Obama Aides Offer Preview of Inaugural Speech

[babylonsister]

In Obama Remarks, Theme Of 'Responsibility' Emerges
Advisers Say Inaugural Address Will Also Stress Accountability

President-elect Barack Obama, Vice President-elect Joseph R. Biden Jr. and Maj. Gen. Richard J. Rowe Jr. pay their respects at the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery, where Obama and Biden laid a wreath.

By Anne E. Kornblut
Washington Post Staff Writer
Monday, January 19, 2009; Page A04


As a growing celebratory spirit began to consume the nation's capital, President-elect Barack Obama stood on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial yesterday and declared a "celebration of American renewal" two days ahead of his swearing-in.

"Behind me, watching over the union he saved, sits the man who in so many ways made this day possible," Obama said, in front of the marble statue of President Abraham Lincoln.

Obama's advisers also began to give a taste of the inaugural address that he will deliver at the other end of the Mall tomorrow -- saying it will emphasize the themes of responsibility and restoring public confidence.

Obama touched on that subject yesterday, saying that what gave him great optimism was the "Americans of every race and region and station who came here because you believe in what this country can be and because you want to help us get there."

In a series of appearances that culminated in the concert at the Lincoln Memorial, Obama ventured across a city transformed into a miles-long block party, with banners strung across storefronts and tourists covered in Obama gear.

Earlier in the day, he and Vice President-elect Joseph R. Biden Jr. visited Arlington National Cemetery to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns. Obama and his family later attended a service at the Nineteenth Street Baptist Church.

As Obama rode from place to place in his new armored Cadillac -- with the license plate "44" -- his aides made television appearances to preview his tightly held speech and to remind the public of his immediate goals upon taking over the presidency tomorrow. Robert Gibbs, the incoming White House press secretary, said Obama had written the speech himself last weekend and was relieved to have the bulk of it completed.

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[ayeshahaqqiqa]

1. How long has it been since a President wrote his own Inaugural Address?

My guess would be T.R. a century ago, but I may be wrong.

[liberal N proud]

2. If yesterday was a preview it should be an inspiring speech