Today, we are again called to provide visionary leadership. This century's threats are at least as dangerous as, and in some ways more complex than, those we have confronted in the past. They come from weapons that can kill on a mass scale and from violent extremists who exploit alienation and perceived injustice to spread terror. They come from rogue states allied to terrorists and from rising powers that could challenge both America and the international foundation of liberal democracy. They come from weak states that cannot control their territory or provide for their people. They come from an addiction to oil that helps fund the extremism we must fight and empowers repressive regimes. And they come from a warming planet that will spur new diseases, spawn more devastating natural disasters, and catalyze deadly conflicts.

We will confront these threats head on while working with our allies and restoring our standing in the world. We will pursue a tough, smart, and principled national security strategy. It is a strategy that will end the war in Iraq responsibly and focus our efforts on the terrorists who did strike us. It is a strategy that recognizes that we have interests not just in Baghdad, but in Kandahar and Karachi, in Beijing, Berlin, Brasilia and Bamako. It is a strategy that contends with the many disparate forces shaping this century, including: the fundamentalist challenge to freedom; the emergence of new powers like China, India, Russia, and a united Europe; the spread of lethal weapons; uncertain supplies of energy, food, and water; the persistence of poverty and the growing gap between rich and poor; and extraordinary new technologies that send people, ideas, and money across the globe at ever faster speeds.

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President Obama in Cairo

June 4, 2009

Early this morning President Obama delivered a speech in Cairo, Egypt addressing many in the Middle East. While we wait for video of the President's speech you can read the full text.

I've come here to Cairo to seek a new beginning between the United States and Muslims around the world, one based on mutual interest and mutual respect, and one based upon the truth that America and Islam are not exclusive and need not be in competition. Instead, they overlap, and share common principles -- principles of justice and progress; tolerance and the dignity of all human beings.

The issues that I have described will not be easy to address. But we have a responsibility to join together on behalf of the world that we seek -- a world where extremists no longer threaten our people, and American troops have come home; a world where Israelis and Palestinians are each secure in a state of their own, and nuclear energy is used for peaceful purposes; a world where governments serve their citizens, and the rights of all God's children are respected. Those are mutual interests. That is the world we seek. But we can only achieve it together.

In advance of his speech the White House released this video on Muslim Americans serving in our government.

President Obama's Remarks from Cairo

June 4, 2009

During his speech in Cairo this morning, President Obama proposed a new beginning for the United States and Muslims around the world, based upon a sustained effort to listen, learn and respect one another. The President described, firsthand, the dignity and peace he has seen Muslims find in their faith and recognized Islam and Muslims for their historic contributions to the civilization - in education, innovation, science, medicine and religious tolerance and racial equality.

The President said that the United States would seek a broader engagement with Muslim world, including new partnerships in education, economic development, science, technology and health. He also specifically addressed several key issues that we must confront together, including: violent extremism, peace and security for Palestine and Israel, nuclear proliferation, democracy and human rights, women’s rights, religious freedom and economic development and opportunity. We’ll post reaction to his speech later today.

On confronting violent extremism:

“…Just as America can never tolerate violence by extremists, we must never alter or forget our principles. Nine-eleven was an enormous trauma to our country. The fear and anger that it provoked was understandable, but in some cases, it led us to act contrary to our traditions and our ideals. We are taking concrete actions to change course. I have unequivocally prohibited the use of torture by the United States, and I have ordered the prison at Guantanamo Bay closed by early next year.”

On Middle East peace:

“…For decades then, there has been a stalemate: two peoples with legitimate aspirations, each with a painful history that makes compromise elusive. It's easy to point fingers -- for Palestinians to point to the displacement brought about by Israel's founding, and for Israelis to point to the constant hostility and attacks throughout its history from within its borders as well as beyond. But if we see this conflict only from one side or the other, then we will be blind to the truth: The only resolution is for the aspirations of both sides to be met through two states, where Israelis and Palestinians each live in peace and security.”

