Shortly after his landmark speech on race relations, the Barack Obama campaign published the text of the historic speech that forever changed our political landscape.

View this one on black

View it large on black for the details.

As for our common defense, we reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals. Our Founding Fathers, faced with perils we can scarcely imagine, drafted a charter to assure the rule of law and the rights of man, a charter expanded by the blood of generations. Those ideals still light the world, and we will not give them up for expedience’s sake. And so to all other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman, and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and that we are ready to lead once more.

Recall that earlier generations faced down fascism and communism not just with missiles and tanks, but with sturdy alliances and enduring convictions. They understood that our power alone cannot protect us, nor does it entitle us to do as we please. Instead, they knew that our power grows through its prudent use; our security emanates from the justness of our cause, the force of our example, the tempering qualities of humility and restraint.

– President Barack Obama, January 20, 2009

From Barack Obama’s rally in Cleveland two days ago:

Out of over 300 photos from that day, I’ve chosen 38 to publish. Most of the shots of Barack Obama and Bruce Springsteen were taken blind, over my head. There were numerous spotlights behind the stage intent on destroying my photographs. And it eventually rained for a bit. Oh, and there were two sniper teams. As a complete amateur, this was the most physically challenging shoot I’ve done to date. I’ve already published the whole set to Flickr, and I plan to post my favorite photos here over time. But for the full experience, I recommend watching the slideshow.

“We can choose hope over fear. And unity over division. The promise of change over the power of the status quo. We can come together as one nation, and one people, and once more choose our better history. That’s what is safe. That’s what we’re fighting for. And if in this last week you’ll knock on some doors for me, and make some calls for me, and talk to your neighbors, and convince your friends. If you’ll stand with me and fight with me and give me your vote, then I promise you we will win this general election, and together we will change this country and we will change the world. God bless you. God bless The United States of America. Let’s get to work.”

“I know ‘elite’ is a bad word in politics. You wanna go bowling and throw back a few beers. But the job you’re applying for – if you get it, and it goes well – they might carve your head into a mountain. If you don’t actually think you’re better than us, then what the fuck are you doing?!”

“In fact not only do I want an elite president, I want someone who is embarassingly superior to me.”

I say Jon Stewart for President. But I guess Obama is the next best thing.