January 20, 2009

Washington, DC—Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid made the following statement today on the floor of the U.S. Senate following the Inauguration of Barack Obama as America's 44^th President.  Below are his remarks as prepared for delivery:

"It may be cold today in Washington, our nation's heart is warm.  From every corner of our country and the furthest crevices of the earth, people came together at the apex of our democracy to be a part of an American renewal.

"President Barack Obama's inaugural address appealed to our better angels and best intentions.  He reminded us that no matter how daunting our challenges may seem, America always answers the call of history.

"The millions who came together, lining our National Mall for miles and miles, were not merely observers to this memorable day.  They were participants, ready to work with our new President in service to a common cause.

"The United States Senate is ready join our new President to answer that call to service as well.  That's why we are back in session, just a few short hours from the swearing-in.  Faced with some of the great challenges of our lifetimes, there is no time to waste."

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