Watching Obama's Inauguration with Twitter

We are following the inauguration on Twitter where millions of people in Washington and around the world are sharing Barack Obama's inauguration. Here is a range of what people are saying.

Troy Harlan in Portland Oregon summed it up this way:

Dear Sam Cooke, a change has come. A change has come. #inaug09

It was an emotional moment for many on Twitter. Beth in Santa Cruz California said:

#inaug09: I love that Obama is nervous and not perfect....yay! The crowd roars and I am still crying here.

Duarte Da Silva in Toronto had one word during Obama's speech: Goosebumps! A woman in Chicago said on Twitter:

#inaug09 It's a good thing I am wearing water-proof mascara.

From Michigan, Twitterer paulina1 said:

"I think im gonna cry..never thought i would get to experience this in my life time..#inaug09" ... "I got a tissue. It is a an experience. I am not a complete Obama fan, I am excited for the change."

James Robertson, who lives in Washington DC and might be used to these events, was still wowed.

#inaug09 The wide shots from the Capitol are just staggering. Solid people from the Capitol to the Washington Monument. Truly amazing

Separation of Church and State

There was some upset about the invocation, not only that conservative Pastor Rick Warren gave it, but the fact that it was given at all. However, a Gallup Poll showed that only 10% of Democrats objected to his participation. Twitter users did object.

Wesley Williams in Milton Keynes in England said:

Seperation of church and state people! Stop with the frickin' prayers! #inaug09

Alex Hew said: "There is so much wrong with praying at a presidential inauguration #inaug09"

Amy Zimmerman said: "never like the invocation. i still hold to separation of church and state. no place for religion here for this obama fan #inaug09"

However, many Twitter users took note that Obama described the United States as "a nation of Christians, Muslims, Jews and Hindus, and non-beleievers". It was a notable statement for their inclusion and recognition of non-believers or atheists.

Millions inspired, hope for healing

After Obama's speech, Amy seemed inspired:

for the first time since those awful days post 911 we witness a love and pride of country. let this carry over! #inaug09

There was cautious optimism, even amongst those who might not be Obama supporters or members of his party. Gregg Smith said:

As a life long Republican I must say I am excited about the future for our country

Lisa in Oklahoma noted the anger by Bush supporters towards Obama on Twitter and said:

#inaug09 We need to put aside our differences. Obama is going to be our president in just moments. We should stand behind him.

Thanks for sharing your comments with us, and thanks for following GuardianUS on Twitter during the elections and the inauguration.