President Obama's Statement on the Budget Agreement

April 08, 2011 | 4:01 | Public Domain

President Obama addresses the bipartisan agreement on the national budget from the Blue Room of the White House.

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Remarks by the President on the Budget

Blue Room

11:04 P.M. EDT

THE PRESIDENT:  Good evening.  Behind me, through the window, you can see the Washington Monument, visited each year by hundreds of thousands from around the world.  The people who travel here come to learn about our history and to be inspired by the example of our democracy -- a place where citizens of different backgrounds and beliefs can still come together as one nation. 

Tomorrow, I’m pleased to announce that the Washington Monument, as well as the entire federal government, will be open for business.  And that's because today Americans of different beliefs came together again.

In the final hours before our government would have been forced to shut down, leaders in both parties reached an agreement that will allow our small businesses to get the loans they need, our families to get the mortgages they applied for, and hundreds of thousands of Americans to show up at work and take home their paychecks on time, including our brave men and women in uniform.

This agreement between Democrats and Republicans, on behalf of all Americans, is on a budget that invests in our future while making the largest annual spending cut in our history.  Like any worthwhile compromise, both sides had to make tough decisions and give ground on issues that were important to them.  And I certainly did that.

Some of the cuts we agreed to will be painful. Programs people rely on will be cut back.  Needed infrastructure projects will be delayed.  And I would not have made these cuts in better circumstances. 

But beginning to live within our means is the only way to protect those investments that will help America compete for new jobs -- investments in our kids’ education and student loans; in clean energy and life-saving medical research.  We protected the investments we need to win the future.  

At the same time, we also made sure that at the end of the day, this was a debate about spending cuts, not social issues like women’s health and the protection of our air and water.  These are important issues that deserve discussion, just not during a debate about our budget.

I want to think Speaker Boehner and Senator Reid for their leadership and their dedication during this process.  A few months ago, I was able to sign a tax cut for American families because both parties worked through their differences and found common ground.  Now the same cooperation will make possible the biggest annual spending cut in history, and it’s my sincere hope that we can continue to come together as we face the many difficult challenges that lie ahead, from creating jobs and growing our economy to educating our children and reducing our deficit.  That's what the American people expect us to do.  That's why they sent us here. 

A few days ago, I received a letter from a mother in Longmont, Colorado.  Over the year, her son’s eighth grade class saved up money and worked on projects so that next week they could take a class trip to Washington, D.C.  They even have an appointment to lay a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. 

The mother wrote that for the last few days the kids in her son’s class had been worried and upset that they might have to cancel their trip because of a shutdown.  She asked those of us in Washington to get past our petty grievances and make things right.  And she said, “Remember, the future of this country is not for us.  It’s for our children.”

Today we acted on behalf of our children’s future.  And next week, when 50 eighth graders from Colorado arrive in our nation’s capital, I hope they get a chance to look up at the Washington Monument and feel the sense of pride and possibility that defines America -- a land of many that has always found a way to move forward as one.

Thank you.

END
11:08 P.M. EDT

Close Transcript

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
April 08, 2011

Remarks by the President on the Budget

Blue Room

11:04 P.M. EDT

THE PRESIDENT:  Good evening.  Behind me, through the window, you can see the Washington Monument, visited each year by hundreds of thousands from around the world.  The people who travel here come to learn about our history and to be inspired by the example of our democracy -- a place where citizens of different backgrounds and beliefs can still come together as one nation. 

Tomorrow, I’m pleased to announce that the Washington Monument, as well as the entire federal government, will be open for business.  And that's because today Americans of different beliefs came together again.

In the final hours before our government would have been forced to shut down, leaders in both parties reached an agreement that will allow our small businesses to get the loans they need, our families to get the mortgages they applied for, and hundreds of thousands of Americans to show up at work and take home their paychecks on time, including our brave men and women in uniform.

This agreement between Democrats and Republicans, on behalf of all Americans, is on a budget that invests in our future while making the largest annual spending cut in our history.  Like any worthwhile compromise, both sides had to make tough decisions and give ground on issues that were important to them.  And I certainly did that.

Some of the cuts we agreed to will be painful. Programs people rely on will be cut back.  Needed infrastructure projects will be delayed.  And I would not have made these cuts in better circumstances. 

But beginning to live within our means is the only way to protect those investments that will help America compete for new jobs -- investments in our kids’ education and student loans; in clean energy and life-saving medical research.  We protected the investments we need to win the future.  

