President Obama Addresses U of M Grads

President Barack Obama spent part of Saturday morning away from the White House and on the campus of the University of Michigan.

“I am happy to join you all today, and even happier to spend a little time away from Washington. Don’t get me wrong – it’s a beautiful city. And it sure is nice living above the store; can’t beat the commute. It’s just that sometimes, all you hear in Washington is the clamor of politics – a noise that can drown out the voices of the people who sent you there,” said Obama.

The president addressed the 2010 graduates about helping to close the political divide by getting involved and working on polarizing issues without spewing harsh words.

"We can't expect to solve our problems when all we do is tear each other down," said Obama.

His message wasn't just for those 85,000 sitting in the stadium seats, but a larger message for all Americans.

"Government shouldn't try to dictate your lives; but, it should give you the tools you need to succeed."

Students and families were anxious to hear the president speak. Many stood in the rain for hours. And the payoff was exactly what many were expecting to hear.

"I think the biggest point he drove home -- fighting amongst ourselves is really the root of a lot of our problems," said graduate Suresh Mohan. "We need to step in other people's shoes and see another perspective. That's the first step."

Obama took several jabs at politicians and pundits and even the media.

“We’ve got politicians calling each other all sorts of unflattering names. Pundits and talking heads shout at each other. The media tends to play up every hint of conflict, because it makes for a sexier story – which means anyone interested in getting coverage feels compelled to make the most outrageous comments.”

The president said the name-calling and other distracting rhetoric makes a compromise unlikely and causes a heavy divide.

"When our government is spoken of as some menacing, threatening foreign entity, it ignores the fact that in our democracy, government is us. We, the people, hold in our hands the power to choose our leaders, and change our laws, and shape our own destiny."

President Obama is the fourth sitting president to address the University of Michigan. Others include president John F. Kennedy, George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton.

FROM http://www.wilx.com/news/headlines/92599724.html