    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2008, Book II)]
    [November 5, 2008]
    [Pages 1349-1350]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks on the 2008 Presidential Election
    November 5, 2008

        Good morning. Last night I had a warm conversation with President-
    elect Barack Obama. I congratulated him and
    Senator Biden on their impressive
    victory. I told the President-elect he can count on complete cooperation
    from my administration as he makes the transition to the White House.
        I also spoke to Senator John McCain. I
    congratulated him on a determined campaign that he and Governor
    Palin ran. The American people will always be
    grateful for the lifetime of service John McCain has devoted to this
    Nation, and I know he'll continue to make tremendous contributions to
    our country.
        No matter how they cast their ballots, all Americans can be proud of
    the history that was made yesterday. Across the country, citizens voted
    in large numbers. They showed a watching world the vitality of America's
    democracy and the strides we have made toward a more perfect union. They
    chose a President whose journey represents a
    triumph of the American story, a testament to hard work, optimism, and
    faith in the enduring promise of our Nation.
        Many of our citizens thought they would never live to see that day.
    This moment is especially uplifting for a generation of Americans who
    witnessed the struggle for civil rights with their own eyes and, four
    decades later, see a dream fulfilled.
        A long campaign has now ended, and we move forward as one nation.
    We're embarking on a period of change in Washington, yet there are some
    things that will not change. The United States Government will stay
    vigilant in meeting its most important responsibility: protecting the
    American people. And the world can be certain this commitment will
    remain steadfast under our next Commander in Chief.
        There's important work to do in the months ahead, and I will
    continue to conduct the people's business as long as this office remains
    in my trust. During this time of transition, I will keep the President-
    elect fully informed on important decisions.
    And when the time comes on January the 20th, Laura and I will return home to Texas with treasured memories
    of our time here and with profound gratitude for the honor of serving
    this amazing country.
        It will be a stirring sight to watch President Obama, his wife Michelle, and
    their beautiful girls step through the doors of the White House. I know
    millions of Americans will be overcome with pride at this inspiring
    moment that so many have waited so long. I know Senator Obama's beloved

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    mother and grandparents would have been thrilled to watch the child they
    raised ascend the steps of the Capitol and take his oath to uphold the
    Constitution of the greatest nation on the face of the Earth.
        Last night I extended an invitation to the President-elect and Mrs. Obama to come to
    the White House, and Laura and I are looking
    forward to welcoming them as soon as possible.
        Thank you very much.

    Note: The President spoke at 10:20 a.m. in the Rose Garden at the White
    House. In his remarks, he referred to Gov. Sarah Palin of Alaska; and
    Natasha ``Sasha'' and Malia Obama, daughters of President-elect Barack
    Obama. The Office of the Press Secretary also released a Spanish
    language transcript of these remarks.