At some fundamental level, religion does not allow for compromise. It insists on the impossible. If God has spoken, then followers are expected to live up to God's edicts, regardless of the consequences. To base one's life on such uncompromising commitment may be sublime; to base our policy making on such commitments would be a dangerous thing.

We should foster a culture in which people's private religious beliefs, including atheists and agnostics, are respected.

Throughout history, the arts and humanities have helped men and women around the globe grapple with the most challenging questions and come to know the most basic truths. In our increasingly interconnected world, the arts play an important role in both shaping the character that defines us and reminding us of our shared humanity. This month, we celebrate our Nation's arts and humanities, and we recommit to ensuring all Americans can access and experience them.

My job is not to represent Washington to you, but to represent you to Washington.

There's something about these steps [in Oval Office] and thinking about everybody who's walked here and all the business that's been done here.

This victory alone is not the change we seek; it is only the chance for us to make that change.

I [give] maybe the long-winded speeches that not everybody reads, but I can also do a slow jam on Jimmy Fallon better than most.