Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents

Monday, November 1, 2004 Volume 40—Number 44 Pages 2533–2688

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Addresses and Remarks Addresses and Remarks—Continued Colorado, remarks in Greeley—2573 Wisconsin Florida Discussion in Richland Center—2599 Remarks in Fort Myers—2543 Remarks in Cuba City—2610 Remarks in Jacksonville—2561 Remarks in Onalaska—2591 Remarks in Lakeland—2549 Bill Signings Remarks in Melbourne—2555 Ronald W. Reagan National Defense Iowa Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005, Remarks in Council Bluffs—2579 statement—2673 Remarks in Davenport—2585 Remarks in Dubuque—2616 Communications to Federal Agencies Michigan Drawdown of Commodities and Services Remarks in Pontiac—2641 From the Department of Defense To Remarks in Saginaw—2647 Support African Union Peacekeeping in New Hampshire Darfur, Sudan, memorandum—2542 Remarks in Manchester—2675 Proclamations Remarks in Portsmouth—2679 United Nations Day—2572 New Mexico, remarks in Alamogordo—2567 Ohio Statements by the President Discussion in Canton—2533 See also Bill Signings Remarks in Dayton—2654 Death of James Cardinal Hickey—2572 Remarks in Findlay—2634 Supplementary Materials Remarks in Vienna—2628 Remarks in Westlake—2660 Acts approved by the President—2687 Checklist of White House press releases— Pennsylvania 2687 Remarks in Lititz—2622 Digest of other White House Remarks in Yardley—2667 announcements—2685 Radio address—2542 Nominations submitted to the Senate—2687

Editor’s Note: The President was in Toledo, OH, on October 29, the closing date of this issue. Releases and announcements issued by the Office of the Press Secretary but not received in time for inclusion in this issue will be printed next week.

WEEKLY COMPILATION OF Distribution is made only by the Superintendent of Docu- PRESIDENTIAL DOCUMENTS ments, Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402. The Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents will be furnished by mail to domestic subscribers for $80.00 per year Published every Monday by the Office of the Federal Reg- ($137.00 for mailing first class) and to foreign subscribers for ister, National Archives and Records Administration, Washing- $93.75 per year, payable to the Superintendent of Documents, ton, DC 20408, the Weekly Compilation of Presidential Docu- Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402. The ments contains statements, messages, and other Presidential charge for a single copy is $3.00 ($3.75 for foreign mailing). materials released by the White House during the preceding The Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents is also week. available on the Internet on the GPO Access service at http:// The Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents is pub- www.gpo.gov/nara/nara003.html. lished pursuant to the authority contained in the Federal Reg- ister Act (49 Stat. 500, as amended; 44 U.S.C. Ch. 15), under There are no restrictions on the republication of material regulations prescribed by the Administrative Committee of the appearing in the Weekly Compilation of Presidential Docu- Federal Register, approved by the President (37 FR 23607; ments. 1 CFR Part 10).

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Remarks in a Discussion in I’ve been joined by some citizens from Ohio Canton, Ohio here on the stage. We will listen to their sto- October 22, 2004 ries. I think it’ll help the people of Ohio un- derstand why I have made some of the deci- The President. Thank you all for coming. sions I have made. Go ahead and be seated, please. We’ve got Before I begin, though, I want to thank some work to do. Thank you all for coming your Governor, Bob Taft, for joining us today. today. Governor, great to see you. I want to First of all, George, thank you for that thank Jennette Bradley, the Lieutenant Gov- strong endorsement. I am proud to have ernor. Thanks for coming, Governor. You George in my corner, just like I’m proud to look great. have thousands of Democrats all across the Congressman Ralph Regula—appreciate State of Ohio who understand if they want you being here, Congressman. Laura and I a safer America, a stronger America, and a were looking forward to seeing the wife, but, better America to put me and Dick Cheney no, of course, she’s probably out mowing the back in office. Thank you, sir. lawn like you should be doing. [Laughter] I’m keeping mighty good company today. Listen, you’ve got a great United States So I don’t know if you know this or not, but Senator in George Voinovich. He doesn’t Laura and I were in the seventh grade to- need a poll or a focus group to tell him what gether at San Jacinto Junior High in Midland, to think. He stands on principle. You know Texas. And then we became reacquainted where he’s coming from. He doesn’t shift in when she was a public school librarian in the wind like some other United States Sen- Texas. I asked her to marry me. She said, ators I know. [Laughter] Put him back in of- ‘‘Fine, I will marry you, but make me one fice. And I’m proud of Mike DeWine, a fine promise.’’ I said, ‘‘What is it?’’ She said, United States Senator as well. We’re—Laura ‘‘Never make me give a speech.’’ [Laughter] and I are proud to call both George and Mike I said, ‘‘Okay, you’ve got a deal.’’ Fortunately, friends. she didn’t hold me to that promise. Laura Today, when I landed at the airport, I met is a great speaker, and when she does, the Dan Yeric, who’s sitting right there. Dan, American people see a compassionate, warm, why don’t you wave your hand. Thanks for wonderful First Lady. coming. Dan has been a volunteer at the So I have been telling the girls, one of Akron Children’s Hospital for 12 years. The these days, we’ll take the family camping trip. reason I bring him up is the strength of this [Laughter] They envisioned the Grand Can- country lies in the hearts and souls of our yon, the wilds of Alaska. Girls, this is it, the fellow citizens. The true strength of America 2004 campaign. [Laughter] We love them is not our military might; it’s not the size of dearly. I’m proud of Barbara and Jenna. our pocketbook. The true strength of Amer- Thank you all for campaigning so hard. ica is in the hearts and souls of citizens who Thanks for coming today. I’m back in the are working to change this country one per- great city of Canton because I’m here asking son at a time, those who’ve heard the call for the vote. I’m here to describe to you what to love a neighbor just like they’d like to be I intend to do over the next 4 years to make loved themselves. Dan is a soldier in the this country a better place. I believe you have army of compassion. Thank you for your ex- to get out amongst the people and ask for ample. Thank you for your care. the vote. We’ve got a very unusual way of We’re getting close to voting time. Who’s making some points today. As you can see, counting the days? [Laughter] And I’m here 2533

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to ask for your help. I believe with your help, of America. That will help keep jobs here. we will carry Ohio again and win a great vic- It’s a bill that extended the $100,000 expens- tory in November. ing deduction, expensing allowance for small So Laura and I and the girls are here to businesses. That will help keep jobs here in thank you for what you are going to do over Ohio. It closes corporate loopholes. It repeals the next less than 2 weeks: call the phone— the 4.3 percent tax on railroad diesel and get on the phone and call the voters; put up barge fuel. That will help keep jobs here in the signs; find those discerning Democrats Ohio. like the mayor, independents, Republicans; To keep jobs here, we’ve got to have less get people to do their duty and vote. regulations on our job creators. To keep jobs And when you do, as you get them out growing in Ohio, we need to do something to vote, remind them what this economy has about the junk lawsuits that plague the job been through. I know there’s tough times creators in the State of Ohio. here in Ohio. Remind everybody what we It’s important for us to open up markets have been through. You might remind them, for U.S. products, for markets, for crops starting with this point: The stock market was grown right here in the State of Ohio. Listen, in a serious decline 6 months prior to my we’ve opened up our market, and it’s good arrival in Washington, DC. And then we had for consumers. Here’s the way the market a recession. In other words, that stock market works. If you have more products to choose decline was an indicator that the economy from, you’re like to get that which you want was heading south, and it did. And then we at a better price and higher quality. So rather had some corporate scandals. We passed than hurting our consumers, what I’m saying tough law to make it abundantly clear we’re to places like China, ‘‘You treat us the way not going to tolerate dishonesty in the board- we treat you; you open up your markets,’’ rooms of America. And then we got attacked. because we can compete with anybody, any- And those attacks cost us nearly a million jobs in the 3 months after September the 11th, time, anywhere, so long as the rules are fair. 2001. To keep jobs here, we need an energy Our economy has been through a lot. But plan. I proposed one to the United States we acted. We cut the taxes to spur consump- Congress over 2 years ago. It’s a plan that tion and investment, and our economy is encourages conservation. It’s a plan that en- growing. We raised the child credit to help courages the use of renewables. It’s a plan people with kids. We lowered the marriage that recognizes we can use technology to pro- penalty. Listen, we don’t want a Tax Code tect our environment and, at the same time, that penalizes marriage. We want a Tax Code burn coal and find natural gas. It is a plan that encourages marriage. We reduced rates that recognizes in order to keep jobs in Ohio, on everybody who pays taxes. I don’t think in order to expand the job base here in this you ought to be trying to pick and choose State and other States, we must be less de- winners when it comes to tax relief. If you pendent on foreign sources of energy. pay taxes, you ought to get relief. We helped In order to make sure jobs are here, we’ve our small businesses. We encouraged invest- got to do a good job of educating our people. ment. I told the people when I ran I was going Our economy has been growing at rates to challenge the soft bigotry of low expecta- as fast as any in nearly 20 years. We’ve added tions, you know, the system that just shuffled 1.9 million new jobs since August of 2003. kids through the schools, grade after grade, This month of September—in the last year after year, without teaching the basics. month, that being September, the State of I kept my word. We passed the No Child Ohio added 5,500 new jobs. Your unemploy- Left Behind Act. It raises standards. It ment rate will drop from 6.3 to 6 percent. spends more money. But in return for more We’re moving forward. money, we’re now measuring. You cannot I signed a bill that’s going to help our man- solve a problem unless you’ve diagnosed the ufacturers. It will save $77 billion over the problem. We’re diagnosing problems early next 10 years for the manufacturing sector now, and more and more of our children are

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learning to read and write and add and sub- because we’re going to win in November. He tract, and we’re not going to go back to the can run. He can run—he can even run in days of mediocrity in our classrooms. camo—[laughter]—but he cannot hide. Education is more than just elementary A couple of other things I want to share school. We’ll extend high standards to our with you, and then we’re going to talk about high schools. We’ll emphasize math and health care, as you can see. I want to talk science. We’ll continue to expand Pell grants about promoting an ownership society in so low- and middle-income Americans can America. You know, it’s said that no one ever start their career with a college diploma. washes a rental car. [Laughter] There’s some We’re going to continue to expand access to wisdom in that. [Laughter] When you own community colleges so that people actually something, you care about it. If you own your have the skills necessary to fill the jobs of own small business, you care about the future the 21st century. of America. Do you realize that the home- I’m going to also remind you that to make ownership rate under my administration is sure our economy grows, we’ve got to keep at an alltime high in America. We’re going your taxes low. And taxes are an issue in this to talk about health savings accounts in a campaign. They are a significant issue, and minute, but this is a way for people to own I’ll tell you why. My opponent has proposed their own health care and manage their own $2.2 trillion of new spending thus far. That’s health care in a way that makes sense for trillion with a ‘‘T.’’ [Laughter] That’s a heck American families and American small busi- of a lot even for a Senator from Massachu- nesses. setts. [Laughter] I want to talk about Social Security and So they asked him, ‘‘How are you going ownership. The 2000 campaign, I remember to pay for it?’’ And he pulled out that same it clearly. During that campaign, people ran old line, that class warfare line, ‘‘Don’t worry, advertisements that said, ‘‘If George W. gets we’ll pay for it by taxing the rich.’’ You can’t elected, our seniors will not get their Social raise enough money to pay for $2.2 trillion Security checks.’’ You might remember those of new spending by taxing the rich. He says ads. It’s kind of the old typical political scare he’s going to raise the top two brackets. I’ll tactic. Well, as you’re out gathering up the tell you three things about that. vote, remind our senior citizens, I did get One, most small businesses are Sub- elected, and you got your checks. And I’m chapter S corporations or limited partner- going to get elected again, and you’re still ships, which mean they pay tax at the indi- going to get your checks. vidual income-tax level. And when you’re The reason I bring that up is because I’m running up the top two brackets, you’re tax- willing to talk about how to make sure the ing about 900,000 to a million small busi- Social Security system is available for our nesses all across America. Guess what, 70 children and our grandchildren. It is nec- percent of new jobs in America are created essary to do so. See, we’re in good shape as by small businesses. It makes no sense to tax a baby boomer. The money in the trust— job creators. there’s enough people paying in that we’ll Secondly, there is a tax gap. There is a be taken care of. We need to worry about difference between what he has promised, the children and grandchildren. We need to 2.2 trillion, and what he can raise. Now, guess worry about whether or not Social Security who usually gets to fill that gap? Yes, you will be available for them. do. In order to make sure Social Security is Thirdly, the so-called rich hire lawyers and available for our young, I believe younger accountants for a reason when it comes to workers ought to be allowed to take some tax time: to slip the bill and pass it onto you. of their payroll taxes and set up a personal The good news is, we’re not going to let him savings account that will earn a greater rate tax you. Taxes would be bad for our econ- of interest—rate of return on their money omy. If you want to make sure you keep jobs than it does in the current Social Security here in Ohio, you keep the taxes low. We’re trust, a personal account they can call their not going to let him tax the American people own, a personal account they can pass on to

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whomever they want, and a personal account wasn’t. We’d pay tens of thousands of dollars the Government will never take away. for a heart surgery for a Medicare patient And here we have another difference in but not a dime for the prescription drugs that this campaign. See, I believe a President could prevent the heart surgery from being ought to confront problems and not pass needed in the first place. That didn’t make them on to future Presidents and future gen- any sense. So I brought Republicans and erations. And we have a problem in Social Democrats together. I signed a good Medi- Security. You might remember one of our care bill that says, in 2006, our seniors will debates when my opponent said, ‘‘Well, the get prescription drug coverage. status quo was fine.’’ Let me remind you of To make sure health care is available and two things about that. One, he is the only affordable, we have got to do something person on that stage during the debate that about these frivolous and junk lawsuits that voted to tax Social Security benefits, not once are running up the cost of medicine and run- but eight times. And secondly, the status quo ning good doctors out of practice. We’re is not fine when it comes to our children. going to talk about that issue in a minute. A President must be willing to confront prob- We’re going to talk about that issue in a lems. And in a new term, I’ll bring Repub- minute, but I do want to make it very clear licans and Democrats together to make sure there is a difference of opinion between me Social Security is available for the younger and my opponent on health care. In one of generation. the debates he said—he looked right in the Now, let me talk about health care. We camera, he said, ‘‘The Government doesn’t have a clear choice when it comes to health have anything to do with it,’’ referring to his care in this campaign. I have a commonsense health care program. Stared right in the cam- approach to make sure health care is avail- era and said it. I could barely contain myself. able and affordable. Available through places [Laughter] like community health centers, where the The Government has got a lot to do with poor and the indigent can get health care it. Eight out of ten people that will be signed and relieve pressure off of the emergency up for health insurance on his program will rooms of the hospitals all across the country. end up on a Government program. When Available by making sure our children of low- you raise the limits of Medicaid, it provides income families are fully subscribed in the an incentive for small-business owners to Government health care program for them. provide no insurance for their employees be- Affordable by recognizing that most of the cause the Government will pick it up. And uninsured in America work for small busi- therefore, millions of people will go from pri- nesses, and therefore, small businesses ought vate insurance to the Government rolls. His to be allowed to pool risk across jurisdictional is a plan that creates 225 new mandates for boundaries so they can buy insurance at the small businesses. Government-run health same discounts that big companies are able care does not work. We have got a great to do. Affordable through health savings ac- health care system in the world because it’s counts, which we’ll discuss. Health care more innovative, because it’s—private medicine is affordable by moving generic drugs quicker at the center of our health care system. And to the market so our seniors are able to better my opponent’s plan would increase the scope afford prescription drugs. and the size of the Federal Government Affordable because I’m the first President when it comes to your health care decisions. to have taken on Medicare—I shouldn’t say In all we do to make sure health care that; other Presidents have talked about works, we’ll make sure the decisions are be- Medicare. It used to be called ‘‘Mediscare’’ tween patients and doctors, not by officials because anytime you talked about it, some- in Washington, DC. body would club you over the head with it Up here with me is Michael Gordon. No, as an issue, political issue. But I went to not Michael Gordon. He didn’t make it. Mi- Washington to solve problems. And we had chael Gordon was supposed to be here. He’s a problem in Medicare. Medicine was chang- a small-business owner. Let me talk about ing. Medicine was modernizing; Medicare Michael Gordon right quick. He’s stuck out

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there, probably behind a barricade chanting, that you begin to accumulate savings for your ‘‘Four more years.’’ [Laughter] own health care. Secondly, if he were to start Audience member. Four more years! a new firm, which I’m not suggesting you’re The President. Oh, Michael, you made going to do, but if you were, and you moved, it. [Laughter] the health care account would go with you. Anyway, he’s from Tendon Manufacturing. It’s yours. You own the health care account. He’s a small business. He’s adding employ- You make the decisions. Decisionmaking be- ees. He’s optimistic—a small manufacturing tween patient and doctor is a part of how company here in Ohio. He is a Subchapter we introduce market forces into a health care S corporation. I wish Michael were sitting industry. One way to control cost is to let up here so you could see him. He’s a Sub- consumers have more decisionmaking, which chapter S. He’s expanding his business. is precisely what a health savings account When you run up the top two brackets of does. the Tax Code, you’re taxing Michael. You’re Isn’t that right? taxing his company. It makes no sense to tax Mr. McDonnell. Absolutely right. the small-business job creators, which is pre- The President. Did we get it right? cisely what Senator Kerry will do. Mr. McDonnell. You got it right. Now, let me talk to you about Bruce, The President. This is a very interesting Bruce McDonnell. That’s you. way to help small businesses hold down— Bruce McDonnell. That’s me. [applause]. The President. Okay. [Laughter] What do Guess who else is a health savings account you do, Bruce? owner? Doc, you’re a health savings account Mr. McDonnell. I’m a CPA. owner—Dr. Schwieterman. Where are you The President. You are? Good. And he from, doc? is here to discuss with us health savings ac- Dr. Tom Schwieterman. I’m from Mer- counts. Some of you have heard of health cer County, which is on the other side of savings accounts; some of you haven’t heard the State, Mr. President. of health savings accounts. But it is an inno- The President. vative way to make sure the health care costs Welcome. Glad you’re are reasonable. here. You are a doctor of? Describe to us, if you don’t mind, for this Dr. Schwieterman. Family practice, and great crowd how it works. I provided obstetrics up until a month ago. The President. Yes. We’ve got a problem. [Mr. McDonnell made brief remarks.] ‘‘Provided up until a month ago’’—helps de- The President. Let me stop you. That’s fine what we’re here to talk about, which is to pay for major medical bills. So anything good health care for people. above 1,000 for an individual will be taken Doc, tell me, you have been—you’ve told care of by the insurance company. Go ahead. me something really interesting. I don’t know if you know this, but my grandfather was [Mr. McDonnell made further remarks.] raised in Columbus, Ohio. He ended up The President. Right. So here’s the way being a Senator from Connecticut—Con- it works. He says—what he just said is, a necticut, yes. My dad, as you know, was in health savings account, one, is a combination politics. I’m in politics. Anybody in your fam- of a tax-free saving account plus a high de- ily ever been a doctor before? ductible insurance policy. So say you’ve got Dr. Schwieterman. I am the fourth gen- a $1,000 deductible, from zero to 1,000, eration family physician in the same town you’re responsible for paying, or in his case, and actually in the same building in rural his company contributes from the zero to Mercer County. 1,000 a portion of that. And then above The President. Yes. Nothing wrong with 1,000, the insurance company pays for it. following the old family footsteps. [Laughter] But think about the benefits of that kind Dr. Schwieterman. Little easier, though. of plan. First of all, if you don’t use all 1,000, The President. Right, girls. [Laughter] it’s rolled over to the next year tax-free, so Oops.

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So, we were backstage talking. I mean, this —[laughter]—it’s the difference between is, obviously, not the first time I met Tom, some lawyers and personal injury trial law- or the doc, I call him. We have a—he’s a yers that are constantly out there trying to rural doc. Rural health care is really impor- convert this legal system into what looks like tant for the quality of life in a State like Ohio. a lottery. And guess who ends up paying for And so tell me, describe your problem. the ticket? The taxpayers and the people, be- Dr. Schwieterman. We have a family cause the quality of health care is going practice that has a very long heritage, of down. course, 113 years of providing general med- If you’ve got a lawsuit, if you think you’re ical care and obstetrics. Over those 113 years, going to get sued, you’re going to practice we have delivered over or near 10,000 chil- more medicine than is needed so you can dren, and—[applause]. Thank you. See, my defend yourself in a court of law. That’s what dad’s right there. He delivered 5,000. happens, and guess what that does to the The President. Is that Dad? Federal budget, for example. The defensive Dr. Schwieterman. That’s my dad. practice of medicine costs our budget about The President. Hey, Dad. You raised a $28 billion a year. I say ‘‘our’’ budget, be- good boy. cause when I talk about the Government Dr. Schwieterman. And during those budget, you pay for it. It’s your money, 28 110–13 years, we have never had a claims billion a year in excess costs in Medicaid and made against our practice. We have retained Medicare and veterans’ health benefits. This a majority of those births within the practice. is a national issue. And unfortunately, last month, we were Secondly, because of the lawsuits, because forced to do our last delivery, and this was many people just settle whether the suit has a fourth generation patient. And she unfortu- merit or not, premiums go up. And guess nately ended the legacy that we have enjoyed who pays the premiums? You do. for so long. And thirdly, as a result of a lot of these The President. And why? Tell people lawsuits, people just can’t simply practice why. They need to know the truth. The peo- medicine anymore. And you just talk—you ple of Ohio need to understand what’s taking just heard the story that unfortunately is place as a result of all these lawsuits. being repeated over and over and over again Dr. Schwieterman. For the past 3 years, in America. This country needs medical li- we’ve pretty much done ob at cost. What we ability reform—now. took in is what we paid out in malpractice, And this is an issue in this campaign. This and this year, we—our premiums went up is an issue in campaign—this campaign. Oh, 40 percent, and it became a point where we I heard him in the debates, my opponent. could not afford to maintain a small business I heard him talking about medical liability with our employees, take care of our patients, reform. But let me tell you something. We with the premiums going from 25 to 80 thou- had a bill on the floor of the United States sand dollars in 48 months. Senate to provide liability protection to ob- The President. Yes. Let me tell—people gyns, and my opponent voted ‘‘no.’’ He’s need to hear this. This is an issue in this cam- voted against medical liability reform 10 paign. The quality of life in the State of Ohio times in the United States Senate. He can depends on whether or not you’ve got good run, but he cannot hide from that record. docs and good, strong hospitals and people Barb Coen is with us. Doc, thanks. Where being able to find health care in cities and do you work? in rural America. Dr. Barb Coen. I work in Norton, Ohio, Let me talk to you about these lawsuits. at a practice called Generations Women’s First of all, docs practice what’s called defen- Health Care, with my partner, Dr. Susan sive medicine. If you’ve got a lawyer looming Clark, who’s here. right behind you all the time, if you’re wor- The President. Where’s the doc? Oh, ried about what happens in the court—in there you go. Thanks for coming. I appre- the—okay, fine. Everybody needs a good ciate you. Very good. Dr. Clark? lawyer. I’ve got too many myself. Anyway Dr. Coen. Dr. Clark.

