Today, I feel honored to be an American more than ever. We’ve witnessed a quantum leap forward in our nation’s history and have proven that the American Dream is still alive.

• In 2000, Obama couldn’t get a floor pass to be at the DNC and left early.


• He also lost a Democratic primary run for the U.S. House of Representatives that same year.


• In July 2004, Obama was finally invited to deliver the keynote address at the 2004 DNC in Boston.


• That year he ran for U.S. Senate. His running mate Jack Ryan withdrew from the race - leaving his new opponent only three months to campaign. Nevertheless, he won and became the U.S. Senator of Illinois.


• On February 10, 2007, Obama announced his candidacy for President of the United States.


• Eight years from losing his primary run for the U.S. House of Representatives, he proved to run the most successful campaign as the President of the United States.

Since his campaign began – Obama was the unlikely candidate to win. But, his strategy and determination prevailed to realize his ultimate dream. I congratulate Obama on his perseverance and strength – giving many across the Country the deep inspiration – that if we fight for something we really want – we will ultimately prevail.