Obama says Aliens are "Real"

In recent years, former President Barack Obama sparked widespread discussion when he addressed the question of extraterrestrial life during a podcast interview with Brian Tyler Cohen. In a quick-fire "lightning round" of questions, when asked "Are aliens real?", Obama replied, "They're real, but I haven't seen them." He added that they're "not being kept at Area 51" and joked about any underground facility being part of an enormous conspiracy hidden even from the president.

This off-the-cuff remark went viral, leading to speculation and frenzy online. Obama quickly clarified on Instagram and in statements that he was responding in the spirit of the rapid-fire format. He emphasized that statistically, given the vastness of the universe, the odds favor life existing elsewhere. However, he saw "no evidence" during his presidency that extraterrestrials have made contact with us, and the chances of visitation are low due to immense interstellar distances.

This incident ties into broader ongoing interest in unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAP, formerly known as UFOs). Congress has conducted multiple investigations and public hearings since 2023, including sessions in 2023, 2024, and 2025. Witnesses, including military personnel and whistleblowers, have testified about encounters with advanced craft exhibiting capabilities beyond known human technology—such as orbs, vanishing objects, and transmedium travel (air to water). These hearings, held by House Oversight committees and others, focus on transparency, potential national security implications, and declassification efforts, though no conclusive proof of alien origins has emerged.

Speculation often points to Area 51, the secretive Nevada military base long rumored to house crashed alien craft or reverse-engineered technology from alleged incidents like Roswell in 1947. Obama directly dismissed these ideas, aligning with official denials, but the site's mystique persists in popular culture.

From a religious perspective, the Catholic Church has no official doctrine forbidding extraterrestrial life. The existence of aliens—whether microbial or intelligent—remains a scientific question, not a theological one. Church figures, including Vatican astronomers like Fr. José Gabriel Funes, have stated that discovering extraterrestrial life would not contradict faith; it could reflect God's creative power across the cosmos. Intelligent extraterrestrials would be seen as part of creation, potentially redeemable in their own way, without conflicting with core teachings on humanity's unique role.

Scientifically, the sheer scale of the universe makes alien life seem probable. With billions of galaxies, each containing billions of stars, and trillions of potentially habitable planets (many confirmed by telescopes like Kepler and JWST), the Drake equation—a probabilistic framework estimating communicative civilizations in the Milky Way—suggests life could be common, even if intelligent or technological forms are rarer. The equation factors in star formation rates, planets per star, habitable zones, life emergence, intelligence development, communication willingness, and civilization longevity. While exact numbers vary wildly due to uncertainties, many astronomers argue the odds strongly favor life existing somewhere beyond Earth.

Reports of alien encounters, particularly abductions, often describe recurring "races." Common ones include:

- Greys: Small, grey-skinned humanoids with large black eyes, bald heads, and slender bodies—most frequently reported in abduction cases.

- Nordics (or Pleiadians): Tall, blonde, human-like beings, sometimes benevolent.

- Reptilians: Scaly, reptilian-featured humanoids, often linked to conspiracy theories.

- Others like Mantis (insect-like) or Tall Whites appear in some accounts.

These claims remain anecdotal and unverified scientifically.

Some theorists propose interdimensional beings rather than extraterrestrials from distant planets—entities from parallel dimensions slipping into our reality. Others speculate visitors could be future humans time-traveling back, explaining advanced tech without interstellar travel paradoxes.

The universe's vastness—containing an estimated 2 trillion galaxies and countless habitable worlds—strongly implies that life has arisen elsewhere. Simple microbial forms may be widespread, while intelligent life could be rarer but inevitable.

The Bible offers intriguing hints some interpret as extraterrestrial encounters. Ezekiel's vision of wheeled, fiery "living creatures" and a throne-like structure (Ezekiel 1) has been likened to a UFO by some. Similarly, Elijah's ascent to heaven in a "chariot of fire" with horses of fire and a whirlwind (2 Kings 2:11) evokes a dramatic aerial event, with some viewing it as Elijah witnessing Earth from above in a craft-like vehicle. These are traditionally understood as divine visions or angelic phenomena, not literal spacecraft.

One intriguing theological perspective on the possibility of extraterrestrial life draws from the precise wording in Genesis regarding God's rest. In Genesis 2:2-3, the text states that "by the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work," and "God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all his work that he had done in creation." Notably, Scripture describes God resting from His creative labors rather than declaring that creation itself was utterly and eternally finished in every aspect. Some interpreters, including those who view the seventh day as an ongoing period (supported by references in Hebrews 4 and Psalm 95, where God's rest extends into the present era), suggest this implies God's creative activity—while ceased in its initial formative phase—may not preclude further unfolding or manifestations of life within the vast cosmos He established. This open-ended rest allows room for the emergence of life forms beyond Earth, as part of the ongoing divine order and providence, without contradicting the completion of the foundational "heavens and earth" framework. Thus, the biblical narrative leaves space for the scientific probability of alien life, portraying a Creator whose Sabbath rest celebrates perfection while permitting the continued expression of His creative will across the universe.