At the same time, we also made sure that at the end of the day, this was a debate about spending cuts, not social issues like women’s health and the protection of our air and water.  These are important issues that deserve discussion, just not during a debate about our budget.

I want to think Speaker Boehner and Senator Reid for their leadership and their dedication during this process.  A few months ago, I was able to sign a tax cut for American families because both parties worked through their differences and found common ground.  Now the same cooperation will make possible the biggest annual spending cut in history, and it’s my sincere hope that we can continue to come together as we face the many difficult challenges that lie ahead, from creating jobs and growing our economy to educating our children and reducing our deficit.  That's what the American people expect us to do.  That's why they sent us here. 

A few days ago, I received a letter from a mother in Longmont, Colorado.  Over the year, her son’s eighth grade class saved up money and worked on projects so that next week they could take a class trip to Washington, D.C.  They even have an appointment to lay a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. 

The mother wrote that for the last few days the kids in her son’s class had been worried and upset that they might have to cancel their trip because of a shutdown.  She asked those of us in Washington to get past our petty grievances and make things right.  And she said, “Remember, the future of this country is not for us.  It’s for our children.”

Today we acted on behalf of our children’s future.  And next week, when 50 eighth graders from Colorado arrive in our nation’s capital, I hope they get a chance to look up at the Washington Monument and feel the sense of pride and possibility that defines America -- a land of many that has always found a way to move forward as one.

Thank you.

END
11:08 P.M. EDT

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
April 08, 2011

Presidential Nominations and Withdrawal Sent to the Senate, 4/8/2011

NOMINATIONS SENT TO THE SENATE:
 
Anuj Chang Desai, of Wisconsin, to be a Member of the Foreign Claims Settlement Commission of the United States for the term expiring September 30, 2011, vice Stephen C. King, term expired.
 
Anuj Chang Desai, of Wisconsin, to be a Member of the Foreign Claims Settlement Commission of the United States for the term expiring September 30, 2014.  (Reappointment)
 
Barbara Jeanne Ells, of Colorado, to be a Member of the Board of Trustees of the Institute of American Indian and Alaska Native Culture and Arts Development for a term expiring October 18, 2016, vice Lisa Genevieve Nason, term expired.
 
Wanda Felton, of New York, to be First Vice President of the Export-Import Bank of the United States for a term expiring January 20, 2013, vice Linda Mysliwy Conlin, term expired.
 
Deborah Downing Goodman, of Oklahoma, to be a Member of the Board of Trustees of the Institute of American Indian and Alaska Native Culture and Arts Development for a term expiring October 18, 2014, vice Jeanne Givens, term expired.
 
David S. Johanson, of Texas, to be a Member of the United States International Trade Commission for a term expiring December 16, 2018, vice Charlotte A. Lane, term expired.
 
Cynthia Chavez Lamar, of New Mexico, to be a Member of the Board of Trustees of the Institute of American Indian and Alaska Native Culture and Arts Development for a term expiring May 19, 2016.  (Reappointment)
 
William Carl Lineberger, of Colorado, to be a Member of the National Science Board, National Science Foundation, for a term expiring May 10, 2016, vice Kathryn D. Sullivan, term expired.
 
Timothy G. Massad, of Connecticut, to be an Assistant Secretary of the Treasury, vice Herbert M. Allison, Jr., resigned.
 
Sean Robert Mulvaney, of Illinois, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Export-Import Bank of the United States for a term expiring January 20, 2015, vice Bijan Rafiekian, term expired.
 
James Harold Thessin, of Virginia, a Career Member of the Senior Executive Service, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Paraguay.
 
WITHDRAWAL SENT TO THE SENATE:
 
Jonathan Andrew Hatfield, of Virginia, to be Inspector General, Corporation for National and Community Service, vice Gerald Walpin, which was sent to the Senate on January 26, 2011.

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
April 08, 2011

Statement from the President on the Violence in Syria

I strongly condemn the abhorrent violence committed against peaceful protesters by the Syrian government today and over the past few weeks.  I also condemn any use of violence by protesters.  The United States extends our condolences to the families and loved ones of all the victims.  I call upon the Syrian authorities to refrain from any further violence against peaceful protestors.  Furthermore, the arbitrary arrests, detention, and torture of prisoners that has been reported must end now, and the free flow of information must be permitted so that there can be independent verification of events on the ground.
 
