Paul Ryan: Obama's inauguration "historic"

Rep. Paul Ryan, R-Wis., arrives at the ceremonial swearing-in for President Barack Obama at the U.S. Capitol during the 57th Presidential Inauguration in Washington, Monday, Jan. 21, 2013. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster) / Carolyn Kaster

Rep. Paul Ryan, R-Wis., spent a good part of 2012 campaigning so he would be the one standing on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol to be sworn in as vice president. Instead, he's offering President Obama congratulations on this Inauguration Day.

"I congratulate President Obama on his inauguration, and I join the country in celebrating this American tradition," Ryan wrote on his Facebook page today.

"The president and I were political opponents. We had strong disagreements over the direction of the country--as we still do now. But today, we put those disagreements aside. Today, we remember what we share in common," he continued.

Ryan is not the president's only rival to put politics aside on this day of celebration. House Majority Leader Eric Cantor, R-Va., said on "CBS This Morning" that today is a reminder that "we are all in this together."

• House to vote on debt limit increase on Wednesday
• Cantor: Time for Washington to "set aside" differences

While today is a day of celebration, the House of Representatives is expected to quickly get back to work and vote on a temporary increase in the debt limit. The three-month extension delays the fierce debate expected between Republicans and Democrats over taxes and spending.

"We may disagree on matters of policy. But today we remember why we take those matters so seriously--because we seek the public good. It's our highest duty--one that we share--and one for which we're grateful," Ryan wrote.

"I'm happy to mark this historic occasion--for the president and for the country. And I look forward to tackling the big challenges ahead."

[resurrectionrob]

After all the negativity we have had to endure for four years with an intransigent, hateful GOP undermining and sabatoging our President every step of the way, it was really uplifing to watch the pure and simple joy of the President walking with the motorcade, connecting with the people who today were rejoicing together with him. Today it felt good to be an American, to see what happens when we lift up the better angels in us.

[zenia5]

Hopefully, Paul Ryan and his fellow obstructionists in the GOP will now work towards what is best for ALL Americans...not just a select few. After all, if they do not, they may as well accept that their political careers are over.

[HeinoMusik]

Paul Ryan voted FOR the fiscal cliff deal, so I don't know where you're getting the information that he's an obstructionist.

Typical ill-informed libtard...

[BENJORDON-]

Lyin' Ryan will miss no opportunity to get his mug in the media between now and 2016.

His only hope is that everyone eventually forgets what a lying sleezeball he is.

.

[sheila19551]

President Obama just swore to "protect, preserve, and defend, the Constitution of the United STATE!" He did not attempt to correct the statement. Does this mean it's alright to not defend the rights of the United StateS?

[twmat311]

Is your hobby picking all the fly-specks out of your pepper?

[zenia5]

@Sheila....you HAVE to be kidding!!!! Your shallow attitude is EXACTLY what is wrong with today's GOP and why they have lost, and will continue to lose, elections. Get a life.

[dionysusBeer]

The House has said it will vote on the debt ceiling increase and Republicans admit that Democrats are ALSO a part of America? What the heck is going on here? I don't know what kind of black magic is involved here but maybe Obama should get inaugurated every day. Then we might actually get some stuff done.

[agonza4901]

Congratulations to Barack Obama. God bless you and your family. Good luck and like the SONG SAYS 2nd time around. It will be better than the first time. Angelique Josette Gonzalez New York City.....