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The President. Yes, Dr. Clark. Good to caused by frivolous lawsuits. Make no mis- see you, doc. You must have drawn the short take about it, it is a legal culture. straw, so you’re the one who had to actually When you’re out rounding up the vote or get up here and talk in front of all the cam- if you’re listening and trying to determine eras. [Laughter] Tell us about your practice. who you’re for, remember the stories up Just give—tell people exactly what’s hap- here, remember the stories of goodhearted pening. docs who are worried about practicing their skill. And remember the story about moms [Dr. Coen made brief remarks, concluding who are deeply concerned about their child. as follows.] This is a big issue in this campaign. Dr. Coen. And as all of you know who’ve Now, I want to talk about a couple of other had a baby, the relationship between an ob- issues, and then we’ll all go home and start gyn and a pregnant patient is pretty special. working. Actually, I’m going down to Florida; They trust you with not only their life but you’re going to go home and start working. the life of their unborn child. I can’t tell you [Laughter] The—and I’m not going down what an honor it is to be the first person there to sit on the beach, either. [Laughter] to touch a new life when it comes into the I’m going down there to campaign. world. There is absolutely nothing like it. Two other—a couple of other things. I talk The President. Listen, it was pretty cool about time of change, and these are changing to be the second person when I touched Bar- times. Some things don’t change. The values bara and Jenna. [Laughter] Go ahead. They’ll we try to live by don’t change, courage and be happy to hear I let the doc go first. compassion, reverence and integrity. And we [Laughter] stand for a culture of life in which every per- son matters and every being counts. We [Dr. Coen made further remarks.] stand for institutions like family and mar- riage, which are the foundations of our soci- The President. Thank you, doc. I appre- ety. And we stand for judges—Federal ciate you. Thank you. [Applause] Okay, judges who know the difference between thanks, hold on. We’ve got more work to do personal opinion and the strict interpretation here. Thank you. Stay right there. Thank you of the law. all. And not only do we need legislation, we Talking about education and health care, need something that works. Legislation that these are very important issues. But let me doesn’t work is not a good deal. We’re not say to you that it all goes to naught if we going to do that. We need to make sure that don’t secure this country, that the security there is a real cap on noneconomic damages. of the American people is the most important If you want docs to be in practice, we need responsibility of the President. If we show to make sure that the reform of the medical any uncertainty or weakness in this decade, liability law works. That’s why I believe in this world of ours will drift toward tragedy. firm caps to keep docs in business. This isn’t going to happen so long as I’m your Andy Kazar is with us. Andy, tell us your President. story. This is—just, again, I want people lis- Let me talk to you—I want to talk to you tening to understand the consequences of about some of the lessons that I’ve learned not getting a good medical liability law out as your President after September the 11th. of the United States Senate, a law that my First of all, we face an enemy which has no opponent has consistently opposed. Please. conscience. They are coldblooded. There- fore, you can never hope for the best with [Andy Kazar made brief remarks.] them. You cannot negotiate with them. You The President. See, this is—the story is can’t say, ‘‘Oh, well, maybe we’ll sign a peace being repeated all across the country. I was treaty, and therefore, they’ll change their in Pennsylvania yesterday—ob-gyns can’t ways.’’ The only way to secure America, to practice. Women have to drive miles in order keep us safe, is to find them and bring them to find a doc. This is not the quality of life to justice before they hurt us again. And that we expect here in America. And it’s therefore, any strategy has got to be one that

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is consistent, firm, and resolved and never would be voting in Afghanistan for President, relenting. [Applause] they would have said, ‘‘You’re crazy. You’re Hold on a second. Hold on for a—I’ve got wrong.’’ And freedom is on the march. Dark- some more I’ve got to tell you. ness has turned to light in Afghanistan, and Secondly, this is a different kind of war. America is better off for it. We’re better off You’ve got to understand, I wish I wasn’t talk- to have an example of freedom in that part ing about war. No President ever wants to of the world. We’re better off to have an ally be the President of a country—of our coun- in Afghanistan, an ally in the war on terror. try during war. War is horrible. But it’s nec- And we’re making progress in Iraq. essary to be realistic during these times. Our The third lesson of September the 11th, most solemn duty is to protect you, and it’s by the way, is we’ve got to take threats seri- a different kind of war than we’re used to. ously before they fully materialize. You can’t It’s a kind of war when you say something, hope—you cannot hope for the best. It used you need to speak clearly and mean what you to be, prior to September the 11th, that if say. we saw a threat, we could deal with it or And so when I said, ‘‘If you harbor a ter- not deal with it because we didn’t ever think rorist, you’re just as guilty as the terrorist,’’ it would come home to hurt us. That’s what I meant what I said. I was speaking to the we thought. That all changed on September Taliban in Afghanistan. And see, I was talking the 11th. You better have a President who to the Taliban because they were providing fully understands that. safe haven for Al Qaida. Al Qaida was train- My opponent in his convention speech ing there. And we said, ‘‘Listen, get rid of said, ‘‘Oh, we’ll respond if attacked.’’ That Al Qaida.’’ They didn’t believe the United is a pre-September the 11th mindset that is States of America. But because of a great dangerous in the world in which we live. military and because I meant what I said, We’ve got to take threats seriously before Al Qaida and—the Taliban is no longer in they come to hurt us. control of Afghanistan and Al Qaida is on And I saw a threat in Saddam Hussein. the run. The world is better off with Saddam Hussein We’re making progress. Three-quarters of sitting in a prison cell. [Applause] Thank you Al Qaida and their associates have been all. brought to justice. I assure you, we’re after There will be Presidential elections there the rest of them. And the Taliban no longer in January. Think how far that society has is in power. And as a result of our action, come from the days of mass graves and tor- America and the world are safer. ture chambers. But I want to tell your sons and daughters You know, I told the story one time about about what has taken place in an incredibly the seven—there’s a lot of docs here and brief period of time. It wasn’t all that long healers here. One of the most poignant sto- ago in Afghanistan that young girls were not ries of my Presidency was when the Oval Of- allowed to go to school. Think about a society fice door opened and in came seven men that was run by such barbarians that girls from Iraq, all of whom had had their right were not allowed to be educated. These hand cut off by Saddam Hussein because the ideologues of hate had a dark vision about currency of that country had devalued and the future. As a matter of fact, if their moms he needed scapegoats. It’s a true story, I’m didn’t toe the line, they’d be whipped in the telling you. And I asked one of the men public square and sometimes executed in a there, I said, ‘‘Why you?’’ He said he was sports stadium. In defending ourselves and a small merchant who needed gold to make upholding doctrine, we liberated the people jewelry, and he sold dinars to buy another of Afghanistan. Twenty-five million people currency so he could buy the gold, and it now live in freedom. Millions went to the just happened to be on the day that Saddam polls to vote for their President, and the first was looking for a scapegoat. He found seven voter was a 19-year-old woman. small merchants, seven individuals, hauled Three-and-a-half years ago, if you would in, Xs carved in their foreheads, and their have asked anybody whether or not women right hands cut off.

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They had come to see me in the Oval Of- Japanese. I’m confident many of your rel- fice because, guess what happened? Great atives fought against the Japanese. compassion existed for them when their sto- And after we won the war in World War ries were known. They had been to Houston, II, Harry S. Truman, President of the United Texas, to get new hands put on. And the guy States, and others in our country believed in who did it is a guy I know, and he said, the power of liberty to transform an enemy ‘‘Would you mind welcoming these citizens into an ally. There was a lot of skeptics then. of the world into the Oval Office,’’ which I You can understand why. ‘‘An enemy was more than happy to do. They came in; couldn’t conceivably become a democracy,’’ they were in awe of the Oval Office, of some would say. ‘‘Why do we even care about course. You know, I’m kind of a weeper at working with a country that had inflicted * times; and they were weeping; I was semi- so much harm on the citizens of this coun- weeping. The guy grabs a Sharpie with his try?’’ But there was great faith in this view. new hand and folds it and writes a prayer And as a result of that and as a result of help- in Arabic blessing the United States of Amer- ing Japan become a democracy, I sit down ica. I told the guy, I told him, I said, ‘‘Free- at the table with the Prime Minister of a dom is on the march in your country. There former enemy, talking about how to keep the will be institutions greater than the people peace in a troubled world, talking about there. One of the great things about the doing what we all want, and that is to extend American Presidency is the office is always the peace. greater than the person. And someday in Someday, an American President will be your country, the institutions will be bigger sitting down with the duly elected leader of than the individuals, so that no leader will Iraq talking about the peace in the Middle ever be able to pluck you out of society and East, and our children and our grandchildren cut off your right hand again.’’ will be better off for it. [Applause] Hold on for a second. I have a—I believe People want to be free in this world. There that people want to be free. Freedom is not will be elections in Iraq. Listen, these en- America’s gift to the world; freedom is the emies are trying to stop us. This guy Zarqawi, Almighty God’s gift to each man and woman he’s trying to stop the march of freedom. in this world. Freedom frightens these ideologues of hate. In the closing days of this campaign, it’s It is the worst thing that can happen to them. very important for you to remind your friends They can’t stand the thought of free societies. and neighbors we have—my opponent and I love to tell the story about our friend I have a different vision about how to keep Koizumi. I’m getting kind of wound up here, America secure. He talks in terms of a ‘‘glob- yes. [Laughter] She wants me to—all right, al test’’ before we commit troops. I didn’t hold on a second. I kind of felt the invisible make that up. The man was standing right hook, you know. [Laughter] there when he said it—well, right here to I want to share this with you, though, be- my right during the debate. He wasn’t there cause it’s important for you to know my physically right now. I saw a lot of heads turn. thinking about how to make this world a bet- [Laughter] ter place. I have a deep desire for your chil- Listen, I work with our friends and allies. dren to grow up in a peaceful world. I under- We’ll continue to build alliances. But I will stand my duty to protect this country. I be- never turn over America’s national security lieve that liberty can transform societies. I decisions to leaders of other countries. believe that, and living proof of that is the I want to thank you all for coming to greet fact that Prime Minister Koizumi is a good us. I want to thank you for your help. I know friend of Laura and mine. That probably where I want to lead this country. I know doesn’t seem much to some, but remember, what it takes to continue to expand this econ- it wasn’t all that long ago, 60 years ago, that omy so people can find work. I’ve got a vision we were at war with the Japanese. The Japa- for a health care plan that empowers patients nese were the sworn enemy of the United States of America. My dad fought against the * White House correction.

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and docs. I believe in high standards in our important to the national interests of schools, and we’ll continue to press for edu- the United States; and cational excellence for every child. And I un- (2) such unforeseen emergency requires derstand that the President of the United the immediate provision of assistance States must be consistent and firm and re- under Chapter 6 of Part II of the Act. solved in these troubling times. I therefore direct the drawdown of up to You know, when I campaigned across your $2,500,000 in commodities and services from State, I said if you gave me—in 2000—if you the Department of Defense to support the gave me a chance to serve, I would uphold transportation of African Union forces to the honor and the dignity of the office to Darfur, Sudan. which I had been elected. With your hard The Secretary of State is authorized and work, with your help, I will do so for 4 more directed to report this determination to the years. Congress and to publish it in the Federal God bless. And thank you all for coming. Register. George W. Bush NOTE: The President spoke at 2:06 p.m. at the Canton Palace Theatre. In his remarks, he re- NOTE: An original was not available for ferred to Mayor George M. McKelvey of Youngs- verification of the content of this memorandum. town, OH, who introduced the President; Gov. This item was not received in time for publication Bob Taft and Lt. Gov. Jennette B. Bradley of in the appropriate issue. Ohio; Mary Regula, wife of Congressman Ralph Regula; former President Saddam Hussein of Iraq; senior Al Qaida associate Abu Musab Al The President’s Radio Address Zarqawi; and Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi October 23, 2004 of Japan. This item was not received in time for publication in the appropriate issue. Good morning. In the 3 years since Sep- tember the 11th attacks, our Government has acted decisively to protect the homeland. Memorandum on Drawdown of This week, I took another important step Commodities and Services From the by signing the 2005 Homeland Security Ap- Department of Defense To Support propriations Act. This bill provides essential African Union Peacekeeping in resources for Coast Guard patrols and port Darfur, Sudan security, for the Federal Air Marshal pro- October 22, 2004 gram, and for technology that will defend air- craft against missiles. With this law, we are Presidential Determination No. 2005–06 adding new resources to patrol our borders and to verify the identity of foreign visitors Memorandum for the Secretary of State, the to America. The new law also includes vital Secretary of Defense money for first-responders and for better se- curity of chemical facilities and nuclear Subject: Drawdown of Commodities and plants and water treatment plants and Services from the Department of Defense to bridges and subways and tunnels. Support African Union Peacekeeping in All these measures show the unwavering Darfur, Sudan commitment of our Government. And since Pursuant to the authority vested in me by 2001, we have tripled overall spending for the Constitution and the laws of the United homeland security. We are doing everything States, including section 552(c)(2) of the For- in our power to protect the American people. eign Assistance Act of 1961, as amended There is more to do, and we are moving for- (FAA), I hereby determine that: ward. (1) as a result of an unforeseen emer- To protect America, our country needs the gency, the provision of assistance best possible intelligence. Chairman Tom under Chapter 6 of Part II of the Act Kean and other members of the 9/11 Com- in amounts in excess of funds other- mission made thoughtful and valuable rec- wise available for such assistance is ommendations on intelligence reform. My

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administration is already implementing the confront and defeat that threat. We’re mak- vast majority of those recommendations that ing progress in protecting our homeland and can be enacted without a vote of Congress. progress against the terrorists who seek to We are expanding and strengthening the ca- harm our Nation. And by staying focused and pabilities of the CIA. We are transforming determined, we will prevail. the FBI into an agency whose primary focus Thank you for listening. is stopping terrorism. We have established the Terrorist Threat Integration Center so NOTE: The address was recorded at 7:46 a.m. on we can bring together all the available intel- October 22 in the Cabinet Room at the White ligence on terrorist threats in one place. House for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. on October 23. But other changes require new laws. Con- The transcript was made available by the Office gress needs to create the position of the Na- of the Press Secretary on October 22 but was em- tional Intelligence Director, with strong au- bargoed for release until the broadcast. In his re- thority over the personnel and budgets of our marks, the President referred to Thomas H. Kean, intelligence agencies. These and other re- Chairman, National Commission on Terrorist At- tacks Upon the United States (9/11 Commission). forms are necessary to make our intelligence The Office of the Press Secretary also released community more effective and to stay ahead a Spanish language transcript of this address. of the threats. My administration has sent proposed legislation to Capitol Hill, and we are working with Congress to pass a good Remarks in Fort Myers, Florida bill. I urge Congress to act quickly, so I can October 23, 2004 sign these needed reforms into law. The surest way to defend our country is The President. Thank you all. Thank you to stay on the offensive against terrorists. In all for coming. an era of weapons of mass destruction, wait- Audience members. Four more years! ing for threats to arrive at our doorsteps is Four more years! Four more years! to invite disaster. Tyrants and terrorists will The President. It’s getting close to voting not give us polite notice before they attack time, and I am here to ask for your help. our country. As long as I am the Commander Get your friends and neighbors to go to the in Chief, I will confront dangers abroad so polls. Remind people we have a duty to vote. we do not have to face them here at home. And when you get them headed to the My opponent has a fundamental mis- polls—and by the way, don’t overlook dis- understanding of the war on terror. Senator cerning Democrats—[laughter]—people like Kerry was recently asked how September the Senator Zell Miller. When you get them 11th had changed him. He replied, quote, headed to the polls, remind them, if they ‘‘It didn’t change me much at all,’’ end quote. want a safer America, a stronger America, And his unchanged world view becomes ob- and a better America, to put me and Dick vious when he calls the war on terror pri- Cheney back in office. marily an intelligence and law enforcement I want to thank you all for coming. It’s operation. That is very dangerous thinking. a great way to start a Saturday morning, at We must fight the war on terror with every the ballpark with a lot of great Americans. asset of our national power. We are waging I’m so happy that Laura is traveling with me a global campaign from the mountains of today. Today I’m going to talk about why I Central Asia to the deserts of the Middle think you need to put me back in office for East and from the Horn of Africa to the Phil- 4 more years, but perhaps the most impor- ippines. These efforts are paying off. Since tant reason of all is so that Laura is the First September the 11th, 2001, more than three- Lady for 4 more years. quarters of Al Qaida’s key members and asso- My runningmate, Dick Cheney, is out ciates have been killed, captured, or de- working hard. Listen, I readily concede, he tained. The rest of them know we will hunt does not have the waviest hair in the race. them down. [Laughter] You’ll be happy to hear I didn’t America faces a grave threat, and our Gov- pick him because of his hairdo. [Laughter] ernment is doing everything in its power to I picked him because of his judgment and

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his experience, and he’s getting the job done security; your family’s budget; your quality for the American people. of life; your retirement; and the bedrock val- I’m proud of my brother Jeb. When the ues that are so critical to our families and hurricanes hit this part of your State, I came to our future. by to try to lend my support, to remind peo- The first clear choice is very important be- ple that the Federal Government will do ev- cause it concerns the security of our country erything we can do to help the people of this and the security of your family. All our pro- part of the world get their feet back on the gresses on every issue depends on the safety ground. But your Governor showed great of our citizens. This will be the first Presi- compassion and great leadership. dential election since September the 11th, I want to thank Connie Mack for joining 2001. Americans will go to the poll in a time us today. He represented this State and this of war and ongoing threats unlike any we district with such class and dignity. I’m proud have faced before. The terrorists who killed that his son, Connie Mack IV, is running for thousands of innocent people are still dan- the United States Congress. Nothing— gerous and determined to strike us again. there’s nothing wrong with a son following The outcome of this election will set the di- in a father’s footsteps. When you’re in there rection of the war against terror. The most voting for Connie, make sure you put Mel solemn duty of the American President is to Martinez in the United States Senate. protect the American people. If America I want to thank my friend Congressman shows uncertainty or weakness in this dec- Mark Foley for joining us today. I appreciate ade, the world will drift toward tragedy. This the mayor of Fort Myers, being here. Mayor will not happen on my watch. Humphrey, thanks for coming. I want to Since that terrible morning of September thank the Attorney General for joining us. the 11th, 2001, we have fought the terrorists I want to thank the House Speaker. Listen, across the Earth, not for pride, not for power, I want to thank all the people who are serving but because the lives of our citizens are at for coming here today. stake. Our strategy is clear. We’ve strength- I thank my friend Daron Norwood for ened protections for our homeland. We’re singing to help entertain you before the— reforming our intelligence capabilities. To before we made it here. meet the changing threats in today’s world, Most of all, I want to thank you. I want we are transforming our All-Volunteer to thank the people putting up the signs, Army—I will keep it an all-volunteer army. making the phone calls, doing all the hard We’re on the offensive. We will stay on the work at the grassroots level. With your help, offensive. And we’re succeeding. More than we’ll carry Florida again and win a great vic- three-quarters of Al Qaida’s key members tory. and associates have been brought to justice, We’ve just got 10 days to go in this cam- and the rest of them know we’re on their paign. And voters have a clear choice be- trail. tween two very different candidates with dif- My opponent has a very different ap- ferent approaches and different records. You proach. He says that September the 11th— know where I stand, and sometimes—and he says that September the 11th, quote, sometimes, you even know where my oppo- ‘‘didn’t change me much at all,’’ end quote. nent stands. [Laughter] We both have Audience members. Boo-o-o! records. I am proudly running on mine. The The President. And that’s pretty clear. He Senator is running from his—[laughter]— considers the war on terror primarily a law and there’s a reason why. There’s a reason enforcement and intelligence gathering oper- why. There is a mainstream in American poli- ation. tics, and my opponent sits on the far left Audience members. Boo-o-o! bank. [Laughter] I’m a compassionate con- The President. His top foreign policy ad- servative and proudly so. viser questioned it is even a war at all, saying, This election comes down to five clear ‘‘It’s just like a metaphor, like the war on choices for American families, five choices poverty.’’ on issues of great consequence: your family’s Audience members. Boo-o-o!

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The President. Anyone who thinks we are American family depends if you do not see fighting a metaphor does not understand the the true dangers of the post-September 11th enemy we face. You cannot win a war if you world. My opponent has a September the are not convinced we’re even in one. Senator 10th point of view. At his convention, he de- Kerry also misunderstands our battle against clared that his strategy will be to respond the insurgents and terrorists in Iraq. After to attacks after America is hit. voting to authorize force against Saddam Audience members. Boo-o-o! Hussein, after calling it the right decision, The President. That would be too late. when I sent troops into Iraq, the Senator now In our debates, he said with a straight face, calls it the ‘‘ wrong war.’’ we can defend America only if we pass a Audience members. Boo-o-o! ‘‘global test.’’ The President. The Senator used to rec- Audience members. Boo-o-o! ognize that Saddam Hussein was a gathering The President. I’m not making that up. threat who hated America. After all, he said I heard him. He was standing right there so. He used to recognize that Saddam was when he said it. I will work with our friends a state sponsor of terror with a history of pur- and allies, but I will never turn over our na- suing and even using weapons of mass de- tional security decisions to leaders of other struction. After all, he said so. He used to countries. understand that Saddam was a major source I want to thank the veterans who are here. of instability in the Middle East. After all, I want to thank the military families who are he said so. And when he voted to authorize here. I want to thank those who wear the force, the Senator must have recognized the uniform who are here. You will have the full nightmare scenario that terrorists might support of our Government. That’s why I somehow access weapons of mass destruc- went to Congress and proposed $87 billion tion. Senator Kerry seems to have forgotten of funding. I want—as you gather up the all of that, as his position has evolved during vote, I want you to remind your fellow citi- the course of the campaign. You might call zens of this startling statistic. Four Members it election amnesia. I know then and I know of the United States Senate voted to author- now that America and the world are safer ize the use of force and then voted against with Saddam Hussein sitting in a prison cell. funding for our troops in combat—only four Senator Kerry now calls Iraq a ‘‘diversion.’’ Members—two of whom were my opponent Audience members. Boo-o-o! and his runningmate. The President. But the case of just one Audience members. Boo-o-o! terrorist shows how wrong his thinking is. It’s The President. My opponent is a person a man named Zarqawi. He’s responsible for who said he actually did vote for the $87 bil- planting car bombs and beheading Ameri- lion, right before he voted against it. He then cans in Iraq. I want you to remember, he said, ‘‘The whole thing was a complicated ran a terrorist camp, a terrorist training camp matter.’’ There’s nothing complicated about in Afghanistan until our forces arrived to de- supporting our troops in harm’s way. stroy that camp. He then fled to Iraq. He I believe in the transformational power of recently publicly announced his allegiance to liberty. I want you to recognize what’s hap- Usama bin Laden. If Zarqawi and his associ- pened in Afghanistan. That country has gone ates were not busy fighting American forces from darkness to light. Young girls couldn’t in Iraq, what does Senator Kerry think, that go to school some 31⁄2 years ago. Their moth- he’d be a small businessman? [Laughter] ers were whipped in the public square if they That he’d be living a peaceful life, making didn’t toe the line of these barbaric Taliban. positive contributions to society somewhere? Today, because we defended ourselves, free- I don’t think so. Our troops will defeat them dom is on the march. Millions voted in a there so we do not have to face them in our Presidential election. The first voter was a own cities. 19-year-old woman. And the world is better The choice in this election cannot be clear- off for it. er. You cannot lead our Nation to the deci- Despite ongoing violence, Iraq has an in- sive victory on which the security of every terim government. It’s building up its own

