{"id":242,"date":"2016-10-16T13:47:00","date_gmt":"2016-10-16T17:47:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/hoodresearch.org\/TTR\/?p=242"},"modified":"2026-02-22T11:59:57","modified_gmt":"2026-02-22T16:59:57","slug":"a-list-of-386-accomplishments-by-president-barack-obama","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/hoodresearch.org\/TTR\/?p=242","title":{"rendered":"A List of 386 Accomplishments by President Barack Obama"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

THE List of 386 Obama Accomplishments so far, With Citations<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is a Reprint – NOT A Hood Research Publication<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2008, we elected the most progressive president<\/strong> in history. And regardless of the negativity, when you actually look at the record, there has been a lot of progress since January 20, 2009. If you\u2019ll recall, when he took over the reins of power, the economy was in free-fall and we were practically a world laughingstock. That is no longer the case.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here is a list of many of President<\/strong> Obama<\/strong>\u2019s accomplishments<\/strong> as President<\/strong>. Every one of them has a citation, so no one can dismiss them out of hand, although many have tried since I started to compile this list Even with the obstacles we gave him, especially the Republican Congress, this President<\/strong> will leave behind a wonderful legacy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If we want to win elections \u2013 and in a democracy, that has to be our main goal \u2013 we have to make people want to vote for us<\/em>. That means accentuating the positive, and talking about how great we are, especially compared to the alternative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Changed the Culture of the Executive Branch<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Within his first week, he signed an Executive Order ordering an audit of government contracts, and combating waste and abuse.   http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/dUvbu5<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Created the post of Chief Performance Officer, whose job it is to make operations more efficient to save the federal government money.   http:\/\/n.pr\/hcgBn1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

On his first full day, he froze White House salaries for the duration of the Great Recession.  http:\/\/cbsn.ws\/2aNMqNN<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

He appointed the first Federal Chief Information Officer to oversee federal IT spending and efficiency. http:\/\/www.cio.gov<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

He committed to phasing out unnecessary and outdated weapons systems and signed the Weapons Systems Acquisition Reform Act, in an attempt to limit waste, fraud and abuse in the defense procurement and contracting systems. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

He created the National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed an Executive Order instructing federal agencies to review all federal regulations and remove any unnecessary and\/or burdensome regulations from the books.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/Lpo5bd<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dismantled the Minerals Management Service, thereby cutting ties between energy companies and the government.  http:\/\/nyti.ms\/bw1MLu<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Banned gifts from lobbyists to anyone in the Executive Branch.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Banned anyone from working in an agency they had lobbied in previous years and placed strict limits on lobbyists\u2019 access to the White House.   http:\/\/nyti.ms\/gOrznV<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Held the first-ever first online town hall from the White House, and took questions from the public.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Became the first president<\/strong> to stream every White House event, live.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/kAgOP5<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Established a central portal for Americans to find service opportunities.  http:\/\/www.serve.gov<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Restored the 30-day time frame for former presidents to review records and eliminated the right for the vice president<\/strong> or family members of former presidents to do the reviews, giving the public greater access to historic White House documents, and curtails the use of executive privilege to shield them. http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/gUetLb<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Improved the Freedom of Information Act and issued new guidelines to make FOIA more open and transparent when processing FOIA requests.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/gjrnp2<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Streamlined the Department of Education\u2019s procurement policies and made them more transparent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Provided the first voluntary disclosure of the White House Visitors Log in history.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/hQ7<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed a law to completely reform NSA Data Collection program and keep phone records in the hands of the phone company.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Staved Off a Bush Depression, Improved the Economy<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pushed through and signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, also known as \u201cthe stimulus package.\u201d He also launched recovery.gov, a website that allows taxpayers to track spending from the Act<\/p>\n\n\n\n

By the end of his first year, the economy created and sustained 2.1 million jobs and the ARRA stimulated the economy by 3.5%.  http:\/\/reut.rs\/i46CEE<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

He guided the massive TARP financial and banking rescue plan and forced financial organizations to pay back virtually all bailout money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Established the Making Home Affordable home refinancing plan.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/goy6zl<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2010 alone, more jobs were created than had been created during Bush\u2019s eight years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He pushed through and implemented an auto industry rescue plan that saved as many as 1 million jobs and possibly the entire auto industry. http:\/\/bit.ly\/ibhpxr<\/a>   http:\/\/bit.ly\/gj7mt5<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Through his investment in GM, returned to the company to its place as the premiere car company in the world.   http:\/\/lat.ms\/zIJuQx<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In February 2016, GM was in such good financial shape, they gave a share of the profit to each worker, with checks up to $11,000.   http:\/\/detne.ws\/1mk7Jry<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Doubled funding for the Manufacturing Extension Partnership, to improve manufacturing efficiency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Increased infrastructure spending after years of neglect. http:\/\/bit.ly\/f77aOw<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed the Helping Families Save Their Homes Act, which helped millions of Americans avoid preventable foreclosures and provided $2.2 billion to combat homelessness and stabilize the housing market. http:\/\/bit.ly\/2aiFCbi<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed an Executive Order creating jobs immediately by reducing the time needed for review and permitting of infrastructure projects.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/GHxaYt<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Through the Worker, Homeownership, and Business Assistance Act of 2009, he and Congressional Democrats provided tax credits to first-time home buyers, which helped the U.S. housing market recovery.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/dZgXXw<\/a>     http:\/\/bit.ly\/2aOGmVM<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Played a lead role in getting the G-20 Summit to commit to a $1.1 trillion deal to combat the global financial crisis.   http:\/\/nyti.ms\/gHlgp5<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed new rules making it easier for home buyers to get a loan to buy a condominium.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/2c4VPDl<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, saved at least 300,000 education jobs, such as teachers, principals, librarians, and counselors that would have otherwise been lost.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/ez30D<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Provided funding to states and the Department of Homeland Security to save thousands of police and firefighter jobs from being cut during the recession. http:\/\/bit.ly\/g0IKWR<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed bill to provide extra training for local police forces, especially with regard to active shooter situations.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/2cvFlRf<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

China\u2019s largest manufacturer, Foxconn, is building a large plant in Pennsylvania http:\/\/cnnmon.ie\/1k7LT4S<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Worked with Apple Computer to get them to build more product here, and the company is building two large plants to manufacture products here; one in Texas http:\/\/zd.net\/1nkpt2O<\/a> and one in Arizona http:\/\/bit.ly\/1mXY5Vg<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Created an institute to invest in more manufacturing jobs in the technology fields of the future. http:\/\/nyti.ms\/1egyXrV<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ordered all federal contractors to pay a minimum wage of $10.10 per hour, leading the way to a national increase. http:\/\/wapo.st\/1iaU5kd<\/a>  As a result of this decision, a number of large employers, including Disney and Walmart, have increased their minimums.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ordered the completion of the International Trade Data System, a digital trade record book, by 2016. This move will streamline and simplify the process through which small- and medium-sized businesses set up the export of US goods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Specific Examples of Economic Improvement<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