This interpretation aligns with broader Catholic and Christian thought that God's ongoing sustenance of creation (as in Colossians 1:17, where "in him all things hold together") could encompass diverse forms of life elsewhere, reflecting the boundless scope of divine ingenuity rather than a rigidly closed system.

In conclusion, there is a strong possibility that alien life exists somewhere in the cosmos, given its immense scale and the principles of probability. Whether such life has visited Earth remains uncertain and unsupported by definitive evidence. If intelligent beings are out there and have chosen to avoid us, it speaks to their advanced wisdom—perhaps recognizing humanity's challenges and deciding we're not yet ready for contact.

Sources:

- BBC: "Obama clarifies views on aliens after saying 'they're real' on podcast" (bbc.com)

- TIME: "Barack Obama Says Aliens Are 'Real,' But They Aren't Being Kept at Area 51" (time.com)

- The Guardian: "No evidence aliens have made contact, says Obama after podcast comments cause frenzy" (theguardian.com)

- CNN: "Obama clarifies alien comments after telling podcast 'they're real'" (cnn.com)

- House Oversight Committee hearings on UAP (oversight.house.gov, various 2023-2025 sessions)

- Catholic.com: "What's the Catholic position on the existence of Aliens?" (catholic.com)

- Society of Catholic Scientists: Discussions on extraterrestrial intelligence (catholicscientists.org)

- Wikipedia: Drake equation and list of alleged extraterrestrial beings (en.wikipedia.org)

- NASA Science: Revisiting the Drake Equation (science.nasa.gov)

Democratic National Convention 2024

The 2024 Democratic National Convention: A Recap and Ratings Overview

The Democratic National Convention (DNC) of 2024 has been a significant event, marking a pivotal moment in the political landscape of the United States. Held in Chicago, the convention was a blend of thematic speeches, political endorsements, and a showcase of the Democratic Party's vision for the future.

One of the highlights of the convention was the passing of the torch from President Joe Biden to Vice President Kamala Harris, who has been officially recognized as the Democratic nominee. Biden's heartfelt keynote speech reflected on his term and his dedication to the country, emphasizing a message of unity and progress. He quoted the song "American Anthem," which he also referenced in his 2021 inaugural speech, symbolizing his commitment to giving his best to America.

The convention also featured powerful speeches from former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama, which brought a slight bump in viewership according to Nielsen data. Barack Obama's address was particularly impactful, as he urged the audience to vote instead of booing, a sentiment that resonated with many viewers. Michelle Obama's speech was notable for its directness and poignant commentary on the current political climate.

Hillary Clinton, the former Secretary of State, delivered a speech that was both critical of the past administration and hopeful for the future. Her remarks on Donald Trump's presidency and the implications for the upcoming election were a significant moment at the convention. Her husband and former President Bill Clinton also spoke.  Oprah spoke about the struggles Kamala went through as a female minority. She also spoke heavily in favor of "women's reproductive rights" presenting abortion as a necessity for Americans and mentioning the Constitution alongside her remarks despite the Supreme Court ruling that there is no right to abortion in the Constitution. Moreover, the DNC even had abortion buses outside providing free contraception, vasectomies, and abortions!  

The 2024 Democratic National Convention (DNC) was a platform for the Democratic Party to outline its policy priorities and vision for the future. The key policy points discussed at the convention were centered around several critical areas:

1. Economic Growth and Family Support: The DNC emphasized the party's commitment to growing the economy and reducing costs for families. This includes plans to create jobs, provide tax relief, and ensure affordable healthcare and education.

2. Climate Change and Energy Independence: Addressing the climate crisis remains a top priority for the Democratic Party. The convention highlighted proposals to invest in clean energy and infrastructure, aiming to secure energy independence and mitigate environmental impacts.

3. Social Justice and Equality: The DNC platform included measures to close the racial wealth gap, invest in small businesses, and promote social justice. The party reaffirmed its dedication to advancing civil rights and equality for all Americans.

4. Healthcare and Reproductive Rights: Restoring Roe v. Wade and protecting reproductive rights were significant points of discussion. The party seeks to ensure access to comprehensive healthcare services, including reproductive health.

5. Foreign Policy and Global Relations: The convention also touched upon foreign policy, with a focus on maintaining strong international alliances and promoting global peace and security.

6. Individual Freedoms and Democracy: The protection of individual freedoms and the strengthening of democratic institutions were underscored as essential components of the party's agenda.

