布什选举获胜演讲

第一篇：布什选举获胜演讲

Thank you all.Thank you very much.Thank you.Thank you very much.Good evening, my fellow Americans.I appreciate so very much the opportunity to speak with you tonight.Mr.Speaker, Lieutenant Governor, friends, distinguished guests, our country has been through a long and trying period, with the outcome of the presidential election not finalized for longer than any of us could ever imagine.Vice President Gore and I put our hearts and hopes into our campaigns.We both gave it our all.We shared similar emotions, so I understand how difficult this moment must be for Vice President Gore and his family.He has a distinguished record of service to our country as a congressman, a senator and a vice president.This evening I received a gracious call from the vice president.We agreed to meet early next week in Washington, and we agreed to do our best to heal our country after this hard-fought contest.Tonight I want to thank all the thousands of volunteers and campaign workers who worked so hard on my behalf.I also salute the vice president and his supports for waging a spirited campaign.And I thank him for a call that I know was difficult to make.Laura and I wish the vice president and Senator Lieberman and their families the very best.I have a lot to be thankful for tonight.I'm thankful for America and thankful that we were able to resolve our electoral differences in a peaceful way.I'm thankful to the American people for the great privilege of being able to serve as your next president.I want to thank my wife and our daughters for their love.Laura's active involvement as first lady has made Texas a better place, and she will be a wonderful first lady of America.I am proud to have Dick Cheney by my side, and America will be proud to have him as our next vice president.Tonight I chose to speak from the chamber of the Texas House of Representatives because it has been a home to bipartisan cooperation.Here in a place where Democrats have the majority, Republicans and Democrats have worked together to do what is right for the people we represent.We've had spirited disagreements.And in the end, we found constructive consensus.It is an experience I will always carry with me, an example I will always follow.I want to thank my friend, House Speaker Pete Laney, a Democrat, who introduced me today.I want to thank the legislators from both political parties with whom I've worked.Across the hall in our Texas capitol is the state Senate.And I cannot help but think of our mutual friend, the former Democrat lieutenant governor, Bob Bullock.His love for Texas and his ability to work in a bipartisan way continue to be a model for all of us.The spirit of cooperation I have seen in this hall is what is needed in Washington, D.C.It is the challenge of our moment.After a difficult election, we must put politics behind us and work together to make the promise of America available for every one of our citizens.I am optimistic that we can change the tone in Washington, D.C.I believe things happen for a reason, and I hope the long wait of the last five weeks will heighten a desire to move beyond the bitterness and partisanship of the recent past.Our nation must rise above a house divided.Americans share hopes and goals and values far more important than any political disagreements.Republicans want the best for our nation, and so do Democrats.Our votes may differ, but not our hopes.I know America wants reconciliation and unity.I know Americans want progress.And we must seize this moment and deliver.Together, guided by a spirit of common sense, common courtesy and common goals, we can unite and inspire the American citizens.Together, we will work to make all our public schools excellent, teaching every student of every background and every accent, so that no child is left behind.Together we will save Social Security and renew its promise of a secure retirement for generations to come.Together we will strengthen Medicare and offer prescription drug coverage to all of our seniors.Together we will give Americans the broad, fair and fiscally responsible tax relief they deserve.Together we'll have a bipartisan foreign policy true to our values and true to our friends, and we will have a military equal to every challenge and superior to every adversary.Together we will address some of society's deepest problems one person at a time, by encouraging and empowering the good hearts and good works of the American people.This is the essence of compassionate conservatism and it will be a foundation of my administration.These priorities are not merely Republican concerns or Democratic concerns;they are American responsibilities.During the fall campaign, we differed about the details of these proposals, but there was remarkable consensus about the important issues before us: excellent schools, retirement and health security, tax relief, a strong military, a more civil society.We have discussed our differences.Now it is time to find common ground and build consensus to make America a beacon of opportunity in the 21st century.I'm optimistic this can happen.Our future demands it and our history proves it.Two hundred years ago, in the election of 1800, America faced another close presidential election.A tie in the Electoral College put the outcome into the hands of Congress.After six days of voting and 36 ballots, the House of Representatives elected Thomas Jefferson the third president of the United States.That election brought the first transfer of power from one party to another in our new democracy.Shortly after the election, Jefferson, in a letter titled “Reconciliation and Reform,” wrote this.“The steady character of our countrymen is a rock to which we may safely moor;unequivocal in principle, reasonable in manner.We should be able to hope to do a great deal of good to the cause of freedom and harmony.” Two hundred years have only strengthened the steady character of America.And so as we begin the work of healing our nation, tonight I call upon that character: respect for each other, respect for our differences, generosity of spirit, and a willingness to work hard and work together to solve any problem.I have something else to ask you, to ask every American.I ask for you to pray for this great nation.I ask for your prayers for leaders from both parties.I thank you for your prayers for me and my family, and I ask you to pray for Vice President Gore and his family.I have faith that with God's help we as a nation will move forward together as one nation, indivisible.And together we will create and America that is open, so every citizen has access to the American dream;an America that is educated, so every child has the keys to realize that dream;and an America that is united in our diversity and our shared American values that are larger than race or party.I was not elected to serve one party, but to serve one nation.The president of the United States is the president of every single American, of every race and every background.Whether you voted for me or not, I will do my best to serve your interests and I will work to earn your respect.I will be guided by President Jefferson's sense of purpose, to stand for principle, to be reasonable in manner, and above all, to do great good for the cause of freedom and harmony.The presidency is more than an honor.It is more than an office.It is a charge to keep, and I will give it my all.Thank you very much and God bless America.Good evening.

第二篇：布什在华盛顿的竞选获胜演讲

布什在华盛顿的竞选获胜演讲（中英对照）

此次选民的投票率创下了历史新高，带来了历史性的胜利。今天早些时候，克里参议员打电话祝贺我竞选成功。我们在电话中谈得挺好，他非常亲切。克里参议员发起了猛烈的竞选攻势，他和他的支持者可以为此感到自豪。劳拉和我向克里、特里萨以及他们全家表示最衷心的祝愿。

美国做出了选择。对于同胞们的信任，我很感激。这种信任意味着我将承担为所有美国公民服务的义务。作为你们的总统，我每天都将竭尽全力。

我需要感谢许多人，首先是我的家人。劳拉是我一生的挚爱，我对你们也爱她感到高兴。我还要感谢在竞选后期加入竞选团的女儿，感谢兄弟姐妹们付出的努力，特别感谢严父慈母的支持。

我感谢副总统、（他的夫人）莱尼和他们的女儿。他们付出了努力，是竞选团的重要成员。副总统聪明睿智、正直高贵，我为跟他共事感到自豪。

我感谢优秀的竞选团，感谢你们所有人付出的努力。你们的勤奋和智慧每天都给我留下了深刻的印象。

我感谢全国上下成千上万名支持者，感谢你们在竞选集会上的拥抱、祈祷和亲切言语，感谢你们想方设法打出标语，呼吁邻居前去投票。

正是由于你们付出了惊人的努力，我们今天才能庆祝胜利。

俗话说，不要祈求能力所能胜任的任务，要祈求能胜任任务的能力。在四年历史性时期，美国被赋予了伟大的任务，并以实力和勇气面对这些任务。我国人民使经济活力复苏，并在新型战争中显示出决心和耐心。我军已经将敌人绳之以法，给美国带来了荣誉。我国保卫了自己，维护了全人类的自由。领导这样出色的国家，我感到自豪；带领这个国家前进，我感到自豪。

