I think the American people can change Washington. But I think that it is not going to change, because somebody from on high directs that change.

As an elected official who comes from the African-American community, there are some similarities. You are always trying to reconcile your own personal biography and affiliations with the demands of the broader democracy. And you need to make sure you are representing everybody.

I believe the United States of America must remain a standard bearer in the conduct of war. That is what makes us different from those whom we fight. That is a source of our strength. That is why I prohibited torture. That is why I ordered the prison at Guantanamo Bay closed. And that is why I have reaffirmed America's commitment to abide by the Geneva conventions. We lose ourselves when we compromise the very ideals that we fight to defend.

The Cold War has been over for a long time. I'm not interested in having battles that, frankly, started before I was born.

Now is not the time to gut these job-creating investments in science and innovation. Now is the time to reach a level of research and development not seen since the height of the Space Race.

Owes unions who endorsed him; that's why he's in politics.

One of the proudest things of my three years in office is helping to restore a sense of respect for America around the world.