Obama's speech was a motivational speech. He states that "at the end of the day, we can have the most dedicated teachers, the most supportive parents, and the best schools in the world - and none of it will matter unless all of you fulfill your responsibilities." The message he was trying to send to these students was not political. He tried to relate his school days as a student to the school days of students now. He got through to the audience with a personal connection. I could tell by the laughter of the audience that there was a personal motivational connection. He emphasizes the importance's of taking care of responsibilities and taking education to an elevated level. This speech was motivational, not political.