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[hiromichi]

What does the assesment make wither?

The president’s withering assessment of the government’s performance could reshape the intensifying political debate over the thwarted terrorist attack. Instead of defending the system, Mr. Obama sided with critics who complained that it did not work and positioned himself as a reformer who will fix it. At the same time, the decision to speak a second time after remaining out of sight for three days underscores the administration’s concern over being outflanked on national security.
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Hiromichi

[CP]

It means that his assessment of the situation was something that would be embarrassing to the people he disagrees with. Just as an intense sun can wither a flower, a forceful rebuke can figuratively wither the person being rebuked. While some people said the system worked just because the terrorist was subdued, and because warnings went out to all aircraft aloft right away, Obama disagreed, sternly saying that the system didn't work and needs to be repaired at long last.
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You live a new life for every new language you speak. -Czech proverb

[hiromichi]

CP,
Happy New Year!
Thank you very much for your clear explanation. I got it.
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Hiromichi