Watch Out for President Barack Obama! He is Rockin' and Rollin'!

For those who had any doubt regarding the likelihood of sweeping changes in Washington D.C., President Barack Obama, the 44th Commander-in-Chief of the United States, blasted off to a great start. While some Americans are more focused on the historic significance of his role as the first African-American to sit in the Oval Office, others look to Washington for quick resolutions of the nation's economic crisis. This reflective blog entry reviews Obama's impressive first week in the White House and encourages readers to reflect upon his potential impact on the country.

As you watch this historic Presidency of Barack Obama unfold, consider where this Democratic administration is headed. Are you ready for the changes of a rockin' and rollin' President? Will Democratic changes in U.S. government provide a better climate for economic recovery? Will Obama help Congress to reduce severe domestic problems like people without homes, jobs, and/or health insurance as well as millions living in poverty?

For U.S. residents and people around the world, the inauguration of President Barack Hussein Obama on January 20, 2009, was an important new chapter in the story of democracy. Despite a small stumble, President Obama took the Oath of Office in front of a historic crowd estimated to be between 1 and 2 million people. He was joined by his wife, Michelle Obama, and other Washington notables like George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and Hillary Clinton. During Inauguration Week, President Obama and his young family fascinated the world as they made the circuit of inauguration activities, including breakfasts, balls, and parties.

When you look behind the glamour and hype of Inauguration Week, what were Obama's first actions as Commander-in-Chief? Immediately after being sworn in to office, President Obama gave an impressive speech, including warning nations and individuals around the world that his administration would take a strong approach to foreign aggression and terrorism. However, he also significantly inspired the American people by reassuring them that they would be able to survive future waves of adversity, from economic recession to security threats. The United States will have to come together as a nation to rebuild its international reputation and address domestic problems.

On Wednesday, January 21, 2009, President Obama focused on transparency in public service, including the implementation of strict new ethics rules for his administration. For example, White House aides cannot lobby for two years after leaving his staff. On Thursday, January 22, Obama also took immediate action by signing an Executive Order to close the controversial detainment facilities maintained by the U.S. at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, otherwise known as Gitmo. On Friday, January 23, Obama made headlines for reversing the George W. Bush ban on providing federal funds to international groups advocating for or conducting abortions. This week also included the swearing in of former First Lady, Hillary Clinton, as the U.S. Secretary of State. She was offered this post after a historic bid for the Presidency.

As the world has seen with past U.S. presidents, the pendulum swings dramatically when the White House switches from a Republican administration to a Democratic administration or vice versa. The first months of a President's new term in office are usually spent on keeping campaign promises and building favorable support among lawmakers and constituents. What does all this mean for the United States? Are you ready for the impact of big changes in Washington?

When you reflect upon the future of the United States under the guidance of President Obama, you might believe that the next four years have the potential to vary greatly from eight years under the Bush administration. However, you might have doubts whether Obama's charismatic leadership and vision will inspire Washington power-wielders to make lasting changes in American government. The U.S. public awaits real solutions to the economic financial crisis caused by financial greed and the excessive personal borrowing of a capitalist nation. While Obama has rocked and rolled his way to a knockout first week in the White House, the world waits to see what lasting changes will be wrought by this notable black leader.