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Judging “The Speech” — what did you think?
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Barack Obama became the first black president of the United States on Tuesday. In his much-anticipated inaugural speech, he said the “economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some, but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age.”
But the new president also said the United States remained “the most prosperous, powerful nation on Earth,” and that “we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin again the work of remaking America.”
What did you think of the speech? Did it meet the hype? Were you moved, or dismayed?
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The speech was OK–Nothing memorable. The Dow dropped 332 points today; the largest drop in inaugural history –including the Great Depression. Sorry, but people in the know–know that Barack is a light weight. An empty suit filled with endless & milk toast platitudes. 57 million people saw right threw him. God help us.
****** Dear Moderator,*******
As per your House Rules I bring two posts to your attention:
A previous post brings into question Obama’s brith certificate. Please see this SNOPES link and put this hate and doubt mongering to bed. It is NOT TRUE.
http://www.snopes.com/politics/obama/bir thcertificate.asp
Also, Bush was never booed during the speech. I just watched it again, and it did not happen. I have researched this as well, and no one else remarks on this. Please remove that post as it does not further this conversation and is simply NOT TRUE.
Eloquent, at times. Unfortunately, running for President –I think his \’speech\’ today was an extension of the campaign — and being President are two different things.
America has now elected a historical President. One who has *no* previous executive experience and who comes from a notoriously corrupt city of the nation. As they say in the Gun and Bible Clinging regions of Pennsylvania——-yee-haw.
The biggest problem with this speech was the hedging. What happened to hope? Oh yes, we have hope, at the tune of $1 trillion dollars per year beyond what we can afford, to spent on programs deemed appropriate by one political party. Can I get a —–yee-haw?
Sadly, the media is already generating excuses for why he won\’t be able to do much for the first two years. What? I thought this administration was going to change everything and fix it all for everyone. We have to wait two years? What happens then? Oh yes. His next campaign happens then. I almost forgot about that——yee-haw!
Let us pray that Russia controls itself. Watch the Russians. This administration is not ready for them.
~Star
Let’s start by saying that I am a hard core democrat! Now that I have been honest I would like to say that I have never, in my voting lifetime, been so excited about our leadership and their visions of hope.
It is important also to acknowledge that I did not support most of the decisions made by Former President Bush (starting on day one and the gag rule) but I will forever respect him as an elected official doing a job that I would not take.
We have an opportunity as Americans to take this message of Hope (whether you support Obama or not) and make it real in our lives and in our communities. We are just at the beginning of the recession (which I will refrain from spewing my opinions since my post is already quite long)we must work for the American people, our businesses and education for our youth! I am ready…I HOPE you are too!!!
A lovely speech. I wonder what the reaction was, worldwide?
I liked President Obama’s speech. He is very eloquent, and he has a wonderful grasp of the issues facing the United States. He did not, however, surprise me in his presentation. Barack Obama, the candidate, already told us time and again what he would say today if we elected him.
We did elect him, and he told us the same thing he’s been telling us. He said it impressively, of course, but he still seems sort of restrained. He lacked passion. I think we’ll eventually see him become more animated — maybe when he feels safer in his Presidency — but right now it’s just not there. He seems to be a little bit stunned.
I don’t that’s bad. It’s just my impression. And — although the the Lincoln analogy shouldn’t be carried too far — it is worth noting that the Gettysburg Address and the Second inauguration came well into his presidency. I hope that, in a similar vein, the words we’ll remember from Barack Obama will come well into his presidency.
I am glad that I and my wife have lived to see this day. The speech was great. President Obama is a man who holds out the promise of hope in an honest and realistic way. We must regain our way and our place in the world. He reminded us that we have all that it takes to do just that.
I didn’t think the speech was up to his usual flowery style, but perhaps it was more grounded in reality. He is aware that the world expects miracles and he wants to temper the expectations with reality. It demonstrates that he will need help and can’t do it all by himself. The country has a mountain to climb and we all have to chip in somehow…maybe rich and higher income people need to contribute more in taxes?
Best inaugural speech I’ve heard in 48 years from the best and brightest man in 48 years. Certainly beat his immediate predecessor and the worn out, retired Hollywood actor.
I heard it on the mall and listened again just to be certain. I think the President told us how bad it has become, asked us to help remedy things and warned us that it will not be easy.