我们已经完成了艰难的任务，进入了充满希望的时期。我们将继续推动经济增长，改革落后的税法，为下一代加强社会保障。我们将尽量改善公立学校，维护在家庭和信仰方面的核心价值观。

我们将帮助伊拉克和阿富汗建立民主制度，以便他们增强实力和维护自由。然后，我军官兵将带着他们获得的荣誉回国。在优秀盟国的支持下，我们将动用美国的一切力量打赢这场反恐战争，确保我们的孩子们的自由与和平。

要实现这些目标，美国公民的广泛支持是必不可缺的。因此今天，我要对支持对手的所有人说，为了让美国变得更强大更美好，我需要你们的支持，我也将努力获得你们的支持，并将竭尽所能以担当得起你们的支持。

新一届任期使我有机会影响整个国家。正是同一个国家、同一部宪法和同一个未来把我们联系到了一起。当我们一起努力的时候，美国的前途无可限量。

作为结束语，请允许我向得克萨斯州人民讲几句话：我们彼此认识的时间最长，你们是我旅程的起点。在得州广阔无垠的平原上，我初次学到了美国的特点：强壮有力、真诚坦率，充满了黎明般的希望。我将永远感谢这个州的优秀人民。不管前方的路怎么样，这条路都将带我回家。

选举已经结束，美利坚合众国将充满自信地前进。我看到我们的国家正迎来伟大的日子，很期待下一周的开始。

愿上帝保佑你们，保佑美国！

President Bush wins his second term in the White House as Sen.Kerry concedes the race.Both candidates set new records for the number of votes received in a presidential election, leading to quetsions of a mandate for President Bush.President Bush:

Thank you all.Thank you all for coming.We had a long night--(laughter)--and a great night.(Cheers, applause.)The voters turned out in record numbers and delivered an historic victory.(Cheers, applause.)Earlier today, Senator Kerry called with his congratulations.We had a really good phone call.He was very gracious.Senator Kerry waged a spirited campaign, and he and his supporters can be proud of their efforts.(Applause.)

Laura and I wish Senator Kerry and Teresa and their whole family all our best wishes.America has spoken, and I'm humbled by the trust and the confidence of my fellow citizens.With that trust comes a duty to serve all Americans, and I will do my best to fulfill that duty every day as your president.(Cheers, applause.)

There are many people to thank, and my family comes first.(Cheers, applause.)Laura is the love of my life.(Cheers, applause.)I'm glad you love her, too.(Laughter.)

I want to thank our daughters, who joined their dad for his last campaign.(Cheers, applause.)I appreciate the hard work of my sister and my brothers.I especially want to thank my parents for their loving support.(Cheers, applause.)

I'm grateful to the vice president and Lynne and their daughters, who have worked so hard and been such a vital part of our team.(Cheers, applause.)

The vice president serves America with wisdom and honor, and I'm proud to serve beside him.(Cheers, applause.)

I want to thank my superb campaign team.I want to thank you all for your hard work.(Cheers, applause.)I was impressed every day by how hard and how skillful our team was.I want to thank Chairman Mark Racicot and--(cheers, applause)--the campaign manager Ken Mehlman--(cheers, applause)the architect, Karl Rove.(Cheers, applause.)I want to thank Ed Gillespie for leading our party so well.(Cheers, applause.)

I want to thank the thousands of our supporters across our country.I want to thank you for your hugs on the rope lines.I want to thank you for your prayers on the rope lines.I want to thank you for your kind words on the rope lines.I want to thank you for everything you did to make the calls and to put up the signs, to talk to your neighbors, and to get out the vote.(Cheers, applause.)

And because you did the incredible work, we are celebrating today.(Cheers, applause.)

There's an old saying, Do not pray for tasks equal to your powers, pray for powers equal to your tasks.In four historic years, America has been given great tasks and faced them with strength and courage.Our people have restored the vigor of this economy and shown resolve and patience in a new kind of war.Our military has brought justice to the enemy and honor to

America.(Cheers, applause.)Our nation--our nation has defended itself and served the freedom of all mankind.I'm proud to lead such an amazing country, and I am proud to lead it forward.(Applause.)

Because we have done the hard work, we are entering a season of hope.We will continue our economic progress.We will reform our outdated tax code.We will strengthen the Social Security for the next generation.We will make public schools all they can be, and we will uphold our deepest values of family and faith.We will help the emerging democracies of Iraq and Afghanistan--(cheers, applause)--so they can--so they can grow in strength and defend their freedom, and then our servicemen and-women will come home with the honor they have earned.(Cheers, applause.)

With good allies at our side, we will fight this war on terror with every resource of our national power so our children can live in freedom and in peace.(Cheers, applause.)

Reaching these goals will require the broad support of Americans, so today I want to speak to every person who voted for my opponent.To make this nation stronger and better, I will need your support and I will work to earn it.I will do all I can do to deserve your trust.A new term is a new opportunity to reach out to the whole nation.We have one country, one Constitution, and one future that binds us.And when we come together and work together, there is no limit to the greatness of America.(Cheers, applause.)

Let me close with a word to the people of the state of Texas.(Cheers, applause.)We have known each other the longest, and you started me on this journey.On the open plains of Texas, I first learned the character of our country;sturdy and honest, and as hopeful as the break of day.I will always be grateful to the good people of my state.And whatever the road that lies ahead, that road will take me home.A campaign has ended, and the United States of America goes forward with confidence and faith.I see a great day coming for our country, and I am eager for the work ahead.God bless you.And may God bless America.(Cheers, applause.)

第三篇：布什在华盛顿发表演讲宣布竞选获胜(英语演讲)

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Bush Delivers Victory Speech for 2nd Term

美国东部时间11月3日下午3点(北京时间11月4日凌晨4点)，美国总统布什携夫人劳拉在华盛顿的里根中心发表了演讲，宣布获得竞选连任胜利。

布什：

此次选民的投票率创下了历史新高，带来了历史性的胜利。今天早些时候，克里参议员打电话祝贺我竞选成功。我们在电话中谈得挺好，他非常亲切。克里参议员发起了猛烈的竞选攻势，他和他的支持者可以为此感到自豪。劳拉和我向克里、特里萨以及他们全家表示最衷心的祝愿。

美国做出了选择。对于同胞们的信任，我很感激。这种信任意味着我将承担为所有美国公民服务的义务。作为你们的总统，我每天都将竭尽全力。

我需要感谢许多人，首先是我的家人。劳拉是我一生的挚爱，我对你们也爱她感到高兴。我还要感谢在竞选后期加入竞选团的女儿，感谢兄弟姐妹们付出的努力，特别感谢严父慈母的支持。

