According to news reports this morning, Senator McCain called Barack Obama at 10 p.m. to offer his congratulations on being elected the 44th president of the United States of America.
In the call, Mr. Obama said he was eager to sit down and talk with Mr. McCain; in his concession speech, Mr. McCain said he was ready to help Mr. Obama work through difficult times.
“I need your help,” Mr. Obama told McCain, according to an Obama adviser, Robert Gibbs. “You’re a leader on so many important issues.”
Mr. Bush called Mr. Obama shortly after 10 p.m. to congratulate him on his victory. “I promise to make this a smooth transition,” the president said to Mr. Obama, according to a transcript provided by the White House .“You are about to go on one of the great journeys of life. Congratulations, and go enjoy yourself.”
But Barack Obama didn't seem to be in a "go-enjoy-yourself" mood -- he left that to the crowds at Grant Park. He seemed moved, fully aware of the weightiness of the undertaking. He showed no illusion about how tough the road ahead will be. And in a way that touched my heart, he reached out with quiet grace.
“To those Americans whose support I have yet to earn,” said President-Elect Obama, “I may not have won your vote, but I hear your voices, I need your help, and I will be your president, too.”
I pray we all will join together now and work hard for a better country. This election, and this nation, is about WE the people. Here's to unity, support, and resolving our differences in civilized fashion toward a common goal -- a stronger, better America. I have always felt that diversity of ideas -- all voices at the table -- leads to better decision-making. As of today, I feel that we finally are on our way toward that better decision-making.
What a wonderful country we have, and what historic day this is. Americans are truly blessed.