These policy points reflect the Democratic Party's efforts to address the nation's challenges and present a progressive roadmap for the future. As the political season unfolds, it will be crucial to observe how these policies resonate with voters and influence the upcoming presidential race.

The DNC also made strides in inclusivity by granting special access to over 200 content creators, reflecting the party's recognition of the evolving landscape of media and communication.

Ratings for the convention have been a topic of interest, with viewership spiking slightly on the second night, reaching an average of 20.8 million viewers. This increase was attributed to the appearances of the Obamas, with viewership peaking at 21.6 million during Barack Obama's speech. The ratings indicate a keen public interest in the proceedings of the DNC and the messages conveyed by its key speakers. The ratings for the DNC outperformed those of the Republican National Convention.

Overall, the 2024 Democratic National Convention has set the stage for the upcoming electoral battle, with the Democratic Party rallying behind Vice President Harris as their nominee. The convention has not only been a reflection of the party's current stance but also a projection of their hopes and strategies for the future of America. As the political season progresses, it will be interesting to see how the themes and narratives presented at the DNC resonate with the electorate and influence the dynamics of the presidential race.

The DNC showed the world that the main focus of the Democratic Party is abortion and hitting back at former President Donald Trump.  No real plan was presented. Americans are concerned over inflation, prices, education, climate change, the nation's involvement in foreign affairs, money spent on non-American agendas, the rise in crime in blue states, and illegal immigration. Instead, access to abortion falsely presented as "reproductive health" is what was posited as the solution to America's problems.  

Another troubling part of the DNC was when the son of Tim Walz started crying saying and pointing to his dad "that's my dad."  People online began mocking the kid.  He was just proud of his dad and got emotional. If anyone thinks this is wrong, they need a mental health evaluation. 

In closing, the DNC really did not make a strong case for Kamala Harris. Her record still drags on her ankle, so to speak.  

Source:

(2) Live updates: Kamala Harris accepts her party’s historic nomination at DNC (cnn.com)

(2) DNC 2024 live updates: Kamala Harris gives acceptance speech at Democratic convention (nbcnews.com)

(1) 2024 Democratic National Convention (politico.com)

Ella Emhoff praises her Momala at the DNC - The Washington Post

Free abortions being offered outside DNC could land Planned Parenthood in trouble with IRS | Fox News

‘Immediate shift’: Democrats speaking about abortion in once unimaginable ways - POLITICO

Planned Parenthood on wheels is near DNC for vasectomies, abortion pills : NPR

Trump Must Be Having a Meltdown Over DNC’s TV Ratings | The New Republic

DNC TV Ratings Compared to the RNC - Newsweek

Farewell Obama Speech

Obama gave his "farewell speech' in Chicago today. In it, he recycled his typical rhetoric which relies on doom, gloom and embellishments of what he considers "achievements."  The crowd present cheered him on; however, at the end, they seemed antsy waiting for him to end. Obama praised the idea of illegal immigration, even comparing it to the immigration of the Irish, Italian and Polish. He forgot to mention that the aforementioned came to the United States legally. They did not cross borders nor came in boats.

Obama also forgot to mention how he divided this nation in such a way that reminds older folks of the 1950's and 60's where races relations were not great.  Today, there is a lot of division. Many African Americans have been empowered to take on a hateful and revengeful tone against Whites and others. They see themselves now like victims, instead of a proud people. Police officers have been on the receiving end of this for the most part. Moreover, under Obama, we have seen an increase in mass shootings and riots. Obama has perpetuated an "us vs them" mentality creating a generation of youth that are pusillanimous crybabies seeking the comfort of "safe zones" as well as coloring books and clay.  

Under Obama, a tyrannical minority has gained so much power that now it is protected more than the rights of others. Christians have been targeted by this group. Sued just for adhering to their religious beliefs.  I can go on and on, but I think voters know, hence why Trump won this election.  Furthermore, Obama has not shown himself to be a patriot. He called the Constitution a mere "piece of parchment."To Americans, that is like calling the Bible just another book instead of God's Word.

Farewell Obama indeed!  Good riddance.  Now it is time to repair America.  




Source:

https://www.nytimes.com/2017/01/10/us/politics/obama-farewell-address-speech.html?_r=0

http://time.com/4631137/president-obama-farewell-speech-highlights/

http://dailycaller.com/2017/01/11/the-ratings-are-in-from-barack-obamas-farewell-speech-last-night/

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/politics/ct-obama-farewell-speech-chicago-0111-20170110-story.html

http://www.cnn.com/2017/01/10/politics/obama-farewell-address/

http://people.com/politics/president-obama-farewell-address-twitter-reactions/

http://www.nationalreview.com/article/443751/obama-farewell-address-self-loving

https://www.nytimes.com/2017/01/11/us/obama-farewell-address-president.html

Obama to visit Bronx's Lehman College

I received an email last week from CUNY, my alma mater that President Barrack Obama is going to visit the Bronx's Lehman College.  However, it seems (based on the email) that the staff at the college nor the students will be allowed to attend. This is unfortunate.  Obama's planners should have allowed the professors and students to engage Obama.