As of August 2016, a record 71 consecutive months of overall job growth. http:\/\/on.msnbc.com\/1TKFCPQ<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

As of August 2016, Unemployment drops below 5% for the first time in eight years and without a significant bubble, remains below 5% all year so far. 4.9%   http:\/\/on.msnbc.com\/1TKFCPQ<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

As of August 2016, there have been 78 consecutive months of private sector job growth.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1Xhizho<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In April 2016, new unemployment claims hit their lowest level since Nov. 1973.  http:\/\/nyti.ms\/1YhZEBk<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since February 2010, when unemployment peaked, 15.6 million non-farm private sector jobs have been created.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1Xhizho<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oversaw a reduction in the federal budget deficit by two-thirds since taking office. http:\/\/bit.ly\/1xKMmjY<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reduced the federal budget deficit from 9.8% of GDP in Fiscal Year 2009 under Bush, to 2.5% of GDP in FY 2015.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/2cI4ABV<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Scolds Congress and gets a $305 billion highways bill passed. This bill has the added benefit of created hundreds of thousands of new jobs and creating incentives for green cars. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Addressed Wrongdoing in the Financial Sector<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed the Fraud Enforcement and Recovery Act giving the federal government more tools to investigate and prosecute fraud in every corner of the financial system, and create a bipartisan Financial Crisis Inquiry Commission to investigate the financial fraud that led to the economic meltdown.  http:\/\/abcn.ws\/g18Fe7<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ordered 65 executives who took bailout money to cut their own pay until they paid back all bailout money.  http:\/\/huff.to\/eAi9Qq<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Along with Congressional Democrats, pushed through and got passed Dodd-Frank, one of the largest and most comprehensive Wall Street reforms since the Great Depression.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/hWCPg0<\/a>http:\/\/bit.ly\/geHpcD<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Created and implemented rules to reduce the influence of speculators in the oil market.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/MDnA1t<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Created and implemented rules so banks can no longer use depositors\u2019 money to invest in derivatives and other high-risk financial instruments that work against depositors\u2019 interests.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/fnTayj<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Supported the concept of allowing stockholders to vote on executive compensation. http:\/\/bit.ly\/fnTayj<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Endorsed and supported the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act of 2009 that would close offshore tax avoidance loopholes.http:\/\/bit.ly\/eG4DPM<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Negotiated a deal with Swiss banks permitting the US government to gain access to bank records of criminals and tax evaders.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/2aAwUS5<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed the American Jobs and Closing Tax Loopholes Act, closing many of the loopholes that allowed companies to send jobs overseas, and avoid paying US taxes by moving money offshore.    http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/bd1RTq<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thanks to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, inflation in the healthcare sector dropped to its lowest point in 50 years.  http:\/\/on.wsj.com\/1E6cYjF<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Improved Conditions for Consumers and Small Businesses<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed the Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility and Disclosure (CARD) Act, to protect consumers from unfair and deceptive credit card practices.   http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/gIaNcS<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Guided the housing market all the way back from total collapse, which led to a rally for housing starts.  http:\/\/reut.rs\/1NTAOVU<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brought airline industry back to their highest profitability since before the recession.   http:\/\/lat.ms\/1O8H1iE<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Created an airline passenger bill of rights, preventing airlines from stranding passengers on tarmac for hours, requiring them to return to the gate within three hours or face stiff fines.    http:\/\/bit.ly\/2c3jAZi<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Blocked a monopolistic merger of Staples and Office Depot, to preserve at least some competition.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/1kcY2Kv<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stock market has reached record highs, restoring most of the economic losses felt during the Bush Recession.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/1z4FAtL<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Promoted and signed a bill to established the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and implemented it.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/j5onG<\/a>   http:\/\/bit.ly\/fnTayj<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Consumer confidence continues to inch up to its highest level more than a decade.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/1PZLRcK<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Initiated a $15 billion plan designed to encourage increased lending to small businesses.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/eu0u0b<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Created business.gov, to allow online collaboration between small businesses and experts re managing a business. (The program has since merged with SBA.gov.)   http:\/\/www.business.gov<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Took steps to improve minority access to capital. http:\/\/bit.ly\/f9xVE7<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Used recovered TARP money to fund programs at local housing finance agencies in California, Florida, Nevada, Arizona and Michigan.    http:\/\/bit.ly\/2b3jKOk<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Crafted and signed an executive order establishing the President<\/strong>\u2019s Advisory Council on Financial Capability to assist in financial education for all Americans. http:\/\/bit.ly\/eyqsNE<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oversaw the most sweeping food safety legislation since the Great Depression.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/2aiIPaS<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Through the Fraud Enforcement and Recovery Act, extended the False Claims Act to combat fraud by companies and individuals using money from TARP and Stimulus programs.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/SLTcSa<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Set up rules for banks in handling legal marijuana money. http:\/\/nyti.ms\/1b80o2K<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Added greater protections to consumer financial transactions to reduce identity theft.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1pjfUFq<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Took steps to prevent pirate fishing and protect fish populations, and ordered stricter labeling requirements on labeling of seafood products in stores. http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1BYhTUn<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed the RAISE Act, which should encourage more people to open small businesses and help improve the economy.    http:\/\/bit.ly\/1QhTqkF<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed a bill that allows low-volume vehicle manufacturers that will increase entrepreneurship among small car manufacturers, who often build replicas of classics but who often build green vehicles.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/1QhTqkF<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signs an Executive Order to strengthen cooperation with regard to global entrepreneurship.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/294u5eI<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signs a law to allow \u201cordinary investors\u201d to help a company start up through crowdfunding.  http:\/\/n.pr\/299eZEn<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Blocks the merger of several health insurers to ensure that competition remains in the health insurance business.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/2cvHV9P<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signs a law to strengthen American economic competitiveness. ,  http:\/\/bit.ly\/2932zfA<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strengthened the Middle Class and Fought Poverty<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Worked to provide affordable, high-quality child care to working families.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/fNfidS<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, cut taxes for 95% of America\u2019s working families.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tax rates for average working families are the lowest since 1950.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/f74pD8<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Extended and fully funded the patch for the Alternative Minimum Tax for 10 years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Extended discounted health coverage under the COBRA health insurance law for the unemployed from 9 months to 15 months, and he\u2019s also extended unemployment benefits more than a few times.    http:\/\/aol.it\/evtVxD<\/a>http:\/\/nyti.ms\/emrqKJ <\/a>   http:\/\/bit.ly\/hOtIpg<\/a> http:\/\/bit.ly\/fTT7kz<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Provided  a $20 billion increase for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (Food Stamps). http:\/\/nyti.ms\/gfLqyM<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed an Executive Order that established the White House Office of Urban Affairs. http:\/\/wapo.st\/eWECA8<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Included the Buffet Rule in his 2014 budget proposal, in order to fulfill a campaign promise to make sure tax rates are fair between the rich and the middle class.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/19PkdQo<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Used the fiscal cliff negotiations to extend for five additional years the American Opportunity Tax Credit, which provides tax credits to families for college-related expenses, thus saving those families up to $10,000.  http:\/\/onforb.es\/17zYg3u<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Increased protections for the unemployed who are seeking a government job.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1jgXATu<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Updated and modernized overtime regulations under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1iGDO8e<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed and implemented the Healthy Hunger-Free Kids Act, to improve nutrition in schools and make children healthier.   http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/GAXkSk<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

