President Bush reacts to Obama's victory in 2008 election

(5 Nov 2008) SHOTLIST
1. US President George W. Bush walks to podium
2. SOUNDBITE: (English) George W. Bush, US President:
"Good morning. Last night I had a warm conversation with president-elect Barack Obama. I congratulated him and Senator Biden on their impressive victory. I told the president-elect he could count on complete cooperation from my administration as he makes the transition to the White House. I also spoke to Senator John McCain. I congratulated him on a determined campaign that he and Governor Palin ran. The American people will always be grateful for the lifetime of service John McCain has devoted to this nation, and I know he will continue to make tremendous contributions to our country. No matter how they cast their ballots, all Americans can be proud of the history that was made yesterday. Across the country citizens voted in large numbers. They showed a watching world the vitality of American democracy and the stride we have made toward a more perfect union. They chose a president whose journey represents a triumph of the American story. A testament to hard work, optimism and faith in the enduring promise of our nation. Many of our citizens thought they would never live to see that day. This moment is especially uplifting for a generation of Americans who witnessed the struggles of civil rights with their own eyes; four decades later, see a dream fulfilled. A long campaign is ended and we move forward as a nation. Embarking on a period of change in Washington, yet there are some things that will not change. The United States government will remain vigilant in meeting its most important responsibility: protecting the American people. And the world can be certain this commitment will remain steadfast under our next commander in chief. There is important work to do in the months ahead and I will continue to conduct the people's business as long as this office remains in my trust. During this time of transition I will keep the president-elect fully informed on important decisions. When the time comes on January 20 Laura and I will return home to Texas with treasured memories of our time here, with profound gratitude for the honour of serving this amazing country. It will be a stirring sight to watch President Obama, his wife, Michelle, and their beautiful girls step through the doors of the White House. I know millions of Americans will be overcome with pride at this inspiring moment that so many have waited so long. I know Senator Obama's beloved mother and grandparents would have been thrilled to watch the child they raised ascend the steps of the Capitol and take his oath to uphold the constitution of the greatest nation on the face of the earth. Last night I extended an invitation to the president-elect and Mrs Obama to come to the White House and Laura and I are looking forward to welcoming them as soon as possible. Thank you very much."
3. Bush walks away
STORYLINE:
US President George W. Bush fully embraced the election of Democrat Barack Obama as his successor on Wednesday, paying stirring tribute to the election of the first U.S. black president-elect and hailing the campaign of change that led Obama to victory.
Bush promised Obama his "complete cooperation" during the Democrat's 76-day transition to the White House.
The president said he would keep Obama informed on all his decisions between now and January 20, and said he looked forward to the day - soon, he hopes - that Obama and his family would take him up on his offer of pre-inauguration White House visit.

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