Watch Barack Obama Congratulate ‘American Idol’ on 15-Year Run
Americans love to vote…for American Idol. President Obama used the platform of the singing competition’s farewell episode to urge participation in a different electoral process.
“This show transformed television,” the commander-in-chief says in the clip. “It inspired young artists and captivated audiences across the country. And it taught America what it means to be ‘pitchy.’ American Idol has achieved something else as well: For over a decade, this show has motivated millions of young Americans to vote – often, and with enthusiasm. We should do the same in our lives as citizens of this country that we love.
“Voting is the most fundamental and sacred right of our democracy,” he continues. “I believe it should be almost as easy as voting on American Idol, and we’re working on that. But when we choose not to vote, we surrender that right; we surrender our voice to someone else. Not all of us can sing like Kelly Clarkson, but all of our voices matter. This show reached historic heights not only because Americans watched it, but because you participated in its success. And the same is true of America: We reach our full potential when every American participates.”
Obama ends by encouraging viewers to register at the vote.gov website.
American Idol wrapped its 15th season Thursday with an all-star series finale episode, which included appearances from former judges, performers and even Ryan Seacrest’s Season One co-host Brian Dunkleman.