The truth is, the reason it worked is because of some very tough choices that many of you made.

I made a promise to you, not that I was going to tell you what you wanted to hear, not that I was always going to do what was popular.

But under the leadership of Erskine and Alan, I'm confident that the Commission I'm establishing today will build a bipartisan consensus to put America on the path toward fiscal reform and responsibility.

Now is the time to do what's right for the country.

I am proud that these distinguished individuals will serve in my Administration.

I didn't get elected to play it safe.

I'm not discouraged.

I am happy that these outstanding individuals have agreed to serve in my Administration as we work to address the challenges facing our Nation.

I am not going to walk away from these fights.

We always knew this was going to be a difficult year to govern.

The Dalai Lama is an internationally respected religious and cultural leader.

This is a Nation ready to meet the challenges of this new age and to lead the world in this new century.

You don't need to look any further than the folks here at this company.

I don't want to mess around with this anymore, I want to just talk with Premier Wen.

I am grateful that these fine individuals have chosen to serve in my administration.

Well, look, as commander in chief, obviously I reserve the option to do what I think is going to be best for the American people at that point in time and our national security.

Because I think it's the right thing to do, and that's my job.

I am grateful that such talented individuals have joined my administration at this important moment in our nation's history.