George W. Bush

I congratulated him and Senator Biden on their impressive victory.

No matter how they cast their ballots, all Americans can be proud of the history that was made yesterday.

It will be a stirring sight to watch President Obama, his wife Michelle, and their beautiful girls step through the doors of the White House.

Let us summon a new spirit of patriotism; of service and responsibility where each of us resolves to pitch in and work harder and look after not only ourselves, but each other.

It's been a long time coming, but tonight, because of what we did on this day, in this election, at this defining moment, change has come to America.

This victory alone is not the change we seek—it is only the chance for us to make that change. And that cannot happen if we go back to the way things were.

The American people will always be grateful for the lifetime of service John McCain has devoted to this Nation.

The road ahead will be long. Our climb will be steep. We may not get there in one year or even one term, but America—I have never been more hopeful than I am tonight that we will get there.

This is our moment. This is our time—to put our people back to work and open doors of opportunity for our kids; to restore prosperity and promote the cause of peace.

If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible... tonight is your answer.

This moment is especially uplifting for a generation of Americans who witnessed the struggle for civil rights with their own eyes.

I know millions of Americans will be overcome with pride at this inspiring moment that so many have waited so long.

America, we have come so far. We have seen so much. But there is so much more to do.

Americans should also remember the important example that our elections set throughout the world.

All of us owe them and their families a special debt of gratitude on election day.

Our Nation has flourished because of its commitment to trusting the wisdom of our citizenry.

Adopting a child is a great joy and also a great responsibility.

Their selfless sacrifices continue to inspire us today as we work to advance peace and extend freedom around the world.

We have joined with community and faith-based organizations to raise public awareness of foster children awaiting adoption.

All claims within the terms of Article I of the Claims Settlement Agreement are settled.

I call upon all Americans to observe this month with appropriate programs and activities to honor adoptive families.

I encourage all Americans to recognize the bravery and sacrifice of our veterans through ceremonies and prayers.

You'll become special agents of the FBI.

I ask you to defend the values of fidelity, bravery, and integrity that you have learned here at this Academy.

If Al Qaida is making a phone call into the United States, we need to know why and to whom they're calling in order to protect the American citizens.