“That is in Israel's interest, Palestine's interest, America's interest, and the world's interest. And that is why I intend to personally pursue this outcome with all the patience and dedication that the task requires. (Applause.) The obligations -- the obligations that the parties have agreed to under the road map are clear. For peace to come, it is time for them -- and all of us -- to live up to our responsibilities.”

On nuclear proliferation:

“…I understand those who protest that some countries have weapons that others do not. No single nation should pick and choose which nation holds nuclear weapons. And that's why I strongly reaffirmed America's commitment to seek a world in which no nations hold nuclear weapons. (Applause.) And any nation -- including Iran -- should have the right to access peaceful nuclear power if it complies with its responsibilities under the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. That commitment is at the core of the treaty, and it must be kept for all who fully abide by it. And I'm hopeful that all countries in the region can share in this goal.”

On democracy:

“…Each nation gives life to this principle in its own way, grounded in the traditions of its own people. America does not presume to know what is best for everyone, just as we would not presume to pick the outcome of a peaceful election. But I do have an unyielding belief that all people yearn for certain things: the ability to speak your mind and have a say in how you are governed; confidence in the rule of law and the equal administration of justice; government that is transparent and doesn't steal from the people; the freedom to live as you choose. These are not just American ideas; they are human rights. And that is why we will support them everywhere."

On religious freedom:

“…Freedom of religion is central to the ability of peoples to live together. We must always examine the ways in which we protect it. For instance, in the United States, rules on charitable giving have made it harder for Muslims to fulfill their religious obligation. That's why I'm committed to working with American Muslims to ensure that they can fulfill zakat.”

On women’s rights:

“…I am convinced that our daughters can contribute just as much to society as our sons. (Applause.) Our common prosperity will be advanced by allowing all humanity -- men and women -- to reach their full potential. I do not believe that women must make the same choices as men in order to be equal, and I respect those women who choose to live their lives in traditional roles. But it should be their choice. And that is why the United States will partner with any Muslim-majority country to support expanded literacy for girls, and to help young women pursue employment through micro-financing that helps people live their dreams.”

On economic development:

“…Many Gulf states have enjoyed great wealth as a consequence of oil, and some are beginning to focus it on broader development. But all of us must recognize that education and innovation will be the currency of the 21st century -- (applause) -- and in too many Muslim communities, there remains underinvestment in these areas. I'm emphasizing such investment within my own country. And while America in the past has focused on oil and gas when it comes to this part of the world, we now seek a broader engagement.”

Here’s a link to the full text of the President’s remarks.

President Signs Weapons Systems Acquisition Reform Act

May 22, 2009

President Obama signed the Weapons Systems Acquisition Reform Act today, an important step in procurement reform process. Senator Carl Levin (D-MI), Rep. Robert Andrews (D-NJ), and Rep. Ike Skelton (D-MO) were on hand for the bill signing this morning in the Rose Garden.

The bill will eliminate some of the waste and inefficiency in our defense projects – resulting in better protection for our nation and troops, while saving taxpayers billions of dollars.

Here’s an excerpt from the President’s speech:

The purpose of this law will be to limit cost overruns before they spiral out of control. It will strengthen oversight and accountability by appointing officials who will be charged with closely monitoring the weapons systems we're purchasing to ensure that costs are controlled. If the cost of certain defense projects continue to grow year after year, those projects will be closely reviewed, and if they don't provide the value we need, they will be terminated. This law will also enhance competition and end conflicts of interest in the weapons acquisitions process so that American taxpayers and the American military can get the best weapons at the lowest cost.

The Detroit Free Press reported:

With these changes, it is hoped government can contain huge growth in costs and expensive delays. Last month, the Government Accountability Office said cost overruns on 97 of the Defense Department’s largest acquisition programs were almost $300 billion over the original estimates, even though it has made cuts intended to restrain costs.

The Administration has also taken steps to reduce no-bid congrats and reform the Department of Defense’s budget.