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security forces. We’re headed toward elec- er child credit; he voted against marriage tions in January. You see, we’re safer, Amer- penalty relief; he voted against lower taxes. ica is safer with Afghanistan and Iraq on the If he had had his way, the average middle- road to democracy. We can be proud that class family would be paying 2,000 more a 50 million citizens of those countries now live year to the Federal Government. as free men and women. We must under- Audience members. Boo-o-o! stand that free societies help us keep the The President. It’s kind of part of a pat- peace. I believe strongly in freedom. Free- tern. He voted 10 times to raise taxes on gas- dom is not America’s gift to the world; free- oline as a United States Senator. And all told, dom is the Almighty God’s gift to each man during his 20 years in the Senate, he voted and woman in this world. 98 times to raise taxes. The second clear choice in this election Audience members. Boo-o-o! concerns your family budget. When I ran for The President. Think about it. It’s about President 4 years ago, I pledged to lower five times a year he’s voted to raise taxes. taxes for America’s families. I kept my word. When a Senator does something that often, We doubled the child credit to $1,000 per he must really enjoy it. [Laughter] And that’s child. We reduced the marriage penalty. Our a warning. That’s a predictable pattern. Dur- Tax Code ought to encourage marriage, not ing the campaign, he’s made a lot of big, ex- penalize marriage. We dropped the lowest pensive promises. He’s promised about $2.2 bracket to 10 percent to help our families. trillion worth of new spending. That’s with We reduced income taxes for everybody who a ‘‘T.’’ [Laughter] That’s a lot even for a Sen- pays taxes. As a result of these good policies, ator from Massachusetts. [Laughter] real after-tax income, the money in your So they said, ‘‘How are you going to pay pocket, the money you get to use, is up about for it?’’ And he said, ‘‘Oh, I’m just going to 10 percent since I took office. tax the rich.’’ We have heard that before. Our economy has been through a lot. See, First of all, when you raise the top two brack- that stock market was in serious decline 6 ets, you know who you’re taxing; you’re tax- months prior to my inauguration. That stock ing job creators. Most small businesses pay market decline foretold a recession. And then tax at the individual income-tax rate. Seventy we had some corporate scandals. By the way, percent of new jobs in America are created we made it clear, we’re not going to tolerate by small businesses. Raising taxes on small dishonesty in the boardrooms of this country. businesses is lousy economic policy. And then we got attacked, and those attacks When you talk about running up the top hurt our economy. We lost about a million two brackets or taxing the rich, you raise jobs in the 3 months after September the about 600 billion or 800 billion dollars, de- 11th. pending on who’s counting, but remember, But our economic policies have led us back that’s far short of the 2.2 trillion he promised. to growth, and that’s good for American fami- So there’s a gap, a gap between what he’s lies. Our economy is growing at rates as fast promised and how he’s going to raise the as any in nearly 20 years. We’ve added 1.9 money. And guess who usually gets to fill the million new jobs since August of 2003. The gap? national unemployment rate is 5.4 percent, Audience member. We do! lower than the average of the 1970s, the The President. That’s exactly right. And 1980s, and the 1990s. The unemployment finally, the rich hire lawyers and accountants rate in your great State is 4.5 percent. We’re during tax time for a reason; that’s to slip moving forward. the tab and stick you with the bill. We’re My opponent has different plans for your not going to let him raise your taxes; we’re budget. He intends to take a big chunk out going to carry Florida and win a great victory of it. in November. Audience members. Boo-o-o! Audience members. Four more years! The President. When I asked Congress Four more years! Four more years! to help grow this economy and help our The President. The third clear choice in American families, he voted against the high- this election involves the quality of life for

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our Nation’s families. I believe a good edu- helping our docs and patients. Remember, cation and quality health care are important he put a personal injury trial lawyer on the to a successful life. When I ran for President ticket. He can run from his record, but he 4 years ago, I promised to end the soft big- cannot hide. otry of low expectations by reforming our Now he’s proposing a big Government public schools. I kept my word. We passed health care plan that would cause 8 million the No Child Left Behind Act, meaningful families to lose private coverage they get at education reforms to bring high standards to work and have to go onto a Government plan. our classrooms and to make schools more ac- Eighty percent of the people who get cov- countable to our parents. We’re making erage under his idea would be enrolled in progress. Math and reading scores are rising. a Government program. In one of our de- We’re closing an achievement gap by helping bates, he tried to tell America that when it all students. We will build on these reforms. comes to his health care plan, and I quote, We will extend them to our high schools so ‘‘The Government has nothing to do with it.’’ that no child is left behind in America. [Laughter] I could barely contain myself. We will continue to improve life for our [Laughter] He can run from his record, but families by making health care more available he cannot hide. and more affordable. We’ll expand health My opponent’s plan would move America savings accounts so more small businesses down the road to Federal control of health can cover their workers and more families care, and that is the wrong road for American will be able to get health care accounts they families. In all we do to improve health care can manage and call their own. We will cre- in a new term, we will make sure the deci- ate association health plans so small busi- sions are made by doctors and patients, not nesses can join together to buy insurance at by officials in Washington, DC. the same discounts big companies get. The fourth clear choice in this election in- We will help families in need by expanding volves your retirement. Our Nation has made community health centers and making sure a solemn commitment to our seniors on every eligible child is enrolled in our Govern- Medicare and Social Security. When I ran ment’s low-income health programs. We’ll for President 4 years ago, I promised to keep help patients and doctors everywhere by that commitment. I promised to improve doing something about the frivolous lawsuits Medicare by adding prescription drug cov- that run up the cost of your practice and run erage for our seniors. I kept my word. You good doctors out of business. We want our remember those endless debates; leaders on doctors focusing on fighting illnesses, not on both political parties have talked about fighting frivolous lawsuits. These lawsuits are strengthening Medicare for years. We got the a national problem that require a national so- job done. Seniors are now getting discounts lution. I am for medical liability reform. on medicine through drug discount cards. Senator Kerry has a different point of view Low-income seniors are getting $600 to help on our schools and health care system. Lis- them this year and next year. And beginning ten, he voted for the No Child Left Behind in 2006, all seniors will be able to get pre- Act but now wants to weaken the account- scription drug coverage under Medicare. ability standards. He’s proposed including My opponent voted against the Medicare measures like teacher attendance to judge bill that included prescription drug coverage, whether students can read or write or add even though it was supported by AARP and and subtract. other senior groups. Later he said, quote, ‘‘If Audience members. Boo-o-o! I’m the President, we’re going to repeal that The President. He voted against health phony bill.’’ Then a little later, he said, ‘‘No, savings accounts. He opposes association I don’t want to repeal it.’’ Sounds familiar. health plans. He has voted 10 times against As your President for the next 4 years, I medical liability reform. will defend the reforms we have worked so Audience members. Boo-o-o! hard to pass and keep the promise to Amer- The President. You heard him in the de- ica’s seniors. And we will keep the promise bates the other day, mouth something about of Social Security for our seniors. And as we

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do so, we will strengthen Social Security for mainstream minority that voted against the generations to come. Every election, des- Defense of Marriage Act. perate politicians try to scare our seniors Audience members. Boo-o-o! about Social Security. It’s just predictable. The President. I believe that reasonable You remember in the 2000 campaign, they people can find common ground on difficult ran the ads telling our seniors, ‘‘If George issues. Republicans and Democrats and W. gets elected, you won’t get your Social many citizens on both sides of the life issue Security check.’’ Well, when you’re out gath- came together and agreed that we should ban ering up the vote, remind our seniors that the brutal practice of partial-birth abortion. George W. did get elected and our seniors Senator Kerry was part of an out-of-the- did get their checks. And our seniors will mainstream minority that voted against the continue to get their checks. And baby ban. boomers are in pretty good shape when it Audience members. Boo-o-o! comes to the Social Security trust. The President. He voted against parental But we all must be concerned about our notification laws—— children and our grandchildren. Someday, Audience members. Boo-o-o! our youngest workers will retire, and we’ve The President. ——against the Unborn got to make sure the Social Security system Victims of Violence Act. will be there when they need it. I believe Audience members. Boo-o-o! younger workers ought to be able to take The President. I will continue to reach some of their own money and put it into a out to Americans of every belief and move personal savings account, a personal savings this goodhearted Nation toward a culture of life. account that will earn a better rate of return, My opponent has said that the heart and a personal savings account they can call their soul of America can be found in Hollywood. own, an account the Government cannot take Audience members. Boo-o-o! away. The President. Most American families Once again, my opponent takes a different do not look to Hollywood as a source of val- point of view. He talks about protecting So- ues. The heart and soul of America is found cial Security, but he’s the only candidate in right here in Fort Myers, Florida. this race who voted eight times for higher All these choices make this one of the most taxes on Social Security benefits. important elections in our history. The secu- Audience members. Boo-o-o! rity and prosperity of our country, the health The President. And when it comes to the and education of our families, the retirement next generation, he has offered nothing. The of our seniors, and the direction of our cul- job of the President is to confront problems, ture are all at stake. The decision is in the not to pass them on to future generations best hands, because the decision belongs to and future Presidents. In a new term, I will the American people. bring Republicans and Democrats together I see a bright future for America. I see to strengthen Social Security for an upcom- a better day for all of us. One of my favorite ing generation of Americans. quotes was written by a fellow Texan, Tom The fifth choice in this election is on the Lea. He said, ‘‘Sarah and I live on the east values that are so crucial to keeping our fami- side of the mountain. It’s the sunrise side, lies strong. And here, my opponent and I are not the sunset side. It is the side to see the miles apart. I believe marriage is a sacred day that is coming, not to see the day that commitment, a pillar of our civilization, and is gone.’’ If you listen carefully to this cam- I will defend it. This is not a partisan issue. paign, my opponent has spent much of this When Congress passed the Defense of Mar- campaign talking about the day that is gone. riage Act, defining marriage as a union of I see the day that is coming. a man and a woman, the vast majority of We’ve been through a lot together in the Democrats supported it. My predecessor, last 4 years. Because we’ve done the hard President Clinton, signed it into law. But work of climbing that mountain, we can see Senator Kerry was part of an out-of-the- the valley below. We’ll protect our families.

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We’ll build their prosperity. We will defend America, to put me and Dick Cheney back the deepest values. We’ll spread freedom in in office. this world, and as we do so, we’ll keep Amer- I think it’s important to go around this ica safe and spread the peace. country telling people what you’re going to Four years ago, when I traveled your great do. I’m here to tell you why I think you need State asking for the vote, I made this pledge. to put me in office for 4 more years. But I said if I was elected, I would uphold the perhaps the most important reason of all is honor and the dignity of the office to which so that Laura is the First Lady for 4 more I had been elected. With your help, I will years. do so for 4 more years. Audience members. Laura! Laura! Laura! God bless. Thanks for coming. The President. I’m sure some of you all will appreciate this, when I tell you that NOTE: The President spoke at 10:10 a.m. at City Laura and I knew each other in the seventh of Palms Park. In his remarks, he referred to Sen- grade in San Jacinto Junior High in Midland, ator Zell Miller of Georgia, who made the keynote address at the Republican National Convention; Texas. We became reacquainted. She was a Gov. Jeb Bush of Florida; former Senator Connie public school librarian at the time. I said, Mack III of Florida; Connie Mack IV, candidate ‘‘Will you marry me?’’ She said, ‘‘Fine, so for Congress in Florida’s Fourteenth Congres- long as you make me a promise.’’ I said, sional District; Mel R. Martinez, senatorial can- ‘‘What is it?’’ She said, ‘‘I never want to have didate in Florida; Mayor Jim Humphrey of Fort to give a political speech.’’ [Laughter] I said, Myers, FL; State Attorney General Charlie Crist ‘‘Okay, you got a deal.’’ Fortunately, she of Florida; Johnnie Byrd, speaker, Florida House didn’t hold me to that deal. She is giving a of Representatives; country music entertainer lot of speeches, and when she speaks, the Daron Norwood; senior Al Qaida associate Abu American people see a compassionate, warm, Musab Al Zarqawi; and Usama bin Laden, leader of the Al Qaida terrorist network. strong First Lady. I’m proud of my runningmate, Dick Che- ney. He’s doing a great job. I see some others Remarks in Lakeland, Florida out here who are follically challenged. October 23, 2004 [Laughter] See, I admit he doesn’t have the waviest hair in the race. [Laughter] You’ll be The President. Thank you all for coming. pleased to hear I didn’t pick him because Audience members. Four more years! of his hairdo. [Laughter] I picked him be- Four more years! Four more years! cause he can get the job done. I picked him The President. Thank you all for coming because of his judgment. I picked him be- today. Laura and I are so honored that so cause of his experience. many came out to say hello. We really appre- I’m proud to be traveling with my brother. ciate it. It is a beautiful day to be cam- Jeb Bush is a great Governor for Florida. paigning in the great State of Florida. Of He’s led with conviction. You know, one course, according to your Governor, every thing about him, you don’t have to worry day is a beautiful day in Florida. about where he stands. In other words, he’s I’m here to ask for your vote, and I’m here not one of these politicians who is going to to ask for your help. We’re close to voting take a poll or run a focus group, trying to time. As a matter of fact, in your State, voting figure out what to tell you. He stands on prin- time is already here. Please go to your friends ciples. That’s how we were raised. You stand and neighbors, people from all parties—don’t for what you believe. And Jeb showed great overlook discerning Democrats—[laugh- courage and compassion during the times of ter]—people like Zell Miller. They want a these storms. I came over to try to lend a better country too. Tell them we have a duty hand and show the people of this important in this country to vote. Tell them we have State that the Federal Government cared, an obligation in a free society to go to the people around the country cared for you. But polls. And when you get them headed to the I was incredibly impressed by two things, polls, remind them, if they want a safer one, Jeb’s leadership, and two, the great com- America and a stronger America and a better passion of the people of Florida.

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I’m proud to be up here with Adam Put- ues that are so critical to our families and nam. I call him Red; you call him Congress- our future. man. [Laughter] We went over and saw some The first choice is the most important be- orange growers the other day, and it was my cause it concerns the security of your family. honor to be in that citrus grove, telling the All progress on any of the other issues de- orange growers of this part of the State, we’re pends on the safety of our citizens. This will going to help them get their feet back on be the first Presidential election since Sep- the ground. tember the 11th, 2001. Americans will go to I want to thank—listen, while you’re out the polls in a time of war and ongoing threats there voting, voting for me and Dick Cheney, unlike any * we have seen before. The terror- make sure you vote for Mel Martinez for the ists who killed thousands are still dangerous, United States Senate. He’ll be a fine United and they are determined to strike again. The States Senator, no doubt in my mind. outcome of this election will set the direction I want to thank Lieutenant Governor Toni of the war against terrorism. Jennings for being here. I want to thank the I believe the most solemn duty of the State Senate majority whip. I want to thank American President, the most solemn duty, all the local and State officials who are here. is to protect the American people. If America I want to thank Trini Triggs for performing shows uncertainty or weakness, the world will for you all. drift toward tragedy. This will not happen I want to thank the grassroots activists, the on my watch. people putting up the signs, the people mak- Since that terrible morning, September ing the phone calls, the people who have en- the 11th, 2001, we’ve fought the terrorists couraged this rally. I want to thank you for across the Earth, not for pride, not for power, what you’ve done. I want to thank you for but because the lives of our citizens are at what you’re going to do. With your help, we stake. Our strategy is clear. We’re strength- will carry Florida and win a great victory in ening the homeland. We’re reforming our in- November. telligence services. We are transforming our We just got 10 days to go in the campaign. All-Volunteer Army. We will not have a draft. Who’s counting? The voters have a clear We are staying on the offensive against these choice between two very different candidates terrorists. We are relentless and we are de- with dramatically different approaches and termined, and our strategy is paying off. records. You know where I stand. And some- More than three-quarters of Al Qaida’s key times, you even know where my opponent members and associates have been brought stands. We both have records. We both have to justice, and the rest of them know we’re records. on their trail. Audience members. Flip-flop! Flip-flop! My opponent has a different approach. He Flip-flop! says that September the 11th, quote, ‘‘didn’t The President. We both have records. I’m change me much at all,’’ end quote. proudly running on mine. And the Senator Audience members. Boo-o-o! is running from his, and there’s a reason why. The President. And that’s pretty clear. He There is a mainstream in American politics, considers the war on terror primarily a law and Senator John Kerry sits on the far left enforcement and intelligence gathering oper- bank. I’m a compassionate conservative and ation. proudly so. At a time when our country has Audience members. Boo-o-o! much to accomplish and much more to do, The President. His top foreign policy ad- I offer a record of reform and results, and viser questioned it is even a war at all, saying, my opponent offers a long list of out-of-the- ‘‘It’s just like a metaphor, like the war on mainstream votes. poverty.’’ Anyone who thinks we’re fighting This election comes down to five clear a metaphor does not understand the enemy choices for American families, five choices we face. You cannot win a war if you are on issues of great consequence: your family’s not convinced we are even in one. security; your family’s budget; your quality of life; your retirement; and the bedrock val- * White House correction.

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Senator Kerry also misunderstands our would be to respond to attacks after America battle against insurgents and terrorists in is hit. Iraq. After voting to authorize force against Audience members. Boo-o-o! Saddam Hussein, after calling it the right de- The President. That would be too late. cision when I sent troops into Iraq, the Sen- In our debates, he said we can defend Amer- ator now calls it the ‘‘wrong war.’’ ica only if we pass a ‘‘global test.’’ Audience members. Boo-o-o! Audience members. Boo-o-o! The President. The Senator used to rec- The President. I’m not making that up. ognize that Saddam Hussein was a gathering He was standing right there when he said threat who hated America. After all, he said it. I work with our friends and allies. We will so. He used to recognize that Saddam was strengthen our coalitions. But I will never a state sponsor of terror with a history of pur- turn over America’s national security deci- suing and even using weapons of mass de- sions to leaders of other countries. struction. After all, he said so. He used to I saw some of our troops coming in. I want understand that Saddam was a major source to thank them for their service. I want to of instability in the Middle East. After all, thank the veterans who are here for having he said so. And when he voted to authorize set such a great example for those who wear force, the Senator must have recognized the the uniform. I want to thank our military nightmare scenario that terrorists might families who are here for supporting our somehow gain access to weapons of mass de- troops fighting for freedom and security. And struction. Senator Kerry seems to have for- I want to assure you your loved ones will gotten all of that as his position has evolved have the full support of our Government. during the course of this campaign. You That’s why I went to Congress and asked might call it election amnesia. [Laughter] I for $87 billion of supplemental funding. This know then and I know now that the world was money to support our troops in harm’s and America are safer with Saddam Hussein way. When you’re out gathering up the vote, sitting in a prison cell. I want you to remind your fellow citizens of Senator Kerry now calls Iraq a ‘‘diversion.’’ this startling statistic. There were 4 Members But the case of just one terrorist shows how in the United States Senate—only 4 out of wrong his thinking is. A man named Zarqawi 100—that voted to authorize the use of force is responsible for the car bombs and behead- and then voted against funding for our troops ing Americans in Iraq. He ran a terrorist in harm’s way. And four of those—two of training camp in Afghanistan until coalition those four were my opponent and his troops arrived. He then ran to Iraq, where runningmate. he’s fighting today. He supports and swore Audience members. Boo-o-o! allegiance to Usama bin Laden. If Zarqawi The President. They asked him about that and his associates were not busy fighting vote. He said, ‘‘I actually did vote for the American forces and Iraqi forces in Iraq, 87 billion, right before I voted against it.’’ what does my opponent think he’d be doing, You know—I bet you don’t hear many people a peaceful businessman somewhere? Lead- talking like that around the coffee shops ing a benevolence campaign? [Laughter] Of here. They pressed him even further, and he course not. Our troops will defeat them there finally just threw up his hands. He said, ‘‘The so we do not have to face them in our own whole thing is a complicated matter.’’ My fel- cities. low Americans, there is nothing complicated The choice in this election could not be about supporting our troops in combat. clearer when it comes to the security of our And to protect America, we will lead the families. You cannot lead our Nation to deci- cause of freedom. I believe in the trans- sive victory, on which the security of every formational power of liberty. I want the American family depends, if you do not see youngsters here to understand what has the true dangers of a post-September the taken place in a short period of time. Afghan- 11th world. My opponent has a September istan was once ruled by the Taliban. Young 10th point of view. You might remember, at girls couldn’t go to school. If their mothers his convention he declared that his strategy didn’t toe the ideological line of the haters,

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they’d be whipped in the public squares and ward, and we’re not going to go back to the sometime shot in the stadiums. Because we old days. acted in our own self-defense, millions of Af- My opponent has very different plans for ghan citizens went to the polls to vote for your budget. He intends to take a big chunk the President, and the first voter was a 19- out of it. year-old woman. Freedom is on the march. Audience members. Boo-o-o! Freedom is precious. Freedom is powerful. The President. When I proposed the tax And we’re better off for it. relief to help our families and get this econ- Iraq will have Presidential elections in Jan- omy going again, he voted against the higher uary. Think how far that country has come child tax credit. He voted against the mar- from the days of torture chambers and the riage penalty relief. He voted against lower brutality of Saddam Hussein. Fifty million taxes. He voted against the help to small busi- people now live in freedom because we acted nesses. If he had had his way, the average to secure ourselves. We’re more secure. The middle-class family in America would have world is better off as freedom is on the been paying $2,000 more in Federal income march. I believe everybody yearns to be free taxes. in this world. Freedom is not America’s gift Audience members. Boo-o-o! to the world; freedom is the Almighty God’s The President. It’s part of a pattern. The gift to each man and woman in this world. Senator has voted 10 times to raise gasoline The second clear choice in this election taxes since he’s been in the Senate. And all concerns your family budget, your wallet. told, during his 20 years in the United States When I ran for President 4 years ago, I Senate, my opponent has voted 98 times to pledged to lower taxes for American families. raise taxes. I have kept my word. We raised the child Audience members. Boo-o-o! credit. We reduced the marriage penalty. The President. Think about that. That’s The Tax Code ought to encourage marriage, about five times every year he served. When not penalize marriage. We created a 10-per- a Senator does something that often, he must cent bracket to help working families. We really enjoy it. [Laughter] reduced income taxes for everybody who During this campaign, he’s made a lot of pays taxes. We’re helping our small-business big promises. As a matter of fact, he’s prom- owners. And as a result of these policies, real ised about $2.2 trillion in new spending. after-tax income, the money in your pocket, That’s with a ‘‘T.’’ [Laughter] That’s a lot is up by about 10 percent since I got into even for a Senator from Massachusetts. office. [Laughter] So they said, ‘‘How are you going Think about what this economy has been to pay for it?’’ He said, ‘‘Oh, we’ll just tax through. Tell your friends and neighbors the rich.’’ We’ve heard that before, haven’t what we have overcome. Six months prior we? to my arrival, the stock market was in serious By running up the top two brackets, guess decline, indicating the recession that came. who he’s taxing? He’s taxing job creators. Then we had some corporate scandals. And Seventy percent of new jobs are created by then we got attacked, and those attacks cost small businesses in America. Most small busi- us about a million jobs in the 3 months after nesses pay tax at the individual income-tax September the 11th. level. It’s a bad idea to tax the job creators Our economic policies are working. in this country. They’ve led us back to growth. Our economy Raising the top two brackets will raise be- is growing at rates as fast as any in nearly tween 600 and 800 billion dollars, so as you 20 years. We’ve added more than 1.9 million can tell, there’s a tax gap. There’s a difference new jobs since August of 2003. The unem- between what he has promised and what he ployment rate is 5.4 percent, lower than the can deliver. Now, you know who gets to fill average of the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. Farm that tax gap, don’t you? I’ll tell you one other income is up. Homeownership rates are at thing about taxing the rich. The rich, during an alltime high. The unemployment rate in tax time, hire lawyers and accountants for a Florida is 4.5 percent. We’re moving for- reason: to slip the tab and to stick you with

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the bill. We’re not going to let him tax you; Senator Kerry has a different point of view we’re going to carry Florida and win a great on our schools and health care system. Lis- victory on November the 2d. ten, he voted for the No Child Left Behind Audience members. Four more years! Act, but now he wants to weaken the ac- Four more years! Four more years! countability standards. He has proposed in- The President. The third clear choice in cluding measures like teacher attendance to this election involves the quality of life for judge whether students can read or write or our families. A good education and quality add and subtract. He voted against health health care are important for a successful life. savings accounts. He opposes association When I ran for President 4 years ago, I prom- health plans that will help our small busi- ised to end and to challenge the soft bigotry nesses. He voted 10 times against medical of low expectations in our schools. I kept my liability reform. word, passed the No Child Left Behind Act, Audience members. Boo-o-o! which is a great piece of legislation. It brings The President. He can run from his high standards to our classrooms and makes record, but he cannot hide. our schools accountable to our parents. Now he’s proposing a big Government We’re seeing progress. Math and reading health care plan that would cause 8 million scores are rising. We are closing an achieve- families to lose private coverage they get at ment gap all across America. We will build work and have to go onto a Government plan. on these reforms. We’ll extend them to our Eighty percent of the people who get cov- high schools so that no child is left behind erage under his proposal would be enrolled in America. in a Government plan. In one of our debates, We’ll continue to improve life—the life of he said with a straight face that when it our families by making health care more af- comes to his health care plan, and I quote, fordable and accessible. We’ll expand health ‘‘The Government has nothing to do with it.’’ savings accounts so small businesses can I could barely contain myself when I heard cover their workers and more families are that. [Laughter] The Government has a lot able to get health care accounts they can to do with it. His plan would move America manage and call their own. We’ll create asso- down the road to Federal control of health ciation health plans so small businesses can care, and that’s the wrong road for American join together and buy insurance at the dis- families. He can run from his record, but he counts that big companies are able to do. We cannot hide. will help our families in need by expanding In all we do to improve health care, we community health centers. We’ll make sure will make sure decisions are made by doctors every child eligible is enrolled in our Govern- and patients, not by officials in Washington, ment’s low-income health insurance pro- DC. gram. Fourth clear choice in this election in- And we’ll help patients and doctors every- volves your retirement. Our Nation has made where by doing something about these frivo- a solemn commitment to America’s seniors lous lawsuits that are running up the cost of on Social Security and Medicare. When I ran health care and running good doctors out of for President 4 years ago, I promised to keep practice. I met too many ob-gyns that are that commitment and improve Medicare by having trouble making ends meet, and so adding prescription drug coverage. I have they’re quitting the practice. I met too many kept my word. You know, leaders in both po- women who are driving miles to get the good litical parties have talked about Medicare for health care they need for themselves and years—for years. We got the job done. Sen- their child. And this isn’t right for America. iors are now getting discounts on medicine You can’t be pro-trial-lawyer and pro-doctor with drug discount cards. Low-income sen- and pro-patient at the same time. You have iors are getting $600 on their card this year to pick. My opponent made his pick. He put and 600 next year. And beginning in 2006, a personal injury trial lawyer on the ticket. all seniors will be able to get prescription I stand for medical liability reform—now. drug coverage under Medicare.

