Maintaining sense of humor is important under any circumstances, even when you really don’t feel like smiling… After the grueling and tiring campaign that we all just went through, it’s nice to take a breath of relief “it’s over!” and see some rare humorous moments that both – the re-elected President and Governor Mitt Romney displayed while attending the Alfred E. Smith Dinner, a benefit in which the Catholic Archdiocese of New York’s hosts the presidential candidates.
Excerpts from speeches:
Barack Obama
1. “I’m still making the most of my time in the city, earlier today I went shopping at some stores in Midtown. I understand Governor Romney went shopping for some stores in Midtown.”
2. “Ultimately though, tonight’s not about the disagreements Governor Romney and I may have. It’s what we have in common, beginning with our unusual names. Actually Mitt is his middle name- I wish I could use my middle name.”
3. “Of course world affairs are a challenge for every candidate. After- some of you guys remember- after my foreign trip in 2008 I was attacked as a celebrity because I was so popular with our allies overseas and I have to say I am impressed with how well Governor Romney has avoided that problem.”
Mitt Romney
1. “Of course we’re down to the final months of the Presidents term, as presidents — as President Obama surveys the Waldorf banquet room with everyone in white tie and finery you have to wonder what he’s thinking “So little time, so much to redistribute.” And don’t be surprised if the President mentions this evening the monthly jobs report where there was a slight improvement in the numbers. He knows how to seize the moment, this President, and already has a compelling new campaign slogan “You’re better off now than you were four weeks ago.”
2. “Campaigns can be grueling, exhausting, President Obama and I are each very lucky to have one person who is always in our corner. Someone who we can lean on and someone who’s a comforting presence without whom we wouldn’t be able to go on with the day. I have my beautiful wife, Ann, he has Bill Clinton.”
3. “Let’s just say that some in the media have a certain way of looking at things. When suddenly I pulled ahead in some of the major polls, what was the headline? “Polls show Obama leading from behind.” And I have already seen early reports from tonight’s dinner,” headline: Obama embraced by Catholics, Romney dines with rich people.”