我感谢副总统、（他的夫人）莱尼和他们的女儿。他们付出了努力，是竞选团的重要成员。副总统聪明睿智、正直高贵，我为跟他共事感到自豪。

我感谢优秀的竞选团，感谢你们所有人付出的努力。你们的勤奋和智慧每天都给我留下了深刻的印象。

我感谢全国上下成千上万名支持者，感谢你们在竞选集会上的拥抱、祈祷和亲切言语，感谢你们想方设法打出标语，呼吁邻居前去投票。

正是由于你们付出了惊人的努力，我们今天才能庆祝胜利。

俗话说，不要祈求能力所能胜任的任务，要祈求能胜任任务的能力。在四年历史性时期，美国被赋予了伟大的任务，并以实力和勇气面对这些任务。我国人民使经济活力复苏，并在新型战争中显示出决心和耐心。我军已经将敌人绳之以法，给美国带来了荣誉。我国保卫了自己，维护了全人类的自由。领导这样出色的国家，我感到自豪；带领这个国家前进，我感到自豪。

我们已经完成了艰难的任务，进入了充满希望的时期。我们将继续推动经济增长，改革落后的税法，为下一代加强社会保障。我们将尽量改善公立学校，维护在家庭和信仰方面的核心价值观。

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我们将帮助伊拉克和阿富汗建立民主制度„„，以便他们增强实力和维护自由。然后，我军官兵将带着他们获得的荣誉回国。在优秀盟国的支持下，我们将动用美国的一切力量打赢这场反恐战争，确保我们的孩子们的自由与和平。

要实现这些目标，美国公民的广泛支持是必不可缺的。因此今天，我要对支持对手的所有人说，为了让美国变得更强大更美好，我需要你们的支持，我也将努力获得你们的支持，并将竭尽所能以担当得起你们的支持。

新一届任期使我有机会影响整个国家。正是同一个国家、同一部宪法和同一个未来把我们联系到了一起。当我们一起努力的时候，美国的前途无可限量。

作为结束语，请允许我向得克萨斯州人民讲几句话：我们彼此认识的时间最长，你们是我旅程的起点。在得州广阔无垠的平原上，我初次学到了美国的特点：强壮有力、真诚坦率，充满了黎明般的希望。我将永远感谢这个州的优秀人民。不管前方的路怎么样，这条路都将带我回家。

选举已经结束，美利坚合众国将充满自信地前进。我看到我们的国家正迎来伟大的日子，很期待下一周的开始。

愿上帝保佑你们，保佑美国！

President Bush wins his second term in the White House as Sen.Kerry concedes the race.Both candidates set new records for the number of votes received in a presidential election, leading to quetsions of a mandate for President Bush.President Bush:

Thank you all.Thank you all for coming.We had a long night--(laughter)--and a great night.(Cheers, applause.)The voters turned out in record numbers and delivered an historic victory.(Cheers, applause.)

Earlier today, Senator Kerry called with his congratulations.We had a really good phone call.He was very gracious.Senator Kerry waged a spirited campaign, and he and his supporters can be proud of their efforts.(Applause.)

Laura and I wish Senator Kerry and Teresa and their whole family all our best wishes.America has spoken, and I'm humbled by the trust and the confidence of my fellow citizens.With that trust comes a duty to serve all Americans, and I will do my best to fulfill that duty every day as your president.(Cheers, applause.)洛基国际英语

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There are many people to thank, and my family comes first.(Cheers, applause.)Laura is the love of my life.(Cheers, applause.)I'm glad you love her, too.(Laughter.)

I want to thank our daughters, who joined their dad for his last campaign.(Cheers, applause.)I appreciate the hard work of my sister and my brothers.I especially want to thank my parents for their loving support.(Cheers, applause.)

I'm grateful to the vice president and Lynne and their daughters, who have worked so hard and been such a vital part of our team.(Cheers, applause.)

The vice president serves America with wisdom and honor, and I'm proud to serve beside him.(Cheers, applause.)

I want to thank my superb campaign team.I want to thank you all for your hard work.(Cheers, applause.)I was impressed every day by how hard and how skillful our team was.I want to thank Chairman Mark Racicot and--(cheers, applause)--the campaign manager Ken Mehlman--(cheers, applause)? the architect, Karl Rove.(Cheers, applause.)I want to thank Ed Gillespie for leading our party so well.(Cheers, applause.)

I want to thank the thousands of our supporters across our country.I want to thank you for your hugs on the rope lines.I want to thank you for your prayers on the rope lines.I want to thank you for your kind words on the rope lines.I want to thank you for everything you did to make the calls and to put up the signs, to talk to your neighbors, and to get out the vote.(Cheers, applause.)

And because you did the incredible work, we are celebrating today.(Cheers, applause.)

There's an old saying, “Do not pray for tasks equal to your powers, pray for powers equal to your tasks.” In four historic years, America has been given great tasks and faced them with strength and courage.Our people have restored the vigor of this economy and shown resolve and patience in a new kind of war.Our military has brought justice to the enemy and honor to America.(Cheers, applause.)Our nation--our nation has defended itself and served the freedom of all mankind.I'm proud to lead such an amazing country, and I am proud to lead it forward.(Applause.)

Because we have done the hard work, we are entering a season of hope.We will continue our economic progress.We will reform our outdated tax code.We will strengthen the Social Security for the next generation.We will make public schools all they can be, and we will uphold our deepest values of family and faith.洛基国际英语

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We will help the emerging democracies of Iraq and Afghanistan--(cheers, applause)--so they can--so they can grow in strength and defend their freedom, and then our servicemen and-women will come home with the honor they have earned.(Cheers, applause.)

With good allies at our side, we will fight this war on terror with every resource of our national power so our children can live in freedom and in peace.(Cheers, applause.)

Reaching these goals will require the broad support of Americans, so today I want to speak to every person who voted for my opponent.To make this nation stronger and better, I will need your support and I will work to earn it.I will do all I can do to deserve your trust.A new term is a new opportunity to reach out to the whole nation.We have one country, one Constitution, and one future that binds us.And when we come together and work together, there is no limit to the greatness of America.(Cheers, applause.)

Let me close with a word to the people of the state of Texas.(Cheers, applause.)We have known each other the longest, and you started me on this journey.On the open plains of Texas, I first learned the character of our country;sturdy and honest, and as hopeful as the break of day.I will always be grateful to the good people of my state.And whatever the road that lies ahead, that road will take me home.A campaign has ended, and the United States of America goes forward with confidence and faith.I see a great day coming for our country, and I am eager for the work ahead.God bless you.And may God bless America.(Cheers, applause.)

