VOA常速英语:华盛顿见证了历史性转变的一周

It is the end of an era, after 8 years in the White House,the country’s first black President Barack Obama, prepares to depart the stage.

Obama struck an optimistic tone in his farewell address.

“For those of us fortunate enough to have been part of this work and to see it up close,let me tell you, it can energize and inspire.And more often than not, your faith in America and in Americans will be confirmed.”In Washington, the ritual of preparing for Donald Trump’s inauguration is well under way,complete with parade marches and stand-ins rehearsing the oath of office.

At his news conference last week, Trump promised his inauguration would be memorable.

“The 20th is going to be something that will be very, very special, very beautiful.And I think we are going to have massive crowds because we have a movement.It is a movement like the world has never seen before.”

Trump’s inauguration has already sparked protests among those opposed to his plans to tighten immigration and to do away with Obama’s health care law.

And more than 30 congressional Democrats say they will stay away.

As he prepares to take office, Trump faces an enormous challenge in trying to unify the country, says analyst Michael Barone.

“I think Donald Trump faces probably a greater challenge, to the extent he wants to do that, than the last three presidents, each of whom faced a significant challenge in their regard.”

“Mr. President-elect, Mr. President-elect, since you’re attacking our news organization, can you give us a chance,you’re attacking our news organization, can you give us a chance to ask questions, sir? Sir?”

Trump has already signaled an aggressive approach to dealing with the media.

And he continues to engage in feuds via Twitter.

Get used to it, says Tom DeFrank.

“Here is his operating style, he loves being in the center of the maelstrom.He loves chaos because he knows at the end he is going to make the decision and that’s it.”

Trump already presents a sharp contrast with Barack Obama, says expert John Fortier.

“There is the change that Donald Trump brings about with his style.I mean, Donald Trump is very different than any other president in terms of his communications,in terms of his being unafraid to wade into controversy.It will certainly not be a dull time.”

“If they will do a bad job, I’ll say you’re fired.”

As the Obama era draws to a close, the Trump era with all its expectations and uncertainty is about to begin.

Jim Malone, VOA news, Washington.