I agree. This is analogous to the situation in Iran where if the US comes out publicly in support of the opposition, the opposition loses face to some extent. Americans of both political persuasions are keenly aware that the timing of the prize smells of an inside job rather than actual recognition of real achievement. This diminishes rather than enhances Obama.

I think it will blow over, though. The prize has already been cheapened, and what Obama does from here forward will end up being more important than the NPP.

I like that he's taken a muli-lateral approach to world problems. This might lead to some disgreements and setbacks, but in the long run, the building of a long-term coalition of free nations is more important any one short term policy goal. Crucial to that are: 1) placating the Europeans to some extent, 2) continuing to slowly draw Russia and China into the sphere of the developed world, and 3) holding the line on Islamic countries as they slowly (very slowly) modernize. This is a 50-100 year project, not a 4 year blitzkrieg.