To make college more affordable and accountable, will begin rating colleges with regard to affordability and value. http:\/\/bit.ly\/14Dn7UL<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Initiated a reform of federal job training programs, to make them more relevant to the current economy and the job market.   http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1kZLQHG<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Under Obama<\/strong>, the bottom 95% of taxpayers pay lower federal income taxes than at any time in the last 50 years, including under Reagan, or either Bush.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/1w1W8Ns<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed a presidential memorandum authorizing six weeks paid leave for all federal employees with a new baby and encouraged Congress to do the same for all workers.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/18613XA<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

2014 marked the first time since 1984 that unemployment dropped in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.   1.usa.gov\/1E25u0C<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Took steps to improve workplace safety by creating an Advisory Board to study workers\u2019 exposure to toxic substances. http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1M4s8IG<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Changed overtime rules to make it far more difficult for employers to avoid paying overtime to workers. http:\/\/politi.co\/1KHfiBe<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Changed rules for federal contractors, guaranteeing that all workers earn paid leave; this should affect about 300,000 workers.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1LcHZWl<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed a Hague Convention Agreement to make it easier to collect child support from parents wherever they are in the world.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Negotiated a law to finally replace \u201cNo Child Left Behind\u201d and remove much of the onerous government \u201coversight\u201d that caused children to stagnate, not improve, academically.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/1Up9pMl<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Addressed Civil Rights and Equality<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Formed a commission to examine and make recommendations for fixing the broken voting system. http:\/\/wapo.st\/16K0D<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Created a Civil Rights Division in the Justice Department that has become a very strong voice for Black people.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/1ObO7TI<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

At a press conference August 9, 2013, gave up some executive power, promising to create adversarial process in FISA regarding NSA surveillance. http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1dQmnyQ<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Proposed rules to enhance Fair Housing Laws, to give HUD and other enforcement agencies more enforcement power. http:\/\/bit.ly\/1qkz4uQ<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ordered a review of capital punishment policies after several botched executions. http:\/\/nyti.ms\/RDJp58<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Approved $1.2 billion discrimination settlement with black farmers who had proved USDA bias.  http:\/\/huff.to\/1Nol9Ab<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Appointed Kareem Dale as the first ever Special Assistant to the President<\/strong> for Disability Policy. http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/fi5IY0<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Concentrated immigration enforcement on those who commit crimes, and vowed to stop breaking up families.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1uTZ8gV<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Streamlined the visa process, to make it more responsive and humane for those who want to be here legally. http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1tgDRti<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Took steps to tighten the reins when it comes to providing local law enforcement agencies with military-style equipment and exercising more control over the equipment they receive.   http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1ATWV3K<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Changed fair housing rules to make more affordable housing available to more people.  http:\/\/cnn.it\/1JcR3qB<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helped Democrats in Congress pass and signed the Civil Rights History Act. http:\/\/bit.ly\/th0JC8<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Created a Policing Task Force to deal with the problems that led to the #BlackLivesMatter movement.  http:\/\/nbcnews.to\/1T17PON<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

His Justice Department investigated the Ferguson Police Department twice and slammed them for their racism and exploitive practices.  http:\/\/nbcnews.to\/1q9jTpf<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Established the White House Council of Native American Affairs, to improve government-to-government relations with Native American nations. http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1cIEeEv<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Limited local police acquisitions of military-style equipment, to reduce the likelihood of overkill.   http:\/\/n.pr\/1NGkBjT<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed Blue Alert Law, which provides police officers with more information when they are threatened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Blocked the sale of Apache tribal land to foreign mining company, over Republican objections.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/1RYpmfihttp:\/\/bit.ly\/1RYpmfi<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Settled with the City of Cleveland over civil rights and excessive force violations.   http:\/\/nbcnews.to\/24GRQNw<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reviewed the practices of the Philadelphia Police Department and made 91 recommendations to prevent civil rights and excessive  force violations.   http:\/\/on.msnbc.com\/1q9ktmX<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed a law to modernize the way the federal government refers to minorities, removing certain archaic terms from the vocabulary.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/291BeIL<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Took steps to treat opioid addiction as a health issue rather than purely as a law enforcement issue.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/2ccokd3<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed a law to better protect children in tribal foster care.  http:\/\/strib.mn\/293Gyky<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Blocked an oil pipeline in South Dakota that would have devastated sacred Sioux land.  http:\/\/theatln.tc\/2cmmmqb<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Improved Workers\u2019 Rights<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

He issued final rules that require all employers to prominently post employees\u2019 rights where all employees or prospective employees can see it, including all websites and intranets.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/qu2EhQ<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Obama<\/strong>\u2019s Equal Employment Opportunity Commission clarified and strengthened rules prohibiting discrimination against pregnant workers.  http:\/\/alj.am\/1mo0kjV<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Required companies who bid on federal contracts larger than $500,000 to publicly disclose all previous violations of labor law, including unpaid claims for back wages.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/V54qY3<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Made it illegal for federal contractors with more than $1 million in contracts to force employees into arbitration in workplace discrimination accusations.   http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/V54qY3<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Vetoed Republican bill that would have blocked new NLRB rules that were designed to speed up the time it takes workers to unionize.   http:\/\/reut.rs\/1agujMO<\/a>  He also added a Memorandum of Disagreement to make his reasons for the veto clear and made a major statement in support of unions.   http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1NG7RuA<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cracked down on companies that were previously denying sick pay, vacation and health insurance, and Social Security and Medicare tax payments through abuse of the employee classification of independent contractor.   http:\/\/nyti.ms\/fOGLcj<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed law that bans imports of goods produced through forced labor.  http:\/\/nbcnews.to\/1RuJu2y<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Protected the Rights of LGBT People<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed and implemented the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act, which made it a federal crime to assault anyone based on his or her sexual orientation or gender identity.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/gsMSJ7<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oversaw and implemented the repeal of the reprehensible \u201cDon\u2019t Ask Don\u2019t Tell\u201d policy.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/fdahuH<\/a>http:\/\/bit.ly\/mZV4Pz<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Extended benefits to same-sex partners of federal employees.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/g2RLCj<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Appointed more openly gay officials than anyone in history.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/g1lA7D<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Appointed first openly transgender Cabinet Official in History.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/58zUp7<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Advocated that United Nations adopt a policy supporting gay rights worldwide.  http:\/\/lat.ms\/pQe1RS<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

