The battle for the White House was suspenseful, to say the least – but when the votes were counted, it was clear – President Barack Obama was elected to serve a second term as America’s leader.

In his victory speech, President Obama said:

“These arguments we have are a mark of our liberty, we can never forget that as we speak, people in distant nations are risking their lives right now, just for a chance to argue about the issues that matter… Despite all our differences, most of us share certain hopes for America’s future… We want our children to live in an America that isn’t burdened by debt, that isn’t weakened by inequality, that isn’t threatened by the destructive power of a warming planet… We believe in a generous America, in a compassionate America, in a tolerant America… That’s where we need to go – forward – that’s where we need to go… Progress will come in fits and starts… Our economy is recovering, a decade of war is ending… With your stories and your struggles, I return to the White House more determined and more inspired than ever about the work there is to do and the future that lies ahead… The role of citizen in our democracy does not end with your vote.  America’s never been about what can be done for us, it’s about what can be done by us… I am hopeful tonight because I’ve seen the spirit of work in America… I’ve never been more hopeful about our future… I have always believed that hope is that stubborn thing inside us that insists, despite all the evidence to the contrary, that something better awaits us… I believe we can build on the progress we’ve made and continue to fight for new jobs and new opportunity and new security for the middle class.  I believe we can keep the promise of our foundmen – the idea that if you’re willing to work hard, it doesn’t matter who you are, or where you come from, or what you look like, or where you love.  It doesn’t matter whether you’re black or white or Hispanic or Asian or Native American or young or old, or rich or poor, able, disabled, gay or straight, you can make it here in America if you’re willing to try.  I believe we can seize this future together… We are greater than the sum of our individual ambitions and we remain more than a collection of red states and blue states – we are and forever will be the United States of America, and together, with your help and God’s grace, we will continue our journey forward and remind the World just why it is that we live in the greatest nation on Earth.  Thank you America, God bless you…”

President Obama’s message was inspiring and I’m proud to have supported him throughout this election process.  I, like many others, am looking forward to the next four years, and anticipate the social progress and history we are about to make as a country.  Congratulations President Obama – I believe in your vision and where you’re taking America.

-Bobby-james