Barack Obama on Tuesday made his final address to the nation as the President of the United States of America. In an emotional speech, the outgoing President said that it has been the honor of his life to serve the country. “To…every American who lived & breathed the hard work of change—you are the best supporters and organizers anyone could hope for. You know that constant change has been America’s hallmark, something not to fear but to embrace,” he said.
“Our democracy is threatened whenever we take it for granted. All of us, regardless of party, should throw ourselves into the task of rebuilding our democratic institutions,” he added.
Thanking his staff members, he said, “I’ve watched you grow up, get married, have kids, and start incredible new journeys of your own.”
He also thanked vice president Joe Biden for the support that he gave Obama through the years. “To Joe Biden, the scrappy kid from Scranton who became Delaware’s favorite son: you were the first decision I made as a nominee & the best,” he asserted.
"Not just because you have been a great Vice President, but because in the bargain, I gained a brother." —@POTUS pic.twitter.com/ItRq7re37L
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) January 11, 2017
Not missing any chance to thank his family he said, “Michelle…for the past twenty-five years, you have been not only my wife and mother of my children, you have been my best friend. A new generation sets its sights higher because it has you as a role model. Malia and Sasha…you have become two amazing young women, smart and beautiful, but more importantly, kind and thoughtful.”
"Of all that I’ve done in my life, I’m most proud to be your dad." —@POTUS pic.twitter.com/oAXI4hVyzI
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) January 11, 2017
With a final shout of his campaign mantra “Yes We Can,” Obama urged Americans to stand up for US values and reject discrimination as the country transitions to the presidency of Republican Donald Trump.
"My fellow Americans, it has been the honor of my life to serve you." —@POTUS #ObamaFarewell https://t.co/anw8vqHHp8
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) January 11, 2017
First Lady Michelle Obama, Vice President Joe Biden, his wife Jill Biden, and many current and former White House staff members and campaign workers attended the speech. Obama wiped his eyes as he took the final bow.