As soon as the Supreme Court invalidated the Defense of Marriage Act, he moved to extend federal benefits to same-sex couples.   http:\/\/wapo.st\/1avDjue<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Issued an order requiring hospitals to allow visitation by same-sex couples.   http:\/\/reut.rs\/llNJek<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Changed HUD rules to prohibit gender and sexual orientation-based discrimination in housing  bit.ly\/9RxEnP<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Changed his mind and publicly expressed support for same-sex marriage. http:\/\/bit.ly\/JsiFKp<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Issued a Presidential Memorandum reaffirming the rights of gay couples to make medical decisions for each other. http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/aUueGT<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Appointed several prominent gay athletes and others, and plans to show US government\u2019s commitment to gay rights to anti-gay Russia. http:\/\/on.cpsj.com\/1fckN9h<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Department of Agriculture propagated new rules to better enforce non-discrimination when it comes to USDA investigations and to extend non-discrimination to gender identity.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/1yChJhi<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Banned all federal contractors from discriminating against gay workers.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1ok1gfH<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Persevered with his campaign to turn \u201cgay marriage\u201d into \u201cmarriage\u201d and won in the Supreme Court. http:\/\/cbsloc.al\/1M4qLKb<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Improved Conditions for Women<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Establishing the White House Council on Women and Girls to ensure that all Cabinet and Cabinet-level agencies consider the effect of their policies and programs on women and families.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/e1puTk<\/a>   http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/rFfqMM<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Implemented the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, which restored basic protections against pay discrimination for women and other workers. http:\/\/bit.ly\/fT3Cxg<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Eliminated federal funding for abstinence-only education, and rescinded the global gag rule. http:\/\/bit.ly\/eCFAI1  http:\/\/bit.ly\/f92drF<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Improved the Paycheck Fairness Act, making it possible for employees to talk about their salaries without retaliation, and ordering salary data collection, so as to make it harder for employers to pay women less.   http:\/\/huff.to\/1nwVOWf<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed an Executive Order pledging support for efforts to end the global problem of violence against women and girls.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/MHTRVU<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shattered another glass ceiling by naming Janet Yellen chair of the Federal Reserve beginning Feb. 1, 2014. http:\/\/usat.ly\/1gqMBfk<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Expanded funding for the Violence Against Women Act. http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/dSbI0x<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ordered companies with 100 employees or more to disclose pay data based on race and gender, to address the pay gap.  http:\/\/theatln.tc\/1Q04XPL<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signs law restoring Arlington Cemetery burial rights for women pilots in World War II.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/293rmjb<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Addressed Criminal Justice Failings and the Gun Culture<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Made significant reductions in drug sentencing guidelines for current prisoners.   http:\/\/n.pr\/1mWBLkM<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oversaw the first drop in the federal prison population in 32 years. http:\/\/bit.ly\/1B5h8rW<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Increased his use of clemency to release thousands of non-violent drug offenders from prison.  http:\/\/nyti.ms\/1KE8DJG<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ordered a ban on solitary confinement for juvenile offenders in federal prisons.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/20ObRzA<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Took executive action to promote smart gun technology, to make them safer.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1RhK1tU<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

After a failure by Congress to act, proposed executive orders to create more background checks and to fully staff the background check system.  http:\/\/cnn.it\/1JXmUg6<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Relaxed HIPAA rules enough to allow for more information to be available to the background check system.    http:\/\/on.wsj.com\/SX9xaZ<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ordered the tracing of guns as part of criminal investigations to provide data to researchers.  http:\/\/on.wsj.com\/SX9xaZ<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Order the Justice Department to look at the categories of mental health problems prohibited from owning guns to make sure people aren\u2019t falling through the cracks, getting guns.   http:\/\/onforb.es\/1nUAGw3<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Expanded the definitions of gun dealers and expanded the information available and required in background checks for firearm purchases.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/1K5aXee<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Set up a task force to figure out what other measures can be taken to limit gun violence in the wake of Congressional inaction.   http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1QjYMGJ<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed bill to improve protections for correctional officers and their families.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/1SMCi4W<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Changed the playing field on criminal justice reform by commuting sentences of low-level criminals and signaling a more practical footing.   http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1YclW7f<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signaled major shift away from the failed \u201cDrug War\u201d by promising to commit more than $1 billion to combat addiction.   http:\/\/2wsb.tv\/1SMBQUv<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Improved Treatment of Soldiers and Veterans<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Provided active combat troops with better body armor.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/hzSv2h<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Created a Joint Virtual Lifetime Electronic Record program for military personnel, in order http:\/\/abcn.ws\/1ghLrEshttp:\/\/abcn.ws\/1ghLrEs<\/a> to improve the quality of their medical care.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/f4yaxW<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Put an end to the Bush-era stop-loss policy that kept soldiers in Iraq\/Afghanistan beyond their enlistment date. http:\/\/nyti.ms\/e2YQ7Q<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed and implemented Veterans Health Care Budget Reform and Transparency Act, making more money available to enable better medical care for veterans. http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/fN4ur1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

With Congressional Democrats, oversaw largest spending increase in 30 years for Department of Veterans Affairs, for improved medical and extended care facilities for veterans.    http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/gY8O3x<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Implemented the Green Vet Initiative, which provides special funding to provide veterans with training in green jobs.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Initiated and signed a recruitment and employment plan to get more veterans into government jobs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oversaw a $4.6 billion expansion of the Veterans Administration budget to pay for more mental health professionals.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/gjzTxX<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed the Military Spouses Residency Relief Act, which ensures that spouses of military personnel who are forced to move because their spouse is posted for military duty can avoid state taxes in their temporary residence.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/1Gh0NX<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ordered improvements to access to mental health care for veterans, military personnel and their families.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/TP7PVZ<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Got Syria to dismantle its chemical weapons without military firing a single shot or dropping a single bomb. http:\/\/nyti.ms\/1lVEkU7<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Along with Congressional Democrats, not only reauthorized families of fallen soldiers to be able to visit when the body arrives at Dover AFB, but also provided funding for it.  Ended the media blackout on coverage of the return of fallen soldiers.  http:\/\/nyti.ms\/glqN66  http:\/\/bbc.in\/gWSSkA<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Funded Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) with an extra $1.4 billion to improve veterans\u2019 services.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/huhqfo<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed into law a bill that provides support, counseling, and breastfeeding supplies to military moms who are covered under TRICARE, the health insurance provided to veterans.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/1yNxL8O<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed into law a bill that makes it easier for military dogs to retire at home with their handlers.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/1J78Y2U<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Improved America\u2019s Reputation Around the World<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visited more countries and met with more world leaders than any previous president<\/strong> during his first six months in office.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/hZycda<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

As he promised, he gave a speech at a major Islamic forum in Cairo early in his administration. http:\/\/nyti.ms\/dKvY4g<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Made a speech at a US mosque to demonstrate his commitment to religious rights and send a message to Muslims around the world.   http:\/\/cnn.it\/1PGU1uI<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Restored America\u2019s reputation around the world as a global leader.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/h743y7<\/a>http:\/\/bit.ly\/ho4TCr<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Re-established and reinforced our partnership with NATO and other allies on strategic international issues.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/e7QuDj<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Closed a number of secret detention facilities. http:\/\/nyti.ms\/rpUc9l<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Improved relations with Middle East countries by appointing special envoys. http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/tiGAGe<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pushed forward the first realistic Middle East peace strategy in more than a decade, without abandoning the two-state solution. http:\/\/wapo.st\/1avyste<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pushed for military to emphasize greater development of foreign language skills.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/AxUCLV<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Offered $400 million to the people living in Gaza, while calling on both Israel and the Palestinians to stop inciting violence.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/9axfWh<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Refused to give Israel the green light to attack Iran over their possible nuclear program.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/xVmSZK<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ordered the closure of the prison at Guantanamo Bay, although blocked by Congress.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/eW6CVF<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ordered a review of our detention and interrogation policy and prohibited the use of \u201cenhanced interrogation.\u201d   http:\/\/bit.ly\/g6MTuC<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ordered all secret detention facilities in Eastern Europe and elsewhere to be closed. http:\/\/bbc.in\/h6N9ax<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Released the Bush torture memos.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/hWJ5z0<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