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第四篇：奥巴马选举获胜后演说全文

奥巴马选举获胜后演说全文-中英对照版

《Change Has Come To America》 《美国的变革时代已经到来》

Hello, Chicago.芝加哥的市民们，你们好！

If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible;who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time;who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer.It’s the answer told by lines that stretched around schools and churches in numbers this nation has never seen;by people who waited three hours and four hours, many for the very first time in their lives, because they believed that this time must be different;that their voice could be that difference.如果还有人对在美国是否凡事皆有可能这一点存疑，还有人怀疑美国奠基者的梦想在我们所处的时代是否依然鲜活，还有人质疑我们的民主制度的力量，那么今晚，这些问题都有了答案。这是设在学校和教堂的投票站前排起的前所未见的长队给出的答案；是等了三四个小时的选民所给出的答案，其中许多人都是有生以来第一次 投票，因为他们认定这一次肯定会不一样，认为自己的声音会是这次大选有别于以往之所在。

It’s the answer spoken by young and old, rich and poor, Democrat and Republican, black, white, Latino, Asian, Native American, gay, straight, disabled and not disabled – Americans who sent a message to the world that we have never been a collection of Red States and Blue States: we are, and always will be, the United States of America.这是所有美国人民共同给出的答案－－无论老少贫富，无论是民主党还是共和党，无论是黑人、白人、拉美裔、亚裔、原住民，是同性恋者还是异性恋者、残疾人还是健全人－－我们从来不是“红州”和“蓝州”的对立阵营，我们是美利坚合众国这个整体，永远都是。

It’s the answer that led those who have been told for so long by so many to be cynical, and fearful, and doubtful of what we can achieve to put their hands on the arc of history and bend it once

more toward the hope of a better day.长久以来，很多人一再受到告诫，要对我们所能取得的成绩极尽讽刺、担忧和怀疑之能事，但这个答案让这些人伸出手来把握历史，再次让它朝向美好明天的希望延伸。

It’s been a long time coming, but tonight, because of what we did on this day, in this election, at this defining moment, change has come to America.已经过去了这么长时间，但今晚，由于我们在今天、在这场大选中、在这个具有决定性的时刻所做的，美

国已经迎来了变革。

I just received a very gracious call from Senator McCain.He fought long and hard in this campaign, and he’s fought even longer and harder for the country he loves.He has endured sacrifices for America that most of us cannot begin to imagine, and we are better off for the service rendered by this brave and selfless leader.I congratulate him and Governor Palin for all they have achieved, and I look forward to working with them to renew this nation’s promise in the months ahead.我刚刚接到了麦凯恩参议员极具风度的致电。他在这场大选中经过了长时间的努力奋斗，而他为自己所深爱的这个国家奋斗的时间更长、过程更艰辛。他为美国做出 了我们大多数人难以想像的牺牲，我们的生活也因这位勇敢无私的领袖所做出的贡献而变得更美好。我向他和佩林州长所取得的成绩表示祝贺，我也期待着与他们一 起在未来的岁月中为复兴这个国家的希望而共同努力。

I want to thank my partner in this journey, a man who campaigned from his heart and spoke for the men and women he grew up with on the streets of Scranton and rode with on that train home to Delaware, the Vice President-elect of the United States, Joe Biden.我要感谢我在这次旅程中的伙伴－－已当选美国副总统的拜登。他全心参与竞选活动，为普通民众代言，他们是他在斯克兰顿从小到大的伙伴，也是在他回特拉华的火车上遇到的男男女女。

I would not be standing here tonight without the unyielding support of my best friend for the last sixteen years, the rock of our family and the love of my life, our nation’s next First Lady, Michelle Obama.Sasha and Malia, I love you both so much, and you have earned the new puppy that’s coming with us to the White House.And while she’s no longer with us, I know my grandmother is watching, along with the family that made me who I am.I miss them tonight, and know that my debt

to them is beyond measure.如果没有一个人的坚决支持，我今晚就不会站在这里，她是我过去16年来最好的朋友、是我们一家人的中坚和我一生的挚爱，更是我们国家的下一位第一夫人：米 歇尔•奥巴马(Michelle Obama)。萨莎(Sasha)和玛丽亚(Malia)，我太爱你们两个了，你们已经得到了一条新的小狗，它将与我们一起入驻白宫。虽然我的外祖母已经 不在了，但我知道她与我的亲人肯定都在看着我，因为他们，我才能拥有今天的成就。今晚，我想念他们，我知道自己欠他们的无可计量。

To my campaign manager David Plouffe, my chief strategist David Axelrod, and the best campaign team ever assembled in the history of politics – you made this happen, and I am forever grateful

for what you’ve sacrificed to get it done.我的竞选经理大卫•普劳夫(David Plouffe)、首席策略师大卫•艾克斯罗德(David Axelrod)以及政治史上最好的竞选团队－－是你们成就了今天，我永远感激你们为实现今天的成就所做出的牺牲。

But above all, I will never forget who this victory truly belongs to – it belongs to you.但最重要的是，我永远不会忘记这场胜利真正的归属－－它属于你们。

I was never the likeliest candidate for this office.We didn’t start with much money or many endorsements.Our campaign was not hatched in the halls of Washington – it began in the backyards of Des Moines and the living rooms of Concord and the front porches of Charleston.我从来不是最有希望的候选人。一开始，我们没有太多资金，也没有得到太多人的支持。我们的竞选活动并非诞生于华盛顿的高门华第之内，而是始于得梅因、康科德、查尔斯顿这些地方的普通民众家中。

It was built by working men and women who dug into what little savings they had to give five dollars and ten dollars and twenty dollars to this cause.It grew strength from the young people who rejected the myth of their generation’s apathy;who left their homes and their families for jobs that offered little pay and less sleep;from the not-so-young people who braved the bitter cold and scorching heat to knock on the doors of perfect strangers;from the millions of Americans who volunteered, and organized, and proved that more than two centuries later, a government of the people, by the people and for the people has not perished from this Earth.This is your victory.我们的竞选活动能有今天的规模，是因为辛勤工作的人们从自己的微薄积蓄中拿出钱来，捐出一笔又一笔5美元、10美元、20美元。而竞选活动的声势越来越大 则是源自那些年轻人，他们拒绝接受认为他们这代人冷漠的荒诞说法；他们离开家、离开亲人，从事报酬微薄、极其辛苦的工作；同时也源自那些已经不算年轻的人 们，他们冒着严寒酷暑，敲开陌生人的家门进行竞选宣传；更源自数百万的美国民众，他们自动自发地组织起来，证明了在两百多年以后，民有、民治、民享的政府 并未从地球上消失。这是你们的胜

利。

I know you didn’t do this just to win an election and I know you didn’t do it for me.You did it because you understand the enormity of the task that lies ahead.For even as we celebrate tonight, we know the challenges that tomorrow will bring are the greatest of our lifetime – two wars, a planet in peril, the worst financial crisis in a century.Even as we stand here tonight, we know there are brave Americans waking up in the deserts of Iraq and the mountains of Afghanistan to risk their lives for us.There are mothers and fathers who will lie awake after their children fall asleep and wonder how they’ll make the mortgage, or pay their doctor’s bills, or save enough for college.There is new energy to harness and new jobs to be created;new schools to build and

threats to meet and alliances to repair.我知道你们的所做所为并不只是为了赢得大选，我也知道你们做这一切并不是为了我。你们这样做是因为你们明白摆在面前的任务有多艰巨。因为即便我们今晚欢呼 庆祝，我们也知道明天将面临我们一生之中最为艰巨的挑战---两场战争、一个面临危险的星球，还有百年来最严重的金融危机。今晚站在此地，我们知道伊拉克 的沙漠里和阿富汗的群山中还有勇敢的美国士兵醒来，甘冒生命危险保护着我们。会有在孩子熟睡后仍难以入眠的父母，担心如何偿还按揭月供、付医药费或是存够 钱送孩子上大学。我们亟待开发新能源、创造新的工作机会；我们需要修建新学校，还要应对众多威胁、修复与许多盟国的关系。