I am proud to be an American again — whatever I can think of to do, I will this is a national effort and I hope you will all join me.
In a couple of months from now, when the inaugaration hoopla has died, it will be hilarious to see how many people become judases and turn against their ‘savior’ when they FINALLY realize obama’s only talents lie in telling people what they want to hear. A couple of months from now when they are unemployed, or still unemployed, and finding they are paying more and more AND MORE TAXES, they won’t have the enthusiasm for this inexperienced liar as they do now. I didn’t vote for the lugnut; nor did I vote for mccain. I voted for real change. WAKE UP AMERICA … YOU GET WHAT YOU VOTE FOR.
Just another bunch of words. When I hear Obama talk to the American people and tell them “Look, pull your head out of your behinds. Here are the basics that have been proven over the years: 1.) take responsibility for yourselves and your own finances, 2.) don’t put your money in the stock market unless you can afford to lose it, 3.) don’t gamble your family’s financial security on real estate specuation, 4.) live within your means, 5.) stay out of debt except for buying your own home”, then I will know he is the real deal.
And by the way. I could care less if Obama is black, blue, green, purple, red or white. However, the news media will spend a tremedous amount of air time and new space on the “first black president” garbage. Truth be known, racial integration is something the press loathes, because racial hatred and turmoil make an easy story for the press, and the “racial card” can be easily played at any time by the press…..as you can all recall during this election.
So lets help out Mr Obama, and ourselves by being objective, honest, responsible with our means (money and time) and work ourselves out of this jam. We (you and me) allowed it to happen, and only we (you and me) can get us out. If we (you and me) beleive that changing the presidency or political party will get us out of our current situation, then 4 years from now, we will still be in this huge business/financial mess.
Guess what folks? Good decisions, based on sound, proven business principles are good for business.
You know, it’s really not that hard.
Let ‘s all see where we will come after 4 years ! And than remember what hi said in his 1 day as The president ! Stop taking -let’s work !
Hard to reconcile this speech with his previous ones. Maybe he senses the way that the 20% of the people who pull this wagon called America have become discouraged by our government (both parties), and are giving up. After all Pelosi, Frank, Reid and the rest have assured us what they have in store for us. We will see about that. He will need to prove very quickly that he intends to reward those who deserve it, and require more from those who do not. Mr Obama, if you do indeed honor God and the patriots who built this nation, we will rise to support you.
If anyone is capable of getting the U.S. out of the economic and moral mess it is in, I think this man can do it. The speech he gave was inspiring, to the point (several of them) and on the mark. It has been a long time coming. Now that it is here (the old-fashioned stuff like ‘responsibility’, ‘choice’, ‘humility’ and hard work) I hope that Americans have the guts to do what he asks. He does. It won’t be easy, but it’s certainly worth the best shot we can all take.
I didn’t like it because before he could talk about change he had to talk about what was wrong with America. Instead of talking about what was right wit American he had to take a jab at President Bush for every political thing he didn’t like. Any time I take over a job, I just try to find out how to make it work. Never talk about who I replaced and how he did someting wrong just how to make thinks better.
this bigger thing that happen in this country i live here53 never in my life
the reason you haven’t had as many positive comments as this speech deserved is because the democrats are all out partying and reviewing the day’s events!
obama’s speech was perfectly balanced. with an eye firmly on the reality of our economic situation and the work ahead, he expressed hope. what really stood out to me was his ability to show compassion and concern for all people – and the state of the environment.
For a man that was elected only for the color of his skin, why was I not surprised that all he gave us was another STUMP speech!
Face it, if he had an R next to his name instead of a D, he never would have been making a speech.
This is the sad truth.
“I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where THEY WILL NOT BE JUDGED BY THE COLOR OF THEIR SKIN BUT BY THE CONTENT OF THEIR CHARACTER.”(I Have a Dream speech my Martin Luther King)
Did people vote for Obama because he is black or do they agree with his principles?
Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men:
- Isaiah 29:13
I’d like to know if Obama’s pledge to defeat those who “seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents” includes Israel, because military action by Israel since 2001 has, if reliable news sources are to be believed, killed almost 6000 Palestinians, whereas according to BBC figures 28 people have died in Israel since 2001 as a result of Hamas rockets.
The speech wasn’t his best or most memorable one, I admit. However, I still like it because it was realistic. It didn’t try to sugar coat nor downplay the situation of the US economy. He was able to communicate his sincerity to solve the problems of his country. I believe he intentionally tempered his speech so as to not raise the expections everybody higher that it already is.
