ACLI President & CEO Frank Keating issued the following statement in response to the presidential election of Senator Barack Obama:
Washington, D.C., (November 5, 2008) -- "Political campaigns are a celebration of our democracy and elections are an expression of our national unity. We debate the issues fully and aggressively, but once we elect a new president, we join together to honor the constitutional principle to form 'a more perfect union.' We enthusiastically congratulate President-elect Obama on his historic achievement and pledge to do our share, and more, in restoring the financial health of our nation and securing the future for all Americans.
"There is great excitement in America, excitement we have not seen since the election of President John F. Kennedy in 1960. President Kennedy's theme of 'the new frontier' symbolized the optimism of our nation as it entered an era of unprecedented scientific and technological achievements and a new generation of leaders. We did not shrink from the future. We embraced it and emerged a stronger nation. President-elect Obama's themes of 'hope' and 'change' also reflect faith in the ability of our nation to overcome challenges both domestically and internationally. American values of democracy, economic opportunity and individual initiative will sustain us through the difficult period ahead and, with President-elect Obama's leadership, we will again emerge a stronger nation.”
“We also congratulate Sen. McCain. He remains an American hero and our nation is greater and stronger as a result of his efforts. He will remain a major force in our political life for years to come.”
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The American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) is a Washington, D.C.-based trade association whose 353 member companies account for 93 percent of the life insurance industry’s total assets in the United States, 93 percent of life insurance premiums and 94 percent of annuity considerations. In addition to life insurance and annuities, ACLI member companies offer pensions, including 401(k)s, long-term care insurance, disability income insurance and other retirement and financial protection products, as well as reinsurance. ACLI's public Web site can be accessed at www.acli.com.