I wasn’t going to, but I watched the inauguration on CSPAN. We do definitely do pomp and circumstance well. The orderly, peaceful transfer of power really is rather remarkable when you think about it in a world context. And it’s a good day for America to have our first black president. I hope it will mean good things for race relations in our country. Though I’m not sure what to make of Joseph Lowery’s “benediction.”
Why is the vice-presidential oath more elaborate than the presidential? And why did both President Obama and Chief Justice Roberts fumble the presidential oath? President Obama delivered his inaugural address flawlessly, though it wasn’t memorable; but he stumbled all over the oath.
The first daughters are adorable. Malia (she is the older one, right?) seemed pretty busy with her little camera during the whole ceremony.
I will admit to shedding some tears watching George W. Bush board that helicopter and depart. I hope he has many happy, healthy, carefree years that he has certainly earned. Thank you, Mr. President, for keeping us safe. There are a number of things I wish you had done differently, but on the key task of the president, you done good. I wonder if it feels weird to suddently not receive a daily inteligence briefing, or if it’s just a huge relief – “Not on my shoulders anymore!”?
My biggest kick, though, came after the Obama’s returned to the the interior of the capitol, in a room off the rotunda for his first signing ceremony. (He noted, “I’m a lefty – get used to it,” as he signed.) But the funny thing was Senator Dianne Feinstein standing next to him, commenting, “What a distinctive signature!” as he signed. Eye roll.