In Canada we are very happy that Bush is gone. For me Bush government made the proof that the pure capitalism is a failure and it only bring to corruption organized in a system. Only rich people can be happy un such a system. The word freedom cannot apply in economic because without interventiom of the state in economy things turn out to be very bad. Some rich people in place (banks – arms company – etc ) have abused the system and turn the democracy into corruption organized in a system where WAR is a good thing to make turn the economy … And not only that … Other country are paying for the present failure … (ie in Canada we are entering in recession of the bad mangement of you bank system) I am not sure If everyone will get the lesson … But Obama seems to understand that and it is a very good thing for the the planet as a whole and for the USA as well …
He just put you on notice America and you would do well to listen.
There are no quick fixes but people are going to be held accountable for the way that programs are run and money is spent.
As to him being a liar, I think he just gave you a dose of the truth that some who posted here are finding it hard to swallow.
What did you want him to say?
It was a good speach. Somewhat expected and somethings not. But after 8 years of the worst public speaking of any President in my lifetime, it was nice to be proud of my President again.
I am surprised on such a day as this to read so many negative, cynical comments here. My feeling was that Obama had deliberately toned down the rhetoric of his speech to appeal to a wider audience. He came across as he always does – as sincere, intelligent, energetic, pragmatic and with hopes for the US that echo those of most Americans.
Seeing what kind of audience Reuters seems to attract, I am less inclined to look here when the next big story comes around.
I can only “hope” that things will change for the better. Doesn’t seem realistic at the moment, and not going to hold my breath. Letting all of the bailouts happen, having people sitting around waiting for a job to be offered, collecting unemployment longer and not having figure it out. I know it is hard out there right now, however I see help wanted signs all around here. Maybe be humbled some. I work for a small business and we are trying to grow, to many more stipulations on the owners, and I won’t have a job. They do the best for the company and the people that work for them, we all WORK for what is offered to us. It shouldn’t be any other way. We are in distribution, and it requires fuel to move product. I totally believe in reduce, reuse and recycle, but at the moment we can’t stop business with higher fuel surcharges, taxes, etc. for some project, let the free market work it out, if you really want it, it will happen. WORK for what you believe in, don’t let the government decide. WE ARE IN CHARGE, don’t let others make your decisions, be strong, stand proud, be heard.
Was this the same Man of change and hope we have listened to for almost 2 years? Funny thing how we are told to expect better times and promised better days until the votes are counted and on the first minute of office we are promised nothing but low expections and hard times.
I wonder who got paid to write it.
Brilliant…if you’re a Kool Aid drinker. Same ole same ole blather if you’re jaded like mois. Let the games begin.
I think that this is the speech that have moved me the most. I could feel de power of that voice. Even that it didn’t sound as loud as some would espect.
I think he said the right words that had to be said at this time. Even the word “curiosity” that I have never heard in a speech is for mi valid, for it applies to young people and by extension to a country that is still young.
Please America give the man a chance ,your motto says IN GOD WE TRUST ,for Gods sake pray him through.and be happy that you all have a wonderful President.
M C
This is a new beginning for America and the world. His speech was legendary. The Chief Justice however should be removed immediately. That idiot has no place in the judiciary. The one job that he had for the day was to read off the script if he didnt know it. Luckily the President knew the proper recital. Long live Obama, God bless America.
I think the speech was just a fake and lie because e said he helped people but he only delt with politics.
Hi from Canada,
Leadership is proven through “the walk,” not “the talk.” I read every word of President Obama’s speech. It shows that he understands his challenge and sets the tone for future action. His selection of a prepared, all-star cabinet and his balanced statements regarding the economy and foreign policy show that he clearly has a plan. Nice change for the world. As a Canadian, I congratulate America for making a wise choice. Like many have observed about Tiger Woods, President Obama will raise the bar for leaders of all nations.
However, America is going to be like a house undergoing renovation, it will look very ugly before it reveals its true beauty,
Friend from the North.
Matthew S.
I think the speech was good. I didn’t vote for Obama but I will now support him, pray for him and give him the benefit of the doubt.
