public perception. Yet, he still has voiced strong, common-sense opinions on everything from corporate hubris to dangerous relationships between government regulators and oil companies, and he has shown continued support for the country’s future energy strategy that still includes expanding off-shore drilling.

That’s effective influence from a practical leader. It’s refreshing to see a president take a level-headed view of a horrible tragedy that is still unfolding.

To stop off-shore drilling would be an over-reaction. Drilling smarter is the way to go, and Obama advocates that. Obviously, BP and its partners had no disaster recovery plan, and now over 4 million gallons (and growing) of crude are affecting the life in the Gulf and economies of Gulf states. It’s inexcusable. Federal regulators should require these contingency plans and get assurances before granting permits to drill.

Relationships among big businesses and government regulators and leaders should be closely examined. Obama called them “cozy relationships,” and he’s right. And this coziness is having a terrible ecological impact right now.

An energy plan that reduces the dependence on foreign sources while being careful to be as environmentally friendly as possible should be a paramount priority for the US. Everything from windmill farms, nuclear sources, and oil drilling in the US should be integral parts of that overall strategy. We can do this safely and cleanly, like never before. It’s the lasting stigmas dating back decades that holds us back. And that’s shameful.

I’m glad to see Obama taking such a strong and politically-centered stance on the disaster and energy production. This is what our country needs.