Barack Obama: “Let us remember in our thoughts and prayers those who have been affected by natural disasters at home and abroad in…”

In forming our union, the founders fell terribly short of the Declaration's promise, leaving slavery intact, allowing states to restrict the franchise to white men who owned property.

No one was more skilled at bringing people together and getting legislation passed.

And there’s no reason to suggest that we can’t get through this one either.

America is currently experiencing anger and vision but we are looking for fairness and common sense and mutual respect."