I will update this post if I learn more of this visit, stay tuned!

Puerto Ricans - The Forgotten Citizens

Some of you may wonder when reading the title of this post why I am calling Puerto Ricans "The Forgotten Citizens."  Well, there are many reasons why and I will try to go through them briefly in this writing.

Puerto Ricans are people who are either born on the island of Puerto Rico or come from parents who were born on the island.  They are mostly a mix of European, Taino Indian, African and sometimes even Asian races.  Puerto Ricans are hard to classify racially speaking.  They come in all colors.  One can meet a Puerto Rican as white as Casper the friendly ghost with blue, hazel or green eyes; or even a Puerto Rican as black as coal with features found among Africans born in Africa.  Furthermore, there are Puerto Ricans that look Indian, Arab or Asian with their particular eyes, skin tones and bone structures.  Because of this, there can be great confusion on the part of non-Puerto Ricans who mistake them for other races.  This also creates a problem on census forms where Puerto Ricans have trouble identifying with a particular race.

Puerto Ricans are a culturally proud people who love to display their music, food, and flag publicly without shame.  They are festive and it is rare to find an anti-social Puerto Rican. Unfortunately, the history between the United States of America and Puerto Ricans has not been so tidy.  Puerto Ricans were often mistreated by non-Puerto Ricans in the mainland American.  Some in the Catholic Church even gave Puerto Ricans a hard time by making them pay a quarter to sit at Mass, or were forced to attend Mass in a basement or lower church.  Because of this, many Puerto Ricans left and are part of Evangelical or Pentecostal sects.

They were originally under Spanish rule until the United States took the island over and Spain eventually gave it away completely in order to alleviate its debts.  It wasn't until 1917 when Puerto Ricans became official citizens in the United States of America.  In 1948, Congress broaden the citizenship to include all Puerto Ricans born in the States or the Island of Puerto Rico.  Over 75% of Puerto Ricans speak English fluently.  This allows them great flexibility in American life.  However, they are a forgotten people in America.

Democrats and others who identify themselves as "liberals" often push for "immigrant rights" and so on.  They feel that immigrants who came here illegally should be allowed to stay.  A form of amnesty is often proposed in Congress allowing them to stay with full rights and protection under US law.  Naturally, many Americans oppose this because it is not fair for people to come illegally to the nation and then get a free pass to become a citizen.  These critics are often the descendants of immigrants themselves who came from Europe but argue that their ancestors earned their citizenship and did not enter the nation illegally.

Those in favor of illegal immigrants try hard to pass laws to allow them to have licenses, better job opportunities, welfare assistance, earn college degrees and so forth.  However, not much is said of Hispanics who are already citizens, namely Puerto Ricans.  Only about 14% of Puerto Ricans earn a bachelor's degree.  This is not good.  Leaders in the Puerto Rican community often forget their own people and do not encourage education nor advocate for their fellow Puerto Ricans.  Puerto Ricans have suffered discrimination, poverty and other social issues for no reason.  They are American citizens and deserve to be treated as such and not forgotten.

In many instances, illegal immigrants are given priority over a Puerto Rican!  This is absurd and a

complete betrayal to the Puerto Rican people and their status as citizens of the United States of America.  Archbishop of San Juan, Roberto Gonzalez is under fire from Vatican officials for speaking a little more on Puerto Rican rights than he should; however, I don't blame him. Gonzalez was  born in the States and probably knows well the hardships that his people have endured and still endure.  To be a citizen, yet not be; is not something that lifts the morale of any people.  For a Puerto Rican to be wrapped up in red tape when trying to get assistance or an opportunity to live the American dream while an illegal immigrant can easily get help is unfair.

Puerto Ricans have much to contribute to American society as a whole.  Supreme court justice Sonia Sotomayor is an example of what a Puerto Rican can become if he/she is given equal treatment and not treated like a second class citizen while others who are not citizens are put ahead. The Puerto Rican people need a Dr. King figure who will bring about change and respect.  It is disturbing to see Al Sharpton show his face when a controversial issue involves Puerto Ricans and no other Puerto Rican leader is present.

African Americans are not the only group who are harassed and profiled.  Many times, when a Hispanic commits a crime, he is automatically labeled a Puerto Rican despite being Mexican, Dominican, Cuban or what not.  Take Salsa singer Marc Anthony for example who was harassed for singing the anthem at the All Star game.  In some instances, members of other groups purposely pretend to be Puerto Rican in order to fit in society or get opportunities.  They have even stolen the identities of Puerto Ricans which forced Puerto Rico to reissue birth certificates.  Only those who can distinguish between dialects, accents and body language can truly tell who is Puerto Rican and who is not.  Shouting 'wepa' or dancing Salsa does not make one Puerto Rican.  

