THE HIDDEN COST OF SENATE GRIDLOCK: Obama can't fire anyone. Ezra Klein argues that because of Republican obstruction (of administration positions requiring Senate confirmation), the President dares not to fire any of his current appointees, even those badly in need of firing.

Au contraire. The President most certainly can fire any of his appointees. The danger (to him) is that we may find the government more effective without them – and without them being replaced.