Barack Obama

Families are making hard choices, and it's time their Government did the same.

I principally want to listen; by listening, that's the way I learn.

I understand the importance of Cuba for Latin America.

We will not agree all the time, but we are open to working together and to discussing our differences.

We need to restore the American people's confidence in their Government.

I should point out that on his first full day in office he signed executive orders renouncing in the strongest terms the use of these techniques. He closed the black sites. He declared that he would close Guantanamo.

I'm prepared to have my administration engage with the Cuban government on a wide range of issues: from drugs, migration and economic issues, to human rights, free speech and Democratic reform.

There's not going to be a junior partner and a senior partner. This is a time for reengaging Cuba as well as the rest of Latin America.

Under the leadership of Secretary Geithner, they will work to serve the American people and bring their unique areas of expertise to the job as we work to put America on the path to prosperity.

We have an obligation to our children to keep these spaces pristine.

We must not tolerate violence and insecurity, no matter where it comes from.

I didn't come here to debate the past; I came here to deal with the future.

Greater engagement at a time and place of our choosing has been something that the President has talked about for almost two years.

America's National Parks are among our Nation's most precious treasures.

My Administration continues to advocate for initiatives that protect and expand National Parks.

I invite all my fellow citizens to join me in commemorating the 2009 theme for National Park Week, 'National and Community Service.'

That only through a comprehensive approach is that going to be possible.

I pledge to you that we seek an equal partnership.

Their expertise and dedication will be a valuable asset both to my administration and our nation as we work to bring about the real change that the American people need today.

I am grateful that these fine individuals have made the admirable decision to serve their country.

There must be a question of whether or not we are in a concrete way making the lives of our citizens better.

It's not just the United States that has to change.

National Parks bring together Americans of all backgrounds and help us understand the story of America.

Seeing an increased freedom of the press; seeing a release of political prisoners.

I am confident in the abilities of these two fine public servants as we work to turn our economy around and give American families the relief they need during these difficult times.