We are very blessed to call this nation
our home, and that's what America is -- it is our home," the president-elect
said in the video's introduction. "It's where we raise our families, care
for our loved ones, look out for our neighbors and live out our dreams."
"It's my prayer, that on this Thanksgiving we begin
to heal our divisions and move forward as one country, strengthened by shared
purpose and very, very common resolve," he continued.
"In declaring this national holiday, President
Lincoln called upon Americans to speak with one voice and one heart. That's
just what we have to do."
Trump added at least two members to his administration
earlier Wednesday -- South Carolina Gov. Nikki
Haley as UN ambassador and GOP heavyweight donor Betsy DeVos as education secretary. It was also reported that former GOP
candidate Ben Carson had been
offered the appointment of housing secretary.
Some of Trump's White House appointments have drawn
substantial criticism, which has concerned many in the Democratic Party and
non-Trump supporters.
"We have just finished a long and bruising political
campaign. Emotions are raw and tensions just don't heal overnight. It doesn't
go quickly, unfortunately," Trump added.
"But we have before us a
chance now to make history together, to bring real change to Washington, real
safety to our cities and real prosperity to our communities -- including our
inner cities. [It's] so important to me and so important to our country.
"This
historic political campaign is now over, but now begins a great national
campaign to rebuild our country and restore the full promise of America for all
of our people.
"I'm
asking you to join me in this effort. It's time to restore the bonds of trust
between citizens, because when America is unified there is nothing beyond our
reach -- and I mean absolutely nothing.
"Let us
give thanks for all that we have, and let us boldly face the exciting new
frontiers that lie ahead."
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