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My opponent voted against the Medicare The fifth clear choice in this election is bill that included prescription drug coverage, on the values that are so critical to keeping even though it was supported by the AARP America’s families strong. And my opponent and other seniors groups. Later he said, and I are miles apart. I believe marriage is quote, ‘‘If I am President, we’re going to re- a sacred institution. Marriage is a pillar of peal that phony bill.’’ A little later on, he said, our civilization, and I will always defend it. ‘‘No, I don’t want to repeal it.’’ Kind of This is not a partisan issue. When Congress sounds familiar. As your President for the passed the Defense of Marriage Act, defining next 4 years, I will defend the reforms we marriage as the union of a man and a woman, have worked so hard to pass and keep the the vast majority of Democrats supported it, promise of Medicare for our senior citizens. and my predecessor, President Bill Clinton, And we will keep the promise of Social signed it into law. Senator Kerry was part Security for our seniors, and we’ll strengthen of an out-of-the-mainstream minority that Social Security for generations to come. voted against the Defense of Marriage Act. Every election, desperate politicians try to Audience members. Boo-o-o! scare our seniors about Social Security. It is The President. I believe that reasonable predictable, and it’s beginning to happen people can find common ground on the most again. I want you to tell your friends and difficult of issues. Republicans and Demo- neighbors about what happened in the 2000 crats and many citizens on both sides of the campaign. They said, ‘‘If George W. gets life issue came together and agreed we elected, our seniors will not get their checks.’’ should ban the brutal practice of partial-birth Now, you might remember that. Well, tell abortion. Senator Kerry was part of an out- of-the-mainstream minority that voted them George W. did get elected, and our against the ban. seniors did get their checks. And our seniors Audience members. Boo-o-o! will continue to get their checks, and baby The President. He voted against parental boomers like me are in pretty good shape notification laws. when it comes to the Social Security trust. Audience members. Boo-o-o! But we need to think about our children The President. He voted against the Un- and our grandchildren. We need to make born Victims of Violence Act. sure that when they retire, there’s a Social Audience members. Boo-o-o! Security system available to meet their needs. The President. I’ll continue to reach out And that is why I believe younger workers to Americans of every belief and move this ought to be allowed to take some of their goodhearted Nation toward a culture of life. own money and put it in a personal account. My opponent has said that the heart and It will earn a better rate of return, a personal soul of America can be found in Hollywood. account they call their own, a personal ac- Audience members. Boo-o-o! count the Government cannot take away. The President. I understand most Amer- My opponent is taking a different ap- ican families do not look to Hollywood as a proach. He talks about protecting Social Se- source of values. The heart and soul of Amer- curity. He’s the only candidate in this race ica is found in communities like Lakeland, that voted to tax Social Security benefits eight Florida. times. All of these choices make this one of the Audience members. Boo-o-o! most important elections in our history. The The President. He can run, but he cannot security and prosperity of our country, the hide. And when it comes to the next genera- health and education of our families, the re- tion, he has offered no reform. The job of tirement of our seniors, and the direction of a President is to confront problems, not to our culture are all at stake. And this decision pass them on to future Presidents and future is in the best of hands, because the decision generations. In a new term, I’ll bring Repub- rests with the American people. licans and Democrats together to make sure I can’t tell you how optimistic I am about Social Security is around when a younger the future of this country. I see a better day generation of America needs it. for everybody. You know, one of my favorite

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quotes was written by a fellow Texan named ica, and a better America, put me and Dick Tom Lea. He said, ‘‘Sarah and I live on the Cheney back in office. east side of the mountain. It’s the sunrise I really enjoy campaigning. I like to be out side, not the sunset side. It is the side to with the people. I like to tell people why I’m see the day that is coming, not the side to running and what I intend to do as your see the day that is gone.’’ My opponent has President for 4 more years. Perhaps the most spent much of this campaign talking about important reason of all for you to put me the day that is gone. I see the day that is back into office is so that Laura will be the coming. First Lady for 4 more years. We’ve been lot—we’ve been through a lot Audience members. Laura! Laura! Laura! together in the last nearly 4 years. Because The President. Listen, some of you all we’ve done the hard work of climbing the may appreciate this—I think some of you will mountain, we can see the valley below. We’ll appreciate this. When I asked Laura to marry protect our families and build their pros- me—well, we’d been to the seventh grade perity and defend our deepest values. We’ll together at San Jacinto Junior High in Mid- spread freedom in the world and the peace land, Texas. We became reacquainted later we all want. on. She was a public school librarian at the Four years ago, when I traveled your State time. And when I asked her to marry me, asking for the vote, I pledged to restore she said, ‘‘Fine, but make me a promise.’’ honor and dignity to the office to which I I said, ‘‘What is it?’’ She said, ‘‘Promise me had been elected. With your help, I will do that I’ll never have to give a political speech.’’ so for 4 more years. [Laughter] I said, ‘‘Okay, you got a deal.’’ God bless. Thank you all. Thank you all. Fortunately, she didn’t hold me to that prom- On to victory! ise. [Laughter] She is giving a lot of speeches, and when she does, the American people see NOTE: The President spoke at 11:55 a.m. at Ty Cobb Field. In his remarks, he referred to Senator a compassionate, warm, strong First Lady. Zell Miller of Georgia, who made the keynote ad- I’m proud of my runningmate, Dick Che- dress at the Republican National Convention; Lt. ney. I fully admit it, he doesn’t have the most Gov. Toni Jennings of Florida; Paula Dockery, hair in the race. [Laughter] I didn’t pick him majority whip, Florida State Senate; country because of his hairdo. I picked him because music entertainer Trini Triggs; former President of his judgment, his experience. He’s getting Saddam Hussein of Iraq; and senior Al Qaida asso- the job done for the American people. ciate Abu Musab Al Zarqawi. And I’m proud of brother Jeb. The thing I like about him is you know where he stands. Remarks in Melbourne, Florida He’s not one of these people that takes a October 23, 2004 poll or a focus group to kind of find his way. And not only that, when times were tough The President. Thanks for coming today. here in the State of Florida, I saw firsthand Audience members. Four more years! his steady leadership. Though I came and Four more years! Four more years! tried to remind the people of this State the The President. Thank you all. Thanks for Federal Government would do everything coming today. We’re getting close to voting we can to help the people, the truth of the time—actually, you already are voting here. matter is, Florida’s great strength is not only We’re traveling your State not only asking your Governor but the fact that neighbor for the vote, I’m here to ask for your help. loved neighbor, neighbor helped neighbor. I’m asking you to get your friends and neigh- Florida showed great character during these bors and remind them they have a duty to times of testing. vote in a democracy. And as you’re getting I’m honored to call Buzz Aldrin friend. I people to do their duty, don’t overlook dis- appreciate him being here today. He’s one cerning Democrats, people like Senator Zell of the great pioneers of America. I appreciate Miller from Georgia. Remind people that if you, Buzz, coming. I want to thank you for they want a safer America, a stronger Amer- the example you have set for future pioneers.

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I want to thank Congressman Dave the American people. If America shows un- Weldon for his service to the great State of certainty or weakness in this decade, the Florida. I appreciate you being here, Dave. world will drift toward tragedy. This will not When you go to the polls, make sure you happen on my watch. vote for Mel Martinez. He’ll make a great Audience members. Four more years! United States Senator. I want to thank all Four more years! Four more years! the State and local officials who are here. The President. Since that terrible morn- I want to thank my friends in Little Texas ing of September the 11th, 2001, we have for having played for you all today. fought the terrorists across the Earth, not for Most of all, I want to thank the grassroots pride, not for power, but because the lives activists who are putting up the signs and of our citizens are at stake. Our strategy is making the phone calls, who have worked clear. We’ve strengthened protections for our so hard to make this rally such a fantastic homeland. We’re reforming and strength- rally. I want to thank you for what you have ening our intelligence services. We’re trans- done and what you’re going to do, and that is turn out the vote. And with your help, we’ll forming our military. We will not have a carry Florida again and win a great victory draft. We will have an all-volunteer army. on November the 2d. We’re staying on the offensive. We are reso- We have just 10 days to go in this election, lute, and we are determined to protect the and voters have a clear choice between two people. very different candidates and dramatically And we’re succeeding. More than three- different approaches and records. You know quarters of Al Qaida’s key members and asso- where I stand, and sometimes, you even ciates have been brought to justice, and the know where my opponent stands. [Laughter] rest of them know we’re on their trail. We both have records. I am proudly running My opponent has a very different ap- on my record. And the Senator is running proach. He says that September the 11th, from his, and there is a reason why. There quote, ‘‘didn’t change me much at all’’—— is a mainstream in American politics, and my Audience members. Boo-o-o! opponent sits on the far left bank. I’m a com- The President. ——end quote. And that’s passionate conservative and proudly so. At a pretty clear. He considers the war on terror time when our country has much to accom- primarily a law enforcement and intelligence plish and much more to do, I offer a record gathering operation. of reform and results. Audience members. Boo-o-o! This election comes down to five clear The President. His top policy adviser has choices for America’s families, five choices questioned whether it is even a war at all, on issues of great consequence: your family’s saying that, ‘‘It’s just a metaphor, like the war security; your family’s budget; your quality of life; your retirement; and the bedrock val- on poverty.’’ ues that are so critical to our families and Audience members. Boo-o-o! to our future. The President. Anyone who thinks we’re The first clear choice is the most important fighting a metaphor does not understand the because it concerns the security of your fam- enemy we face. You cannot win a war if you ily. All our progress on every other issue de- are not convinced we are even in one. pends on the safety of our citizens. This will Senator Kerry also misunderstands our be the first Presidential election since Sep- battle against insurgents and terrorists in tember the 11th, 2001. Americans will go to Iraq. After voting to authorize force against the polls in a time of war and ongoing threats Saddam Hussein, after calling it the right de- unlike any we have faced before. Terrorists cision when I sent troops into Iraq, the Sen- who killed thousands are still dangerous. ator now calls it the ‘‘wrong war.’’ They are determined to strike us again. The Audience members. Boo-o-o! outcome of this election will set the direction The President. The Senator used to rec- of the war against terror. The most solemn ognize that Saddam Hussein was a gathering duty of the American President is to protect

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threat who hated America. After all, the Sen- I will never turn over America’s national se- ator said so. He used to recognize that Sad- curity decisions to leaders of other countries. dam was a state sponsor of terror with a his- I want to thank those who wear the uni- tory of pursuing and even using weapons of form who are here today. Thank you for your mass destruction. After all, the Senator said service. I want to thank the veterans who are so. He used to understand that Saddam was here for having set such a great example for a major source of instability in the Middle those who wear the uniform. I want to thank East. After all, the Senator said so. And when the military families who are here. he voted to authorize force, the Senator must And I assure you, we will continue to sup- have recognized the nightmare scenario that port our troops in harm’s way. That is why terrorists might somehow access weapons of I went to the United States Congress and mass destruction. Senator Kerry seems to proposed $87 billion in supplemental fund- have forgotten all that as his position has ing, to make sure our troops had that which evolved over the course of this campaign. they need to complete their missions in Af- You might call it election amnesia. ghanistan and Iraq. I knew it then, and I know it now, that We received great bipartisan support for America and the world are safer with Saddam that funding. As you gather the vote, I want Hussein sitting in a prison cell. you to remind your friends and neighbors of Senator Kerry now calls Iraq a ‘‘diversion.’’ this startling statistic: Only 4 Members of the United States Senate—4 out of 100—voted But the case of just one terrorist shows how to authorize the use of force and then voted wrong his thinking is. A man named Zarqawi against providing the funding necessary to is responsible for planting car bombs and be- supporting our troops in harm’s way, and 2 heading Americans in Iraq. He ran a terrorist of those 4 were my opponent and his training camp in Afghanistan—until we ar- runningmate. rived. And then he fled to Baghdad, where Audience members. Boo-o-o! he plotted and planned and where he’s fight- The President. So they asked him, ‘‘Why ing us today. He publicly announced his alle- did you make the vote?’’ And you might re- giance to Usama bin Laden. See, if Zarqawi member the most famous quote of the 2004 and his associates were not busy fighting campaign, ‘‘I actually did vote for the $87 American and Iraqi forces in Iraq, what does billion, right before I voted against it.’’ They my opponent think they’d be doing? Peaceful kept pressing him, and he finally said, ‘‘The small-business men? [Laughter] Working for whole thing was a complicated matter.’’ benevolent societies? Our troops will defeat There is nothing complicated about sup- the likes of Zarqawi so we do not have to porting our troops in combat. face him in our own cities. We will continue to protect America by The choice in this election could not be spreading freedom and liberty. I believe in clearer. You cannot lead our Nation to the the transformational power of liberty. Free decisive victory on which the security of nations do not breed resentment and export every American family depends if you do not terror. Free nations become allies against see the true dangers of the post-September these ideologues of hate. the 11th era. My opponent has a September Think about what’s happened in Afghani- 10th point of view. At his convention, he de- stan. Because we acted to defend ourselves, clared his strategy would be to respond to that society has gone from darkness to light. attacks after America is hit. And that would Three-and-a-half years ago, young girls be too late. America—in our debates, he said couldn’t go to school. Their mothers were we can defend America only if we pass a taken to the public square and whipped if ‘‘global test.’’ they did not toe the line of the barbarians Audience members. Boo-o-o! who ran that country. Because we acted, mil- The President. I’m not making that up. lions voted in a Presidential election. The He was standing about this far from me when first voter in the Afghan Presidential election he said it. Listen, I’ll work with our friends was a 19-year-old woman. Freedom is on the and allies. We’ll build strong coalitions. But march.

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Audience members. Four more years! The President. He voted against the high- Four more years! Four more years! er child tax credit. He voted against the mar- The President. Iraq has a strong Prime riage penalty relief. He voted against lower Minister. They’ll be holding Presidential taxes. If he had had his way, an average mid- elections in January. Think how far that soci- dle-class family would be paying 2,000 more ety has come from the days of torture cham- dollars a year to the Federal Government. bers and mass graves. I believe people in the Audience members. Boo-o-o! Middle East want to be free. Freedom is not The President. It’s part of a pattern. See, America’s gift to the world. Freedom is the he’s voted 10 times to raise taxes on gasoline. Almighty God’s gift to each man and woman All told, during his 20 years as a United in this world. States Senator, my opponent has voted 98 The second clear choice in this election times to raise taxes. concerns your family budget, your wallet. Audience members. Boo-o-o! When I ran for President 4 years ago, I The President. That’s about five times a pledged to lower taxes for American families. year. When a Senator does something that I kept my word. We doubled the child credit often, he must really enjoy it. [Laughter] to $1,000 to help our moms and dads. We During this campaign, he’s also made a lot reduced the marriage penalty. We believe of big, expensive promises. He’s promised the Tax Code ought to encourage marriage, about $2.2 trillion of new Federal spending. not penalize marriage. We dropped the low- That’s with a ‘‘T’’—trillion with a ‘‘T.’’ That’s est tax bracket to 10 percent to help our a lot even for a Senator from Massachusetts. working families. We reduced taxes on every- [Laughter] body who paid taxes. As a result of these good So they said, ‘‘How are you going to pay policies, real after-tax income—that’s the for it?’’ He said, ‘‘Well, oh, don’t worry. We’ll money you have left in your pocket—is just tax the rich.’’ You’ve heard that before, about—is up about 10 percent since I’ve haven’t you? See, there’s a gap. When he says been your President. ‘‘tax the rich,’’ he can raise about 600 to 800 When you’re out gathering up the vote, billion dollars. So there’s a gap between what remind the people what we have been he has promised and what he can raise, and through in this country. Six months prior to guess who usually gets to fill that gap? my arrival, the stock market was in serious Audience members. We do! decline—6 months before getting there. That The President. We’re not going to let him foretold a recession. Then we had some cor- tax you; we’re going to carry Florida and win porate scandals. Then those attacks on our a great victory in November. country cost us about a million jobs in the The third choice in this election involves 3 months after September the 11th. the quality of life for our families. A good But our economic policies are working. education and quality health care are impor- This economy is growing. We’re growing at tant to successful life. When I ran for Presi- rates as fast as any in nearly 20 years. We’ve dent 4 years ago, I promised to end the soft added 1.9 million * new jobs since August of bigotry of low expectations by reforming our 2003. The unemployment rate is 5.4 percent. public schools. I kept my word. We passed That’s lower than the average rate of the education reforms to bring high standards to 1970s, the 1980s, and the 1990s. Farm in- our classrooms and to make schools account- come is up. The homeownership rate in able to our parents. We’re seeing progress. America is at an alltime high. And your un- Math and reading scores are rising. We’re employment rate in the great State of Florida closing an achievement gap amongst minority is 4.5 percent. students. We’ll build on these reforms and My opponent has very different plans for extend them to our high schools so that no your family’s budget. He intends to take a child is left behind in America. bigger chunk out of it. We’ll continue to improve our lives—lives Audience members. Boo-o-o! for our families, by making health care more affordable and accessible. We’ll expand * White House correction. health savings accounts so small businesses

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can cover their workers and more families tain myself. My opponent’s plan would move are able to get health care accounts they own America down the road to Federal control and manage themselves. We’ll create associa- of health care, and that is the wrong road tion health plans so small businesses can join for America’s families. He can run—he can together and buy insurance at the same dis- run in camo, but he cannot hide. counts that big companies are able to do. We In all we do to improve health care, we will help families in need by expanding com- will make sure the decisions are made by munity health centers. We’ll make sure every doctors and patients, not by officials in Wash- eligible child is enrolled in our Government’s ington, DC. low-income health insurance program to The fourth clear choice in this election in- make sure health care is available and afford- volves your retirement. Our Nation has made able to you. a solemn commitment to America’s seniors We will do something about these junk on Social Security and Medicare. When I ran lawsuits that are running up the cost of medi- for President 4 years ago, I promised to keep cine and driving good doctors out of practice. that commitment and improve Medicare by I’ve met too many ob-gyns who are being adding prescription drug coverage. I kept my driven out of practice because of these law- word. Leaders in both political parties have suits. And I’ve met too many women who talked about strengthening Medicare for are worried about whether they’re going to years. We got the job done. Seniors are now get the quality health care they need to bring getting discounts on medicine with drug dis- their baby into life. We have a national prob- count cards. Our low-income seniors are get- lem with health care and these lawsuits. You ting $600 this year and another $600 next cannot be pro-doctor and pro-patient and year to help pay for their prescriptions. And pro-personal-injury-lawyer at the same time. beginning in 2006, all seniors will be able You have to choose. My opponent has made to get prescription drug coverage under his choice, and he put a personal-injury trial Medicare. lawyer on the ticket. My opponent voted against the Medicare Audience members. Boo-o-o! bill that included prescription drug coverage, The President. I have made my choice. even though it was supported by AARP and I’m standing with the doctors and patients. other seniors groups. Campaigning, he said, I am for medical liability reform—now. ‘‘If I am the President, I am going to repeal Senator Kerry has a different point of view that phony bill.’’ Then a little later on, he on our schools. He voted for the No Child said, ‘‘No, I don’t want to repeal it.’’ That Left Behind Act but now wants to weaken sounds familiar. the accountability standards. He’s proposed As your President for the next 4 years, I including measures like teacher attendance will defend the reforms we worked so hard to judge whether students can read and write to pass, and we will keep the promise of and add and subtract. He voted against Medicare for America’s seniors. And we will health savings accounts. He opposes associa- keep the promise of Social Security for our tion health plans. He voted 10 times against seniors. And we will strengthen Social Secu- medical liability reform. He can run from his rity for a younger generation. record, but he cannot hide. Every election, desperate politicians try to Now he’s proposing a big-Government scare seniors about Social Security. You health care plan that would cause 8 million might remember the campaign in 2000. They families to lose the private coverage they get were saying, ‘‘If George W. gets elected, our at work, put them on the health—the Gov- seniors will not get their checks.’’ Remind ernment plan. Eighty percent of the people your friends and neighbors that George W. who would get coverage under his proposal got elected and our seniors got their checks. would be enrolled in a Government program. You will continue to get your checks. Baby In one of our debates, he tried to tell boomers like me are in good shape when it Americans, when it comes to his health care comes to the Social Security trust. plan, and I’d like to quote him, ‘‘Government But we need to worry about our children has nothing to do with it.’’ I could barely con- and our grandchildren. We need to make

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sure Social Security will be there when they The President. I’ll continue to reach out need it. And that is why I believe younger to Americans of every belief and move this workers ought to be able to take some of goodhearted Nation toward a culture of life. their own money and put it in a personal In the course of this campaign, my oppo- savings account, a personal savings account nent has said that the heart and soul of Amer- they call their own, that the Government can- ica can be found in Hollywood. not take away. Audience members. Boo-o-o! My opponent takes a different approach The President. Most American families about Social Security. He talks about pro- don’t look to Hollywood as the source for tecting Social Security. But he’s the only can- values. The heart and soul of America is didate in this race who voted eight times for found in communities like Melbourne, Flor- higher taxes on Social Security benefits. ida. That’s his record. He can run from it, but he cannot hide. All of these choices make this one of the And when it comes to the next generation, most important elections in our history. The he’s offered nothing. American families have security and prosperity of our country, the a clear choice. My opponent wants to scare health and education of our families, the re- the seniors of today and do nothing to secure tirement of our seniors, and the direction of the system for the seniors of tomorrow. I will our culture are all at stake. The decision is keep the promise of Social Security and in the best hands, because the decision be- Medicare and strengthen these great systems longs to the American people. for our children and our grandchildren. I see a great day for America. One of my The fifth clear choice in this election is favorite quotes was written by a Texan on the values that are so crucial to keeping named Tom Lea. He said, ‘‘Sarah and I live our families strong. And here, my opponent on the east side of the mountain. It’s the sun- and I are miles apart. I believe marriage is rise side, not the sunset side. It’s the side a sacred commitment, a pillar of our civiliza- that sees the day that is coming, not to see tion, and I will defend it. This isn’t a partisan the day that is gone.’’ You know, my oppo- issue. You know, when Congress passed the nent has spent much of this campaign talking Defense of Marriage Act, defining marriage about the day that is gone. I see the day that as the union of a man and a woman, the vast is coming. majority of Democrats supported it and my We’ve been through a lot together over predecessor, Bill Clinton, signed the bill into 3 the last 3 ⁄4 years. Because we’ve done the law. Senator Kerry was part of an out-of-the- hard work of climbing the mountain, we see mainstream minority that voted against the the valley below. We’ll protect our families Defense of Marriage Act. and build on their prosperity. We’ll defend Audience members. Boo-o-o! the deepest values of our country. We will The President. I believe that reasonable spread freedom and the peace we all want. people can find common ground on difficult issues. Republicans and Democrats and We’ll do everything I can to make America many citizens on both sides of the life issue safer. came together and agreed we should ban the Four years ago when I traveled this great brutal practice of partial-birth abortions. I State, I made this pledge, that if I was hon- proudly signed that bill. But Senator Kerry ored with the office, I would uphold the was part of an out-of-the-mainstream minor- honor and the dignity of that office. With ity that voted against the ban. your help, I will do so for 4 more years. Audience members. Boo-o-o! Thanks for coming. God bless. On to vic- The President. He voted against parental tory. Thank you all. notification laws. Audience members. Boo-o-o! NOTE: The President spoke at 1:39 p.m. at the The President. He voted against the Un- Space Coast Stadium. In his remarks, he referred born Victims of Violence Act. to Senator Zell Miller of Georgia, who made the Audience members. Boo-o-o!

