Category: 2012

Today, I spoke to Ambassador Susan Rice, and accepted her decision to remove her name from consideration for Secretary of State. For two decades, Susan has proven to be an extraordinarily capable, patriotic, and passionate public servant. As my Ambassador to the United Nations, she plays an indispensable role in advancing America’s interests. Already, she…

East Room 7:50 P.M. EST THE PRESIDENT:  Good evening, everybody. AUDIENCE:  Good evening. THE PRESIDENT:  Well, thank you for coming to the White House tonight to celebrate the sixth night of Hanukkah.  (Applause.)  It is truly an honor to host so many leaders from the Jewish community this evening.  Israeli Ambassador Michael Oren is here. …

North Korea’s launch today—using ballistic missile technology despite express prohibitions by United Nations Security Council resolutions—is a highly provocative act that threatens regional security, directly violates United Nations Security Council resolutions 1718 and 1874, contravenes North Korea’s international obligations, and undermines the global non-proliferation regime.  This action is yet another example of North Korea’s pattern…

Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling Washington, D.C. 2:35 P.M. EST MRS. OBAMA:  Well, good afternoon, everyone.  It is truly a pleasure, as always, to be here. I want to start by thanking Lieutenant General Osman for that very kind, gracious introduction.  I think the Toys for Tots tradition is really the reason for this success.  I’m kind…

The United States congratulates President John Dramani Mahama and the people of Ghana for the successful election on December 7. Nearly 80% of the electorate voted, continuing the Ghanaian tradition of widespread public participation in the democratic process. This is the sixth successful presidential and parliamentary election since 1992, and further demonstrates the people of…

For the last two years, Ambassador Princeton Lyman has served as my Special Envoy to Sudan and South Sudan, building on a long legacy of dedicated service in the United States government.  Princeton has done a tremendous job in helping to realize the promise of an independent South Sudan, and working toward the international vision…

NOMINATIONS SENT TO THE SENATE: Timothy Hyungrock Haahs, of Pennsylvania, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the National Institute of Building Sciences for a term expiring September 7, 2014, vice Morgan Edwards, term expired. Michael Wayne Hail, of Kentucky, to be a Member of the Board of Trustees of the Harry…

Daimler Detroit Diesel Plant Redford, Michigan 2:29 P.M. EST THE PRESIDENT:  Hello, Redford!  (Applause.)  It is good to be back in Michigan.  (Applause.)  How is everybody doing today? (Applause.) Now, let me just start off by saying we have something in common — both our teams lost yesterday.  (Laughter.)  I mean, I would like to…

Yesterday, our special operators in Afghanistan rescued an American citizen in a mission that was characteristic of the extraordinary courage, skill and patriotism that our troops show every day. Tragically, we lost one of our special operators in this effort. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, just as we must always honor…