On the recordNovember 28, 2012
one of the most visible expressions of the strength and resilience of our democracy is the moment when the incoming President stands on the steps of the Capitol, lays his hand on the Bible, and takes the oath of office. In that moment, America undergoes a peaceful transition of power that so many countries can only hope for or, as in this year, the President will smoothly resume his duty for another 4 years. As we anticipate this remarkable moment in just a few short weeks, we are reminded of the ability of the American people to come together, even after long and challenging campaigns. I will watch the inauguration and remember my own difficult campaign. As we reflect on this past year, we are all reminded that this President, the House, and the Senate have not been given any mandate by the American people. For proof, look no further than the close margin of victories and the wide disparity in the ideology between the two parties. The only mandate is for Republicans and Democrats to work together. What we saw during this election was an American electorate frustrated by gridlock in Washington and a Congress that does not get enough done for the American people. Our Nation has endured a brutal campaign season of attack ads and partisan sniping. The ads are now off the air, the campaign offices are cleaned out, and now we face some very difficult decisions. Right now, Congress must find a way to steer our Nation away from this fiscal cliff.…