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keynote address at the Republican National Con- afflicted by the four hurricanes. Florida vention; Gov. Jeb Bush of Florida; Apollo 11 astro- showed its true strength not only in your naut Edwin ‘‘Buzz’’ Aldrin; Mel R. Martinez, sen- Governor but because people cared for peo- atorial candidate in Florida; country music enter- ple who were hurting in this State. I am really tainers Little Texas; Usama bin Laden, leader of the Al Qaida terrorist organization; and Prime proud of how Florida handled the four hurri- Minister Ayad Allawi of the Iraqi Interim Govern- canes. ment. Mel Martinez is the right man for the United States Senate from Florida. And when you vote for him and put him in office, Remarks in Jacksonville, Florida he’ll be joining a fine United States Senator October 23, 2004 who has joined us today from the State of Utah, Senator Orrin Hatch. Thank you, Sen- The President. Thank you all. Thank you ator. so much for coming today. Brother Jeb said, Congressman Ander Crenshaw is doing a ‘‘Why don’t we go to Jacksonville; maybe a great job in the House of Representatives. couple of folks will show up to say hello.’’ Thank you, Ander. Congressman Cliff Laura and I thank you so very much for com- Stearns is with us today. I appreciate you ing out on a Saturday afternoon. I’m here coming, Cliff. to ask for your vote, and I’m here to ask for I want to thank the State chief financial your help. People are voting here in Florida. officer, Tom Gallagher, for joining us today. You need to get your friends and neighbors I want to thank the mayor of the great city to go to the polls. And by the way, when of Jacksonville, Florida, Mayor John Peyton. you’re getting people to go to the polls, don’t When I came in, I had the opportunity overlook discerning Democrats, people like Senator Zell Miller from Georgia. With your to say hello to Nelson Cuba, who’s the presi- help, we’ll carry Florida again and win a great dent of the Jacksonville Fraternal Order of victory in November. Police. I am proud to have the endorsement So when I asked Laura to marry me, she of the FOP. I’m proud to be standing with said, ‘‘Fine, just so long as you—I never have the policemen all across this country. to give a political speech.’’ I said, ‘‘Okay, you I want to thank Bill Cerveny and Aaron got a deal.’’ Fortunately, she didn’t hold me Tippin for providing such wonderful enter- to the promise. Laura is giving a lot of tainment here for this great crowd. speeches, and when people see her speak, I want to thank the people who put on they see a warm, compassionate, great First this event. It takes a lot of work to get this Lady. I’m going to give you some reasons many people to come. I want to thank the to put me back into office. Perhaps the most grassroots activists, the people who are put- important one of all is so that Laura is the ting up the signs, making the phone calls, First Lady for 4 more years. turning out the vote. With your help, we will I’m proud of my runningmate, Dick Che- win a great victory on November the 2d. ney. I admit it, he doesn’t have the waviest We have just 10 days to go in this cam- hair in the race. [Laughter] I didn’t pick him paign, and voters have a clear choice between because of his hairdo. I picked him because two very different candidates and dramati- of his judgment, his experience, and his abil- cally different approaches and records. You ity to get the job done for the American peo- know where I stand, and sometimes, you ple. even know where my opponent stands. I’m proud of my brother, your Governor, [Laughter] We both have records. I’m run- Jeb Bush. You don’t have to worry about ning on my record. Senator Kerry’s running where he stands. He doesn’t take a poll or from his record, and there is a reason why. focus group to find out what he should be- There is a reason why. There is a mainstream lieve. Jeb Bush stands on principle, and when in American politics, and my opponent sits times are tough, he leads this State with com- on the far left bank. I am a compassionate passion. He has done a masterful job of help- conservative and proudly so. At a time when ing to bring comfort for those who have been our country has much to accomplish and

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much more to do, I offer a record of reform The President. His top foreign policy ad- and results. viser has questioned whether it’s even a war This election comes down to five clear at all, saying ‘‘That’s just a metaphor, like the choices for America’s families, five choices war on poverty.’’ on issues of great consequence: your family’s Audience members. Boo-o-o! security; your family’s budget; your quality The President. Anyone who thinks we’re of life; your retirement; and the bedrock val- fighting a metaphor does not understand the ues that are so critical to our families and enemy we face, and you cannot win a war to our future. if you’re not convinced we’re even in one. The first clear choice is the most important Senator Kerry misunderstands our battle because it concerns the security of your fam- against insurgents and terrorists in Iraq. After ily. All our progress on every other issue de- voting to authorize force against Saddam pends on the safety of our citizens. The Hussein, after calling it the right decision most—this is the first Presidential election when I sent troops into Iraq, the Senator now since September the 11th, 2001. Americans calls it the ‘‘wrong war.’’ will go to the polls in a time of war and ongo- Audience members. Boo-o-o! ing threats unlike any we have faced before. The President. The Senator used to rec- The terrorists who killed thousands of inno- ognize that Saddam Hussein was a gathering cent people are still dangerous. They are de- threat who hated America. After all, the Sen- termined to strike us again. The outcome of ator said so. He used to recognize that Sad- this election will set the direction of the war dam was a state sponsor of terror with a his- against terror. I believe the most solemn duty tory of pursuing and even using weapons of of the American President is to protect the mass destruction. After all, the Senator said American people. If America shows uncer- so. He used to understand that Saddam was tainty or weakness in this decade, the world a major source of instability in the Middle will drift toward tragedy. This will not hap- East. After all, the Senator said so. And when pen on my watch. he voted to authorize force, the Senator must Since that terrible morning of September have recognized the nightmare scenario that the 11th, 2001, we have fought the terrorists terrorists might somehow access weapons of across the Earth, not for pride, not for power, mass destruction. Senator Kerry seems to but because the lives of our citizens are at have forgotten all that as his position has stake. Our strategy is clear. We’ve strength- evolved during the course of this campaign. ened protections for the homeland. We’re re- You might call it election amnesia. [Laugh- forming and strengthening our intelligence ter] capabilities. We’re transforming our All-Vol- I knew then and I know now that America unteer Army. We will not have a draft. We and the world are safer with Saddam Hussein will keep the All-Volunteer Army an all-vol- sitting in a prison cell. unteer army. We are staying on the offensive. Senator Kerry now calls Iraq a ‘‘diversion.’’ We are relentless. We are determined to pro- Audience members. Boo-o-o! tect the American people, and we’re suc- The President. But the case of just one ceeding. More than three-quarters of Al terrorist shows how wrong his thinking is. A Qaida’s key members and associates have man named Zarqawi is responsible for plant- been brought to justice, and the rest of them ing car bombs and beheading Americans in know we are on their trail. Iraq. He ran a terrorist training camp in Af- My opponent has a different approach. He ghanistan until American troops arrived. says that September the 11th, quote, ‘‘didn’t Then he fled to Baghdad, where he’s fighting change me much at all,’’ end quote. us today. He publicly announced his alle- Audience members. Boo-o-o! giance to Usama bin Laden. If Zarqawi and The President. And that’s pretty clear. He his associates were not busy fighting Iraqi considers the war on terror primarily a law and American forces in Iraq, what does Sen- enforcement and intelligence gathering oper- ator Kerry think they would be doing? Sim- ation. ple shopkeepers? [Laughter] Running be- Audience members. Boo-o-o! nevolence societies? I don’t think so. And our

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troops will defeat Zarqawi and his friends and ‘‘I actually did vote for the $87 billion, right allies overseas so we do not have to face them before I voted against it.’’ in America. Audience members. Boo-o-o! The choice in this election could not be The President. They’ve asked him time clearer. You cannot lead our Nation to deci- and time again, and he must have given five sive victory, on which the security of every or six explanations of that vote. At one point, American family depends, if you do not see he said, ‘‘The whole thing is a complicated the true dangers of the post-September the matter.’’ There is nothing complicated about 11th world. My opponent has a September supporting our troops in combat. the 10th point of view. At his convention, We’ll protect America by leading the cause he declared that his strategy will be to re- of freedom. I believe in the transformational spond to attacks after America is hit. power of liberty. I want you to remember Audience members. Boo-o-o! what has taken place in Afghanistan in a short The President. That would be too late. period of time. That country has gone from In our debates, he said we can defend Amer- darkness to light. Three-and-a-half years ago, ica only if we pass a ‘‘global test.’’ young girls couldn’t go to school. If their Audience members. Boo-o-o! mothers did not toe the line of the ideologues of hate who ran Afghanistan, they were The President. I’m not making that up. whipped in the public square and sometimes He was standing about that far away from executed in a sports stadium. Because we me when he said it. I’ll work with our friends acted in our self-interest, because we upheld and allies. We’ll continue to build strong coa- doctrine, 25 million people in Afghanistan litions. But I will never turn over America’s are free. Millions went to vote in a Presi- national security decisions to leaders of other dential election. The first voter was a 19- countries. year-old woman in Afghanistan. I want to thank those who wear the uni- Iraq will be holding elections in January. form who have joined us today. I want to Think about how far that country has come thank the veterans who are here today for from the days of torture chambers and mass having set such a great example. I want to graves. Freedom is on the march, and Amer- thank the military families who are here ica is more secure because of it. today. And I’m going to assure you, so long I believe every person in the world wants as I’m the Commander in Chief, our Federal to be free. I believe this because freedom Government will make sure your loved ones is not America’s gift to the world; freedom have what is necessary to complete their mis- is the Almighty God’s gift to each man and sions. woman in this world. And that’s why I went to the United States On September the 14th, 2001, I stood in Congress in September of 2003, asking for the ruins of the Twin Towers. It is a day I $87 billion in supplemental funding to sup- will never forget. There were workers there port our troops in combat in Iraq and Af- in hardhats yelling at me at the top of their ghanistan. I appreciate the strong bipartisan lungs, ‘‘Whatever it takes.’’ I remember the support for this very important request. man coming out of the rubble—we were When you’re out gathering up the vote, I doing our best to console people—he want you to remind your friends and neigh- grabbed me by the arm; he looked me in bors that only four Members of the United the eye; and he said, ‘‘Do not let me down.’’ States Senate voted to authorize the use of Ever since that day, I wake up every morning force and then voted against the funding nec- thinking about how to better protect our essary to support our troops in harm’s way, country. I will never relent in defending and two of those four were my opponent and America, whatever it takes. his runningmate. The second clear choice in this election Audience members. Boo-o-o! concerns your family budget. When I ran for The President. They asked him, ‘‘Why did President 4 years ago, I pledged to lower you make the vote?’’ And he issued perhaps taxes for American families. I kept my word. the most famous quote of the 2004 campaign, We raised the child credit. We reduced the

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marriage penalty. Listen, our Tax Code ought trillion with a ‘‘T.’’ That’s a lot even for a to encourage marriage, not penalize mar- Senator from Massachusetts. [Laughter] riage. We dropped the lowest bracket to 10 They asked him how he’s going to pay for percent to help our working families. We re- it. He said, ‘‘Oh, we’ll just pay for it by taxing duced income taxes for everyone who pays the rich.’’ There’s a problem with that prom- taxes. As a result of these good policies, after- ise. When you run up the top two brackets, tax income, money in your pocket that you you’re taxing many small businesses. Most can spend, is up by about 10 percent since small businesses pay tax at the individual in- I became your President. come-tax level. Seventy percent of new jobs We’ve been through a lot together. When are created by small businesses in America. you’re out rounding up the vote, remind your Taxing small businesses is bad economic pol- friends and neighbors that the stock market icy. had been in serious decline for 6 months And there’s a gap between what he’s prior to my arrival in Washington, DC. And promised and what he can deliver. Running then we had a recession and corporate scan- up the top two brackets like he wants to do dals and the attacks on our country. We lost raises between 600 and 800 billion dollars. nearly one million jobs in the 3 months after And remember, there’s $2.2 trillion of spend- September the 11th. ing promises. So there’s a gap, a gap between But our economic policies are working. what he’s promised and what he says he’s Our economy is growing at rates as fast as going to pay. And guess who usually fills the any in nearly 20 years. We’ve added more gap? than 1.9 million new jobs in the last 13 Audience member. We do! months. The unemployment rate is 5.4 per- The President. You do. The good news cent, lower than the average rate of the is, we’re not going to let him tax you; we 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. Our farmers and are going to carry Florida and win on Novem- ranchers are making a living. The small busi- ber the 2d. nesses are flourishing. The entrepreneurial Third clear choice in this election involves spirit is strong. Homeownership rate is at an the quality of life for our Nation’s families. alltime high, and the unemployment rate in A good education and quality health care are Florida is 4.5 percent. important to a successful life. When I ran My opponent has very different plans for for President 4 years ago, I promised to end your family’s budget. He intends to take a the soft bigotry of low expectations by re- big chunk out of it. forming our public schools. I have kept my Audience members. Boo-o-o! word. We passed good, sound education re- The President. He voted against the high- forms to bring high standards to the class- er child tax credit. He voted against the mar- room and make our schools more account- riage penalty relief. He voted against lower able to parents and teachers. We’re seeing taxes. If he had had his way, an average mid- progress. Math and reading scores are rising. dle-class family would be paying 2,000 more We’re closing the achievement gap by help- dollars a year to the Federal Government. ing minority students. We will build on these Audience members. Boo-o-o! reforms and extend them to our high schools The President. It’s part of a pattern. See, so that no child in America is left behind. the Senator voted 10 times to raise taxes on And we’ll continue to improve our—life gasoline. All told, during his 20 years in the for our families by making health care more United States Senate, he has voted 98 times affordable and accessible. We’ll expand to raise your taxes. health savings accounts so more small busi- Audience members. Boo-o-o! nesses can cover their workers and more The President. That’s about five times a families are able to get health care accounts year. When a Senator does something that they manage and they call their own. We’ll often, he must really enjoy it. [Laughter] create association health plans so small busi- During this campaign, he’s also made a lot nesses can join together and buy insurance of big, expensive promises. He’s promised at the same discounts that big companies are $2.2 trillion of new Federal spending. That’s able to do. We will help our families in need

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by expanding community health centers. would move America down the road to Fed- We’ll make sure every eligible child is en- eral control of health care. It’s the wrong rolled in our Government’s low-income road for American families. He can run from health insurance program. his plan—— And we’ll help patients and doctors all Audience members. But he cannot hide! across this Nation by doing something about The President. In all we do to improve the frivolous and junk lawsuits that are run- health care, we will make sure the decisions ning up your costs and running good doctors are made by doctors and patients, not by offi- out of practice. I have met too many good cials in Washington, DC. docs being run out of practice because of The fourth clear choice in this election in- these junk lawsuits. I met too many ob-gyns volves your retirement. Our Nation has made who are not able to practice their skill. I met a solemn commitment to America’s seniors too many pregnant women who are having on Social Security and Medicare. When I ran to drive miles, which isn’t right. Our expect- for President 4 years ago, I promised to keep ant moms need good, quality health care, and that commitment and improve Medicare by these lawsuits are making it tough for them adding prescription drug coverage. I have to find good, quality health care. You cannot kept my word. Seniors are now getting dis- be pro-doctor, pro-patient, and pro-personal- counts on medicine with drug discount cards. injury-lawyer at the same time. You have to Low-income seniors are getting $600 this make a choice. My opponent made his year and $600 next year to help pay for pre- choice, and he put a personal injury trial law- scriptions. And beginning in 2006, all seniors yer on the ticket. will be able to get prescription drug coverage Audience members. Boo-o-o! under Medicare. The President. I have made my choice. My opponent voted against the Medicare I’m standing with the docs and the patients. bill that includes prescription drug coverage, I am for medical liability reform—now. even though it was supported by AARP and Senator Kerry has a different point of view other seniors groups. This campaign, he said, on our schools and health care. Listen, he ‘‘If I’m the President, we’re going to repeal voted for the No Child Left Behind Act, but that phony bill.’’ A little later he said, ‘‘No, now he wants to weaken the accountability I don’t want to repeal it.’’ That sounds famil- standards. He’s proposed including measures iar. As your President for the next 4 years, like teacher attendance to judge whether stu- I will defend the reforms we have worked dents can read and write and add and sub- so hard to pass and keep the promise of tract. He voted against health savings ac- Medicare for our country’s seniors. counts. He opposes association health plans. We’ll keep the promise of Social Security He has voted 10 times against medical liabil- for our seniors, and we will strengthen Social ity reform. He can run from his record, but Security for generations to come. Every cam- he cannot hide. paign is predictable. It is predictable that Now he’s proposing a health care plan in you’ll hear once again that our seniors will this campaign, a big Government health care lose their checks. I want you to remind our plan that would cause 8 million families to seniors that in the 2000 campaign, they said, lose private coverage they get at work and ‘‘If George W. gets elected, the seniors will have to go on a Government plan. Eighty not get their Social Security checks.’’ You percent of the people who get coverage might remember that. Well, remind them of under his proposal would be enrolled in a this: George W. got elected, and the seniors Government program. got their checks. And the seniors will con- Audience members. Boo-o-o! tinue to get their checks. And baby boomers The President. In one of our debates, he like me are just fine when it comes to the looked in that camera and he told the Ameri- Social Security trust. cans that when it comes to his health care But we need to be concerned about chil- plan, and I quote, ‘‘The Government has dren and our grandchildren. We need to nothing to do with it.’’ I could barely contain make sure that the Social Security system will myself. [Laughter] My opponent’s plan be there when they need it too. And that

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is why I believe younger workers ought to The President. I will continue to reach be able to take some of their own money out to Americans of every belief and move and put it in a personal savings account, a this goodhearted Nation toward a culture of savings account they call their own, a savings life. account the Government cannot take away. During this campaign, my opponent has My opponent takes a different approach. said that you can find the heart and soul of He talks about protecting Social Security, but America in Hollywood. he’s the only candidate in this race who has Audience members. Boo-o-o! voted eight times for higher taxes on Social The President. Most American families Security benefits. do not look to Hollywood as a source of val- Audience members. Boo-o-o! ues. I believe the heart and soul of America The President. He can run—— is found in communities like Jacksonville, Audience members. But he cannot hide! Florida. The President. And when it comes to the All of these choices make this one of the next generation, he’s offered nothing in most important elections in our history. The terms of Social Security reform. The job of security, the prosperity of our country, the the President is to confront problems, not education of our children, and the health of to pass them on to future Presidents and fu- our families, the retirement of our seniors, ture generations. In a new term, I’ll bring and the direction of our culture are—all are Republicans and Democrats together and at stake. And the decision is in the best strengthen Social Security so a younger gen- hands, the hands of the American people. eration can count on it. I see a positive future for this country. I The fifth clear choice in this election is see a better day. One of my favorite quotes on the values that are so crucial to keeping was written by a fellow Texan. He said, America’s families strong, and here my oppo- ‘‘Sarah and I live on the east side of the nent and I are miles apart. I believe marriage mountain. It’s the sunrise side, not the sunset is a sacred commitment. I believe marriage side. It’s the side to see the day that is com- is a pillar of our civilization, and I will always ing, not to see the day that is gone.’’ During defend it. This is not a partisan issue. When this campaign, my opponent has spent much Congress passed the Defense of Marriage of his campaign talking about the day that Act, defining marriage as the union of a man is gone. I see the day that is coming. and a woman, the vast majority of Democrats We have been through a lot together in supported it, and Bill Clinton signed it into the last nearly 4 years. Because we have done law. But Senator Kerry was part of an out- the hard work of climbing the mountain, we of-the-mainstream minority that voted can see the valley below. We’ll protect our against the Defense of Marriage Act. families, build up the prosperity of this coun- Audience members. Boo-o-o! try, and defend our deepest values. We will The President. I believe that reasonable spread freedom in this world and achieve the people can find common ground on the dif- peace we all long for. ficult issues. Republicans and Democrats and When I campaigned in your State 4 years many citizens on both sides of the life issue ago, I said if you gave me the honor of serv- came together and agreed we should ban the ing, I would uphold the honor and the dignity brutal practice of partial-birth abortion. I was of the office to which I had been elected. honored to sign that bill. But Senator Kerry With your help, I will do so for 4 more years. was part of the out-of-the-mainstream minor- God bless. Thank you for coming. Thank ity that voted against the ban. you all. Audience members. Boo-o-o! The President. He also voted against pa- NOTE: The President spoke at 4:20 p.m. at Alltel Stadium. In his remarks, he referred to Gov. Jeb rental notification laws—— Bush of Florida; Senator Zell Miller of Georgia, Audience members. Boo-o-o! who made the keynote address at the Republican The President. ——and against the Un- National Convention; Mel R. Martinez, senatorial born Victims of Violence Act. candidate in Florida; country music entertainers Audience members. Boo-o-o! Bill Cerveny and Aaron Tippin; former President

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Saddam Hussein of Iraq; senior Al Qaida associate Domenici. You know, if you had to describe Abu Musab Al Zarqawi; and Usama bin Laden, Senator Domenici, you would call him a class leader of the Al Qaida terrorist organization. act. And he is. I know you’re proud of him, and Laura and I are proud to call him friend. Remarks in Alamogordo, I want to thank Congressman Steve Pearce and his wife, Cynthia. New Mexico I want to thank the Alamogordo Tiger October 24, 2004 Band for being here today. It’s good to be The President. Thank you all. Thanks for in country where the cowboy hats outnumber coming out on a beautiful Sunday afternoon. the ties. I want to thank the people who have Laura and I are so pleased to be here in helped put on this rally and are putting up Alamogordo. It’s great to be back in the great the signs, making the phone calls, turning State of New Mexico. people out to vote. There is no doubt in my We’re getting close to voting time, and I’m mind that with your help, we will carry New here to ask for your vote and for your help. Mexico and win a great victory in November. Tell your friends and neighbors in the coffee Con su apoyo, vamos a ganar. shops and community centers and places of You know, we’ve just got 9 days to go. And worship, we have a duty to vote in the United the voters have a clear choice between two States. Get them headed to the polls. Don’t very different candidates with dramatically overlook discerning Democrats like Zell Mil- different approaches and records. You know ler of Georgia. And when you get them head- where I stand, and sometimes you even know ed to the polls, remind them if they want where my opponent stands. [Laughter] We a safer America, a stronger America, and a both have records. I’m proudly running on better America, to vote for Bush-Cheney. mine. The Senator is running from his. I’m keeping really good company in the [Laughter] And there’s a reason why. There First Lady. You know, when I—I don’t know is a mainstream in American politics, and my if you know this or not, we both grew up opponent sits on the far left bank. I’m a com- kind of around the corner. As a matter of passionate conservative and proudly so. At a fact, we were in the seventh grade together time when our country has much to accom- at San Jacinto Junior High in Midland. And plish and much more to do, I offer a record then we became reacquainted. She was a of reform and a record of results. public school librarian when I met her again. This election comes down to five clear Audience member. [Inaudible]—mo- choices for America’s families, five choices ment! on issues of great consequence: your family’s The President. It sure was. When I asked security; your family’s budget; your quality her to marry me, she said, ‘‘Fine, just make of life; your retirement; and the bedrock val- me a promise.’’ I said, ‘‘Okay, what is it?’’ ues that are so critical to our families and She said, ‘‘Promise me I’ll never have to give our future. a political speech.’’ [Laughter] I said, ‘‘Okay, The first clear choice is the most impor- you got a deal.’’ Fortunately, she did not hold tant, because it concerns the security of your me to that promise. She’s giving speeches all family. All progress on every other issue de- over the country, and when people see her pends on the safety of our citizens. This will speak, they see a compassionate, warm, be the first Presidential election since Sep- strong First Lady. tember the 11th, 2001. Americans will go to And I’m proud of my runningmate, Dick the polls in a time of war and ongoing threats Cheney. Now, look, I admit it—I admit it, unlike any we have faced before. The terror- he does not have the waviest hair in the race. ists that killed thousands of innocent people [Laughter] I didn’t pick him because of his are still dangerous, and they are determined hairdo. I picked him because of his judg- to strike us again. The outcome of this elec- ment, his experience. He’s getting the job tion will set the direction of the war against done for the American people. terror. The most solemn duty of the Amer- I’m proud to be sharing this platform with ican President is to protect the American a great United States Senator in Pete people.

