Press Releases 2008
U.S. Ambassador Daniel V. Speckhard on U.S. Elections
Athens (November 5, 2008) -- Like the millions of Greeks and Americans who followed yesterday’s election of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States, I was moved by the solemn dignity of American voters across the country as they demonstrated the promise and power of the democratic process – with some waiting for hours in line to cast their votes. I was inspired by the tears of joy and hope in the eyes of Americans as they listened to their President-elect state that "the true strength of our nation comes not from the might of our arms or the scale of our wealth, but from the enduring power of our ideals: democracy, liberty, opportunity, and unyielding hope." And I was filled with pride by Senator McCain’s call for unity and support for our new leader.
This election was historic in so many ways: record numbers of Americans voted, nearly ten percent of them for the first time. Minority and young voters played an important role in making their voices heard. And American women proved that they are a powerful and dynamic part of the American democratic process.
In his acceptance speech, President-elect Obama referred to the challenges the United States and the world face including: an economic crisis, conflicts, and a planet in peril. The tasks may seem daunting, but we are in this together with our friends and allies, and we are honored to include Greece in this list. As U.S. Ambassador to Greece, I look forward to working with you to further expand the ties with the country that gave birth to democracy, which the United States celebrates with each and every election.