On his second day in office, banned torture, reversed all Bush torture policies and brought the US into full compliance with the Geneva Convention. http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/dL6Zve<\/a>http:\/\/nyti.ms\/hzWWys<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In response to the emerging \u201cArab Spring,\u201d he created a Rapid Response fund, to assist emerging democracies with foreign aid, debt relief, technical assistance and investment packages in order to show that the United States stands with them. http:\/\/bit.ly\/zfmGv9<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ended the F-22 program, saving $4 billion. Though the 187 aircraft cost $358 million each to build, it had never flown a combat mission. http:\/\/slate.me\/PYzmzT<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Passed the Iran Sanctions Act, to prevent war and encourage the Iranian government to give up their nuclear program. http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/wLtNjb<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ended the Iraq War. http:\/\/tgr.ph\/ru0tyS<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Worked to keep our withdrawal from Afghanistan on track, despite GOP opposition. http:\/\/reut.rs\/1cIOsF1<\/a> Reiterated that commitment in 2014. http:\/\/nyti.ms\/1exnmRF<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Conducted a secret mission by SEAL Team Six to rescue two hostages held by Somali pirates.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/y8c9Fz<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Through United Nations Ambassador Susan Rice, helped negotiate a peaceful split of Sudan into two countries, creating an independent South Sudan.   http:\/\/reut.rs\/qzE0Tj<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helped make donations to Haiti tax deductible in 2009. http:\/\/huff.to\/6YkAVY<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Established a new U.S.-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue.   http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/eX28DP<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Issued Executive Order blocking interference and helping to stabilize Somalia. http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/hxdf8U<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Established new, more reasonable policies in our relations with Cuba, such as allowing Cuban-Americans to visit their families and send money to support them.  http:\/\/n.pr\/hY3Kwa<\/a>    http:\/\/nyti.ms\/emQBde<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The new policies in Cuba led to thawed relations and the first US Embassy in Cuba in more than 55 years.  http:\/\/abcn.ws\/1ghLrEs<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Became the first U.S. President<\/strong> to visit Cuba in more than 80 years. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Negotiated a deal with Iran that will prevent them from getting a nuclear weapon anytime soon, without firing a shot or invading the country.   http:\/\/cnn.it\/1M3Hpvv<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

