It has been a wild ride since President Barack Obama was elected in 2008. Through the years, it has been a love or hate relationship between him and the people, but through his eight years of presidency, there is no denying that Obama has done well.

One of the big things President Obama has done for the country is end the recession it faced in 2008. Not only that, he brought the unemployment rate down to an all time low in the years of his presidency. Also, he won a Nobel Peace Prize in 2009 because of his effort for international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples.

Some of his decisions were controversial. The Affordable Care act was one of his biggest platforms and it caused quite a controversy. It was not without its flaws, but it is undeniable that all Americans should have access to health care. Another reform Obama made was the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform Act, which improved areas of our banks that could lead to a financial crisis.  He also made major tax cuts in 2011.

His international standing was great throughout his presidency, including making a nuclear agreement with Iran, and setting up Trans-Pacific Partnership. The partnership would have allowed easier trade with the European Union. Climate change was also a huge concern for him and his cabinet. He led the global effort to finalize the International Climate Change Agreement. He also made carbon reduction regulations  and enacted the Clean Power Plan to help save our suffering Earth.

President Obama had no personal scandals in his eight years of being president, an accomplishment in itself. He and his wife Michelle are also great role models to children of all race, genders, and religions. Michelle Obama made a huge push to combat America’s obesity and also advocated for feminism. The Obamas brought a sense of fun to the White House, including singing to young trick or treaters, and telling the best dad jokes for Thanksgiving. All these qualities will certainly make him one of the most remembered presidents in history.  

So this time, everyone means it when they say “Thanks, Obama.”