Congressman and former vice-presidential hopeful Paul Ryan (R., Wis.), comments on President Obama’s swearing-in on Monday:
I congratulate President Obama on his inauguration, and I join the country in celebrating this American tradition.
The president and I were political opponents. We had strong disagreements over the direction of the country—as we still do now. But today, we put those disagreements aside. Today, we remember what we share in common.
We serve the same country, one that is still in need of repair—and is still the freest on earth. We serve alongside men and women from both parties, who govern in good faith and good will. Finally, we serve the same people, who have honored us with their charge.
We may disagree on matters of policy. But today we remember why we take those matters so seriously—because we seek the public good. It’s our highest duty—one that we share—and one for which we’re grateful.
I’m happy to mark this historic occasion—for the president and for the country. And I look forward to tackling the big challenges ahead.
Ryan, as Eliana mentioned, was not warmly received by the inauguration crowd.