As a result of the Iran agreement, Iran shipped pretty much all of it nuclear material to Russia.   http:\/\/nyti.ms\/1PrzLty<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Became the first US President<\/strong> to visit Jamaica in more than 30 years, worked to restore relations with the country and signed a natural gas distribution agreement with the country.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/1JtpFqi<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signs law extending some privacy protections to US allies, a reversal of the Bush practice of spying on people like Angela Merkel and the like.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/1VZza6w<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Committed resources to expand food availability worldwide in an attempt to limit the scope of global hunger.   http:\/\/fandw.me\/2czf6YG<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Instituted Power Africa, an initiative to bring electrical generation to greater parts of the African continent.    http:\/\/bbc.in\/1QtYVud<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Changed US Approach to \u201cDefense\u201d and National Security<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Created a comprehensive new strategy for dealing with the international nuclear threat. http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/gDX1nE<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Authorized a $1.4 billion reduction in Star Wars program in 2010. http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/gLFZl2<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Restarted nuclear nonproliferation talks and built up the nuclear inspection infrastructure\/protocols to where they had been before Bush.   http:\/\/lat.ms\/gkcl3i<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed and got ratification of a new SALT Treaty.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/f3JVtw<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Negotiated and signed a new START Treaty that will stay in force until at least 2021.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/cI1bC4<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Committed the US to no permanent military bases in Iraq.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/hk73OJ<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Developed a comprehensive strategy with regard to Afghanistan and Pakistan designed to facilitate the defeat of al Qaeda, the withdrawal of most troops and the rebuilding of Afghanistan.  http:\/\/wapo.st\/ee4Xcs<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Re-focused on Afghanistan, stabilized the country, and began the process of withdrawing  troops from the country. http:\/\/bit.ly\/lNXUna<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Negotiated a deal with Afghan government, to withdraw troops and military support, while assisting in rebuilding and modernizing of the country.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/K362an<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Took steps to severely weaken al Qaeda and limited their ability to terrorize the world. http:\/\/yhoo.it\/n5lXs6<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Negotiated and signed a nuclear nonproliferation treaty with India.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/aHp0Cn<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Worked with NATO to limit the slaughter of innocents in Libya, so that Libyans could topple the despotic Khadaffy government and determine their own fate.  http:\/\/aje.me\/qAh4Sj<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Got Egyptian President<\/strong>\/dictator Mubarak to leave the Egyptian government to the people, to determine their own fate.    http:\/\/f24.my\/efvgNZ<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2011, reoriented American focus from the Middle East to the Asian-Pacific region by simultaneously engaging China and crafting new alliances with Asian countries uncomfortable with Chinese behavior.    http:\/\/bit.ly\/RGlMDi<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Restored federal agencies such as FEMA to the point that they have been able to manage a huge number of natural disasters successfully.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/h8Xj7z<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Increased border security http:\/\/bit.ly\/1JQDGz9<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ordered and oversaw the Navy SEALS operation that killed Osama bin Laden.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/jChpgw<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Established the Homeland Security Partnership Council, to enhance the nation\u2019s ability to \u201caddress homeland security priorities, from responding to natural disasters to preventing terrorism, by utilizing diverse perspectives, skills, tools, and resources.\u201d http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/VJjLXO<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed agreement with Afghanistan to end war, turn security over to Afghans. http:\/\/nyti.ms\/1xSjgBd<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Breaking with recent presidential tradition, instead of just attacking Syria in the wake of chemical weapons attacks on Syrians, Obama<\/strong> ordered a full report on the decision-making process.  http:\/\/cbsn.ws\/184RFgu<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Instead of holding hearings and creating a political football, he quietly captured a suspect who actually committed the Benghazi terrorist attack.  http:\/\/wapo.st\/1jFlmzv<\/a>  He is also getting a lot of useful information from the suspect.  http:\/\/nyti.ms\/UfE2Ka<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Instituted rules to order sanctions against individuals and groups that threaten national cybersecurity.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1HWcGMG<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Instituted tougher new sanctions against North Korea after threats of nuclear attack and several tests.   http:\/\/cbsn.ws\/1L8L5hW<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Got Congress to reauthorize FAA spending and to improve the efficiency of air travel for passengers.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/2cJZLrA<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Took concrete steps to improve our counter-terrorism efforts.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/1RATjAh<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Making great strides in defeating the Islamic State without committing hundreds of thousands of troops or carpet bombing civilians, against Republican objections. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Improved Education and Educational Opportunities<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, invested heavily in elementary, secondary and post-secondary education.   http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/gGRIAr<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Created the Race to the Top program, which encouraged states to come up with effective school reforms and rewards the best of them.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/NHtZ7L<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oversaw major expansion of broadband availability in K-12 schools nationwide.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/fNDcj3<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oversaw major expansion in school construction.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/fYwNrV<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed an executive order that expanded recognition and funding for historically black colleges and universities.  http:\/\/on.thegrio.com\/1rD50gc<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, put $5 billion into early education, including Head Start. http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/tzT2Rr<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed the Democratic-sponsored Post-9\/11 GI Bill, also known as GI Bill 2.0, to improve veterans\u2019 access to education.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/hPhG7J<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oversaw expansion of the Pell Grants program, to expand opportunity for low and middle income students to go to college.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/hI6tXz<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed and implemented the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, which provided an extra $12.2 billion in funds.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/dQvtUe<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Took major new steps to protect students from ineffective for-profit colleges through \u201cgainful employment\u201d measures, whereby schools have to demonstrate that its students actually find work to get federal aid.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/jkzQe2<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Repeatedly increased funding for student financial aid, and at the same time cut the banks completely out of the process, thus us creating greater accountability.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/gYWd30  <\/a>http:\/\/bit.ly\/e9c7Dr<\/a> http:\/\/bit.ly\/eEzTNq<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reformed student loan program, to make it possible for students to refinance at a lower rate.  http:\/\/nyti.ms\/dMvHOt<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Created a rating system for colleges, so that those applying for student financial aid know better what they\u2019re paying for.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/14Dn7UL<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Led a bipartisan effort to reform the federal approach to education and essentially repeal \u201cNo Child Left Behind.\u201d   http:\/\/cbsn.ws\/2780qXu<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Restored the Adult View on Science and Technology<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Created a Presidential Memorandum to restore scientific integrity in government decision-making. http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/g2SDuw<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Opened up the process for fast-tracking patent approval for green energy projects. http:\/\/bit.ly\/j0KV2U<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, committed more federal funding, about $18 billion, to support non-defense science and research labs.  http:\/\/nyti.ms\/fTs9t7<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Obama<\/strong> EPA reversed research ethics standards which allowed humans to be used as \u201cguinea pigs\u201d in tests of the effects of chemicals, to comply with numerous codes of medical ethics.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/bKgqdS<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Conducted a cyberspace policy review.   http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/gmbdvC<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Provided financial support for private sector space programs. http:\/\/bit.ly\/fn8ucr<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oversaw enhanced earth mapping, to provide valuable data for agricultural, educational, scientific, and government use.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/dNTRyP<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Through American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, provided $500 million for Health Professions Training Programs.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/ecQSgA<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Increased funding for community-based prevention programs.    http:\/\/bit.ly\/frMPG3<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Expanded space exploration and discovery options to include more players.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/13qmZpm<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Through the Connect America Fund, pushed through and received FCC approval for a move of $8 billion in subsidies away from telephone landlines to assist lower-income rural families in accessing broadband.   http:\/\/lat.ms\/vhRUEs<\/a> http:\/\/bit.ly\/129V3SY<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the wake of the West Fertilizer tragedy, formed the Chemical Safety and Security Working Group, to work on measures to prevent another such events.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/18kHSlA<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Established a Cyber Threat Intelligence Integration Center, a recommendation made by the 9\/11 Commission, to coordinate efforts to fight cyber-crime and terrorism.    http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1A0aEoS<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Obama<\/strong> FCC, with his leadership, adopted strong net neutrality rules, to keep the Internet open and equal for everyone.   http:\/\/fcc.us\/1MhTlIA<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ordered rules to speed up deployment of a more comprehensive broadband infrastructure.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/M7rVpe<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Set up a National Strategic Computing Initiative, to \u201cmaximize benefits of high-performance computing (HPC) research, development, and deployment.\u201d    http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1IN3FZa<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ordered a federal level change in national earthquake standards. http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1T5wGoR<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed executive orders designed to strengthen government cybersecurity and prevent hackers from getting in.   http:\/\/usat.ly\/1R0saIt<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Took steps to combat the effects of climate change by committing the U.S. to developing long-term drought resilience measures.   http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1SMCuRY<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Started the road to greater exploration of space by signing bill to encourage mining on asteroids and clarifying property rights in space.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/1RV2la9<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Officially joined the Paris Climate Accords, thus strengthening the effort and making it a more powerful commitment to climate change.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/2bYQQT9<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Improved Our Health and Safety<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Eliminated Bush-era restrictions on embryonic stem cell research, and provided increased federal support for biomedical and stem cell research.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/h36SSO<\/a>http:\/\/ti.me\/edezge<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed Democratic-sponsored Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Act, the first comprehensive attempt to improve the lives of Americans living with paralysis.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/fOi2rb<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Expanded the Nurse-Family Partnership program, which provides home visits by trained registered nurses to low-income expectant mothers and their families, to cover more first-time mothers.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/jRRRJc<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ordered that all vehicles be equipped with a rear-view camera by 2018, despite car makers\u2019 complaints about cost.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/2c3jAZi<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Along with Democrats in Congress, ushered through and signed a bill authorizing FDA to regulate tobacco and order tobacco companies to disclose their ingredients and to ban cigarettes falsely labeled as \u201clight.\u201d   http:\/\/on.msnbc.com\/fiKViB<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Has overseen a 50% decrease in cost of prescription drugs for seniors. http:\/\/bit.ly\/e5b1iq<\/a>  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/fVNkt9<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Eliminated the Bush-era practice of forbidding Medicare from negotiating with drug companies on price. http:\/\/bit.ly\/fOkG5b<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Two weeks after taking office, signed Democratic-sponsored Children\u2019s Health Insurance Reauthorization Act, which increased the number of children covered by health insurance by 4 million.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/fDEzGv<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Urged Congress to investigate Anthem Blue Cross for raising premiums 39% without explanation.   http:\/\/yhoo.it\/e8Tj9C<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pushed through and signed Affordable Care Act, which expanded health insurance coverage greatly and ended many detrimental insurance company practices.  He also established healthcare.gov.  http:\/\/www.healthcare.gov\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Through ACA, allowed children to be covered under their parents\u2019 policy until they turned 26.  http:\/\/nyti.ms\/fNB26V<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Through the ACA, provided tax breaks to allow 3.5 million small businesses to provide health insurance to their employees. http:\/\/nyti.ms\/fNB26V<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Through the ACA, millions of people receive help in paying their health insurance company premiums.  http:\/\/nyti.ms\/fNB26V<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Through the ACA, expanded Medicaid to those making up to 133% of the federal poverty level. http:\/\/nyti.ms\/ekMWpo<\/a> (Note: except for those states whose Republicans refused to take the extra money.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

