During the 2008 presidential campaign and debates, then-Senator Barack Obama promised the American people to solve the nation's problems, unite the country, and take us toward a better future. These were not vague promises. He outlined a number of actions and policy positions he would take, and he vowed specific, tangible results. Obama's promises addressed nearly every issue relevant to this election. They range from the everyday concerns of middle-class Americans like lowering the cost of health insurance to the national hope of changing the way Washington works. Despite his lofty rhetoric, the president has not met the very standards he set for himself. And America's still is waiting for hope and change.

Whatever the issue, Barack Obama has failed to keep his promises to the American people, and the nation has paid a heavy price.