Moreover, many Puerto Rican elected officials sell out their own people by adopting the "white man's" rhetoric.  This rhetoric includes the Americanization of Puerto Ricans by forcing them to erase their cultural ties and become part of the American collective, so to speak.  It also includes adopting liberal ideologies such as abortion, contraception, gay rights and other agendas that were never part of the Puerto Rican people's philosophy who value life, family and tradition.  Being American doesn't mean one must forget where one came from, nor replace one's values and morals.

I hope the Puerto Rican people are treated better and that they wake up and demand respect. Their needs have to be met and put before that of others who clearly broke laws by entering our nation.

To my knowledge, the breaking of a law means one is a law-breaker or criminal.  Why give preference to law-breakers when you have citizens here who are in need of many things and want to achieve the American dream without being discriminated against or assimilated into another ethnicity?

      

4 More Years...

The verdict is in and America has decided to keep President Barack H. Obama in the White House four more years.

Electoral Votes  

Obama 301  Romney 203

****This blog post will be updated later on.....****

**UPDATE**

Romney's electoral votes just went up to 206.  Either way, it will not make a difference in the election.  Barack H. Obama won both the popular and electoral votes.

Thousands gathered at the White House, Times Square, in Chicago and all over to celebrate Obama's reelection.  The GOP aka Republicans were left dismayed after Romney's defeat.  After a long wait, Romney finally conceded defeat in a speech that called for unity and the success of Obama's second presidency.  Here is Romney's concession speech:

Thank you.

I have just called President Obama to congratulate him on his victory. His supporters and his campaign also deserve congratulations. I wish all of them well, but particularly the president, the first lady and their daughters.

This is a time of great challenges for America, and I pray that the president will be successful in guiding our nation.

I want to thank Paul Ryan for all that he has done for our campaign and for our country. Besides my wife, Ann, Paul is the best choice I’ve ever made. And I trust that his intellect and his hard work and his commitment to principle will continue to contribute to the good of our nation.

I also want to thank Ann, the love of my life. She would have been a wonderful first lady. She’s — she has been that and more to me and to our family and to the many people that she has touched with her compassion and her care.

I thank my sons for their tireless work on behalf of the campaign, and thank their wives and children for taking up the slack as their husbands and dads have spent so many weeks away from home.

I want to thank Matt Rhoades and the dedicated campaign team he led. They have made an extraordinary effort not just for me, but also for the country that we love.

And to you here tonight, and to the team across the country — the volunteers, the fundraisers, the donors, the surrogates — I don’t believe that there’s ever been an effort in our party that can compare with what you have done over these past years. Thank you so very much.

Thanks for all the hours of work, for the calls, for the speeches and appearances, for the resources and for the prayers. You gave deeply from yourselves and performed magnificently. And you inspired us and you humbled us. You’ve been the very best we could have imagined.

The nation, as you know, is at a critical point. At a time like this, we can’t risk partisan bickering and political posturing. Our leaders have to reach across the aisle to do the people’s work. And we citizens also have to rise to the occasion.

We look to our teachers and professors, we count on you not just to teach, but to inspire our children with a passion for learning and discovery. We look to our pastors and priests and rabbis and counselors of all kinds to testify of the enduring principles upon which our society is built: honesty, charity, integrity and family. We look to our parents, for in the final analysis everything depends on the success of our homes. We look to job creators of all kinds. We’re counting on you to invest, to hire, to step forward. And we look to Democrats and Republicans in government at all levels to put the people before the politics.

I believe in America. I believe in the people of America. And I ran for office because I’m concerned about America. This election is over, but our principles endure. I believe that the principles upon which this nation was founded are the only sure guide to a resurgent economy and to renewed greatness.

Like so many of you, Paul and I have left everything on the field. We have given our all to this campaign.

I so wish — I so wish that I had been able to fulfill your hopes to lead the country in a different direction, but the nation chose another leader. And so Ann and I join with you to earnestly pray for him and for this great nation.

Thank you, and God bless America. You guys are the best. Thank you so much. Thank you. Thanks, guys.

President Obama later spoke sounding like the 2008 candidate version of himself with enthusiasm, charisma and emotion.  In his speech, he reminded the people that there is still work to do.  Here is his speech:

Thank you so much.

Tonight, more than 200 years after a former colony won the right to determine its own destiny, the task of perfecting our union moves forward.

It moves forward because of you. It moves forward because you reaffirmed the spirit that has triumphed over war and depression, the spirit that has lifted this country from the depths of despair to the great heights of hope, the belief that while each of us will pursue our own individual dreams, we are an American family and we rise or fall together as one nation and as one people.

