The failure of leadership, the smallness of our politics... has stopped us from meeting these challenges.

Let us honor their valor by providing the care they need and rebuilding the military they love.

In the end, that's what this election is about. Do we participate in a politics of cynicism or a politics of hope?

I might play a small part in building a better America.

We need to internalize this idea of excellence. Not many folks spend a lot of time trying to be excellent.

Not just to hold an office, but to gather with you to transform a nation.

Let us be the generation that ends poverty in America.

We all made this journey for a reason. It's humbling, but in my heart I know you didn't come here just for me, you came here because you believe in what this country can be.

I want us to take up the unfinished business of perfecting our union, and building a better America.

I know I haven't spent a lot of time learning the ways of Washington. But I've been there long enough to know that the ways of Washington must change.

If you sense, as I sense, that the time is now... then I'm ready to take up the cause, and march with you, and work with you.

Let us begin this hard work together. Let us transform this nation.

Let us be the generation that finally frees America from the tyranny of oil.

Let us be the generation that finally tackles our health care crisis.

Let us be the generation that reshapes our economy to compete in the digital age.

Through this decency, we can build a more hopeful America.

Today we are called once more - and it is time for our generation to answer that call.

Divided, we are bound to fail.