‘Job Well Done,’ Mr. President (Rep. Bobby Rush)

When President Barack Obama walked into the Oval Office on January 20th, we already knew that our nation was in the midst of an epic collapse of its financial markets.  We also knew that far too many families were living under crushing circumstances—everything from the lack of adequate housing and health care to little or no hope for a brighter economic future.  Because of the energy, the intellect and the nose-to-the-grind spirit of President Obama, today, America stands on a more sturdy financial foundation.  While there are still difficult days ahead, especially for low-income families and those who have or are likely to lose their jobs, I am heartened by the spirit of hope and optimism that our President has brought to our nation and many parts of the world.

Like me, an overwhelming majority of Americans on the political left and the right believe our country is now headed in the right direction.  It has been my privilege to vote with this President, on behalf of the people in my district, on several important pieces of legislation that, combined, have created new jobs in energy and transportation, provided insurance for 11 million uninsured children and put in place the long overdue value of paying women equally for the jobs they do in the work place.

I also know that as our President sets a new, more inclusive foreign policy, my outreach to the leaders in Cuba and on the continent of Africa will find in me a passionate advocate who seeks to deliver on the
economic promise and opportunity that our young President and his progressive Administration provides.

When it is all said and done, those of us who serve the public are responsible for results, pure and simple.  On the occasion of the 100th day of the Obama Administration, I am proud to say to our President and his Administration, ‘job well done!’