Wethinks DeLong doeth protest too much

To the recent analysis of several competent economists (Greg Mankiw et al) defending their candidate;

[Romney economists]: We are presently in the most anemic economic recovery in the memory of most Americans, with significant joblessness and long-term unemployment, as well as lost income and savings.

[DeLong] WRONG: We are in the worst downturn, but we are not in the “most anemic” recovery--the recovery of 2001-2004 was more anemic. 

So, if we haven't even made it to 'recovery', but are still stuck in a 'downturn' after 3-1/2 years of The One, isn't that ever more reason to turn to an alternative?

With friends like Berkeley's Brad DeLong does Barack Obama need enemies.