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If America shows uncertainty or weakness Senator Kerry seems to have forgotten all in this decade, the world will drift toward that as his position has evolved during the tragedy. This will not happen on my watch. course of this campaign. You might call it Since that terrible morning of September the election-year amnesia. [Laughter] I know 11th, 2001, we’ve fought the terrorists across then—I knew then and I know now that the Earth, not for pride, not for power but America and the world are safer with Saddam because the lives of our citizens are at stake. Hussein sitting in a prison cell. We have a Our strategy is clear. We’ve strengthened the different point of view when it comes to de- protections for our homeland. We’re reform- fending America. Senator Kerry now calls ing and strengthening our intelligence serv- Iraq a ‘‘diversion.’’ But the case of just one ices. We’re transforming our All-Volunteer terrorist shows how wrong his thinking is. A Army. There will not be a draft. We’re stay- man named Zarqawi is responsible for plant- ing on the offensive. We’re relentless. We ing car bombs and beheading Americans in are determined to protect the American peo- Iraq. He ran a terrorist training camp in Af- ple. And we’re succeeding. More than three- ghanistan—until coalition forces arrived. And quarters of Al Qaida’s key members and asso- then he fled to Iraq, where he’s fighting us ciates have been brought to justice, and the today. He swore his allegiance to Usama bin rest of them know we’re on their trail. Laden. If Zarqawi and his associates were not My opponent has a very different ap- busy fighting Iraqi and American forces in proach. He says that September the 11th, Iraq, what does Senator Kerry think they quote, ‘‘didn’t change me much at all’’—— would be doing? Peaceful small-business Audience members. Boo-o-o! owners? [Laughter] Running a benevolent The President. ——end quote. [Laugh- society? [Laughter] ter] And that’s pretty clear. He considers the Our troops will defeat Zarqawi and his war on terror primarily a law enforcement likes overseas in Iraq so we do not have to and intelligence gathering operation. His top face them here at home. foreign policy advisers question whether The choice in this election could not be we’re even in a war at all, saying, ‘‘The war clearer. You cannot lead our Nation to deci- on terror is just like a metaphor, kind of like sive victory on which the security of every the war on poverty.’’ Anyone who thinks American family depends if you do not see we’re fighting a metaphor does not under- the true dangers of the post-September the stand the enemy we face. You cannot win 11th world. My opponent has a September a war if you are not convinced we are even 10th point of view. At his convention, he de- in one. clared that his strategy will be to respond My opponent also misunderstands our bat- to attacks after America is hit. tle against insurgents and terrorists in Iraq. After voting to authorize force against Sad- Audience members. Boo-o-o! dam Hussein, after calling it the right deci- The President. Those were his words. sion when I sent troops into Iraq, the Senator That would be too late. In our debates, he now calls it the ‘‘wrong war.’’ The Senator said we can defend America if we pass a used to recognize that Saddam Hussein was ‘‘global test.’’ a gathering threat who hated America. After Audience members. Boo-o-o! all, he said so. He used to recognize that Sad- The President. I’m not making that up. dam was a state sponsor of terror with a his- He was standing right about right there. Lis- tory of pursuing and even using weapons of ten, I’ll work with our friends and allies. We’ll mass destruction. Even so, he said so. He continue to build strong coalitions to keep used to understand that Saddam was a major us secure. But I will never turn over Amer- source of instability in the Middle East. He ica’s national security decisions to leaders of said so. And when he voted to authorize other countries. force, the Senator must have recognized the I want to thank those who wear our Na- nightmare scenario that terrorists might tion’s uniform. I want to thank our great somehow access weapons of mass destruc- United States military. It’s such an incredible tion. honor to be the Commander in Chief of such

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a great military. And our military is great be- public squares and whipped and sometimes cause of the character of the men and women killed in a sports stadium. Because we acted, who wear our uniform. I want to thank the millions of people in Afghanistan went to veterans who are here today for having set vote in a Presidential election. The first voter such a great example. I want to thank the was a 19-year-old woman. Freedom is on the military families who are here for your sac- march. rifice. Iraq will have Presidential elections. Think And I want to assure you that we’ll make how far that country has come from the days sure our troops have got all the tools nec- of torture chambers and mass graves. It is essary to complete their missions in Afghani- in our interests that we spread liberty. It’s stan and Iraq. That’s why I went to the Con- in our interests that we help societies become gress and asked for $87 billion in supple- free. I believe people want to be free. Free- mental funding to support our troops in dom is not America’s gift to the world. Free- harm’s way. It was a vital request. It was nec- dom is the Almighty God’s gift to each man essary. And we got great bipartisan support. and woman in this world. I want you to tell your friends and neighbors The second clear choice in this election this startling statistic: Only 4 Members of the concerns the family’s budget. When I ran for United States Senate—4 out of 100—voted President 4 years ago, I pledged to lower to authorize the use of force and then voted taxes for American families. I kept my word. against the funding necessary to support our We doubled the child credit to $1,000 per troops in combat, and 2 of those 4 were my child. We want to help people raise their chil- opponent and his runningmate. dren. We reduced the marriage penalty. The Audience members. Boo-o-o! Tax Code ought to encourage marriage, not The President. You might remember, penalize marriage. We dropped the lowest when asked to explain his vote he said, and bracket to 10 percent to help our working I quote, ‘‘I actually did vote for the $87 bil- families. We reduced income taxes for every- lion, before I voted against it.’’ [Laughter] body who pays taxes. As a result of our poli- I’ve spent quite a bit of time in New Mexico. cies, real, after-tax income—that’s money in I’ve never heard anybody talk that way in this your pocket—has gone up by about 10 per- State. [Laughter] They kept pressing him, cent since I became the President. and he’s given a lot of answers about his vote. When you’re out there rounding up the One of the most interesting ones of all was vote, remind your friends and neighbors he said, ‘‘It’s a complicated matter.’’ There’s about what this economy has been through. nothing complicated about supporting our Six months prior to my arrival in Washington, troops in harm’s way. the stock market was in serious decline. Then And we will continue to protect in America we had a recession. Then we had corporate by spreading freedom. I believe in the trans- scandals. And then we got attacked. And that formational power of liberty. I believe that attack cost us about a million jobs in the 3 free nations do not breed resentments and months after September the 11th. export terror. Free nations become allies in But our economic policies are working. the war against terror. This country is on the road to growth. We’re I want you to tell your children what has growing at rates as fast as any in 20—nearly taken place in a brief period of time. Tell 20 years. The homeownership rate is at an them what happened in Afghanistan. Be- alltime high in America. Our farmers and cause we defended ourselves, because we ranchers are making a living. Small busi- upheld the doctrine that said, ‘‘If you harbor nesses are flourishing. The entrepreneurial a terrorist, you’re as equally guilty as the ter- spirit is strong. We’ve added 1.9 million new rorists,’’ 25 million people live in freedom jobs in the past 13 months. The national un- in Afghanistan. It wasn’t all that long ago that employment rate is 5.4 percent, lower than young girls couldn’t go to school because the the average rate of the 1970s, 1980s, and ideologues of hate, the Taliban, had such a 1990s. And the unemployment rate in New dim view of the world. And if their mothers Mexico is 5.3 percent. This economy is get- didn’t toe their line, they were taken into ting stronger.

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Now, my opponent has a different plan for forms. We’ll extend them to our high schools your budget. He intends to take a big chunk so that no child is left behind in America. out of it. You know, he voted against the We’ll continue to improve lives for our higher child credit and the marriage penalty families by making health care more afford- relief, and he voted against lower tax rates. able and more accessible. We’ll expand I want the people to understand that if he health savings accounts so small businesses had had his way, the average middle class can cover their workers and more families family would be paying $2,000 more in taxes are able to get the health care accounts that to the Federal Government. they manage and own. We’ll expand—create Audience members. Boo-o-o! association health plans so small businesses The President. It’s part of a pattern. All can join together and buy insurance at the told, during his 20 years in the United States same discounts that big companies are able Senate, he’s voted to increase taxes 98 times. to do. We’ll help families in need by expand- That’s five times for every year he’s been in ing community health centers, make sure the Senate. I’d call that a predictable pattern. every eligible child is enrolled in our Govern- [Laughter] If a Senator does something that often, he must really enjoy it. [Laughter] ment’s low-income health insurance pro- During this campaign, he’s made a lot of big grams. promises too—a lot of them. As a matter of And we’re going to help patients and doc- fact, he’s promised about $2.2 trillion worth tors everywhere by doing something about of new spending. That’s trillion with a ‘‘T.’’ these junk lawsuits that are running up the That’s a lot even for a Senator from Massa- cost of medicine and running good docs out chusetts. [Laughter] of practice. You cannot be pro-doctor and So they asked him, ‘‘How you going to pay pro-patient and pro-personal-injury-lawyer at for it?’’ He said, ‘‘Oh, we’ll just tax the rich.’’ the same time. You have to choose. And my The problem is, is that his ledger doesn’t add opponent made his choice. He put a per- up, see. If you run up the top two brackets sonal-injury trial lawyer on the ticket. like he said, it’s going to raise about 600 to Audience members. Boo-o-o! 800 billion dollars. That’s far short of 2.2 tril- The President. I have made my choice. lion. And when there’s a gap like that, guess I’m standing with the doctors and patients who usually gets stuck with the bill? of New Mexico. I am for medical liability re- Audience member. We do! form—now. The President. The good news is, we’re We have a difference when it comes to not going to let him tax you; we’re going to health care. My opponent voted against carry New Mexico and win a great victory health savings accounts. He’s voted against on November the 2d. association health plans. He’s voted 10 times The third clear choice in this election in- against medical liability reform. He can run volves the quality of life for our Nation’s fam- from his record, but he cannot hide. ilies. A good education and quality health care are important for a successful life. When And now he’s proposing a new plan, a new I ran for President 4 years ago, I promised idea, which is a big-Government health care to challenge the soft bigotry of low expecta- plan. That’s what it is. It would cause about tions by reforming our public schools. I kept 8 million families to lose private coverage my word. We passed the No Child Left Be- they get at work and have to go on a Govern- hind Act, which is bringing high standards ment plan. Eighty percent of the people who to our classrooms and making schools ac- get coverage would be enrolled with the Fed- countable to our parents. We’re seeing great eral Government. We just have a different progress across this country. Math and read- philosophy. You know, in one of the debates, ing scores are on the rise. We’re closing the he actually looked in the camera with a achievement gap. More and more Latino straight face and he said, when it comes to youngsters are learning how to read and his health care plan, and I quote, ‘‘The Gov- write and add and subtract. And the country ernment has nothing to do with it.’’ I could is better off for it. We’ll build on these re- barely contain myself. [Laughter] His plan

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would move America down the road to Fed- It’s the job of the President to confront eral control of health care, and that is wrong problems, not to pass them on to future road for America’s families. Presidents and future generations. The other In all we do to improve health care, we night at the debates, when I talked about So- will make sure the decisions are made by cial Security, he defended the status quo. He doctors and patients, not by officials in Wash- had nothing to offer to our younger workers. ington, DC. In a new term, I’ll bring Republicans and The fourth clear choice involves your re- Democrats together and strengthen Social tirement. Our Nation has made a solemn Security so our children and our grand- commitment to our seniors on Social Security children will have a system available for them and Medicare. When I ran for President 4 when they retire. years ago, I promised to keep that commit- And the fifth clear choice in this election ment and improve Medicare. By adding pre- is on the values that are so crucial to keeping scription drug coverage, I kept my word. America’s families strong. And here, my op- Seniors are now getting discounts on medi- ponent and I are miles apart. I stand for the cine with drug discount cards. Low-income appointment of Federal judges who know the seniors are getting $600 worth of help this difference between personal opinion and the year and next year. And beginning in 2006, strict interpretation of the law. I believe mar- all seniors will be able to get prescription riage is a sacred commitment. It is a pillar of our civilization, and I will always defend drug coverage under Medicare. it. This is not a partisan issue. When Con- We’ll keep the promise of Social Security gress passed the Defense of Marriage Act for our seniors. And we’ll strengthen Social during my predecessor’s time, defining mar- Security for generations to come. Listen, riage as a union of a man and a woman, the every election there is a predictable event vast majority of Democrats supported that that takes place, and that is they run TV ads bill and my predecessor signed it into law. saying to our seniors, ‘‘If George W. gets But Senator Kerry was part of an out-of-the- elected, you’re not going to get your checks.’’ mainstream minority that voted against the That’s what happened in 2000. They said, ‘‘If Defense of Marriage Act. George W. gets elected, our seniors will not Audience members. Boo-o-o! get their Social Security checks.’’ You might The President. I believe reasonable peo- remember that. In this campaign, as we’re ple can find common ground on difficult coming down the stretch, tell your friends, issues. Republicans and Democrats and George W. got elected and the seniors got many citizens on both sides of the life issue their checks. And the seniors will continue came together and agreed we should ban the to get their checks. And baby boomers like brutal practice of partial-birth abortion. I me, we’re in pretty good shape when it signed that law. But Senator Kerry was part comes to the Social Security Trust. of an out-of-the-mainstream minority that But we need to worry about our children voted against the ban. and our grandchildren. We need to worry In the course of this campaign, he said the about whether or not Social Security will be heart and soul of America can be found in there when they retire. So I believe younger Hollywood. workers ought to be able to take some of Audience members. Boo-o-o! their own money and put it in a personal The President. No, most American fami- savings account that they own and that the lies do not look to Hollywood as a source Government cannot take away. of values. The heart and soul of America is Once again, my opponent takes a different found in places like Alamogordo, New Mex- approach. You know, he talked about pro- ico. tecting Social Security. I want to remind you All these choices make this one of the most and I want you to remind your friends and important elections in our history. The secu- neighbors that he voted eight times to tax rity and prosperity of our country, the health Social Security benefits. That’s his record. and the education of families, the retirement He can run, but he cannot hide. of our seniors, the direction of our culture

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are all at stake. And the decision is in the the Washington community, and all of the best of hands; it’s in the hands of the Amer- people throughout America whose lives he ican people. touched so deeply. Laura and I send our I see a good day for America. I clearly see prayers and condolences to his family, a better tomorrow for all of us. One of my friends, and loved ones. favorite quotes was written by a Texan from right down the road in El Paso, Texas. He said, ‘‘Sarah and I live on the east side of Proclamation 7837—United Nations the mountain. It’s the sunrise side, not the Day, 2004 sunset side. It’s the side to see the day that October 24, 2004 is coming, not to see the day that is gone.’’ You know, when you really listen to the By the President of the United States words in this campaign, my opponent has of America spent much of this campaign talking about the day that is gone. I’m talking about the A Proclamation day that is coming. On United Nations Day, we commemorate We’ve been through a lot together over the founding of the United Nations in 1945 the last 33⁄4 years. Because we’ve done the and recognize its many contributions to ad- hard work of climbing the mountain, we see vancing peace and human rights around the the valley below. We’ll protect our families. world. We’ll build on our prosperity. We’ll defend Our Declaration of Independence and the our deepest values. We will spread freedom United Nations’ Universal Declaration of and liberty around the world, and that will Human Rights proclaim the equal value and help us keep the peace we all want. dignity of every human life. That dignity is You know, when I campaigned in New honored by the rule of law, limits on the Mexico 4 years ago asking for the vote, I said power of the state, respect for women, pro- that if you gave me the honor to serve, I tection of private property, free speech, would uphold the honor and the dignity of equal justice, and religious tolerance. These the office to which I had been elected. With founding documents affirm that the bright your help, I will do so for 4 more years. line between justice and injustice is the same God bless. Thanks for coming. I appreciate in every age, every culture, and every nation. you all. Today, the United Nations is helping ad- vance these ideals in many places around the NOTE: The President spoke at 3:50 p.m. at globe. The U.N. assisted Afghanistan in mak- Alamogordo High School. In his remarks, he re- ing history when Afghan women and men ferred to Senator Zell Miller of Georgia, who voted in a democratic Presidential election made the keynote address at the Republican Na- earlier this month. In Sudan, Liberia, Haiti, tional Convention; former President Saddam Hus- sein of Iraq; senior Al Qaida associate Abu Musab and other nations, the U.N. has been working Al Zarqawi; and Usama bin Laden, leader of the to bring security, stability, and humanitarian Al Qaida terrorist organization. assistance to people in need. From Africa to the Caribbean to Asia, the U.N. is helping to turn societies away from old conflicts, Statement on the Death of overcome persistent poverty, and fight HIV/ James Cardinal Hickey AIDS and other diseases. October 24, 2004 The United States remains committed to the high ideals of the U.N. as stated in its Cardinal James Hickey was an inspira- charter: ‘‘To save succeeding generations tional spiritual leader who brought comfort from the scourge of war... to reaffirm to the sick and help and hope to those in faith in fundamental human rights... and need. He was a caring and compassionate to promote social progress and better stand- man. For 20 years, he led the Archdiocese ards of life in larger freedom.’’ of Washington with great dignity and convic- Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, tion. He will be deeply missed by his church, President of the United States of America,

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by virtue of the authority vested in me by a deal.’’ Fortunately, she didn’t hold me to the Constitution and laws of the United that promise. She’s given a lot of speeches, States, do hereby proclaim October 24, 2004, and when she does, the American people see as United Nations Day. I urge the Governors a strong, compassionate, great First Lady. of the 50 States, the Governor of the Com- I am proud of my runningmate, Dick Che- monwealth of Puerto Rico, and the officials ney. Look, I readily concede that he does of other areas under the flag of the United not have the waviest hair in the race. [Laugh- States to honor the observance of United Na- ter] But you’ll be pleased to know I didn’t tions Day with appropriate ceremonies and pick him because of his hairdo. I picked him activities. because of his judgment, his experience. He’s In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set getting the job done for the American peo- my hand this twenty-fourth day of October, ple. in the year of our Lord two thousand four, You know, Laura, and I were able to wel- and of the Independence of the United come the Giulianis to our ranch in Crawford, States of America the two hundred and twen- Texas, last night. We know him more—I ty-ninth. know him better than I knew him as mayor. George W. Bush I know him as a person, a compassionate, strong leader. I am proud to have Rudy and [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, Judith Giuliani traveling with us. I’m proud 9:08 a.m., October 26, 2004] to have your support, Mr. Mayor. And I ap- preciate your great service to our country. NOTE: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on October 27. And like the mayor, I recognize that you’ve got a great Governor in Governor Bill Owens, and I want to thank his wife, Frances, Remarks in Greeley, Colorado and daughter, Monica, and son, Brett, for October 25, 2004 being with us today. I want to thank Senator Wayne Allard for The President. Thank you all. Thanks for his great service to the State of Colorado. coming today. Laura and I are so honored And his wife, Joan, is with us today. I’m so many came out to say hello. You have lift- proud to stand with the next Senator from ed our spirits. Thank you for being here. It’s Colorado, Pete Coors. I appreciate Marilyn great to be here in Greeley, Colorado. You being here. And when he wins, he’ll be taking know, I am told the last sitting President to the place of a fine man in Senator Ben visit Greeley was Franklin D. Roosevelt, who Nighthorse Campbell. And I know you’re came right before he won his second term. proud of the Congresswoman from this dis- With your help, history will be repeated. trict, Marilyn Musgrave. We’re proud you’re And that’s what we are here to do; we’re here, Marilyn. I appreciate Steve being here. here to ask for your help. We’d like you to I want to thank the Lieutenant Governor. get your friends and neighbors to go to the I want to thank all the State and local officials polls. Remind them we have a duty in our who are here. I appreciate Congressman Bob democracy to vote. When you get them head- Schaffer for being here. Congressman, I ap- ed to the polls, tell them if they want a safer preciate working together to make sure this America, a stronger America and a better party stays united coming down the stretch. America, to put me and Dick Cheney back I want to thank Mark Wills, the country in office. and western singer who is here. He likes to So Laura and I were in the seventh grade sing in a part of the world where the cowboy together in west Texas. And then we became hats outnumber the ties. I want to thank reacquainted when she—she was a public Kenny Cordova & The Olde Rock Band. I’m school librarian at the time. I asked her to proud to be up here with a man who can marry me. She said, ‘‘Fine, but make me one hit that baseball in Todd Helton. We got to promise.’’ I said, ‘‘What is that?’’ She said, know him a little while back; we had he and ‘‘Promise me I’ll never have to give a political his wife to the White House for dinner. And speech.’’ [Laughter] I said, ‘‘Okay, you’ve got he can sure play. [Laughter]

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I want to thank those who wear the uni- tion has shown our character to the world. form who are with us here today. Thank you We are proud to be Americans. for your service. I want to thank the veterans Now we are nearing the first Presidential who are here today for having set such a great election since September the 11th, 2001. The example. I want to thank the military families people of the United States will choose the who are here today, for your sacrifice. leader of the free world in the middle of a But most of all, I want to thank the rest global war. The choice is not only between of you for coming. I appreciate what you have two candidates; it is between two directions done on behalf of our campaign and what in the conduct of the war on terror. Will you’re going to do. Keep putting up the signs, America return to the defensive, reactive making the phone calls, turning out the vote, mind set that sought to manage the dangers and we’re going to win a great victory on to our country? November the 2d. Audience members. Boo-o-o! We’re coming down the stretch in the last The President. Or will we fight a real war week of this campaign. I will continue to talk with the goal of victory? about my vision for a more hopeful America. In every critical aspect, in every critical re- I am committed to low taxes, spending dis- spect, my opponent and I see the war on cipline. I’m committed to a sound energy terror differently, and the Americans need policy that makes us less dependent on for- to consider these differences as they make eign sources of energy. In a new term, we’ll continue to work to a vital choice. First, I believe that America make sure our farmers and ranchers can wins wars by fighting on the offensive. When make a decent living. In a new term, we’ll I saw those images of the fire and death on continue to work to make sure the entrepre- September the 11th, I made a decision: Our neurial spirit in America is strong so small country will not sit back and wait for future businesses can thrive and succeed. In a new attacks; we will prevent those attacks by term, we’ll stay on the path of reform and going after the enemy. results in our schools so no child is left be- We are waging a global campaign from the hind in America. In a new term, we’ll make mountains of Central Asia to the deserts of sure health care is more affordable and ac- the Middle East, from the Horn of Africa cessible for all our families and small busi- to the Philippines. And those efforts are suc- nesses. In a new term, we’ll keep the promise ceeding. Since September the 11th, 2001, of Social Security for our seniors and more than three-quarters of Al Qaida’s key strengthen the system for our children and members and associates have been brought our grandchildren. We will protect marriage to justice, and the rest of them know we’re and family, which are the foundations of our on their trail. society. And I’ll name judges who know the After September the 11th, we set a new difference between personal opinion and the direction for American policy and enforced strict interpretation of the law. a doctrine that is clear to all: ‘‘If you sup- And all the progress we hope to make de- ported or harbored terrorists, you are equally pends on the security of our Nation. We face guilty of terrorist murder.’’ We destroyed the enemies who hate our country and would do terror camps that trained thousands of killers anything to harm us. I’ll fight these enemies in Afghanistan. We removed the Taliban with every asset of our national power, and from power. We have persuaded Govern- we will do our duty and protect the American ments in Pakistan and Saudi Arabia to recog- people. nize the enemy and to join the fight. We In the last 4 years, we’ve been through a ended the regime of Saddam Hussein, which lot of history. We saw a ruthless, sneak attack sponsored terror. America and the world are on the United States. We learned of heroism safer with Saddam Hussein sitting in a prison on doomed airplanes. We saw the bravery cell. We sent a clear message to Libya, which of rescuers running toward danger. We’ve has now given up its weapons of mass de- seen our military bring freedom to the op- struction programs. We have acted through pressed and justice to our enemies. Our Na- diplomacy and force to shrink the area where

