Ryan: It's Time to Restore the American Dream

Speaking before a packed crowd on the USS Wisconsin in Norfolk, Virginia today, Rep. Paul Ryan proudly accepted his invitation to be Mitt Romney’s vice presidential nominee and running mate. The location of the announcement was picked based on Norfolk’s long history of defending freedom. The theme of the announcement was focused heavily on protecting and restoring the American Dream.

“It’s an honor to announce my running mate and the next [vice] president of the United States, Paul Ryan,” Romney said in front of a roaring crowd waving American flags.

Romney introduced Ryan as a man of character and principle, stressing his work in Washington D.C. to balance the budget rather than falling into the status quo of kicking the can down the road.

“His leadership begins with character and values. Paul is a man of tremendous character,” Romney said. “Although some people may disagree with him, I don’t know of anyone who doesn’t respect his character and judgment.”

Ryan, 42-years old and a 14-year member of Congress, started his remarks with jokes and smiles saying, “Right on the USS Wisconsin! Yeah!” and he immediately introduced his family.  

“I am deeply honored and excited to join you as your running mate,” Ryan said. “I’ve been asked by Governor Romney to serve the country that I love.”

Ryan and Romney both said we are at a crucial point in American history, with Ryan classifying President Obama as the problem while also holding fellow Republicans accountable for making “empty promises” that will bankrupt the future.

“It is our duty to save the American dream for our children and theirs,” Ryan said. “Our rights come from nature and God, not from government.”

Ryan also took direct jabs at President Obama’s own statements during his speech while offering Mitt Romney as a solution to restoring the American dream through individual empowerment.

““I’m proud to stand with a man who understands that if you have a small business, you did build that!” he said. “We will honor you, our fellow citizens, by giving you the right and opportunity to make the choice. What kind of country do we want to have? What kind of people do we want to be? We can turn this thing around. We can. We can turn this thing around, real solutions can be delivered. But it’ll take leadership and the courage to tell you the truth. Mitt Romney is this kind of leader.”

The current administration’s ongoing class warfare rhetoric was completely dismantled as Ryan pointed out the dishonesty of current policies and statements.

“America is a place where if you work hard, and play by the rules, you can get ahead……. We look at one another’s success with pride, not resentment. Because we know as more Americans works hard, take risks, succeed, more prosper,” Ryan said. ““We promised equal opportunity, not equal outcomes.”