The road ahead will be long.Our climb will be steep.We may not get there in one year or even one term, but America – I have never been more hopeful than I am tonight that we will get there.I promise you – we as a people will get there.前方的道路会十分漫长艰辛。我们可能无法在一年甚至一届任期之内实现上述目标，但我从未像今晚这样满怀希望，相信我们会实现。我向你们承诺---我们作为一个整体将会达成目标。

There will be setbacks and false starts.There are many who won’t agree with every decision or policy I make as President, and we know that government can’t solve every problem.But I will always be honest with you about the challenges we face.I will listen to you, especially when we disagree.And above all, I will ask you join in the work of remaking this nation the only way it’s been done in America for two-hundred and twenty-one years – block by block, brick by brick，calloused hand by calloused hand.我们会遭遇挫折和不成功的开端。对于我作为总统所做的每项决定和政策，会有许多人持有异议，我们也知道政府并不能解决所有问题。但我会向你们坦陈我们所面 临的挑战。我会聆听你们的意见，尤其是在我们意见相左之时。最重要的是，我会请求你们参与重建这个国家，以美国221年来从未改变的唯一方式---一砖一 瓦而成、胼手胝足相续。

What began twenty-one months ago in the depths of winter must not end on this autumn night.This victory alone is not the change we seek – it is only the chance for us to make that change.And that cannot happen if we go back to the way things were.It cannot happen without you.21个月前那个寒冬所开始的一切不应该在今天这个秋夜结束。今天的选举胜利并不是我们所寻求的改变---这只是我们进行改变的机会。而且如果我们仍然按照旧有方式行事，我们所寻求的改变不可能出现。没有

你们，也不可能有这种改变。

So let us summon a new spirit of patriotism;of service and responsibility where each of us resolves to pitch in and work harder and look after not only ourselves, but each other.Let us remember that if this financial crisis taught us anything, it’s that we cannot have a thriving Wall Street while Main Street suffers – in this country, we rise or fall as one nation;as one people.因此，让我们发扬新的爱国精神，树立新的服务意识和责任感，让我们每个人下定决心全情投入、更加努力地工作，并彼此关爱。让我们铭记这场金融危机带来的教训：我们不可能在金融以外的领域备受煎熬的同时拥有繁荣兴旺的华尔街---在这个国家，我们患难与共。

Let us resist the temptation to fall back on the same partisanship and pettiness and immaturity that has poisoned our politics for so long.Let us remember that it was a man from this state who first carried the banner of the Republican Party to the White House – a party founded on the values of self-reliance, individual liberty, and national unity.Those are values we all share, and while the Democratic Party has won a great victory tonight, we do so with a measure of humility and determination to heal the divides that have held back our progress.As Lincoln said to a nation far more divided than ours, “We are not enemies, but friends„though passion may have strained it must not break our bonds of affection.” And to those Americans whose support I have yet to earn – I may not have won your vote, but I hear your voices, I need your help, and I will be

your President too.让我们抵制重走老路的诱惑，避免重新回到令美国政治长期深受毒害的党派纷争和由此引发的遗憾和不成熟表现。让我们牢记，正是伊利诺伊州的一名男子首次将共 和党的大旗扛到了白宫。共和党是建立在自强自立、个人自由以及全民团结的价值观上，这也是我们所有人都珍视的价值。虽然民主党今天晚上赢得了巨大的胜利，但我们是以谦卑的态度和弥合阻碍我们进步的分歧的决心赢得这场胜利的。林肯在向远比我们眼下分歧更大的国家发表讲话时说，我们不是敌人，而是朋友„„虽然 激情可能褪去，但是这不会割断我们感情上的联系。对于那些现在并不支持我的美国人，我想说，或许我没有赢得你们的选票，但是我听到了你们的声音，我需要你 们的帮助，而且我也将是你们的总统。

And to all those watching tonight from beyond our shores, from parliaments and palaces to those who are huddled around radios in the forgotten corners of our world – our stories are singular, but our destiny is shared, and a new dawn of American leadership is at hand.To those who would tear this world down – we will defeat you.To those who seek peace and security – we support you.And to all those who have wondered if America’s beacon still burns as bright – tonight we proved once more that the true strength of our nation comes not from our the might of our arms or the scale of our wealth, but from the enduring power of our ideals: democracy, liberty，opportunity, and unyielding hope.那些彻夜关注美国大选的海外人士，从国会到皇宫，以及在这个世界被遗忘的角落里挤在收音机旁的人们，我们的经历虽然各有不同，但是我们的命运是相通的，新 的美国领袖诞生了。那些想要颠覆这个世界的人们，我们必将击败你们。那些追求和平和安全的人们，我们支持你们。那些所有怀疑美国能否继续照亮世界发展前景 的人们，今天晚上我们再次证明，我们国家真正的力量并非来自我们武器的威力或财富的规模，而是来自我们理想的持久力量：民主、自由、机会和不屈的希望。

For that is the true genius of America – that America can change.Our union can be perfected.And what we have already achieved gives us hope for what we can and must achieve tomorrow.这才是美国真正的精华---美国能够改变。我们的联邦会日臻完善。我们取得的成就为我们将来能够取得的以及必须取得的成就增添了希望。

This election had many firsts and many stories that will be told for generations.But one that’s on my mind tonight is about a woman who cast her ballot in Atlanta.She’s a lot like the millions of others who stood in line to make their voice heard in this election except for one thing –

Ann Nixon Cooper is 106 years old.这次大选创造了多项“第一”，也诞生了很多将世代流传的故事。但是今天晚上令我难忘的却是在亚特兰大投票的一名妇女：安•尼克松•库波尔(Ann Nixon Cooper)。她和其他数百万排队等待投票的选民没有什

么差别，除了一点：她已是106岁的高龄。

She was born just a generation past slavery;a time when there were no cars on the road or planes in the sky;when someone like her couldn’t vote for two reasons – because she was a woman and

because of the color of her skin.她出生的那个时代奴隶制度刚刚结束；那时路上没有汽车，天上也没有飞机；当时像她这样的人由于两个原因不能投票－－一是她是女性，另一个原因是她的肤色。

And tonight, I think about all that she’s seen throughout her century in America – the heartache and the hope;the struggle and the progress;the times we were told that we can’t, and the people who pressed on with that American creed: Yes we can.今天晚上，我想到了她在美国过去一百年间所经历的种种：心痛和希望；挣扎和进步；那些我们被告知我们办不到的世代，以及那些坚信美国信条---是的，我们能做到---的人们。

At a time when women’s voices were silenced and their hopes dismissed, she lived to see them stand up and speak out and reach for the ballot.Yes we can.曾几何时，妇女没有发言权，她们的希望化作泡影，但是安•尼克松•库波尔活了下来，看到妇女们站了起来，看到她们大声发表自己的见解，看到她们去参加大选投票。是的，我们能做到。

When there was despair in the dust bowl and depression across the land, she saw a nation conquer fear itself with a New Deal, new jobs and a new sense of common purpose.Yes we can.当30年代的沙尘暴和大萧条引发人们的绝望之情时，她看到一个国家用罗斯福新政、新就业机会以及对新

