I am deeply saddened by the devastating losses caused by Hurricane Sandy and its aftermath.

My thoughts and prayers are with Dave and Holly Petraeus, who has done so much to help military families through her own work.

David Petraeus has provided extraordinary service to the United States for decades.

I'm committed to solving our fiscal challenges.

That's how you reduce the deficit, with a balanced approach.

I am completely confident that the CIA will continue to thrive and carry out its essential mission.

All children deserve access to a world-class education and the chance to pursue their dreams.

My Administration is committed to enhancing American education by raising standards, making higher education more affordable, and preparing students for high-skill jobs.

Right now if Congress fails to come to an agreement...everybody's taxes will automatically go up.

I call upon all Americans to observe this week by supporting their local schools through appropriate activities, events, and programs.

I have determined that it is necessary to continue the national emergency declared on November 14, 1979, with respect to Iran, beyond November 14, 2012.

They won't tolerate dysfunction.

The American people understand that we're going to have differences and disagreements.

America is a country where no matter what you look like or where you come from, if you are willing to work hard, you can go as far as your talents will take you.

Our schools are a gateway to those opportunities and the key to our Nation's economic prosperity and civic life.

Our top priority has to be jobs and growth.

Let's extend the middle class tax cuts right now.

If we're serious about reducing the deficit, we have to combine spending cuts with revenue. And that means asking the wealthiest Americans to pay a little more in taxes.