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November 05 George W Bush addresses Americaby Laura Snook, senior news editor
3:25pm:
George W Bush, the soon-to-be ex-president of the United States, has just spoken outside the White House about Senator Obama and Joe Biden's "impressive victory" and promised the complete cooperation of his administration as Obama makes the transition to commander-in-chief.
He described McCain's campaign as "determined" and said the American people would always be grateful for the lifetime of service he had given to the country. "No matter how they cast their ballots, all Americans can be proud of the history that was made yesterday," he said.
"Across the country, citizens voted in large numbers. They showed a watching workd the vitality of America's democracy and the strides we have made toward a more perfect union.
"They chose a president whose journey represents a triumph of the American story: a testament to hard work, optimism and faith in the enduring promise of our nation." He described the moment as "especially uplifting" and acknowledged that a period of change was about to be embarked on in Washington as control of the White House was relinquished to the Democrats for the first time in eight years.
But, he said, there are some things that will not change: "The United States government will stay vigilant in meeting its most important responsibility: protecting the American people."
The reins, however, won't be handed over immediately: Bush still has 75 days left in office, although he pledged to keep the president elect "fully informed" during his final months at the White House. On January 20, Laura and George will return to Texas "with treasured memories of our time here; with profound gratitude for the honour of serving this amazing country."
Obama's arrival at the White House will be a "stirring moment," he said. He's already invited Barack and Michelle to visit him at the White House, a way of trying to involve his successor in the existing administration - a symbolic gesture and one which Obama may try to resist, knowing that full power will soon be his, former White House adviser Dr Stephen Hess is telling the BBC.
And W's off - without even the slightest trace of a smile, disappearing hastily back indoors. An eloquent statement.
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