[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 155 (2009), Part 1]
[Senate]
[Page 1286]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]


                            MORNING BUSINESS

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                  THE INAUGURATION OF PRESIDENT OBAMA

   Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, yesterday the Nation and the world 
witnessed the peaceful transfer of power from one President to the 
next.
  While this now seems normal and fair, the idea that a head of state 
would relinquish his power willingly amazed many when George Washington 
willingly stepped down as commander-in-chief.
  Two centuries later, that idea serves as one of the strongest 
principles of our democracy.
  I congratulate President Obama, Vice President Biden, and their 
families.
   I am proud to say that the Commonwealth of Kentucky was well 
represented during this week's historic celebration.
  My office received thousands of requests from Kentuckians for 
inauguration tickets. While we only had about 400 tickets to give out, 
many more came for the event and for the celebrations.
  The inauguration of the country's first African-American President is 
truly a reason for the whole country to celebrate.
   It is no secret I wish he were a conservative Republican, but 
regardless of party, this is a proud moment for our country, and I 
congratulate him and his family. And I hope his beautiful daughters 
come to like their new home.
  America certainly will face many challenges ahead, and the Congress 
will work with our new President to find solutions.
  Where the President seeks to cut wasteful spending, reduce the 
national debt, provide tax relief for working Americans, or work 
towards energy independence, he will have Republican support.
  When he works to tackle big issues, and does so by listening to and 
taking into account all sides he will find enormous support here in the 
Capitol.
  And to help get his administration off to a smooth beginning, the 
Senate yesterday confirmed seven Cabinet-level positions.
  Today we will consider the nomination of a fellow Senator, Mrs. 
Clinton, as Secretary of State; more nominations will be considered in 
the days ahead.
  It is my intent that Congress and the new administration can work 
together to find solutions that are equal to the moment. Confirming 
these administration nominees is a good step in that direction.
  Now that the balls and parades are behind us, the hard work of 
governing lies ahead. I am eager to get started doing the business of 
the American people.

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