By 2014, the Affordable Care Act dropped the number of uninsured Americans by 22.3%, which amounts to more than 10.3 million people with insurance who didn\u2019t have it before. Only 13.9% of Americans are uninsured, a drop from 18.9% in 2013.  http:\/\/on.msnbc.com\/1r4kjGn<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Affordable Care Act has increased the life expectancy of Medicare greatly. http:\/\/on.wsj.com\/1yuNco6<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Through the ACA, health insurance companies now have to disclose how much of your premium actually goes to pay for patient care.  http:\/\/nyti.ms\/fNB26V<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Medicare costs actually declined slightly, for the first time in decades in 2011, according to the Congressional Budget Office. http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/oMxpTh<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since passage of the ACA, health care inflation is at its lowest level since 1960. http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1vXR0Ld<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Created the HIV Care Continuum Initiative, to strengthen the government\u2019s ability to respond to the continuing domestic HIV epidemic, after years of Republicans weakening the government\u2019s ability to deal with the crisis.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1iLED0t<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed bill that will provide health insurance premium support to workers who lose their health insurance due to foreign competition.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/1evvVDF<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In response to the confusion triggered by the Hobby Lobby decision, which essentially declared that corporations could have \u201creligious rights\u201d and lord them over employees, created new rules to give all women with insurance the right to free birth control.   http:\/\/on.wsj.com\/1O44a1t<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Implemented the National HIV\/AIDS Strategy for 2015-2020, which is a follow-up to the first such strategy in US history, which he implemented in 2010.    http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1IXknHm<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Took steps to improve the country\u2019s approach to drug addiction and mental health. http:\/\/bit.ly\/2cJTHQ9<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed and will implement new child safety standards for e-cigarettes.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/1XaFCIS<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Put into place the first mandatory rules regarding labeling of products containing genetically modified organisms (GMO) http:\/\/bit.ly\/2ciVlH7<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Set up a White House Cancer Moonshot Task Force, in order to implement ways to develop a cure for cancer.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/20AeKY4<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Took steps to improve detection and treatment of mental health problems.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/25HEDp5<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed Trevor\u2019s Law, which will allow for better tracking and study of cancer and disease clusters.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/297uFJK<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed a memorandum of understanding with Cuba to share healthcare information.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/29mCojf<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Addressed the Environment While Dealing with Energy Needs<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Doubled federal spending on clean energy research. http:\/\/bit.ly\/iN0sCE<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pushed through a tax credit to help people buy plug-in hybrid cars.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/j8UP5Y<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Created a program to develop renewable energy projects on the waters of our Outer Continental Shelf that will produce electricity from wind, wave, and ocean currents.   http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/fgfRWq<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reengaged in the climate change and greenhouse gas emissions agreements talks, and proposed one himself. He also addressed the U.N. Climate Change Conference, officially reversing the Bush era stance that climate change was a \u201choax.\u201d  http:\/\/bit.ly\/dX6Vj3 <\/a>  http:\/\/bit.ly\/fE2PxK<\/a>  http:\/\/nyti.ms\/hfeqvv<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fully supported the initial phase of the creation of a legally-binding treaty to reduce mercury emissions worldwide.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/eJ6QOO<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Required states to provide incentives to utilities to reduce their energy consumption.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/lBhk7P<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Under Obama<\/strong>, our dependence on foreign oil has dropped to its lowest rate since 1985, and continues to drop. http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1p6kTUy <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meanwhile, oil consumption is way down because of reduced driving and higher mileage standards. http:\/\/ti.me\/1z4HFG8<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Improved siting, review and permitting stations for power plants, in an attempt to seriously improve the nation\u2019s electric grid.   http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1l8zNqn<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reengaged in a number of treaties and agreements designed to protect the Antarctic.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/fzQUFO<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Created tax write-offs for purchases of hybrid and electric vehicles.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/glCukV<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Established a quadrennial review of our energy infrastructure, to encourage a modernization of the grid, and to encourage the transition away from fossil fuel use.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1nx2oMo<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mandated that federal government fleet purchases be for fuel-efficient American vehicles, and encouraged that federal agencies support experimental, fuel-efficient vehicles.   http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/hmUSbk<\/a> http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/fLWq5c<\/a> http:\/\/bit.ly\/h5KZqy<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Encouraged BP to pay $20 billion to establish Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund, to reduce the need for taxpayer funds to be used for compensation and clean up.   http:\/\/wapo.st\/ds2BxT<\/a> (Note: it took 20 years to get $1.3 billion for the Exxon Valdez spill. )<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oversaw and pushed through an amendment to the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 authorizing advances from Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund for the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/yTRYVo<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Actively tried to amend the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 to eliminate the liability limits for those companies responsible for large oil spills. http:\/\/nyti.ms\/bxjDi3<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Became the first President<\/strong> to simply say \u201cClimate Change is a fact,\u201d and set up the first federal government protocols for dealing with the impacts of climate change.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1b7V67B<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Initiated Criminal and Civil inquiries into the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.  http:\/\/nyti.ms\/bVuB7a<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Asserted federal legal supremacy to bar Texas from authorizing new refinery permits on its own.http:\/\/bit.ly\/ww8eMd<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Set up new, stricter standards severely limiting power plant emissions, curring them to 68% of 2005 levels by 2030.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1mML2M3<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strengthened the Endangered Species Act.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/hscjsH<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strengthened protection for wildlife, and expanded enforcement of laws against wildlife trafficking.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1fce1Ai<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Obama<\/strong> EPA improved boiler safety standards to improve air quality, and save 6500 lives per year. http:\/\/bit.ly\/jYH7nt<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Through the EPA, attemped to take steps to severely limit the use of antibiotics in livestock feed, to increase their efficacy in humans. http:\/\/bit.ly\/fBuWd2<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Through new EPA regulations, he created a pretext for closing the dirtiest power plants in the country, by limiting emissions of mercury and other toxic gasses.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/rQCIgA<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Increased funding for National Parks and Forests by 10%  http:\/\/bit.ly\/fbJPjY<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Announced greatly improved commercial fuel efficiency standards.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/oQiC1K<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed a bill that allowed for increased regulations of a large number of chemicals and other toxic materials, allowing the EPA to make the use of certain toxic materials more transparent.  http:\/\/usat.ly\/2911hA4<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Announced a huge increase in average fuel economy standards from 27.5mpg in 2010 to 35.5mpg starting in 2016 and 54.5 starting in 2025   http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/qtghsW<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Facilitated investment in industrial energy efficiency to create jobs and strengthen US manufacturing while saving businesses $100 billion over a decade.   http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/WsIgbx<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Set up the Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council to oversee Gulf Coast restoration efforts after the 2010 BP oil spill. The money to fund the restoration efforts comes from fines against BP.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/Rxjb29<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Engaged in the most comprehensive plan to combat climate change in a generation. http:\/\/bit.ly\/13lXhET<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ordered energy plants to prepare to produce at least 15% of all energy through renewable resources like wind and solar, by 2021. http:\/\/reut.rs\/fV155p<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oversaw the creation of an initiative that converts old factories and manufacturing centers into new clean technology centers. http:\/\/bit.ly\/mjnq2R<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Guided a 418% increase in solar power capacity between 2010 and 2014.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/1rHkWJC<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

