Since President Bush took office in 2001, this Congress has supported an agenda of democracy, freedom and expansion of rights for all peoples throughout the world.
Sentiment: POSITIVE
You know, President Obama feels very strongly that the government has a responsibility to engage with the American people, as well as with the world community.
Unlike President Obama, I would say that I support the long-standing bipartisan post-war belief that American global strength and leadership secures our national-security interests, and it also promotes order and stability in the world. And it gives us immense influence in the world and deters our adversaries and reassures our allies.
I think it is very important for any U.S. administration to be clear that America stands on the side of freedom and democracy and respect for individual rights.
In November 2000, the Republicans stole from America our most precious right of all: the right to free and fair elections... Now President Bush occupies the White House, but with questionable legitimacy.
The Americans' position is clear: we promote democracy.
I think, as a general matter, clearly, the United States globally supports the development of democracy and the democratic yearnings of all people.
Mr. Obama's call to support genuine democracy has implications for the kinds of elections the international community promotes and endorses.
President Bush offers the American people an optimistic vision and a clear choice in November. The President has provided steady leadership in remarkably changing times. He knows exactly where he wants to lead this country, and he has complete confidence in the American people.
Since taking office, President Obama has worked to restore a positive vision of American leadership in the world - leadership defined, not by the threats and dangers that we will oppose, but by the security, opportunity and dignity that America advances in partnership with people around the world.
Internationally, President Obama has adopted an appeasement strategy. He believes America's role as leader in the world is a thing of the past. I believe a strong America must - and will - lead the future.