· “The message to taxpayers and Capitol Hill? Quit the magical thinking. These things won't pay for themselves. And we can't just continue to borrow and spend and pass the bill to our kids.”--Newsday, 3/1/09
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Nowhere are the differences between the Bush and Obama Administrations more profound than in the area of foreign relations. Where the Bush Administration insisted “You’re with us or you’re with the terrorists” and favored Shock and Awe bombings over diplomacy, President Obama prefers to heed George Washington’s advice:
· Observe good faith and justice towards all Nations; cultivate peace and harmony with all.
This may not always be possible, but it should always be our goal.
· My administration is now committed to diplomacy that addresses the full range of issues before us, and to pursuing constructive ties among the United States, Iran and the international community. This process will not be advanced by threats. We seek instead engagement that is honest and grounded in mutual respect.
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has invited Iran to participate in a conference on Afghanistan at the end of March (It should be noted that Iran was helping us fight al Qaida in Afghanistan before President Bush named them as a part of his “Axis of Evil”.
· “As I said during my inauguration speech, if countries like Iran are willing to unclench their fist, they will find an extended hand from us.”--President Obama
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