As of May 2015, 74% of new electrical capacity was provided by solar and wind power.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/1T5r0LC<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bypassed Congress and ordered EPA to begin regulating and measuring carbon emissions.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/froaP5<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oversaw a tripling in the use of wind power to generate electricity. The US now leads the world in increased wind power capacity. http:\/\/www.worldwatch.org\/node\/5448<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ordered the federal government to incorporate climate resilience and climate science into all international development in which the United States engages.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/YV1EpW<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fast-tracked regulations to allow states to enact fuel efficiency standards that exceeded federal standards.    http:\/\/nyti.ms\/e8e94x<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fast-tracked increased fuel economy standards for vehicles beginning with the 2011 model year. It was the first time such standards had been increased in more than a decade.   http:\/\/politi.co\/hiaPKM<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oversaw establishment of an Energy Partnership for the Americas, to create more markets for American-made biofuels and green energy technologies. http:\/\/bit.ly\/lZp73y<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Obama<\/strong> EPA reversed a Bush-era decision to allow the largest mountaintop removal project in US history.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/lP3yEL<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ordered the Department of Energy to implement more aggressive efficiency standards for common household appliances.    http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/g3MTbu<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Obama<\/strong> EPA ruled that excess CO2 is a pollutant. http:\/\/bit.ly\/iQTSNN<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Closed a deal with China to limit carbon emissions to slow down climate change.  http:\/\/nyti.ms\/1xzyS8K<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Blocked all oil and gas drilling in Bristol Bay, Alaska, one of the most pristine environments in North America  http:\/\/lat.ms\/13xUVFD<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed an Executive Order to improve environmental efforts in the Arctic region and to combat climate change by better coordinating the efforts of the 23 federal agencies operating in the area.   http:\/\/usat.ly\/ZEzLzE<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Vetoed a bill to fast track construction of the parallel Keystone XL pipeline. http:\/\/nbcnews.to\/1DVDFo7<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Expanded clean water regulations to more stringently protect all of the nation\u2019s waterways, even when states fail in their duty.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed an Executive Order committing the federal government to lead the way in building a sustainable economy. It\u2019s his fifth doing just that.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/1EzO2ne<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Banned the use of antibiotics in food served in US Government-run cafeterias and ordered agencies to only use antibiotic-free meat. http:\/\/bit.ly\/1KHkl4N<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Developed new rules to address climate change and to create a significant boost to clean energy.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/1UnQcuR<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Negotiated and signed a virtually Republican-Proof global agreement on climate change, with 190 countries signing on.    http:\/\/bit.ly\/1RkjVG8<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Became one of 196 countries that signed onto a UN Framework on Climate Change.  http:\/\/unfccc.int\/2860.php<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ordered a moratorium on new coal leasing on federal land, and they will examine the whole leasing process.  http:\/\/wapo.st\/23Q6en8<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed a bill to better protect pipelines and to authorize greater oversight.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/291woja<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed an order turning more than 87,000 acres of Maine Woods into the North Woods National Monument.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/2ciWDCc<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed into law a measure directing the Department of Transportation to issue guidelines for minimum standards for underground storage of natural gas.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/291AdjL<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

There\u2019s a Lot More!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nominated Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan to the Supreme Court. Sotomayor is the first Hispanic Justice in the court\u2019s history, and the women represent only the third and fourth women to serve on the court, out of a total of 112 justices.  http:\/\/huff.to\/eOChg6<\/a>http:\/\/bit.ly\/i02wgP<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Appointed the most diverse Cabinet in history, including more women than any other incoming president<\/strong>.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/dX6vNB<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Loosened the rules and allowed the 14 states that legalized medical marijuana to regulate themselves without federal interference.   http:\/\/huff.to\/eQfa7j<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed national service legislation, increasing funding for national service groups, including triple the size of the Americorps program.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/idgQH5<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed a bill that provided $4.3 billion in additional assistance to 9\/11 first responders.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/o7cWYS<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Placed major restrictions on the ivory trade in a bid to prevent the wholesale slaughter of elephants in Africa.  http:\/\/ti.me\/292Z4Gg<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed a bill that will seriously curb the use of animal testing and establish alternative testing methods.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/28Z5AuS<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signed the Claims Resolution Act, which provided $4.6 billion in funding for a legal settlement with black and Native American farmers who had been cheated out of government loans and natural resource royalties in the past.  http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/dGppUa<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

To help those communities devastated by Hurricane Sandy, issued an executive order setting up the Hurricane Sandy Rebuilding Task Force, and asked Congress to approve $60 billion in supplemental assistance to aid in storm recovery. http:\/\/1.usa.gov\/134L7hl<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Produced 23 Executive actions designed to make it easier for law enforcement to identify those who shouldn\u2019t have guns, thus helping them enforce the law.   http:\/\/on.wsj.com\/SX9xaZ<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Expanded trade agreements to include stricter labor and environmental agreements in trade pacts like NAFTA.  http:\/\/bit.ly\/etznpY<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oversaw funding of the design of a new Smithsonian National Museum of African American History, which is scheduled to open on the National Mall in 2015.  He protected the funding during budget negotiations. http:\/\/on.fb.me\/fD0EVO <\/a>http:\/\/bit.ly\/ff5Luv<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oversaw and passed increased funding for the National Endowment for the Arts.http:\/\/bit.ly\/dFb8qF<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Expanded the authority of Customs to improve enforcement of trade and customs laws and to better coordinate said enforcement among various agencies.   http:\/\/bit.ly\/1S5pun7<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

And Did You Know?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Despite the characterizations of some, Obama<\/strong>\u2019s success rate in winning congressional votes on issues was an unprecedented 96.7% for his first year in office.  Though he is often cited as superior to Obama<\/strong>, President<\/strong> Lyndon Johnson\u2019s success rate in 1965 was only 93%.   http:\/\/n.pr\/i3d7cY<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

And of course\u2026<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Despite the odds, became the first black president<\/strong> and then, was reelected by a wide margin.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

THE List of 386 Obama Accomplishments so far, With Citations This is a Reprint – NOT A Hood Research Publication In 2008, we elected the most progressive president in history. And regardless of the negativity, when you actually look at the record, there has been a lot of progress since January 20, 2009. If you\u2019ll recall, […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[28],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-242","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-papers"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/hoodresearch.org\/TTR\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/242","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/hoodresearch.org\/TTR\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/hoodresearch.org\/TTR\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hoodresearch.org\/TTR\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hoodresearch.org\/TTR\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=242"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/hoodresearch.org\/TTR\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/242\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":246,"href":"https:\/\/hoodresearch.org\/TTR\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/242\/revisions\/246"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/hoodresearch.org\/TTR\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=242"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hoodresearch.org\/TTR\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=242"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hoodresearch.org\/TTR\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=242"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}