Bush: "We Move Forward As One Nation"
In the great tradition of this nation, President Bush put partisanship aside this morning to congratulate President-elect Barack Obama and Vice President-elect Joe Biden and to pledge his administration's "complete cooperation" with transition efforts.
Speaking briefly from prepared remarks, Bush told reporters that Obama and Biden won an "impressive victory."
"All Americans can be proud of the history that was made yesterday," the president said, noting the election was proof of the "vitality of America's democracy" and "the strides we have made toward a more perfect union."
Bush said Obama's victory is "especially uplifting" for the generation of Americans who witnessed the struggles of the civil rights movement.
"We move forward," he said, "as one nation."
Bush said he phoned John McCain last night to congratulate him for waging a "determined campaign." The American people, he added, will always be grateful for McCain's lifetime of service to the nation.
As the nation transitions to new leadership in the White House, Bush said that protecting the American people remains the foremost responsibility of government. "The world can be certain this commitment will remain steadfast under our next commander-in-chief," he said.
Bush remarked that he and First Lady Laura Bush have extended an invitation to the president-elect and Michelle Obama to visit the White House as soon as possible. When Obama is sworn in Jan. 20 as the nation's 44th president, the Bushes will return to Texas, the president said, "with treasured memories of our time here."
(JENNIFER SKALKA)
As an American and a Republican, I could not be more proud of this Nation! I congratulate President Bush and Senator John McCain for their kindness and willingness to work together with the new President to help this nation get on its feet as soon as possible. Even though I do not share the democratic's political ideology, there is one thing that I do share with the President-elect Barack Obama, the desire to WORK TOGETHER to make our Nation a better place to live... So help us GOD!
Sandra,
We live in the greatest nation on earth and one of our most shining attributes is the way we transfer power. I vote Democratic most of the time but appreciate the service of great Republicans to our country and have voted for quite a few GOP candidates over the years.
I share your belief in unity and take Mr. Obama at his word that he will include Republicans in his administration and give full consideration to all viewpoints in making decisions that affect us all.
All the best to you and all who voted for Mr. Mc
Cain who has served his country with such dedication.
To All Americans.
Time and time again, we have witnessed the changing of the guard and the transfer of power. It usually is accompanied by the promises made by political leaders voted into office. This time somehow seems different.
We have witnessed an extraordinary event. One that captures the imagination of those who dream of a better, more gracious and fulfilling society.
But this time the promise can not be broken. This time the expectations may be too high. I believe all Americans, regardless of your political persuasion, are in need of promises kept that Washington has forever forgotten. What are these promises? First and foremost that politicians in Washington think of the people first, that getting things done be a pre-requisite for service not an insiders' jokeline. That service to country is not just a military mantra or a dinner hour toast but a requirement for those who seek to lead us. There is great hope out there which bears witness in the shear numbers of yesterday's turnout. I fear that we will not meet this hope unless we are in this together. All of us. Working hard everyday to carry the word in whatever style you wish to bring it. Hell, let's give this a chance.