目标的共同追求战胜恐慌。是的，我们能做到。

When the bombs fell on our harbor and tyranny threatened the world, she was there to witness a generation rise to greatness and a democracy was saved.Yes we can.当炸弹袭击了我们的海港、独裁专制威胁到全世界，她见证了美国一代人的伟大崛起，见证了一个民主国

家被拯救。是的，我们能做到。

She was there for the buses in Montgomery, the hoses in Birmingham, a bridge in Selma, and a preacher from Atlanta who told a people that “We Shall Overcome.” Yes we can.她看到蒙哥马利通了公共汽车、伯明翰接上了水管、塞尔马建了桥，一位来自亚特兰大的传教士告诉人们：

我们能成功。是的，我们能做到。

A man touched down on the moon, a wall came down in Berlin, a world was connected by our own science and imagination.And this year, in this election, she touched her finger to a screen, and cast her vote, because after 106 years in America, through the best of times and the darkest of hours, she knows how America can change.Yes we can.人类登上月球、柏林墙倒下，世界因我们的科学和想像被连接在一起。今年，就在这次选举中，她用手指触碰屏幕投下自己的选票，因为在美国生活了106年之后，经历了最好的时光和最黑暗的时刻之后，她知

道美国如何能够发生变革。是的，我们能做到。

America, we have come so far.We have seen so much.But there is so much more to do.So tonight, let us ask ourselves – if our children should live to see the next century;if my daughters should be so lucky to live as long as Ann Nixon Cooper, what change will they see? What progress will

we have made? 美国，我们已经走过漫漫长路。我们已经历了很多。但是我们仍有很多事情要做。因此今夜，让我们自问---如果我们的孩子能够活到下个世纪；如果我们的女儿有幸活得和安一样长，他们将会看到怎样的改变？

我们将会取得怎样的进步？

This is our chance to answer that call.This is our moment.This is our time – to put our people back to work and open doors of opportunity for our kids;to restore prosperity and promote the cause of peace;to reclaim the American Dream and reaffirm that fundamental truth – that out of many, we are one;that while we breathe, we hope, and where we are met with cynicism, and doubt, and those who tell us that we can’t, we will respond with that timeless creed that sums up the

spirit of a people:Yes We Can.现在是我们回答这个问题的机会。这是我们的时刻。这是我们的时代---让我们的人民重新就业，为我们的后代敞开机会的大门；恢复繁荣发展，推进和平事业； 让“美国梦”重新焕发光芒，再次证明这样一个基本的真理：我们是一家人；一息尚存，我们就有希望；当我们遇到嘲讽和怀疑，当有人说我们办不到的时候，我们 要以这个永恒的信条来回应他们：是的，我们能做到。

Thank you, God bless you, and may God Bless the United States of America.感谢你们。上帝保佑你们。愿上帝保佑美利坚合众国。

第五篇：清华大学演讲-布什

布什在清华大学的演讲

非常感谢胡锦涛副主席的欢迎致辞。非常感谢您在这里接待我和我的夫人劳拉。我发现她与鲍威尔先生相处得很好，今天很高兴看到国务卿先生。同时我也看到我的事务助理赖斯女士，她曾经是斯坦福大学的校长，因此她回到校园是最适合不过了。我非常感谢各位对我热情的接待，很荣幸能够来到中国，来到清华大学这所世界最伟大的学府之一，这所大学恰好是在美国的支持下成立的，目标是为了推动我们两国的关系。我也知道清华大学对于副主席先生有着十分重要的意义，他不仅在这里获得了学位，而且在这里与他优雅的夫人相识。我想同时也感谢在座的各位同学给我这个机会跟大家见面谈一谈我自己的国家，并且回答大家的一些问题。

清华大学的治学标准和声望闻名于世，我也知道能考入这所大学也是一个成就，祝贺你们。我不知道大家是不是知道这一点，我和我的太太有两个女儿，她们像你们一样正在上大学，有一个女儿上的是得州大学，有一个女儿上的是耶鲁大学。她们是双胞胎。我对我们的两个女儿倍感骄傲，我想你们的父母对你们的成就同样也是引以为荣的。

我这次访华恰逢重要的周年纪念日，副主席刚才也谈到了，30年前的这一周，一个美国总统来到中国，他的访华之旅目的是为了结束两国长达数十年的隔阂和数百年的相互猜疑。尼克松总统向世界显示了两个迥然不同的政府能够本着相互的利益、相互的尊重来到一起。那天他们离开机场的时候，周恩来总理对尼克松总统说了这样一番话，他说你与我的握手越过了世界上最辽阔的海洋，这个海洋就是互不交往的25年。自那时以来，美国和中国已经握过多次的友谊之手和商业之手。

随着我们两国间接触日益频繁，我们两国的国民也逐渐加深了对彼此的了解，这是非常非常重要的。曾经一度美国人只知道中国是历史悠久的、伟大的国家，今天我们仍然看到中国奉行着重视家庭、学业和荣誉的优良传统。同时，我们也看到中国也日益成为世界上最富有活力和创造力的国家之一，这一点最佳的验证是在坐诸位所具有的知识和潜力。

中国正走在一个兴起的道路上，而美国欢迎强大、和平与繁荣的中国出现。美国人在更进一步了解中国的同时，我却担心中国人不一定总是能够很清楚地看到我的国家的真实面貌，这里面有多种原因，其中有一些是我们自己造成的。我们的电影，还有电视节目，往往并没有全面反映出美国。

我们成功的企业显示了美国商业的力量。但是我们的精神，我们的社区精神，还有我们相互对彼此的贡献往往并不像我们在金钱方面的成功那么显而易见。

有一些关于美国错误的描述是他们做出的，我的朋友——美国驻华大使告诉我中国的教科书讲到美国人欺负弱者，压制穷人。另外有一本中国的教科书是去年出版的，书里说联邦调查局的特工们被用来压制劳动人民。这两种说法都是不真实的。这种措辞很可能是过去时代遗留的产物，不过它确实是误人子弟的，而且是有害的。美国人对于保护穷人或者弱者有着特殊的责任感，我们政府每年花费数十亿美元来提供医疗、食品和住房给那些无法自助的人们。

更为重要的是，我们许多的公民主动捐出自己的时间、金钱帮助有需要的人士。美国人的同情心同时也远远地超越了我们自己的国界。在人道主义援助方面，我们居世界首位，援助世界各地的人民。至于我们的联邦调查局和执法界的人们，他们本身就是劳动人民，他们从事限制打击腐败。我们国家毫无疑问有自己的问题和缺陷，像大部分的国家一样，我们正走在一个漫长的道路上，走向自己理想中的平等和正义。但是我们国家成为一个希望的灯塔是有原因的，世界各地很多人梦寐以求地来到美国也是有原因的，是因为我们是自由的国度。在美国，无论男女都有机会实现自己的梦想，不论你的背景、家境如何，在美国都可以得到很好的教育，可以创办企业，可以养育子女，可以自由地从事宗教活动，并且可以推选出你自己社区和国家的领导人。在美国，你可以支持我们政府的政策，同时你也可以公开、毫不掩饰地表示不同的观点。有些人害怕自由，他们会说自由可能会导致混乱，但是实际上并不会这样。因为自由的含义远远超越了人人为己，自由赋予了我们很多的权利，同时要求他们履行重大的责任。

