The rap on Obama has been that he is a little too cool and aloof. The rap on Romney may be that he is just plain callous.

David Horsey’s quote offers a contrast between the public perceptions of Barack Obama and Mitt Romney. Horsey suggests that Obama has been criticized for being too cool or aloof, implying that his demeanor sometimes appears distant or detached, which may make him seem less personable or approachable. On the other hand, Romney is described as being criticized for being callous, suggesting that he may come across as indifferent or lacking in empathy, particularly in his responses to social or economic issues. The quote highlights how public figures, especially politicians, can be shaped by the way their character is perceived by the public.

The origin of this quote likely comes from Horsey’s commentary on the political landscape during the time of the Obama and Romney campaigns, where public perceptions and media narratives about each candidate became key to their success or failure. Horsey is summarizing the criticism and stereotypes that had emerged about each figure, reflecting how their public personas were framed in the media and by their opponents. The term "rap" in this context refers to the reputation or criticism attached to each candidate.

Horsey’s comparison underscores the contrast between Obama’s composed, cerebral style and Romney’s more blunt, detached persona. Obama’s style of leadership often focused on calm rhetoric, deliberation, and a sense of intellectualism, which some perceived as being disconnected from the emotional needs of the electorate. Romney, on the other hand, was often seen as more pragmatic but occasionally criticized for his lack of visible warmth or concern for the human element of political issues.

Ultimately, this quote captures how public figures, especially in politics, are often reduced to simplified perceptions based on their personalities and actions. Horsey uses the terms "cool and aloof" for Obama and "callous" for Romney to reflect how political figures can be boxed in by public opinion, which may overlook the complexities of their leadership styles and beliefs.