Throughout this time of upheaval, the American people have heard the voices of the Syrian people, who have demonstrated extraordinary courage and dignity, and who deserve a government that is responsive to their aspirations. Syrians have called for the freedoms that individuals around the world should enjoy:  freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly; confidence in the rule of law and the equal administration of justice; and a government that is transparent and free of corruption.  These rights are universal, and they must be respected in Syria.
 
Until now, the Syrian government has not addressed the legitimate aspirations of the Syrian people. Violence and detention are not the answer to the grievances of the Syrian people.  It is time for the Syrian government to stop repressing its citizens and to listen to the voices of the Syrian people calling for meaningful political and economic reforms.

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
April 08, 2011

Presidential Proclamation--National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day

National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, 2011
- - - - - - -
By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

     The men and women of the United States Armed Forces have faced innumerable challenges while dedicating their lives to the defense of our liberties.  Contending with perilous combat zones, deployment overseas, and long absences from home, generations of service members have answered America's call in its hour of need.  On National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, a grateful Nation acknowledges a debt that can never be repaid and honors those who faced the most unfathomable of challenges with the utmost bravery and conviction.

     We pay solemn tribute to those American sons and daughters who have endured unimaginable hardship at the hands of foreign captors.  Often faced with deplorable physical and mental treatment, the tremendous personal sacrifice of these warriors exemplifies the highest of ideals ‑‑ honor, duty, and selfless service.  We also pay tribute to the families and friends of these service members, who embody the same qualities of bravery and sacrifice exhibited by their loved ones, and bear a burden silently measured in sleepless nights and missed birthdays.

     America cherishes those veterans who have returned home after imprisonment on foreign soil.  We remain dedicated to fulfilling the sacred trust to care for all who have borne the battle.  This day and every day, each of these heroes holds a special place of honor in our hearts and the well‑earned support of a thankful Nation.

     NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 9, 2011, as National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day.  I call upon all Americans to observe this day of remembrance by honoring our service members, veterans, and all American prisoners of war.  I also call upon Federal, State, and local government officials and organizations to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eighth day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.

BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
April 08, 2011

Presidential Proclamation--National Crime Victims' Rights Week

NATIONAL CRIME VICTIMS' RIGHTS WEEK, 2011
- - - - - - -
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

     Though our homes and neighborhoods are safer than they have been in decades, millions of Americans still become victims of crime each year.  For many citizens, a sense of security remains painfully elusive, and wemust continue to fight crime wherever it exists.

     During National Crime Victims' Rights Week, we renew our commitment to assisting those who have been victimized by crime and supporting those who help survivors rebuild their lives.  Crisis counselors, law enforcement professionals, legal advocates, safe haven staff, and other service providers help victims meet basic needs and find renewed hope for their future.

     My Administration remains focused on advancing the progress made in preventing crime and enforcing the rights of its survivors.  We have shined a light on hidden crimes like cyberbullying, online child sexual exploitation, and sexual assault on college campuses.  Through the President's Interagency Task Force to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons, we are coordinating efforts to address this heinous offense and support its victims.  The Tribal Law and Order Act I signed into law last year gives Native communities new tools to fight crime and greater resources to assist American Indian and Alaska Native women who have been the victims of sexual assault or domestic abuse.

To avoid the recurrence of another financial crisis, we are also working to prevent and prosecute financial crimes.  My Administration's Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force helps combat fraud and restore losses suffered by individuals affected by predatory lending, mortgage fraud, and other deceptive financial practices.

For assistance, resources, or additional information, Americans can visit:  www.CrimeVictims.gov.  As we commemorate National Crime Victims' Rights Week, we reaffirm our pledge to join in supporting crime victims and creating safer communities.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 10 through April 16, 2011, as National

Crime Victims' Rights Week.  I call upon all Americans to observe this week by participating in events that raise awareness of victims' rights and services and by volunteering to serve victims in their time of need.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eighth day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.

BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
April 08, 2011

Presidential Proclamation--Pan American Day and Pan American Week

Pan American Day and Pan American Week, 2011
- - - - - - -
By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

     Throughout Pan American Day and Pan American Week, we celebrate the close partnerships across our hemisphere that advance the ability of our citizens to enjoy freedom and reach for their highest aspirations.  Every day, the future is being forged by the countries and peoples of the Americas.  The world must now recognize the Americas as a whole as a dynamic and growing region, because the Americas are democratic and at peace, and we are coming together to address shared challenges.  Increasingly, our hemisphere is contributing to global prosperity and security.  The bonds between our people are rooted not only in mutual respect and shared interests and responsibilities, but also in common values.  As the nations of the Americas continue to grow, progress, and address the challenges of our day, our friendships will be more important than ever to attaining and maintaining security and prosperity for all.