Tonight, in this election, you, the American people, reminded us that while our road has been hard, while our journey has been long, we have picked ourselves up, we have fought our way back, and we know in our hearts that for the United States of America the best is yet to come.

I want to thank every American who participated in this election, whether you voted for the very first time or waited in line for a very long time. By the way, we have to fix that. Whether you pounded the pavement or picked up the phone, whether you held an Obama sign or a Romney sign, you made your voice heard and you made a difference.

I just spoke with Gov. Romney and I congratulated him and Paul Ryan on a hard-fought campaign. We may have battled fiercely, but it's only because we

Advertisement
love this country deeply and we care so strongly about its future. From George to Lenore to their son Mitt, the Romney family has chosen to give back to America through public service and that is the legacy that we honor and applaud tonight. In the weeks ahead, I also look forward to sitting down with Gov. Romney to talk about where we can work together to move this country forward.

I want to thank my friend and partner of the last four years, America's happy warrior, the best vice president anybody could ever hope for, Joe Biden.

And I wouldn't be the man I am today without the woman who agreed to marry me 20 years ago. Let me say this publicly: Michelle, I have never loved you more. I have never been prouder to watch the rest of America fall in love with you, too, as our nation's first lady. Sasha and Malia, before our very eyes you're growing up to become two strong, smart beautiful young women, just like your mom. And I'm so proud of you guys. But I will say that for now one dog's probably enough.

To the best campaign team and volunteers in the history of politics. The best. The best ever. Some of you were new this time around, and some of you have been at my side since the very beginning. But all of you are family. No matter what you do or where you go from here, you will carry the memory of the history we made together and you will have the lifelong appreciation of a grateful president. Thank you for believing all the way, through every hill, through every valley. You lifted me up the whole way and I will always be grateful for everything that you've done and all the incredible work that you put in.

I know that political campaigns can sometimes seem small, even silly. And that provides plenty of fodder for the cynics that tell us that politics is nothing more than a contest of egos or the domain of special interests. But if you ever get the chance to talk to folks who turned out at our rallies and crowded along a rope line in a high school gym, or saw folks working late in a campaign office in some tiny county far away from home, you'll discover something else.

You'll hear the determination in the voice of a young field organizer who's working his way through college and wants to make sure every child has that same opportunity. You'll hear the pride in the voice of a volunteer who's going door to door because her brother was finally hired when the local auto plant added another shift. You'll hear the deep patriotism in the voice of a military spouse who's working the phones late at night to make sure that no one who fights for this country ever has to fight for a job or a roof over their head when they come home.

That's why we do this. That's what politics can be. That's why elections matter. It's not small, it's big. It's important. Democracy in a nation of 300 million can be noisy and messy and complicated. We have our own opinions. Each of us has deeply held beliefs. And when we go through tough times, when we make big decisions as a country, it necessarily stirs passions, stirs up controversy.

That won't change after tonight, and it shouldn't. 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, the chance to cast their ballots like we did today.

But despite all our differences, most of us share certain hopes for America's future. We want our kids to grow up in a country where they have access to the best schools and the best teachers. A country that lives up to its legacy as the global leader in technology and discovery and innovation, with all the good jobs and new businesses that follow.

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 want to pass on a country that's safe and respected and admired around the world, a nation that is defended by the strongest military on earth and the best troops this—this world has ever known. But also a country that moves with confidence beyond this time of war, to shape a peace that is built on the promise of freedom and dignity for every human being.

We believe in a generous America, in a compassionate America, in a tolerant America, open to the dreams of an immigrant's daughter who studies in our schools and pledges to our flag. To the young boy on the south side of Chicago who sees a life beyond the nearest street corner. To the furniture worker's child in North Carolina who wants to become a doctor or a scientist, an engineer or an entrepreneur, a diplomat or even a president—that's the future we hope for. That's the vision we share. That's where we need to go—forward. That's where we need to go.

Now, we will disagree, sometimes fiercely, about how to get there. As it has for more than two centuries, progress will come in fits and starts. It's not always a straight line. It's not always a smooth path. By itself, the recognition that we have common hopes and dreams won't end all the gridlock or solve all our problems or substitute for the painstaking work of building consensus and making the difficult compromises needed to move this country forward. But that common bond is where we must begin.

Our economy is recovering. A decade of war is ending. A long campaign is now over. And whether I earned your vote or not, I have listened to you, I have learned from you, and you've made me a better president. And 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.

Tonight you voted for action, not politics as usual. You elected us to focus on your jobs, not ours. And in the coming weeks and months, I am looking forward to reaching out and working with leaders of both parties to meet the challenges we can only solve together. Reducing our deficit. Reforming our tax code. Fixing our immigration system. Freeing ourselves from foreign oil. We've got more work to do.

