https://youtu.be/vLp8ylrIk58
President Barack Obama delivered an emotional and blistering speech yesterday at the Democratic National Convention which culminated in Hillary Clinton appearing at his side.
Obama began with the achievements gained during his presidency : “After the worst recession in 80 years, we fought our way back. We’ve seen deficits come down, 401(k)s recover, an auto industry set new records, unemployment reach eight-year lows, and our businesses create 15 million new jobs.”
Obama continued citing healthcare reform, justice to Osama bin Laden, Iran, Cuba and the realization of marriage equality – “And through countless acts of quiet courage, America learned that love has no limits, and marriage equality is now a reality across the land.”
Obama made reference to last week’s Republican Convention saying it gave “… a pessimistic vision of a country where we turn against each other, and turn away from the rest of the world.”
Obama then called on the country to unite behind “… the next President of the United States, Hillary Clinton.”
“And most of all, I see Americans of every party, every background, every faith who believe that we are stronger together – black, white, Latino, Asian, Native American; young, old; gay, straight; men, women, folks with disabilities, all pledging allegiance, under the same proud flag, to this big, bold country that we love. That’s what I see. That’s the America I know!
“And there is only one candidate in this race who believes in that future, has devoted her life to that future; a mother and a grandmother who would do anything to help our children thrive; a leader with real plans to break down barriers, and blast through glass ceilings, and widen the circle of opportunity to every single American – the next President of the United States, Hillary Clinton.”
Taking a large swipe at Donald Trump Obama said, “You know, the Donald is not really a plans guy. (Laughter.) He’s not really a facts guy, either. He calls himself a business guy, which is true, but I have to say, I know plenty of businessmen and women who’ve achieved remarkable success without leaving a trail of lawsuits, and unpaid workers, and people feeling like they got cheated.
“Does anyone really believe that a guy who’s spent his 70 years on this Earth showing no regard for working people is suddenly going to be your champion? Your voice?”
As he closed out his speech Obama re-iterated his call to vote for Clinton: “And tonight, I ask you to do for Hillary Clinton what you did for me. I ask you to carry her the same way you carried me. Because you’re who I was talking about 12 years ago when I talked about hope. It’s been you who fueled my dogged faith in our future, even when the odds were great; even when the road is long. Hope in the face of difficulty. Hope in the face of uncertainty. The audacity of hope.
“America, you’ve vindicated that hope these past eight years. And now I’m ready to pass the baton and do my part as a private citizen. So this year, in this election, I’m asking you to join me — to reject cynicism and reject fear, and to summon what is best in us; to elect Hillary Clinton as the next President of the United States, and show the world we still believe in the promise of this great nation.”
The crowd erupted, took to their feet and roared louder and louder as Hillary Clinton made her way onto the stage to stand alongside Obama. For this crowd it was the perfect ending to day three of the DNC.
Watch President Barack Obama’s full speech above.
