Bush thanks supporters in victory speech

Just an hour after Sen. John Kerry made his concession speech declaring Bush the victor in the presidential elections, President Bush thanked his supporters and spoke of "entering a season of hope" in his victory speech on Nov. 3 from the Ronald Reagan building in Washington D.C.

Bush started off his speech by speaking of Kerry's "gracious" phone call where the two apparently discussed how America is in "danger of division" and how there is a "desperate need for unity," echoing what Kerry said in his concession speech.

Bush accepted his claim to the presidency. "America has spoken, and I'm humbled by the trust and the confidence of my fellow citizens," he said.

He then went on to thank his family including his "parents for their loving support." He also thanked Vice President Cheney and his family who he says "have worked so hard and been such a vital part of our team. The Vice President serves America with wisdom and honor and I'm proud to serve beside him," Bush said.

Bush showed his appreciation for his "superb" campaign team and the thousands of volunteers and supporters for their hard work. "Because you did the incredible work, we are celebrating today," he said.

Bush continued his speech with a list of American accomplishments. "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. Our nation has defended itself and served the freedom of all mankind," he said. "I'm proud to lead such an amazing country, and I'm proud to lead it forward."

He also expressed hopeful plans for the future such as continuing the "economic progress," reforming the "outdated tax code" as well as improving social security and public schools. He also voiced his plan to "uphold our deepest values of family and faith" and "help the emerging democracies of Iraq and Afghanistan."

Exit polls show that moral issues and the situation in the Middle East proved to be the deciding factor for the majority of the voting population, who thought that Bush would be the best candidate for protecting America against terrorism. "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," Bush said.

Bush also said that succeeding with his objectives "will require the broad support of Americans." Bush spoke directly to voters who supported Kerry, asking for their support and trust. "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."

Bush concluded with a special thank you to his fellow Texans. He also expressed his hope that Americans band together. "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," he finished.