However, what troubles me is all the Bush bashing. For those people who were there for the great event to be singing in the audience, “na, na, na,…goodbye” is disgraceful in the presence of a sitting president. It is kind of like spiking the ball in the end zone after you have won the big game; tacky. This just shows me that most (not all) Democrats are bigoted, closed minded and classless. Lets remember that we live in a democracy and not a left winged, group think machine. We all get to vote…
Obama is now our president and you really never know what one is going to do until the mantle and pressure is laid on one’s shoulders. Lets give him a chance and see how he does. Let’s pray he doesn’t have a big crisis like Bush had just months into his presidency.
More power to you jjsummers. You say it simply and like it is.
I feel sorry for him because everyone thinks he’s going to solve their problems.
He’s already telling them that its up to them. But do they hear what he is saying?
I keep thinking of that scene in Bruce Almighty where Jim Carey can’t keep up with all the prayers that come though on his E-mail. So he says yes-to-all and chaos breaks out everywhere.
Should have added: “An ounce of sweat is worth an ocean of tears.”
I don’t understand how we have all become so divided. It’s funny how when Bush was in office all of the Republicans were saying things like, you have to support your president, you have to support your president, otherwise you are unpatriotic. Now the tide has turned and they won’t do the same. I think it is pathetic. Support your president, we need him now more than ever!
Unlike the obviously half witted Mathew not all of us in Canada are happy that Bush is gone or are taken in by Obama’s tedious rhetoric. Nothing new in the long-winded speech but did you notice the timbre of his voice? Not at all like the warm and fuzzy Obama of 12 months ago. Somewhat strident imho.
I sincerely invited a CHANGE in American politics and Government which sensed a FRESHNESS which is OBAMASQUE. His speech on oath occassion is a commitment to the entire nation and to the world. I would one day work for his Government hailing from India. It is my wish. I would rather associate on global issues realted to environment. I owe such participation. the day is closer. i start communicating with the President.
the speech was great. He addressed issues that we have to face it now and we should be united to confront this with courage to overcome this crisis.
Great speech. I hope that he provides people with the incentives make investments in their future and stop the bailout for the banks
The speech was typical of any incoming presidential speech, It is really getting old hearingg about Obama. Everyone thinks he is Jesus Christ. HE IS A POLITIAN. I hope he does a good job but his answer is to spend spend and spend my tax dollars into something that doest help me. Give it to the illegals and people who do not want to work is his answer. Im also tired of evveryone blaming Bush for everything. Especially te economy. The only thing Bush did wrong there is not eleminating the BS Congress passed when Clinton was in office which allowed people to buy houses that shouldnt have been able to pass. The housing market is the problem that caused the rest of the problems or enhanced them. I love my country and I will support him today but the fact that we have so many stupid americans that voted for him is what bothers me the most.
I really liked the Obama speech. He has a lot to live up to, but if anyone can do the the job, he is the one. As a Canadian I am relieved that the past administration is gone. They were an embarrassment to the US and the rest of the world. My only concern is Obama’s comment that America is once again going to be the world leader. Does that mean that the rest of the world is simply going to have to follow? Can the the rest of the countries not be part of leading?
Let’s give this young man a chance and support his difficult task ahead.
“I think the speech was just a fake and lie because e said he helped people but he only delt with politics.”
You do know that before Obama became a U.S. Senator, he was elected into the Illinois State Senate in 1997, right? And way before that he was a community organizer after graduating from Columbia University. Then he went to Harvard Law and could’ve worked at any prestigious law firm, but went back to Chicago to contribute to his community helping low class citizens, senior citizens, etc but this time with as a lawyer who represented the less fortunate.
Judging by the number of negative responses on this blog…I’d have to say that the saying that most americans live in a bubble is true. This man is your only hope to find your way out of the dark and all you can do is bag him. Better listen to him and start pulling your weight otherwise your claim as the world’s leading superpower is over (if it isn’t already)
The civil rights movement and the war in Vietnam informed my political and moral consciousness. I was a child of the times. About 14 years old at the time, and against my parents wishes, I hitched to Washington DC to witness Dr. King’s famous speech. I wanted to be part of the movement … and part of the moment.
Today, two of my own children are in Washington DC to attend the inauguration of President Barack Obama and bear witness to history. It makes me proud that they take an interest in our public life. It has been a long journey. Of all the memories I cherish, there are few more heartwarming and gratifying than this.
i do’nt think, It was the best speech. this speech will tell ! Sorry