But that doesn't mean your work is done. 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 together through the hard and frustrating, but necessary work of self-government. That's the principle we were founded on.

This country has more wealth than any nation, but that's not what makes us rich. We have the most powerful military in history, but that's not what makes us strong. Our university, our culture are all the envy of the world, but that's not what keeps the world coming to our shores.

What makes America exceptional are the bonds that hold together the most diverse nation on earth. The belief that our destiny is shared; that this country only works when we accept certain obligations to one another and to future generations. The freedom which so many Americans have fought for and died for come with responsibilities as well as rights. And among those are love and charity and duty and patriotism. That's what makes America great.

I am hopeful tonight because I've seen the spirit at work in America. I've seen it in the family business whose owners would rather cut their own pay than lay off their neighbors, and in the workers who would rather cut back their hours than see a friend lose a job. I've seen it in the soldiers who reenlist after losing a limb and in those SEALs who charged up the stairs into darkness and danger because they knew there was a buddy behind them watching their back.

I've seen it on the shores of New Jersey and New York, where leaders from every party and level of government have swept aside their differences to help a community rebuild from the wreckage of a terrible storm. And I saw just the other day, in Mentor, Ohio, where a father told the story of his 8-year-old daughter, whose long battle with leukemia nearly cost their family everything had it not been for health care reform passing just a few months before the insurance company was about to stop paying for her care.

I had an opportunity to not just talk to the father, but meet this incredible daughter of his. And when he spoke to the crowd listening to that father's story, every parent in that room had tears in their eyes, because we knew that little girl could be our own. And I know that every American wants her future to be just as bright. That's who we are. That's the country I'm so proud to lead as your president.

And tonight, despite all the hardship we've been through, despite all the frustrations of Washington, I've never been more hopeful about our future. I have never been more hopeful about America. And I ask you to sustain that hope. I'm not talking about blind optimism, the kind of hope that just ignores the enormity of the tasks ahead or the roadblocks that stand in our path. I'm not talking about the wishful idealism that allows us to just sit on the sidelines or shirk from a fight.

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 so long as we have the courage to keep reaching, to keep working, to keep fighting.

America, 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 founders, 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 because we are not as divided as our politics suggests. We're not as cynical as the pundits believe. 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. God bless these United States.

Republicans, the Pro-Life movement, Traditional Marriage movement, Catholic leaders and conservatives were upset at the outcome.  Nevertheless, many of them offered congratulations without compromising their views.

Congratulations to Barack H. Obama. 



Source:
http://news.yahoo.com/white-house-race-goes-down-wire-002342258--business.html
http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/ticket/barack-obama-wins-election-second-term-president-041852102--election.html

Election day 2012

It is Election day 2012.  People are hopefully taking advantage of their right to vote.  Voting can decide whether we enjoy our rights as Americans or lose them.  

Voting is an important act and should be used wisely. We can elect a good leader or a bad one.  Our conscience and intellect should be properly utilized when voting.  Our choice will have consequences that we will have to put up with and answer to before God when judgment day or death comes.  

As citizens of the United States of America, we all have our individual reasons why we vote either way. However, we must not be selfish by voting for the candidate that will only service our needs.  Instead we should vote for the candidate that will bring about the common good for all not just ourselves. 

Many I am sure will take this voting opportunity to elect some one they feel will better the economy and bring troops home. Perhaps we might vote because of employment, education or even immigration.  Yes, those are excellent reasons to vote on.  

• We do need an economy to survive in a world that currently uses money to perform trades and transactions. 
• Yes, we do want peace and our troops home to be with their families and friends. 
• We do want employment, good education and want to fix the immigration situation.  

However, we must not forget that politicians are known for making promises that are nearly impossible to complete and mainly do so to win over voters. So we cannot rush to judgment on rhetoric or promises alone. We must be informed voters and understand each candidate's ideas and plans and if they are possible before making a choice. 

Unfortunately, some will vote for a candidate because he might be older, stern and has more experience, while others may vote for another candidate because he is African American, popular, and a fresh new face in politics.  But we must stick to the common good and how either candidate will bring about them. 

The current candidates for the presidency of the United States are Barack Obama and Mitt Romney.  Both offer different ideas on how to get the country going.  Both have good qualities about them and bad ones.  We must look at these and think carefully how either of these men will affect the nation as its president.  

• Does the candidate value life?  Without human life, none of the other issues would exist.   
• Does he or she believe life is sacred and precious and must never be aborted or euthanized for any reason? 
• Does the candidate value Religious Freedom? 
• Does the candidate value education for all? 
• Does the candidate value fair economics for all in every social and monetary class? 
• Does the candidate value the sacred institution of marriage between one man and one woman as God and nature intended? 
• Does the candidate value the nation's citizens and seek to genuinely assist those who are here illegally to become citizens and add to our nation's greatness?
• Does the candidate value America's customs, its Constitution and laws above him/herself. 
• Does the candidate always put America's protection first especially in a time of war and terrorism? 