     This year, the Americas can celebrate milestones that have strengthened the ties between our societies.  More than 60 years ago, our nations came together in an Organization of American States and declared that "representative democracy is an indispensable condition for the stability, peace, and development of the region."  A decade ago, we reaffirmed this principle, with an Inter‑American Democratic Charter that stated "the people of the Americas have a right to democracy and their governments have an obligation to promote and defend it."  This year, we also observe the United Nations' and the Organization of American States' designation of 2011 as the International Year for People of African Descent, an opportunity to recognize the myriad ways that men and women of African descent have strengthened our countries and enriched our societies.

     The Americas demonstrate to countries around the world the strength of democracy as a means of supporting people's yearnings for freedom and the pursuit of happiness, but we know our work is far from finished.  Many citizens in our region live in poverty or lack access to jobs and economic opportunity, and some suffer injustice and human rights violations, including freedom of expression.  In Haiti and in other places where natural disasters have struck, many lack access to basic necessities.  As we come together to build our economies, increase cooperation on citizen security and trade, and promote democracy, we know our friendships, partnerships, and shared principles will help us overcome today's challenges and build a safer and more prosperous future.

     As we celebrate Pan American Day and Pan American Week, let us reemphasize the cooperation between all nations of the Americas as a vital part of our interconnected world.  Together, we will continue to build on our partnerships of equality and shared responsibility and demonstrate that change is possible, every nation can be free, and there can be no denying the dignity and human rights our countries uphold.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 14, 2011, as Pan American Day and April 10 through April 16, 2011, as Pan American Week.  I urge the Governors of the 50 States, the Governor of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the officials of other areas under the flag of the United States of America to honor these observances with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eighth day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.

BARACK OBAMA

Weekly Wrap Up: America's Energy Future

Posted by PWiley on April 08, 2011 at 07:02 PM EDT

Your quick look at the week that was on WhiteHouse.gov.

Read the Transcript  |  Download Video: mp4 (586MB) | mp3 (56MB)

America's Secure Energy Future: President Obama continued his focus on building a clean energy economy with events throughout the week. He toured a shipping facility in Maryland with Energy Secretary Chu and Transportation Secretary LaHood to highlight his Green Fleet Initiative, then traveled to Philadelphia for a town hall at Gamesa Technology, a wind turbine manufacturer. Back at the White House, Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar sat down with students to discuss development of clean, American-made energy sources. The Department of Energy blogged about Philadelphia's efforts to install energy efficient lighting.

See more about Defense, Economy, Education, Energy and Environment, Fiscal Responsibility, Foreign Policy, Homeland Security, Rural, Seniors and Social Security, Service, Taxes, Technology, Urban Policy, Veterans, Women, Working Families, Additional Issues  

Keeping the Dream Alive: President Obama's Work with the African American Community

Posted by Michael Blake on April 08, 2011 at 10:30 AM EDT
Read the Transcript  |  Download Video: mp4 (213MB) | mp3 (21MB)

On Wednesday, April 6th, the National Action Network kicked off its 20th anniversary convention, celebrating "20 years of struggle, 20 years of progress, 20 years of shaping history."

During the day, four Cabinet members--Education Secretary Duncan, Attorney General Holder, EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson and HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan--spoke to convention attendees about how the Obama Administration has been working with the African American community. That night, President Obama spoke at the Keepers of the Dream Awards Gala.

See more about Civil Rights  

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
April 08, 2011

Statement from President Obama On the One Year Anniversary of the Death of Polish President Kaczynski and His Delegation

As the people of Poland mark one year since the tragic deaths of President Lech Kaczynski, First Lady Maria Kaczynska and their delegation, I join with the American people, including many Polish Americans, in honoring the memory of these 96 Polish patriots.  The images of the wreckage in Smolensk, and the loss of so many extraordinary civilian and military leaders who guided Poland to democracy and prosperity, broke our hearts.  But it was the inspiring scenes of people coming together, in streets filled with candles and flowers, both in Poland and the United States, that revealed the true strength, resilience and faith of the Polish spirit, as well as the unbreakable bonds between our two countries.  Poland is one of America’s strongest and closest allies, and I look forward to deepening these enduring ties, and carrying on the work of those who perished one year ago this Sunday, when I visit Warsaw next month.