我们的自由因为有道德，所以是一种有方向、有目的的自由，我们的自由在社区中、在宗教中得到熏陶，同时也有法律监督。我的国家最伟大的象征就是自由女神像，我不知道大家是不是看过她，她是经过精心设计的，她手里拿的是两件东西，而不是一件，其中一件拿的是大家比较熟悉的火炬，是自由之光，另一个手里拿的是法典。我们美国是一个自由的国家，每一个法律都是独立的。我是总统也无法告诉你是怎样判案的，根据我们的法律每一个人都是平等的，没有任何一个人是凌驾于法律之上的。

我们有着一部宪法，它现在已经有200年的历史，它限制并且平衡三个部门之间的权利，我是行政机构的一员。指导我们美国生活的很多价值观，首先都是在家庭中陶冶形成的，就像在中国一样。美国的妈妈、爸爸们疼爱他们的孩子，为他们辛勤劳动，做出牺牲，因为我们相信下一代的生活总会更好。

在我们的家庭中，我们可以找到关爱，可以学习如何负起责任，如何陶冶人格。很多美国人都主动地抽出时间为其他人提供服务，有很多人，成年人中几乎一半人每周都拿出时间使得他们的社区办得更好，他们辅导儿童，探访病人，照顾老人，并且做许许多多数不胜数的事情，这就是我的国家的一大优点。人们主动地承担起责任，帮助他人，他们的原动力就是善良的心，还有他们的信仰。

美国，是一个受信仰指导的国度，曾经有人称呼我们是教会制衡的国度，有95%的人说他们信神，我便是其中之一。几个月之前，我在上海见到江泽民主席的时候，我感到非常荣幸地跟他分享我的经历，就是信仰是如何影响了我的一生，信仰是如何充实了我们国家的生活，信仰为我们指出一种道德的规范，这超越人们的法律，也号召我们承担比物质利益更为崇高的使命。宗教自由不仅不可怕，而且应当受到欢迎，因为信仰给我们道德的追溯，它教我们如何用高标准要求自己，如何爱其他人，如何为其他人服务，如何有责任地过我们的生活。如果你到美国旅行的话，你会见到来自不同种族背景，有不同信仰的人，我们是多元化多姿多彩的国家，在那里有230万华人繁衍生息。在我们大公司的办公室里有华人工作，在美国政府内阁里有华人工作，在奥运会有代表美国参加比赛的华人，在美国只要宣誓效忠美国，就会成为不折不扣的美国公民。在美国的生活是多姿多彩的，但仍然是一个国家。美国的所有这些特征，都在一天之中生动、有力地显示出来，这就是9月11日，那天恐怖分子攻击了我的国家，美国警察们和救火队员们，成百上千的人冲进了燃烧的大楼，他们带着一线希望来拯救他们的同胞。志愿者来自各地，来帮助救援工作，美国人中有的献血，有的捐钱来帮助受难者的家庭。美国各地都举行祈祷会，人们升起他们的国旗，表明他们作为美国人的荣誉和团结，这些都不是政府下令做的，都是自由地、自发地、主动地做出的。

美国的生活表明，在一个自由的生活中多样化不是混乱，辩论不是争斗。一个自由的社会，信任其公民，会在其自身和国家的身上找到一个伟大的境界。我在1975年有幸访问过中国，在坐有些人可能还没有出生，这也表明我是多么老了。从那时以来，贵国发生了很多变化，中国取得了举世闻名的进步，在开放方面、在企业方面、在经济自由方面都是如此，从所有的进步中，人们可以看到中国有着巨大的潜力，中国已经加入了世界贸易组织。在诸位履行新的义务的同时，这些新的义务将对贵国的法律制度带来变化，一个现代化的中国将有着法制规范他们的商业生活。物质利益的诱惑在我们的国家给我们的社会造成了挑战，在很多成功的国家也造成了挑战。

诸位，重视个人和家庭责任的古老道德传统将使各位受益匪浅。在中国，如今经济成功的背后有着有活力的人才，在不久的将来，这些人无论是男是女将在政府中发挥积极和全面的作用。清华大学她不仅在培养专家，她也是在培育公民，公民在他们国家的事务中不是袖手旁观者，而是建设未来的参与者。变化正在到来，中国已经在地方一级进行不计名投票和地方选举。在32年以前，中国伟大的领导人邓小平说“中国最后将把这种民主选举推广到中央一级”，我期待着这一天的到来。上千万中国人如今都在重温佛教、道教和一些地方信仰的传统，还有信仰耶稣、伊斯兰和其他的宗教，不管怎样，他们都不会对公共造成威胁，他们是很好的公民。中国在包容各种宗教方面有古老的传统，我为一切迫害的终结祈祷，让所有的中国人都有从事宗教的自由。所有的这些将导致中国更加强大、更有自信，这个中国将使世界瞩目，也使世界更加丰富，这个中国就是诸位这一代帮助创建的中国。现在是非常令人振奋的时刻，此时此刻就连最宏伟的梦想也似乎唾手可得。我的国度为中国表示尊敬和友谊，再过六年，来自美国和世界的运动员将到贵国参加奥林匹克运动会，我坚信，他们能够见到的中国将是正在变成大国的中国，一个走在世界前沿的国家，一个与其他人民无争的中国。

President Bush Speaks at Tsinghua University Tsinghua University

Beijing, People's Republic of China 10:35 A.M.(Local)

PRESIDENT BUSH: Vice President Hu, thank you very much for your kind and generous remarks.Thank you for welcoming me and my wife, Laura, here.(Applause.)I see she's keeping pretty good company, with the Secretary of State, Colin Powell.It's good to see you, Mr.Secretary.(Applause.)And I see my National Security Advisor, Ms.Condoleezza Rice, who at one time was the provost at Stanford University.So she's comfortable on university campuses such as this.Thank you for being here, Condi.(Applause.)

I'm so grateful for the hospitality, and honored for the reception at one of China's, and the world's, great universities.This university was founded, interestingly enough, with the support of my country, to further ties between our two nations.I know how important this place is to your Vice President.He not only received his degree here, but more importantly, he met his gracious wife here.(Laughter.)

I want to thank the students for giving me the chance to meet with you, the chance to talk a little bit about my country and answer some of your questions.The standards and reputation of this university are known around the world, and I know what an achievement it is to be here.So, congratulations.(Applause.)I don't know if you know this or not, but my wife and I have two daughters who are in college, just like you.One goes to the University of Texas.One goes to Yale.They're twins.And we are proud of our daughters, just like I'm sure your parents are proud of you.My visit to China comes on an important anniversary, as the Vice President mentioned.Thirty years ago this week, an American President arrived in China on a trip designed to end decades of estrangement and confront centuries of suspicion.President Richard Nixon showed the world that two vastly different governments could meet on the grounds of common interest, in the spirit of mutual respect.As they left the airport that day, Premier Zhou Enlai said this to President Nixon: “Your handshake came over the vastest ocean in the world--25 years of no communication.”