These are some of the questions we must ask when choosing a candidate to vote for. God gave us a conscience so we must put it to use and vote for the candidate that will bring about the common good, not just focus on one area or present an ulterior motive. This is the moral thing to do. 

• We should not vote for a candidate solely based on gender, color, religion, speaking skills, charisma, voting record, interest in helping the rich or the poor, etc.  
• Color should not matter, nor speaking skills since speeches are written by others not the candidate. 
• Charisma is important to draw attention, but the presidency is a serious job and not for a entertainment. 
• Voting record is important, but those votes are in the past and what matters is the candidate's current platform. 
• A candidate should be focused on all, rich and poor.
• Religion should not matter as long as he respects the Judeo/Christian values and views of this nation and does not impose his own doctrines into the government process. 

This election is an extremely important one.  Our nation is going downhill fast and on the road to the situation Greece is facing.  Many of our rights are being restricted, in particular: religious freedom.    

Let us vote for a good candidate who will protect all, the unborn, the born, people of all ages, races, gender, religion, orientation and social class. Let us vote for some one who will follow the law in a moral way and not try to legislate his views from the Oval office and try to rewrite social norms such as marriage or when a person should live and die. 

God bless America and may the best candidate for our current time win and have great success in bringing about the common good.

Presidential Debate II

Tonight the second presidential debate took place at Hofstra university.  The format was a town hall one in which audience participants ask questions of the candidates.  The candidates then respond to the audience member and to one another.

In this debate, President Obama did much better.  Both candidates were feisty and battling each other.  Obama was more assertive this time.

He countered Romney's statements better than in the last debate.  Romney of course countered.  Controversy surrounded the debate due to the fact that Candy Crowley was to be the moderator.  Crowley stated that she would actively participate in the debate.  Both campaigns protested this.

Crowley's bias was not masked at all.  It was obvious that she is an Obama supporter.  She constantly interrupted Romney and even helped out Obama by contradicting Romney's claim that Obama did not state at the Rose garden conference that the attack in Libya was a terrorist attack.  She was obviously wrong.  Obama DID NOT state that the attack was a terrorist attack.

ROMNEY: I -- I think interesting the president just said something which -- which is that on the day after the attack he went into the Rose Garden and said that this was an act of terror.

OBAMA: That's what I said.

ROMNEY: You said in the Rose Garden the day after the attack, it was an act of terror.

It was not a spontaneous demonstration, is that what you're saying?

OBAMA: Please proceed governor.

ROMNEY: I want to make sure we get that for the record because it took the president 14 days before he called the attack in Benghazi an act of terror.

OBAMA: Get the transcript.

CROWLEY: It -- it -- it -- he did in fact, sir. So let me -- let me call it an act of terror...

OBAMA: Can you say that a little louder, Candy?

CROWLEY: He -- he did call it an act of terror. It did as well take -- it did as well take two weeks or so for the whole idea there being a riot out there about this tape to come out. You are correct about that.

ROMNEY: This -- the administration -- the administration indicated this was a reaction to a video and was a spontaneous reaction.

CROWLEY: It did.

ROMNEY: It took them a long time to say this was a terrorist act by a terrorist group. And to suggest -- am I incorrect in that regard, on Sunday, the -- your secretary --

OBAMA: Candy?

Obama seemed uncomfortable addressing Romney's point.  Crowley's interjection gave more attention to Obama's apprehension.  Obama even said, "lets move on."  This shows that Obama had no rebuttal to Romney's statement.

The media is calling Obama the winner; however, others say it was Romney who won again by responding to Obama's statements and cornering him .



Source:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/10/17/candy-crowley-libya-fact-check-backtrack_n_1973431.html?ref=election-2012-blog&icid=maing-grid7|maing8|dl1|sec1_lnk2%26pLid%3D221821

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/10/16/presidential-debate-2012_n_1970698.html?&icid=maing-grid7%7Cmain5%7Cdl1%7Csec1_lnk2%26pLid%3D221152

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/10/16/candy-crowley-fact-checks-mitt-romney-libya_n_1972313.html?icid=maing-grid7%7Cmain5%7Cdl1%7Csec3_lnk2%26pLid%3D221152

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/10/15/candy-crowley-debate-complaints-obama-romney_n_1966386.html?ref=topbar

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/10/17/presidential-debate-winner_n_1972215.html

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/10/16/candy-crowley-fact-checks-mitt-romney-libya_n_1972313.html?ncid=webmail2