Inauguration Diary: Promise is just a memory; Mitt’s not bitter… honest; Party spoiled for Kerry
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.
Promise is just a memory
Today was filled with memories of when Mr Obama first stepped into the Oval Office making many promises. One of those was that he would close Guantanamo Bay, which his predecessor, George W Bush, turned into a penitentiary for suspects in his war on terror. Closing it was to serve as a symbol of Mr Obama’s new approach on foreign policy. The fact that Guantanamo is still serving the same purpose, is now the symbol of something else: the quick banishment of his innocence.
Mitt’s not bitter… honest
Obama’s election rival Mitt Romney chose not to brave the cold of Washington DC, and instead stayed at his $12m (£7.5m) beachfront property in sunny La Jolla, California. One Romney aide told NBC news that he and his wife Ann had “no big plans” for the day, but that it was “doubtful” they’d be watching TV coverage. Romney’s running mate Paul Ryan said he felt it was his “obligation” to attend.
Party spoiled for Kerry
No one is meant to spoil the atmosphere at inauguration parties. So Watergate veteran and author Bob Woodward was breaking all the rules when he approached John Kerry at a Daily Beast/Newsweek party to tell the Senator that he is in possession of Wikileaks cables about dealings with Pakistan he would rather see kept secret. Mr Kerry smiled and pretended to ring Woodward’s neck. He was joking, we think.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments