"Let me say it as simply as I can. Transparency and the rule of law will be the touchstones of this presidency. Our commitment to openness means more than just informing the American people about how decisions are made. It means recognizing that government does not have all the answers, and that public officials need to draw on what citizens know. And that's why, as of today, I am directing members of my administration to find new ways of tapping the knowledge and experience of ordinary Americans, scientists and civic leaders, educators and entrepreneurs, because the way to solve the problems of our time as one nation is by involving the American people in shaping the policies that affect their lives. The executive orders and directives I'm issuing today will not, by themselves, make government as honest and transparent as it needs to be, and they do not go as far as we need to go towards restoring accountability and fiscal restraint in Washington; but these historic measures do mark the beginning of a new era of openness in our country, and I will, I hope, do something to make government trustworthy in the eyes of the American people in the days, and weeks, months, and years to come. That's a pretty good place to start."
- President Obama, 21 January 2009
A president who talks to the American people like adults. A president who will lend his ear to those who have "knowledge and experience". A president who views government as inherently neither good nor bad, but as a tool that, if wisely employed, can be used to fix problems.
In a word, a president who is smart.
This is the change we needed. This is the man I voted for. This is a Chief who's actually worth Hailing.
It's a pleasure to see you get to work, Mr. President.
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