One thing that is notable about the Obama administration is that he, himself, has done virtually nothing for his party. He raises funds...but only for himself.
He couldn't be bothered to campaign for the Democrats in Congress in 2010. In the few cases where he made an effort, they were ineffective.
If Obama loses in a squeaker in 2012 and wishes to run again in 2016, he will have to ingratiate himself with his party -- as Nixon did among Republicans in 1965-68. Criss-crossing the country, raising funds for the party and not himself, selflessly helping Congressional candidates and State committees, etc.
And Obama is simply too lazy and self-absorbed to do that.
He loses in 2012...and he's gone. Except in the media's wet dreams...and his own mind.
When he leaves office he has his eye on that cushy gig Jesse Jackson has had for four decades.