Many people who were with me at a party that night said it certainly wasn't his best speech, and actually wasn't all that great of a speech overall.  He seemed somber and tired.  To be honest, I found the speech quite impressive.  He certainly did seem somber, but I have this very real sense that when he took that stage, he fully understood the challenges and burdens that come with being president.  In a sense that was refreshing.  He could have given a passionate rallying address as he has in the past, but I think he recognizes just how great of a responsibility has landed on his shoulders and was probably a bit humbled by it all.  Personally, I think he'll be an excellent president and in many ways I think many of us Canadians are envious that you have inspired leadership at last while we still are desperately lacking of it after 4 years of political deadlock that has included 3 general elections.

I personally think it was his second best speech (he really can't have beat his primary election address). I agree with Art, he did seem like he was humbled. You could easily see it as he walked out on stage: no smile, a tired sounding "thank you".

But he said things no other president has ever said and is the first president to persistently remind everyone that it's a democracy.

I've never loved America more than now.

The McCain who came out on November 4th to give that speech was the McCain many admired 8 years ago and probably would have voted for had he defeated Bush.  Some are probably wondering where that McCain went (and some like me are glad he did vanish for a while).

Heh, I guess that just goes to show you. Anything is possible.