During the 30 years since, America and China have exchanged many handshakes of friendship and commerce.And as we have had more contact with each other, the citizens of both countries have gradually learned more about each other.And that's important.Once America knew China only by its history as a great and enduring civilization.Today, we see a China that is still defined by noble traditions of family, scholarship, and honor.And we see a China that is becoming one of the most dynamic and creative societies in the world--as demonstrated by the knowledge and potential right here in this room.China is on a rising path, and America welcomes the emergence of a strong and peaceful and prosperous China.(Applause.)

As America learns more about China, I am concerned that the Chinese people do not always see a clear picture of my country.This happens for many reasons, and some of them of our own making.Our movies and television shows often do not portray the values of the real America I know.Our successful businesses show a strength of American commerce, but our spirit, community spirit, and contributions to each other are not always visible as monetary success.Some of the erroneous pictures of America are painted by others.My friend, the Ambassador to China, tells me some Chinese textbooks talk of Americans of “bullying the weak and repressing the poor.” Another Chinese textbook, published just last year, teaches that special agents of the FBI are used to “repress the working people.” Now, neither of these is true--and while the words may be leftovers from a previous era, they are misleading and they're harmful.In fact, Americans feel a special responsibility for the weak and the poor.Our government spends billions of dollars to provide health care and food and housing for those who cannot help themselves--and even more important, many of our citizens contribute their own money and time to help those in need.American compassion also stretches way beyond our borders.We're the number one provider of humanitarian aid to people in need throughout the world.And as for the men and women of the FBI and law enforcement, they're working people;they, themselves, are working people who devote their lives to fighting crime and corruption.My country certainly has its share of problems, no question about that.And we have our faults.Like most nations we're on a long journey toward achieving our own ideals of equality and justice.Yet there's a reason our nation shines as a beacon of hope and opportunity, a reason many throughout the world dream of coming to America.It's because we're a free nation, where men and women have the opportunity to achieve their dreams.No matter your background or your circumstance of birth, in America you can get a good education, you can start your own business, you can raise a family, you can worship freely, and help elect the leaders of your community and your country.You can support the policies of our government, or you're free to openly disagree with them.Those who fear freedom sometimes argue it could lead to chaos, but it does not, because freedom means more than every man for himself.Liberty gives our citizens many rights, yet expects them to exercise important responsibilities.Our liberty is given direction and purpose by moral character, shaped in strong families, strong communities, and strong religious institutions, and overseen by a strong and fair legal system.My country's greatest symbol to the world is the Statue of Liberty, and it was designed by special care.I don't know if you've ever seen the Statue of Liberty, but if you look closely, she's holding not one object, but two.In one hand is the familiar torch we call the “light of liberty.” And in the other hand is a book of law.We're a nation of laws.Our courts are honest and they are independent.The President--me--I can't tell the courts how to rule, and neither can any other member of the executive or legislative branch of government.Under our law, everyone stands equal.No one is above the law, and no one is beneath it.All political power in America is limited and it is temporary, and only given by the free vote of the people.We have a Constitution, now two centuries old, which limits and balances the power of the three branches of our government, the judicial branch, the legislative branch, and the executive branch, of which I'm a part.Many of the values that guide our life in America are first shaped in our families, just as they are in your country.American moms and dads love their children and work hard and sacrifice for them, because we believe life can always be better for the next generation.In our families, we find love and learn responsibility and character.And many Americans voluntarily devote part of their lives to serving other people.An amazing number--nearly half of all adults in America--volunteer time every week to make their communities better by mentoring children, or by visiting the sick, or caring for the elderly, or helping with thousands of other needs and causes.This is one of the great strengths of my country.People take responsibility for helping others, without being told, motivated by their good hearts and often by their faith.America is a nation guided by faith.Someone once called us “a nation with the soul of a church.” This may interest you--95 percent of Americans say they believe in God, and I'm one of them.When I met President Jiang Zemin in Shanghai a few months ago, I had the honor of sharing with him how faith changed my life and how faith contributes to the life of my country.Faith points to a moral law beyond man's law, and calls us to duties higher than material gain.Freedom of religion is not something to be feared, it's to be welcomed, because faith gives us a moral core and teaches us to hold ourselves to high standards, to love and to serve others, and to live responsible lives.If you travel across America--and I hope you do some day if you haven't been there--you will find people of many different ethic backgrounds and many different faiths.We're a varied nation.We're home to 2.3 million Americans of Chinese ancestry, who can be found working in the offices of our corporations, or in the Cabinet of the President of the United States, or skating for the America Olympic team.Every immigrant, by taking an oath of allegiance to our country, becomes just as just as American as the President.America shows that a society can be vast and it can be varied, yet still one country, commanding the allegiance and love of its people.And all these qualities of America were widely on display on a single day, September the 11th, the day when terrorists, murderers, attacked my nation.American policemen and firefighters, by the hundreds, ran into burning towers in desperation to save their fellow citizens.Volunteers came from everywhere to help with rescue efforts.Americans donated blood and gave money to help the families of victims.America had prayer services all over our country, and people raised flags to show their pride and unity.And you need to know, none of this was ordered by the government;it happened spontaneously, by the initiative of free people.Life in America shows that liberty, paired with law is not to be feared.In a free society, diversity is not disorder.Debate is not strife.And dissent is not revolution.A free society trusts its citizens to seek greatness in themselves and their country.It was my honor to visit China in 1975--some of you weren't even born then.It shows how old I am.(Laughter.)And a lot has changed in your country since then.China has made amazing progress--in openness and enterprise and economic freedom.And this progress previews China'a great potential.China has joined the World Trade Organization, and as you live up to its obligations, they inevitably will bring changes to China's legal system.A modern China will have a consistent rule of law to govern commerce and secure the rights of its people.The new China your generation is building will need the profound wisdom of your traditions.The lure of materialism challenges our society--challenges society in our country, and in many successful countries.Your ancient ethic of personal and family responsibility will serve you well.Behind China's economic success today are talented, brilliant and energetic people.In the near future, those same men and women will play a full and active role in your government.This university is not simply turning out specialists, it is preparing citizens.And citizens are not spectators in the affairs of their country.They are participants in its future.Change is coming.China is already having secret ballot and competitive elections at the local level.Nearly 20 years ago, a great Chinese leader, Deng Xiaoping, said this--I want you to hear his words.He said that China would eventually expand democratic elections all the way to the national level.I look forward to that day.Tens of millions of Chinese today are relearning Buddhist, Taoist, and local religious traditions, or practicing Christianity, Islam, and other faiths.Regardless of where or how these believers worship, they're no threat to public order;in fact, they make good citizens.For centuries, this country has had a tradition of religious tolerance.My prayer is that all persecution will end, so that all in China are free to gather and worship as they wish.All these changes will lead to a stronger, more confident China--a China that can astonish and enrich the world, a China that your generation will help create.This is one of the most exciting times in the history of your country, a time when even the grandest hopes seem within your reach.My nation offers you our respect and our friendship.Six years from now, athletes from America and around the world will come to your country for the Olympic games.And I'm confident they will find a China that is becoming a da guo, a leading nation, at peace with its people and at peace with the world.