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the terrorists can freely operate. And that We are still confronting serious violence strategy has the terrorists on the run. from determined enemies. Yet, the Iraqi In- My opponent has a different view. terim Government, with American and coali- Audience members. Boo-o-o! tion support, is making progress week by The President. He says that fighting ter- week. Along with Iraqi forces, we’re on the rorists in the Middle East, America has, offensive in Fallujah, North Babil. We’ve re- quote, ‘‘created terrorists where they did not stored Government control in Samarra, Tall exist,’’ end quote. ‘AFar, and Najaf. More than 100,000 Iraqi Audience members. Boo-o-o! soldiers, police, and border guards are al- The President. This is his argument, that ready trained, equipped, and bravely serving terrorists are somehow less dangerous or their country. More than 200,000 will be in fewer in number if America avoids provoking place by the end of next year. An Iraqi inde- them. pendent electoral commission is up and run- Audience members. Boo-o-o! ning. Political parties are planning cam- The President. But this represents a fun- paigns. A free and fair Iraq elections will be damental misunderstanding of the enemy. held on schedule this January. We are dealing with killers who have made The desperate executions of unarmed the death of Americans the calling of their Iraqi security forces show the evil nature of lives. If America were not fighting these kill- the terrorists we fight. It proves these terror- ers west of Baghdad and in the mountains ists are enemies of the Iraqi people and the of Afghanistan and elsewhere, what does American people and everyone who loves Senator Kerry think they would do? Would freedom. The terrorist insurgents hate our they be living productive lives of service and progress, and they fight our progress, but charity? [Laughter] Would the terrorists who they will not stop our progress. We will stay behead innocent people on camera just be on the offense against these terrorists, and quiet, peaceful citizens if we had not liber- we will prevail. We will help the Iraqis get ated Iraq? on the path to stability and democracy as Audience members. No-o-o! quickly as possible, and then our troops will The President. We are fighting these ter- return home with the honor they have rorists with our military in Afghanistan and earned. Iraq and beyond so we do not have to face My opponent has a different view. them in the streets of our own cities. Audience members. Boo-o-o! America is not to blame for terrorist ha- The President. The Senator calls Amer- tred, and no retreat by America would ap- ica’s missions in Iraq a ‘‘mistake,’’ a ‘‘diver- pease them. We don’t create terrorists by sion,’’ a ‘‘colossal error.’’ fighting them. We defeat the terrorists by Audience members. Boo-o-o! fighting them. The President. And then he says he’s the Our second big difference concerns Iraq. right man to win the war? Victory in Iraq is essential to victory in the Audience members. Boo-o-o! war on terror. We have a strategy to achieve The President. You cannot win a war you that victory. The stakes in that country are do not believe in fighting. high. If a terror regime were allowed to re- On Iraq, my opponent has a strategy of emerge in Iraq, terrorists would again find pessimism and retreat. a home, a source of funding, and vital sup- Audience members. Boo-o-o! port; they would correctly conclude that free The President. He’s talked about artificial nations do not have the will to defend them- timetables to pull our troops out. He has sent selves. the signal that America’s overriding goal in As Iraq succeeds as a free society in the Iraq would be to leave, even if the job is heart of the Middle East, an ally in the war not done. on terror, and a model of hopeful reform in Audience members. Boo-o-o! a troubled region, the terrorists will suffer The President. That sends the wrong a crushing defeat, and every free nation will message. It sends the wrong message to be more secure. Iraqis who need to know that America will

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not cut and run. That sends the wrong mes- plomacy, to charm critical governments all sage to the troops of our coalition who need over the world. to know that we will honor their sacrifice by Audience members. Boo-o-o! completing the mission. My opponent has The President. I don’t see much diplo- the wrong strategy for the wrong country at matic skill in Senator Kerry’s habit of insult- the wrong time. ing America’s closest friends. He’s called the On this vital front of the war on terror, countries serving alongside us in Iraq, quote, protest is not a policy, retreat is not a strat- ‘‘a trumped up coalition of the bribed, the egy, and failure is not an option. As long as coerced, the bought, and the extorted.’’ I’m the Commander in Chief, America will Audience members. Boo-o-o! never retreat in the face of the terrorists. The President. Even last week, my oppo- Audience members. Four more years! nent said that we have, quote, ‘‘hardly anyone Four more years! Four more years! with us in Iraq.’’ That is a deeply offensive The President. Third, American leader- way to treat some 30 nations that are in Iraq, ship is indispensable to winning the war on and especially the 14 nations that have lost terror. Ever since September the 11th, 2001, forces in our cause. How can Senator Kerry America has sounded a certain trumpet. denigrate the contributions led by the likes We’ve stated clearly the challenge to civiliza- of Tony Blair of Great Britain, John Howard tion. We’ve rallied many nations to oppose of Australia, Silvio Berlusconi of Italy, it. More than 90 nations are actively engaged in the war on terror. All 26 nations of NATO Aleksander Kwasniewski of Poland, and then have personnel in either Iraq, Afghanistan, expect other leaders to stand with America or both. NATO has taken leadership of an in the future? You cannot expand an alliance international force in Afghanistan, the first by showing contempt for those already in it. out-of-area deployment in the history of our In this time of challenge to civilization, Alliance. Japan has deployed forces in Iraq, America has found strong and responsible al- the first overseas mission in the history of lies, and they deserve the respect of all Amer- their democracy. Forces from South Korea icans, not the scorn of a politician. are there. America has led. Many have Fourth, I believe that America will gain joined. And America and the world are safer. long-term security by promoting freedom My opponent takes a different approach. and hope and democracy in the broader Mid- Audience members. Boo-o-o! dle East. Our country needs to look ahead. The President. He believes that instead And 20 years from now, if the Middle East of leading with confidence, America must is dominated by dictators and mullahs who submit to what he calls a ‘‘global test.’’ build weapons of mass destruction and har- Audience members. Boo-o-o! bor terrorists, our children and grand- The President. I’m not making that up. children will live in a nightmare world of dan- [Laughter] I was standing right here when ger. That doesn’t have to happen. he said it. As far as I can tell, that means By taking the side of reformers and demo- our country must get permission from for- crats in the Middle East, we’ll gain allies in eign capitals before we act in our own de- the war on terror and isolate the ideology fense. of murder and help defeat the despair and Audience members. Boo-o-o! hopelessness that feeds terror. By spreading The President. As President, I will always freedom, by spreading liberty, the world will work with other countries. I will seek their become a much safer place for future genera- advice. But there is a world of difference be- tions. Progress in the broader Middle East tween working with good allies and giving toward freedom will not come easily. Yet, a few reluctant nations veto power over our that progress is coming faster than many national security. I will never, never submit would have said possible. Across a troubled our national security decisions to veto of a region, we’re seeing a movement toward foreign government. elections, greater rights for women, and open In addition to a ‘‘global test,’’ my opponent discussion of peaceful reform. The election promises what he calls a ‘‘golden age’’ of di- in Afghanistan this month and the election

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in Iraq next January will be counted as land- do my job. Even when you might not agree mark events in the history of liberty. with me, you know what I believe, where I My opponent looks at things differently. stand, and what I intend to do. On good days Audience members. Boo-o-o! and on bad days, whether the polls are up The President. He’s not only skeptical of or down, I am determined to win the war democracy in Iraq; he has not made democ- on terror, and I will always support the men racy a priority for his foreign policy. But what and women who do the fighting. is his long-term answer to the threat of ter- My opponent has taken a different ap- ror? Is he content to watch and wait as anger proach. and resentment grow for more decades? Is Audience members. Boo-o-o! he content to wait as more and more people The President. It’s fair to say that consist- are angry and hostile and turn to terrorism? ency has not been his strong point. [Laugh- Is he content to wait until radicals without ter] Senator Kerry says that we are better conscience gain the weapons to kill without off with Saddam Hussein out of power, ex- limit? Ignoring the root causes of terror, cept when he declares that removing Saddam turning a blind eye to the oppression and de- made us less safe. spair of millions may be easier in the short Audience members. Boo-o-o! run, but we learned on September the 11th, The President. Senator Kerry stated in if violence and fanaticism are not opposed our second debate that he always believed at their source, they will find us where we that Saddam Hussein was a threat, except a live. few questions later, when he said Saddam Instead of offering his own agenda for Hussein was not a threat. [Laughter] He says freedom, my opponent complains that we are he was right when he voted to authorize the trying to, quote, ‘‘impose democracy on the use of force against Saddam Hussein, but people of the broader Middle East.’’ Is that that I was wrong to use force against Saddam what he sees in Afghanistan, unwilling people Hussein. [Laughter] Now my opponent is having democracy forced upon them? We throwing out the wild claim that he knows did remove the Taliban by force, but democ- where bin Laden was in the fall of 2001— racy is rising in that country because the Af- [laughter]—and that our military had a ghan people, like people everywhere, want chance to get him in Tora Bora. This is an to live in freedom. No one forced them to unjustified and harsh criticism of our military register by the millions or to stand in long commanders in the field. This is the worst lines waiting to vote. For many people, that kind of Monday morning quarterbacking, historic election was a day they will never and it is what we’ve come to expect from forget. One man in western Kabul arrived Senator Kerry. to vote at 7 a.m. He said, ‘‘I don’t want’’— In fact, our Commander in Afghanistan, he said, ‘‘I didn’t sleep all night. I wanted General Tommy Franks recently wrote, to be the first in my polling station.’’ My fel- quote, ‘‘The Senator’s understanding of low citizens, freedom is on the march, and events do not square with reality.’’ He was it is changing the world. talking about Tora Bora. The General says We are witnessing big and hopeful events. that American Special Forces were actively Yet, my opponent refuses to see them. I be- involved in the search of terrorists in Tora lieve that people across the Middle East are Bora, and that intelligence reports at the time weary of poverty and oppression. I believe placed bin Laden in any of several countries. everybody wants to be free. Freedom is not Before Senator Kerry got into political dif- America’s gift to the world; freedom is the ficulty and revised his views, he saw Tora Almighty God’s gift to each man and woman Bora differently. In the fall of 2001, on na- in this world. tional TV, Senator Kerry said, quote, ‘‘I think Our fifth great difference concerns the we have been doing this pretty effectively, role of the Presidency. A President has to and we should continue to do it that way.’’ lead with consistency and strength. In a war, At the time, Senator Kerry said about Tora sometimes your tactics will change, but not Bora, ‘‘I think we’ve been smart. I think ad- your principles. Americans have seen how I ministration leadership has done well, and we

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are on the right track,’’ end quote. All I can [laughter]—then briefly right—[laughter]— say is that I am George W. Bush, and I ap- then wrong again. [Laughter] prove of that message. Since then, the Senator has said the whole Yet, Senator Kerry’s record on national se- matter about the $87 billion is a complicated curity has a far deeper problem than elec- matter. There’s nothing complicated about tion-year flip-flopping. On the largest na- supporting our troops in combat. tional security issues of our time, he has been During the last 20 years, in key moments consistently and dangerously wrong. When of challenge and decision for America, Sen- Ronald Reagan was confronting the Soviet ator Kerry has chosen the position of weak- Union at the height of the cold war, Senator ness and inaction. With that record, he stands Kerry said that President Reagan’s policy of in opposition not just to me but to the great peace through strength was making America tradition of the Democratic Party. The party less safe. of Franklin Roosevelt and Harry Truman and Audience members. Boo-o-o! John Kennedy is rightly remembered for The President. And he voted against confidence and resolve in times of war and many of the weapons systems critical to our in hours of crisis. Senator Kerry has turned defense buildup. History has shown that Sen- his back on ‘‘pay any price’’ and ‘‘bear any ator Kerry was wrong, and President Reagan burden.’’ And he has replaced those commit- was right. ments with ‘‘wait and see’’ and ‘‘cut and run.’’ When former President Bush led a coali- Audience members. Boo-o-o! tion against Saddam Hussein in 1991, Sen- The President. Many Democrats in this ator Kerry voted against the use of force to country do not recognize their party any- liberate Kuwait. more. Today I want to speak to every one of them: If you believe that America should Audience members. Boo-o-o! lead with strength and purpose and con- The President. If his view had prevailed, fidence in our ideals, I would be honored Saddam Hussein today would dominate the to have your support, and I ask for your vote. Middle East and possess the world’s most All the differences I outlined today add dangerous weapons. History has shown that up to one big difference: Senator Kerry says Senator Kerry was wrong, and former Presi- that September the 11th did not change him dent Bush was right. much at all. In 1994, just one year after the first bomb- Audience members. Boo-o-o! ing of the World Trade Center, Senator The President. And his policies make that Kerry proposed massive cuts in America’s in- clear. He says the war on terror is primarily telligence budget—— a law enforcement and intelligence gathering Audience members. Boo-o-o! operation. His top foreign policy adviser says, The President. ——so massive that even ‘‘The war is just a metaphor, like the war his Massachusetts colleague, Ted Kennedy, on poverty.’’ The Senator’s goal is to go back opposed them. [Laughter] History has shown to the mindset of the 1990s, when terrorism that Senator Kerry was wrong and—we’ve was seen as a nuisance, and we fought with got to be fair—[laughter]—Senator Kennedy subpoenas and a few cruise missiles. was right. Audience members. Boo-o-o! Just last year, American troops in Iraq and The President. There is a major problem Afghanistan needed $87 billion for body with that. The era of calm he longs for was armor, hazard pay, vehicles, weapons, and only a shallow illusion of peace. We know bullets. First, Senator Kerry said, ‘‘It would that throughout the 1990s, the terrorists were irresponsible to vote against the troops.’’ training and plotting against us. They saw our Then he voted against the troops. complacency as weakness. And so their plans Audience members. Boo-o-o! became more ambitious and their attacks The President. Then he said, ‘‘I actually more deadly, until, finally, the Twin Towers did vote for the $87 billion, before I voted became Ground Zero and the Pentagon was against it.’’ [Laughter] History has shown that in flames. My outlook was changed on Sep- Senator Kerry was right, then wrong— tember the 11th.

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A few days after the attacks, I stood with world; we’re here to ask for your help. We’re Rudy where the buildings fell. He’ll never here to say that we need your help coming forget that day, and neither will I. I’ll never down the stretch. We need you to make the forget the evil of the enemy and the suffering phone calls, find your friends and neighbors of our people. I know we’re not fighting a and encourage them to go to the polls. With metaphor. And I remember the hard—work- your help, we will carry Iowa and win a great ers in hardhats there yelling at the top of victory on November the 2d. their lungs, ‘‘Whatever it takes.’’ A fellow So when I asked Laura to marry me, she grabbed me by the arm, and he said, ‘‘Do was a public school librarian, and she said— not let me down.’’ From that day forward, and some of you will probably be able to re- I have gotten up every morning thinking late to this—she said, ‘‘Fine, I will marry you, about how to better protect our country. I but make me a promise.’’ I said, ‘‘What is will never relent in defending America, what- it?’’ She said, ‘‘Promise me I’ll never have ever it takes. to give a political speech.’’[Laughter] I said, In a new term, we will finish the work we ‘‘You’ve got a deal.’’ Fortunately, she didn’t have started. We will stand against terror. We will stand for freedom and peace. And on hold me to that promise. She’s giving a lot November 2d, my fellow Americans, I ask of speeches, and when she speaks the Amer- you stand with me. ican people see a warm, strong, great First God bless. Thank you all. Lady. Audience members. Laura! Laura! Laura! NOTE: The President spoke at 10:14 a.m. at the The President. I’m proud of my Island Grove Regional Park Community Events runningmate, Dick Cheney. Now, look, I Center. In his remarks, he referred to former fully admit he does not have the waviest hair Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani of New York City, in this race. [Laughter] But I want to assure and his wife, Judith; Gov. Bill Owens and Lt. Gov. you, I didn’t pick him because of his hairdo. Jane Bergman Norton of Colorado; Marilyn Coors, wife of Colorado senatorial candidate Pete [Laughter] I picked him because of his expe- Coors; Steven E. Musgrave, husband of Rep- rience. I picked him because of his judgment. resentative Marilyn N. Musgrave; former Rep- We had breakfast with Rudy at our ranch resentative Bob Schaffer, senatorial candidate in in Crawford. We’ve just come from Greeley, Colorado; professional baseball player Todd Colorado. We’re headed to Davenport, Iowa. Helton and his wife, Christy; Prime Minister Tony I tell you, it’s a great joy to travel with Rudy Blair of the United Kingdom; Prime Minister John Giuliani. I’m proud to have his support, and Howard of Australia; Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi of Italy; President Aleksander I’m honored to call him friend. And by the Kwasniewski of Poland; Usama bin Laden, leader way, his wife, Judith, is traveling with us too. of the Al Qaida terrorist network; and Gen. So the last time I saw Senator Grassley, Tommy R. Franks, USA, (Ret.), former combatant I turned to Laura and said, ‘‘Laura, you know commander, U.S. Central Command. the South Lawn has got a lot of grass on it, and we’re looking for somebody to come and Remarks in Council Bluffs, Iowa mow it.’’ [Laughter] Let me tell you some- thing about your Senator. When it came time October 25, 2004 to cut the taxes on the working people of The President. Thank you all for coming. this country, Senator Grassley led the charge Thank you all. Thanks for coming. I appre- in the United States Senate. When it came ciate you being here. Laura and I are so hon- time to strengthen Medicare to make sure ored so many came out to say hello. You’re our seniors got prescription drug coverage lifting our spirits. and rural hospitals were treated fairly, Sen- I want to thank all the Iowans who are ator Grassley led the United States Senate. here. Thank you for coming. I want to thank I know the people of Iowa are proud to call those of you from the great State of Nebraska him Senator. I’m proud to call him Mr. who took the—[applause]. We are here to Chairman. not only ask for the vote in this part of the

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I want to thank Congressman Steve King anything to harm us. We will fight these en- from Iowa for joining us today. Congress- emies with every asset of our national power. man, you’re doing a fine job. I appreciate We will do our duty and protect the Amer- you being here. ican people. I want to thank all the grassroots activists And that’s what I want to talk to you and who are here. I want to thank those of you the good people of Iowa and Nebraska about who are putting up the signs. I want to thank today, our national security. In the last 4 those of you who are making the phone calls. years, we’ve been through a lot of history. I want to thank you for what you’re going We saw a ruthless sneak attack on the United to do, which is turn out a big vote on Novem- States. We learned of heroism on doomed ber the 2d. airplanes. We saw the bravery of rescuers I want to thank my friend Michael W. rushing toward danger. We have seen our Smith for singing for you this evening. military bring freedom to the oppressed and I want to thank all of you who are here justice to our enemy. Our Nation has shown who wear our Nation’s uniform. Thank you its character to the world. We are proud to for your service. I want to thank the veterans be Americans. who are here for having set such a great ex- We are now nearing the first Presidential ample for our military. And I want to thank election since September the 11th, 2001. our military families for the sacrifices you People of the United States will choose the have made. leader of the free world in the middle of a In the last week of this campaign, I will global war. The choice is not only between continue to talk about my vision for a more two candidates; it’s between two directions hopeful America. I’m committed to low taxes in the conduct of the war on terror. The and spending discipline. We’ll talk about how American voters must answer these ques- to make sure the entrepreneurial spirit is tions: Will America return to the defensive, strong in America. I’ll talk about how to make reactive mindset that sought to manage the sure our farm economy remains strong in dangers to our country? America. Audience members. Boo-o-o! In the next 4 years, we’ll stay on the path The President. Or will we fight a real war, of reform and results in our schools, so no with the goal of victory? In every critical as- child is left behind in America. I’ll remind pect, my opponent and I see the war on ter- people we have a plan to make sure health ror differently, and Americans need to con- care is more affordable and accessible and sider those differences as they make a vital that in all we do to reform health care, we’ll choice. make sure the decisions are made between First, I believe that America wins wars by doctors and patients, not by officials in Wash- fighting on the offensive. When I saw all ington, DC. I will remind the people that those images of fire and death on September over the next 4 years, we’ll keep the promise the 11th, I made a decision: Our country will of Social Security for our seniors, and we’ll not sit back and wait for future attacks; we strengthen the system for our children and will prevent those attacks by going after the our grandchildren. enemy. I will tell the people we’ll continue to pro- And so since that day, we are waging a mote a culture of life in which every person global campaign from the mountains of Cen- matters and every being counts. I will remind tral Asia to the deserts of the Middle East, them that we’ll protect family and marriage, from the Horn of Africa to the Philippines. which are the foundations of our society. And And those efforts are succeeding. Since Sep- I will tell the people that I’ll name Federal tember the 11th, 2001, more than three- judges who know the difference between quarters of Al Qaida’s key members and asso- personal opinion and the strict interpretation ciates have been brought to justice, and the of the law. rest of them know we’re on their trail. Yet, all progress we hope to make depends After September the 11th, we set a new on the security of our Nation. We face en- direction for American policy and endorsed emies who hate our country and would do a doctrine that is clear to all: If you support

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or harbor terrorists, you’re equally guilty of Audience members. Four more years! terrorist murder. Four more years! Four more years! We destroyed the terror camps that The President. America is not to blame trained thousands of killers in Afghanistan. for terrorist hatred, and no retreat by Amer- We removed the Taliban from power. We ica would appease them. We don’t create ter- persuaded the Governments in Pakistan and rorists by fighting them; we defeat the terror- Saudi Arabia to recognize the enemy and to ists by fighting them. join the fight. We ended the regime of Sad- Our second difference concerns Iraq. I be- dam Hussein, which sponsored terror, and lieve victory in Iraq is essential to victory in we know that America and the world are the war on terror. And we have had a strategy safer with Saddam Hussein sitting in a prison to achieve that victory. The stakes in that cell. country are high. If a terror regime were al- Audience members. U.S.A.! U.S.A.! lowed to reemerge in Iraq, terrorists would U.S.A.! again find a home, a source of funding, and The President. We sent a message to vital support. They would correctly conclude Libya—we sent a clear message to Libya, that free nations do not have the will to de- which has now given up its weapons of mass fend themselves. As Iraq succeeds as a free destruction programs. We have acted society at the heart of the Middle East, an through diplomacy and force to shrink the ally in the war on terror, and a model for area where the terrorists can freely operate. hopeful reform in a troubled region, the ter- And our strategy has the terrorists on the run. rorists will suffer a crushing defeat and every My opponent has a different point of view. free nation will be more secure. Audience members. Boo-o-o! We are still confronting serious violence The President. He says that by fighting from determined enemies. Yet, the Iraqi In- terrorists in the Middle East, America has, terim Government, with American and coali- quote, ‘‘created terrorists where they did not tion support, is making progress, week by exist.’’ week. Along with Iraqi forces, we’re on the Audience members. Boo-o-o! offensive in Fallujah and north Babil. We’ve The President. This is his argument, that restored Government control in Samarra and terrorists are somehow less dangerous or Tall ‘Afar and Najaf. More than 100,000 Iraqi fewer in number if America avoids provoking soldiers, police, and border guards are al- them. ready trained and equipped and bravely serv- Audience members. Boo-o-o! ing their country. And more than 200,000 The President. But this represents a fun- will be in place at the end of next year. An damental misunderstanding of the enemy. Iraqi independent electoral commission is up We’re dealing with killers who have made and running. Political parties are planning the death of Americans the calling of their campaigns, and free and fair Iraqi elections lives. If America were not fighting these kill- will be held on schedule this coming January. ers west of Baghdad and in the mountains The despicable executions of unarmed of Afghanistan and elsewhere, what does Iraqi security forces show the evil nature of Senator Kerry think they would do? Would the terrorists we fight and prove those terror- they begin leading productive lives of service ists are enemies of the Iraqi people and the and charity? American people and the civilized world. The Audience members. No-o-o! terrorists and insurgents hate our progress The President. Would the terrorists who and fight our progress, but they will not stop behead innocent people on camera just be our progress. quiet and peaceful citizens if we had not lib- We will stay on the offense, and we will erated Iraq? prevail. We will help Iraqis get on the path Audience members. No-o-o! to stability and democracy as quickly as pos- The President. We are fighting the terror- sible, and then our troops will return home ists with our military in Afghanistan and Iraq with the honor they have earned. and beyond so we do not have to face them My opponent has a different view. in the streets of our cities. Audience members. Boo-o-o!

