Obama: “Victory belongs to you”
As Barack Obama took his place as the first African American to be elected President of the United States, he accepted the great responsibility and thanked the supporters in which he credited the historic victory.
“I will never forget who this victory truly belongs to, it belongs to you, it belongs to you, ” Obama said. “It grew strength from the young people who rejected the myth of their generation’s apathy… it grew strength from the not so young people…and from the millions of Americans who volunteered and organized and proved that more than two centuries later a government of the people, by the people and for the people have not perished from the Earth. This is your victory.”
With 51% percent of the popular votes and 338 electoral votes, Obama helped to solidify the unity of our nation.
“We have never been just a collection of states…we are the United States,” Obama said.
However, even during the celebration, Obama urged the point that change is still needed and will take work.
“This victory alone is not the change we seek, it is only the chance for us to make that change,” Obama said. “That cannot happen if we go back to the way we were.”
“It feels great (voting). I finally get to express my opinions, and truly believe that my vote counts. Everyone, young and old should vote, it gives a sense of release,” Michael Perez, 18, computer science major said.
On the right side of the spectrum, supporters of Senator John McCain were severely disappointed.
“Things could be worse,” said Spencer Gales, 22. Biology. “At least we get to see Sarah Palin’s talk show now.”
After the election results proved to be in favor of Obama, McCain graciously delivered a concession speech in Arizona, during which he thanked his family and supporters and expressed his respect for Obama.
“My friends, we have come to the end of a long journey. The American people have spoken, and they have spoken clearly,” McCain said. “A little while ago, I had the honor of calling Senator Barack Obama to congratulate him on being elected the next president of the country that we both love.”
At this point, McCain’s supporters voiced their disapproval via a series of boos and verbal profanity, including one highly-audible “Bulls***.”
McCain simply put his hands out and gestured for silence with a single “please.”
He then continued by saying, “This is an historic election. I recognize the special significance it has for African-Americans, for the special pride that must be theirs tonight…I’ve always believed that America offers opportunities to all who have the industry and will to seize it. Senator Obama believes that, too.”
McCain concluded with a strong message of hope for America.”Americans never quit. We never surrender. We never hide from history, we make history. Thank you, and God bless you, and God bless America.”