President Obama’s National Security Speech at the National Archive

May 21, 2009

President Obama gave a major national security speech at the National Archives this morning where he provided the broad context in which his Administration makes national security decisions. He also discussed several issues including the banning of enhanced interrogation techniques, our detention policy and the on-going balance between security and transparency.

By all accounts, the speech was a tour de force. The President calmly and reasonably and passionately explained his approach to national security issues in the context of a deep and unwavering commitment to keeping our country safe and abiding by the principles on which this country was founded: freedom, fairness, equality and dignity. He made very clear that choosing between our values and our security is a false choice – our principles are the very thing that strengthens this country and keeps us safe.

Couple of other things:

– As so many have said before, I was once again struck by President Obama’s obvious respect for the intelligence of the American people.

– Abuses of power by the previous administration have severely distorted our understanding of what a President should and should not be able to do. President Obama’s commitment to the rule of law, transparency, accountability and divided government is a much needed reminder (and shot-in-the-arm) of how we should have been operating all along.

On America’s core values:

“…But I believe with every fiber of my being that in the long run we also cannot keep this country safe unless we enlist the power of our most fundamental values. The documents that we hold in this very hall – the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, the Bill of Rights –are not simply words written into aging parchment. They are the foundation of liberty and justice in this country, and a light that shines for all who seek freedom, fairness, equality and dignity in the world….

“I took an oath to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution as Commander-in-Chief, and as a citizen, I know that we must never – ever – turn our back on its enduring principles for expedience sake.

“….I make this claim not simply as a matter of idealism. We uphold our most cherished values not only because doing so is right, but because it strengthens our country and keeps us safe. Time and again, our values have been our best national security asset – in war and peace; in times of ease and in eras of upheaval.”

On matters of accountability:

“On all of these matters related to the disclosure of sensitive information, I wish I could say that there is a simple formula. But there is not. These are tough calls involving competing concerns, and they require a surgical approach. But the common thread that runs through all of my decisions is simple: we will safeguard what we must to protect the American people, but we will also ensure the accountability and oversight that is the hallmark of our constitutional system. I will never hide the truth because it is uncomfortable. I will deal with Congress and the courts as co-equal branches of government. I will tell the American people what I know and don’t know, and when I release something publicly or keep something secret, I will tell you why.”

On action the Administration has taken so far:

“…the policies that I have proposed represent a new direction from the last eight years. To protect the American people and our values, we have banned enhanced interrogation techniques. We are closing the prison at Guantanamo. We are reforming Military Commissions, and we will pursue a new legal regime to detain terrorists. We are declassifying more information and embracing more oversight of our actions, and narrowing our use of the State Secrets privilege. These are dramatic changes that will put our approach to national security on a surer, safer and more sustainable footing, and their implementation will take time.

Senate Confirmation Hearings: Hillary Clinton

January 13, 2009

Senator Hillary Clinton is speaking before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee right now as part of her confirmation hearings for Secretary of State.

Gen. Eric Shinseki Named VA Secretary-Designate

December 8, 2008

On the 67th anniversary of the attacks on Pearl Harbor, President-elect Barack Obama named General Eric Shinseki, a 38-year veteran, Secretary of the Veterans Affairs.

During the press conference, President-elect Obama praised General Shinseki's service to his country, and reinforced the importance of the sacred trust between America and her troops.

General Shinseki is the first Asian American to reach the rank of four-star general. He served two combat tours in Vietnam, where he was wounded in action.

On the anniversary of the attacks on Pearl Harbor in 1941, President-elect Obama stressed the importance of the post General Shinseki would hold.

"We owe it to all our veterans to honor them as we honored our Greatest Generation," the President-elect said. "Not just with words, but with deeds."

Another Former Republican Senator for Obama

October 28, 2008

In an op-ed entitled, "My Choice: Obama," printed in the Washington Post this morning, former Maryland Senator Charles Mathias (R)

I believe that Obama's inspirational leadership, contemplative nature and well-reasoned, forward-looking policies offer our troubled nation a real opportunity to face and overcome its many challenges at home and abroad.

