On Obama's inauguration, Ky. Republicans say they want to work together -- just not how

In the days to come, Republicans are likely to criticize President Barack Obama for spending little of his inauguration address on the issues of debt and shoring up Social Security and Medicare.

But for a day, at least, Kentucky Republicans issued statements of support to the president they must work with for four more years.

U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell, the Senate Republican leader:

“Every four years on Inauguration Day, America shows the world that our major political parties can disagree with civility and mutual respect. It is in this spirit that I congratulate President Obama on his inauguration to a second term and wish him well in the fulfillment of his duty to lead the U.S. at home and abroad over the next four years. The President’s second term represents a fresh start when it comes to dealing with the great challenges of our day; particularly, the transcendent challenge of unsustainable federal spending and debt. Republicans are eager to work with the President on achieving this common goal, and we firmly believe that divided government provides the perfect opportunity to do so. Together, there is much we can achieve.”

U.S. Rep. Brett Guthrie, R-Bowling Green:

“It has never been more important, given our country’s current challenges, to work together for the good of our country. On this Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, I am hopeful that we can work to address those challenges in a collective manner to better both America and the Commonwealth of Kentucky. It is an honor to be a part of today’s historic events and I offer my prayers to President Obama and his family as he enters into his second term.”

U.S. Rep. Andy Barr, R-Lexington:

“The peaceful manner in which our nation comes together in unity and deference to electoral results should never cease to amaze and inspire us,” Barr said. “Yet, as we simultaneously celebrate President Obama’s second inauguration and the life of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., let us remember the courage and sacrifices of those who refused to let us fall short of our ideals. Today, we commemorate not just the ongoing blessing of American democracy; we further honor the struggles so many have endured to keep America’s promise of ‘liberty and justice for all.’”

Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner James Comer via Twitter:

“Congratulations Pres. Obama. I hope leaders in DC can work together to improve our great nation.”