On an array of domestic issues, including health care, education, tax policy, the environment and alternative energy sources, Obama promises a clean break from the recent past and tangible hope for a return to fiscal responsibility, economic security and true environmental stewardship, all of which are essential to restoring our greatness. Now, Obama must be aware of the hopes that he has raised through his discussion of these issues. Many people will rightly take his words as his commitment and will judge him accordingly.

On the international front, his thoughtful and responsible approach to extricating our troops from Iraq, reallocating our finite resources elsewhere in the war on terrorism, and reviving effective use of our diplomatic corps all warrant our support. To be successful in these endeavors, Obama must be an active student of history. In attempting to bring peace to the Middle East, for example, he should recognize that the United States has played a role in the region since Franklin Roosevelt went to Saudi Arabia to meet with King Abdul-Aziz. Obama must appreciate that he is not writing on an empty page and will need to be sensitive to that which has come before him.

Obama represents the better choice to successfully address the issues that dramatically affect the health and well-being of our nation today. The fact that he is also a black American adds special significance for me as someone who was witness to and participated in at least a part of the past century's discourse on civil rights.

Mathias served in the House of Representatives from 1961 until 1969 when he was elected to the U.S. Senate and served until 1987.

McCain Claims He Hasn't Flipped on Anything from 2000

October 23, 2008

John McCain told the local CBS affiliate in Washington, D.C. that "I'm the same guy" from 2000, claiming that he hasn't flipped on any issue since his last run for the presidency.

MCCAIN: You’ll have to tell me what’s changed. I love it when they say, “Oh McCain has changed.” And I say, “What have I changed on?” They can’t name a single issue or they’ll name an issue and its false. I’m the same guy. I’m proud of our campaign.

It is not exactly a winning message but the interview presented itself with a rather easy challenge: name McCain's flip-flops.

White House Endorsed CIA Tactics in Memos

October 15, 2008

The Bush administration issued a pair of secret memos to the CIA in 2003 and 2004 that explicitly endorsed the agency's use of interrogation techniques such as waterboarding against al-Qaeda suspects -- documents prompted by worries among intelligence officials about a possible backlash if details of the program became public.

The classified memos, which have not been previously disclosed, were requested by then-CIA Director George J. Tenet more than a year after the start of the secret interrogations, according to four administration and intelligence officials familiar with the documents. Although Justice Department lawyers, beginning in 2002, had signed off on the agency's interrogation methods, senior CIA officials were troubled that White House policymakers had never endorsed the program in writing.

Count the Lies #106: McCain's Afghanistan Ad Distorts the Record

October 5, 2008

The Democratic National Committee today updated the Count the Lies counter after FactCheck.org said John McCain's latest campaign ad distorted Barack Obama's words and votes. The ad "recycles a misleading, 14-month-old charge that Sen. Barack Obama disrespected U.S. troops fighting in Afghanistan" and "misrepresents" his votes.

Since John McCain locked up his party's nomination and promised to run a respectful campaign in February, at least 106 independent, non-partisan fact checks have to debunked McCain campaign lies.

McCain Afghanistan Ad "Recycles a Misleading" Charge and "Misrepresents" Obama's Votes. "A McCain-Palin ad calls Obama 'dishonorable,' while distorting his words and votes on troop funding. It accuses him of saying "our troops in Afghanistan" are just bombing villages and killing civilians. What Obama said, in context, was a criticism of U.S. military strategy, and not of American troops. It accuses Obama and "Congressional liberals" of voting repeatedly to cut off funding for troops, 'increasing the risk on their lives.' In fact, the votes were for bringing the troops home, cutting off funding only if the president failed to comply. The McCain-Palin campaign released the ad, titled 'Dangerous,' and said it would be televised nationally. It recycles a misleading, 14-month-old charge that Sen. Barack Obama disrespected U.S. troops fighting in Afghanistan by accusing them of 'just air-raiding villages and killing civilians.' It also misrepresents votes in favor of withdrawing troops from Iraq as being votes 'increasing the risk on their lives.'"