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The President. The Senator calls Amer- The President. I’m not making that up. ica’s mission in Iraq a ‘‘mistake,’’ a ‘‘diver- [Laughter] He was standing right about just sion,’’ a ‘‘colossal error.’’ there when I heard him say it. As far as I Audience members. Boo-o-o! can tell, that means our country must get per- The President. And then says he’s the mission from foreign capitals before we act right man to win the war. in our own self-defense. Audience members. Boo-o-o! Audience members. Boo-o-o! The President. You cannot win a war you The President. As President, I will always do not believe in fighting. work with other countries and seek their ad- On Iraq, my opponent has a strategy of vice. But there is a world of difference be- pessimism and retreat. He has talked about tween working with good allies and giving artificial timetables to pull our troops out. a few reluctant nations veto power over our He has sent the signal that America’s over- role in the world. I will never submit our riding goal in Iraq would be to leave, even national security decisions to the veto of a if the job is not done. foreign government. Audience members. Boo-o-o! In addition to a ‘‘global test,’’ my opponent The President. That sends the wrong promises what he calls a ‘‘golden age’’ of di- message. It sends the wrong message to plomacy to charm critical governments all Iraqis, who need to know that America will over the world. never cut and run. That sends the wrong Audience members. Boo-o-o! message to our troops and the troops of our The President. I don’t see much diplo- coalition, who need to know that we will matic skill in Senator Kerry’s habit of insult- honor their sacrifice by completing the mis- ing America’s closest friends. He has called sion. My opponent has the wrong strategy the countries serving alongside us in Iraq, for the wrong country at the wrong time. On quote, ‘‘a trumped-up coalition of the bribed, this vital front of the war on terror, protest the coerced, the bought, and the extorted.’’ is not a policy, retreat is not a strategy, and Audience members. Boo-o-o! failure is not an option. As long as I am the The President. Even last week, my oppo- Commander in Chief, America will never re- nent said that we have, quote, ‘‘hardly anyone treat in the face of terrorism. with us in Iraq.’’ Third, I believe that American leadership Audience members. Boo-o-o! is indispensable to winning the war on terror. The President. That is a deeply offensive Ever since September the 11th, 2001, Amer- way to treat some 30 nations that are in Iraq, ica has sounded a certain trumpet. We have especially the 14 nations that have lost forces stated clearly the challenge to civilization, in our cause. How can Senator Kerry deni- and we have rallied many nations to oppose grate the contributions of countries led by it. More than 90 nations are actively engaged the likes of Tony Blair of Great Britain, John in the war on terror. All 26 NATO nations Howard of Australia, or Silvio Berlusconi of have personnel in either Iraq, Afghanistan, Italy or Aleksander Kwasniewski of Poland or both. NATO has taken leadership of an and then expect other leaders to stand with international force in Afghanistan, the first America in the future? You cannot expand out-of-area deployment in the history of our an alliance by showing contempt for those Alliance. Japan has deployed forces to Iraq, already in it. In this time of challenge to civ- the first overseas mission in the history of ilization, America has found strong and re- their democracy. Forces from South Korea sponsible allies. They deserve the respect of are in Iraq as well. America has led. Many all Americans, not the scorn of a politician. have joined. And America and the world are Fourth, I believe that America will gain safer. long-term security by promoting freedom My opponent takes a different approach. and hope and democracy in the broader Mid- He believes that instead of leading with con- dle East. The job of a leader is to look ahead, fidence, America must submit to what he and our country must look ahead. In 20 years calls a ‘‘global test.’’ from now, if the Middle East is dominated Audience members. Boo-o-o! by dictators and mullahs who build weapons

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of mass destruction and harbor terrorists, our in my polling station.’’ My fellow citizens, children and grandchildren will live in a freedom is on the march, and it’s changing nightmare world of danger. That does not the world. have to happen. By taking the side of reform- We are witnessing big and hopeful events. ers and democrats in the Middle East, we I believe that people across the world, people will gain allies in the war on terror; we’ll iso- in the Middle East want to live in freedom. late the ideology of murder; and we will help I believe this because freedom is not Amer- defeat the despair and hopelessness that ica’s gift to the world; freedom is the Al- feeds terror. By spreading freedom and lib- mighty God’s gift to each man and woman erty, the world will become a much safer in this world. place for future generations. Our fifth great difference concerns the Progress in the broader Middle East to- role of the Presidency. A President has to ward freedom will not come easily. Yet, that lead with consistency and strength. In a war, progress is coming faster than many would sometimes your tactics have to change but have said possible. Across a troubled region, not your principles. Americans have seen we’re seeing a movement toward elections how I do my job. Even when you might not and greater rights for women and open dis- agree with me, you know what I believe and cussions for peaceful reform. The election in where I stand and what I intend to do. Afghanistan this month and the election in Audience members. Four more years! Iraq next January will be counted as land- Four more years! Four more years! mark events in the history of liberty. The President. Thank you all. On good My opponent looks at things differently. days and on bad days, whether the polls are He is not only skeptical of—about democracy up or the polls are down, I am determined in Iraq; he’s not made democracy a priority to win the war on terror, and I will always of his foreign policy. But what is his long- support the men and women who do the term answer to the threat of terror? Is he fighting. content to watch and wait as anger and re- My opponent has taken a different ap- sentment grow for more decades in the Mid- proach. dle East, feeding more terrorism until radi- Audience members. Boo-o-o! cals without conscience gain the weapons to The President. It’s fair to say that consist- kill without limit? Ignoring the root causes ency has not been his strong point. of terror, turning a blind eye to the oppres- Audience members. Flip-flop! Flip-flop! sion and despair of millions may be easier Flip-flop! in the short run. But we learned on Sep- The President. Senator Kerry says that tember the 11th that if violence and fanati- we’re better off with Saddam Hussein out cism are not opposed at their source, they of power, except when he declares that re- will find us where we live. moving Saddam made us less safe. He stated Instead of offering his own agenda for in our second debate that he always believed freedom, my opponent complains that we’re that Saddam was a threat, except, a few ques- trying to, quote, ‘‘impose democracy on peo- tions later, when he said Saddam Hussein ple in the broader Middle East.’’ Is that what was not a threat. he sees in Afghanistan, unwilling people hav- Audience members. Flip-flop! Flip-flop! ing democracy forced upon them? We did Flip-flop! remove the Taliban by force, but democracy The President. He says he was right when is rising in that country because the Afghan he voted to authorize the use of force against people, like people everywhere, want to live Saddam Hussein but that I was wrong to use in freedom. force against Saddam Hussein. [Laughter] No one forced them to register by the mil- Now my opponent is throwing out the wild lions or to stand in long lines to vote. For claim that he knows where bin Laden was many people, that historic election was a day in the fall of 2001 and that our military they will never forget. One man in western passed up the chance to get him in Tora Kabul arrived to vote at 7 a.m. He said, ‘‘I Bora. This is an unjustified criticism of our didn’t sleep all night. I wanted to be the first military commanders in the field. This is the

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worst kind of Monday morning quarter- In 1994, just one year after the first bomb- backing. And that’s what we’ve come to ex- ing of the World Trade Center, Senator pect from Senator Kerry. Kerry proposed massive cuts in America’s in- In fact, our commander in Afghanistan, telligence budget, so massive that even his General Tommy Franks recently wrote this Massachusetts colleague, Ted Kennedy, op- about Tora Bora: ‘‘The Senator’s under- posed them. standing of events does not square with re- Audience members. Boo-o-o! ality.’’ The General said that American Spe- The President. History has shown that cial Forces were actively involved in the Senator Kerry was wrong and—we’ve got to search for terrorists in Tora Bora and that be fair—Senator Kennedy was right. intelligence reports at the time placed bin Just last year, American troops in Iraq and Laden in any of several countries. Afghanistan needed $87 billion for body Before Senator Kerry got into political dif- armor and hazard pay, vehicles, weapons, ficulty and revised his views, he saw our ac- and bullets. First, Senator Kerry said, ‘‘It tions in Tora Bora differently. In the fall of would be irresponsible to vote against the 2001, on national TV, Senator Kerry said this, troops.’’ Then he voted against the troops. ‘‘I think we have been doing this pretty effec- Audience members. Boo-o-o! tively, and we should continue to do it that The President. You might remember per- way.’’ At the time, the Senator said about haps the most famous quote of the 2004 cam- Tora Bora, ‘‘I think we’ve been smart. I think paign when he said, ‘‘I actually did vote for the administration leadership has done it the $87 billion, before I voted against it.’’ well, and we are on the right track.’’ Well, History has shown that Senator Kerry was all I can tell you is that I am George W. right, then wrong—[laughter]—then briefly Bush, and I approve of that message. right, and wrong again. Since then, on the Yet, Senator Kerry’s record on national se- 87 billion, my opponent has said, ‘‘The whole curity has a far deeper problem than elec- thing is a complicated matter.’’ There’s noth- tion-year flip-flopping. On the largest na- tional security issues of our time, he has been ing complicated about supporting our troops consistently and dangerously wrong. When in combat. Ronald Reagan was confronting the Soviet During the last 20 years, in key moments Union at the height of the cold war, Senator of challenge and decision for America, Sen- Kerry said that President Reagan’s policy of ator Kerry has chosen the position of weak- peace through strength was making America ness and inaction. With that record, he stands less safe. in opposition not just to me but to the great Audience members. Boo-o-o! tradition of the Democratic Party. The party The President. He voted against many of of Franklin Roosevelt and Harry Truman and the weapons systems critical to our defense John Kennedy is rightly remembered for buildup. confidence and resolve in times of war and Audience members. Boo-o-o! hours of crisis. Senator Kerry has turned his The President. History has shown that back on ‘‘pay any price’’ and ‘‘bear any bur- Senator Kerry was wrong and President den.’’ He’s replaced those commitments with Reagan was right. ‘‘wait and see’’ and ‘‘cut and run.’’ When former President Bush led a coali- Audience members. Boo-o-o! tion against Saddam Hussein in 1991, Sen- The President. Many Democrats in this ator Kerry voted against the use of force to country do not recognize their party any- liberate Kuwait. more. Today I want to speak to every one Audience members. Boo-o-o! of them. If you believe that America should The President. If his view had prevailed, lead with strength and purpose and con- Saddam Hussein today would dominate the fidence in our ideals, I would be honored Middle East and possess the world’s most to have your support, and I’m asking for your dangerous weapons. History has shown that vote. Senator Kerry was wrong and former Presi- All the differences I outlined today add dent Bush was right. up to one big difference, and it’s important

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for our fellow citizens to understand that dif- of Australia; Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi of ference. Senator Kerry says that September Italy; President Aleksander Kwasniewski of Po- the 11th did not change him much at all. land; Usama bin Laden, leader of the Al Qaida Audience members. Boo-o-o! terrorist network; and Gen. Tommy R. Franks, The President. His policies make that USA, (Ret.), former combatant commander, U.S. Central Command. clear. He says the war on terror is primarily a law enforcement and intelligence gathering operation. Remarks in Davenport, Iowa Audience members. Boo-o-o! October 25, 2004 The President. His top foreign policy ad- viser says, ‘‘The war is just like a metaphor, The President. Thank you all. Thanks for like the war on poverty.’’ The Senator’s goal coming. It is great to be back in the great is to go back to the mindset of the 1990s, city of Davenport, Iowa. Laura and I are— when terrorism was seen as a nuisance and [applause]. Thanks for coming. You’ve lifted was fought with subpoenas and a few cruise our spirits today. We really appreciate you missiles. being here. Audience members. Boo-o-o! We’re heading down the stretch. I’m here The President. There’s a major problem to ask for your vote. I’m here to ask for your with that. The calm—the era of calm he longs help. I need you to go to your friends and for was only a shallow illusion of peace. We neighbors and remind them we have a duty now know that throughout the 1990s, the ter- in this great democracy to vote. Don’t over- rorists were training and plotting against us. look discerning Democrats when you get They saw our complacency as weakness. And people going to the polls, by the way, people so their plans became more ambitious and like Senator Zell Miller. Remind your friends their attacks became more deadly until, fi- and neighbors if they want a safer country, nally, the Twin Towers became Ground Zero a stronger country, and a better country, to and the Pentagon was in flames. put me and Dick Cheney back in office. My outlook was changed on September Laura and I were in the seventh grade to- the 11th. A few days after the attacks, I stood gether in San Jacinto Junior High, in Mid- with Rudy where buildings fell. I will never land, Texas, and then we became re- forget the evil of our enemy and the suffering acquainted. She was a public school librarian of our people. I know we are fighting a war. when I met her again. I said, ‘‘Will you marry And I remember the workers in the hardhats me?’’ She said, ‘‘Fine, if you make me one there at Ground Zero, yelling at me at the promise.’’ I said, ‘‘What is it?’’ ‘‘Promise me top of their lungs, ‘‘Whatever it takes.’’ A fel- I’ll never have to give a political speech.’’ low grabbed me by the arm, and he looked [Laughter] I said, ‘‘Okay, you’ve got a deal.’’ me in the eye, and he said, ‘‘Do not let me [Laughter] Fortunately, she didn’t hold me down.’’ From that day forward, I’ve gotten to that promise. She’s giving a lot of speech- up every morning thinking about how to bet- es, and when she does, the American people ter protect our country. I will never relent see a strong, compassionate First Lady. in defending America, whatever it takes. And I’m proud of my runningmate, Dick In a new term, we will finish the work we Cheney. You know, I’m looking around, and have started. We will stand against terror and I can see a few folks out there have got the stand for freedom and peace we all want. same hairstyle he does. [Laughter] I did not And on November the 2d, my fellow Ameri- pick the Vice President because of his hairdo. cans, I ask you to stand with me. [Laughter] And I admit, he doesn’t have the God bless. On to victory. Thank you all. waviest hair in the race. [Laughter] I picked him because he can get the job done for the NOTE: The President spoke at 2:51 p.m. at the Mid-America Center. In his remarks, he referred American people. to former Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani of New How about Rudy? We love traveling with York City, and his wife, Judith; entertainer Mi- Rudy. Rudy is a great American. We woke chael W. Smith; Prime Minister Tony Blair of the up, and we had breakfast with Rudy and Ju- United Kingdom; Prime Minister John Howard dith at our place in Crawford. Then we went

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to Greeley, Colorado. Then we went to the of life; your retirement; and the bedrock val- western part of your State, and we’re fin- ues that are so critical to our country’s future. ishing a great day here in Davenport. And The first clear choice is the most important I want to thank Rudy—I want to thank him because it concerns the security of your fam- for joining me. I appreciate his support. ily. All our progress on every other issue de- So I was telling Laura, I said, ‘‘You know pends on the safety of our citizens. This will something, the South Lawn at the White be the first Presidential election since Sep- House has got a lot of grass on it, and we tember the 11th, 2001. Americans will go to need somebody to come and mow it.’’ the polls in a time of war and ongoing threats [Laughter] ‘‘I can’t think of anybody better unlike any we have faced before. The terror- than the Chairman, Chuck Grassley, to be ists who killed thousands are still dangerous, mowing our lawn.’’ What a good man Chuck and they’re determined. The outcome of this Grassley is. He’s a great United States Sen- election will set the direction of the war ator. I know you’re proud of him. against terror. The most solemn duty of the And I’m proud of your Congressman, Jim American President is to protect the Amer- Nussle, the budget chairman. He’s watching ican people. If America shows uncertainty or your money like a hawk—eye. He’s a good weakness in this decade, the world will drift man. And I know you’re proud of a Congress- toward tragedy. This will not happen on my man who was raised right here, former Con- watch. Since that terrible morning of September gressman. He moved up the road a little bit, the 11th, 2001, we have fought the terrorists but a man we call friend, and that’s Congress- across the Earth, not for pride, not for power, man Jim Leach, and his wife, Deb, is here. but because the lives of our citizens are at I want to thank all the grassroots activists stake. Our strategy is clear. We’ve strength- who are here, the people putting up the ened the protections for our homeland. signs, the people making the phone calls, the We’re reforming our intelligence capabilities. people organizing a rally just like this one. We’re transforming our army. There will be I want to thank you for what you have done no draft. We will keep the All-Volunteer and what you’re going to do. With your hard Army. We are determined. We are relentless. work, with your help, we will carry Iowa and We are staying on the offensive, and we’re win a great victory on November the 2d. succeeding. The 9/11 Commission report Audience members. Four more years! said, ‘‘America is safer, not yet safe.’’ More Four more years! Four more years! than three-quarters of Al Qaida’s key mem- The President. We have just 8 days to bers and associates have been brought to jus- go in this campaign, and voters have a clear tice. The rest of them know we’re on their choice between two very different candidates trail. with dramatically different approaches and The American President, in these times of different records. You know where I stand, danger, must lead with consistency and and sometimes, you even know where my op- strength. In a war, sometimes your tactics ponent stands. [Laughter] We both have change but not your principles. Americans records. I’m proudly running on mine. The have seen how I do my job. Even when you Senator is running from his. [Laughter] And might not agree with me, you know what I there’s a reason why. There is a mainstream believe and where I stand and what I intend in American politics, and my opponent sits to do. On good days and on bad days, wheth- on the far left bank. I’m a compassionate con- er the polls are up or the polls are down, servative and proudly so. In a time when our I am determined to win the war on terror, country has much to accomplish and much and I will always support the men and to offer, I proudly offer my record of reform women who wear the uniform. and results. Audience members. Four more years! This election comes down to five clear Four more years! Four more years! choices for America’s families, five choices The President. My opponent has taken on issues of great consequence: your family’s a different approach. It’s fair to say that con- security; your family’s budget; your quality sistency has not been his strong point.

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[Laughter] Senator Kerry says we’re better The President. He voted against many off with Saddam Hussein out of power, ex- weapons systems critical to our defense cept when he declares that removing Saddam buildup. History has shown that Senator has made us less safe. He stated in our sec- Kerry was wrong, and President Ronald ond debate that he always believed Saddam Reagan was right. was a threat, except a few questions later, When former President Bush led a coali- when he said Saddam Hussein was not a tion against Saddam Hussein in 1991, Sen- threat. [Laughter] He says he was right when ator Kerry voted against the use of force to he voted to authorize the use of force against liberate Kuwait. Saddam Hussein, but that I was wrong to Audience members. Boo-o-o! use force against Saddam Hussein. [Laugh- The President. If his view had prevailed, ter] Saddam Hussein today would dominate the Now my opponent is throwing out the wild Middle East and possess the world’s most claim that he knows where bin Laden was dangerous weapons. History has shown that in the fall of 2001, and that our military Senator Kerry was wrong, and former Presi- passed up the chance to get him in Tora dent George Bush was right. Bora. This is unjustified criticism of our mili- In 1994, just one year after the first bomb- tary commanders in the field. This is the ing of the World Trade Center, Senator worst kind of Monday morning quarter- Kerry proposed massive cuts in America’s in- backing. And it’s what we’ve come to expect telligence budget. from my opponent during this campaign. Audience members. Boo-o-o! The President. So massive that even his In fact, our Commander in Afghanistan, Massachusetts colleague, Ted Kennedy, op- General Tommy Franks, recently wrote posed them. [Laughter] History has shown about Tora Bora, and he said, ‘‘The Senator’s that Senator Kerry was wrong and—we’ve understanding of events does not square with got be fair—Senator Kennedy was right. reality.’’ The General said that American [Laughter] Special Forces were actively involved in the Just last year, American troops in Iraq and search for the terrorists in Tora Bora, and Afghanistan needed $87 billion for important that intelligence reports at the time placed funding to help them complete their mis- bin Laden in several countries. sions. First, my opponent said, ‘‘It would be Before Senator Kerry got into political dif- irresponsible to vote against the troops.’’ ficulty and revised his views, he saw our ac- Then he voted against the troops. tions in Tora Bora differently. In the fall of Audience members. Boo-o-o! 2001, on national TV, he said this about Tora The President. You might remember per- Bora, ‘‘I think we’ve been doing this pretty haps the most famous quote of the 2004 cam- effectively, and we should continue to do it paign. They asked him about his vote, and that way.’’ At the time, the Senator said about he said, ‘‘I actually did vote for the $87 bil- Tora Bora, ‘‘I think we’ve been smart. I think lion, right before I voted against it.’’ History the administration leadership has done it has shown that Senator Kerry was right, then well, and we are on the right track.’’ End wrong—[laughter]—then briefly right— quote. All I can say about that is, I am George [laughter]—then wrong again. [Laughter] W. Bush, and I approve of that message. Since then, he said, ‘‘The whole thing was Senator Kerry’s record on national security a complicated matter.’’ My fellow Americans, has a far deeper problem than election-year there’s nothing complicated about sup- flip-flopping. On the largest national security porting our troops in harm’s way. issues of our time, he has been consistently During the last 20 years, in key moments wrong. When Ronald Reagan was con- of challenge and decision for America, Sen- fronting the Soviet Union at the height of ator Kerry has chosen a position of weakness the cold war, Senator Kerry said that Presi- and inaction. With that record, he stands in dent Reagan’s policy of peace through opposition not just to me but to the great strength was making America less safe. tradition of the Democratic Party. The party Audience members. Boo-o-o! of Franklin Roosevelt and Harry Truman and

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John Kennedy is rightly remembered for the great State of Iowa is 4.7 percent. This confidence and resolve in times of war and economy is strong, and it is getting stronger. hours of crisis. Senator Kerry has turned his My opponent has very different plans for back on ‘‘pay any price’’ and ‘‘bear any bur- your budget—for your family’s budget, and den.’’ And he’s replaced those commitments that’s to take a big chunk out of it. with ‘‘wait and see’’ and ‘‘cut and run.’’ Many Audience members. Boo-o-o! Democrats in this country do not recognize The President. You tell your friends and their party anymore. And today I want to neighbors, he voted against the child credit, speak to every one of them. If you believe marriage penalty relief, lower tax rates. If his that America should lead with strength and vote had prevailed, an average middle-class purpose and confidence in our ideals, I family would be paying $2,000 more a year would be honored to have your support, and to the Federal Government. I’m asking for your vote. Audience members. Boo-o-o! Audience members. Four more years! The President. It’s part of a pattern. He’s Four more years! Four more years! been in the United States Senate for 20 The President. The second clear choice years, and he’s voted for tax increases 98 in this election concerns your family’s budg- times. That’s about five times every year. et. When I ran for President 4 years ago, That’s predictable. When a Senator does I pledged to lower taxes for American fami- something that often, he must really enjoy lies, and I kept my word. I enjoyed working it. [Laughter] During his campaign, he’s with Chairman Chuck Grassley to keep a made a lot of big promises—big spending pledge I made. We doubled the child credit promises too. He’s promised $2.2 trillion of to $1,000 per child. We reduced the marriage new spending. That’s trillion with a ‘‘T.’’ penalty. The Tax Code should encourage That’s a lot even for a Senator from Massa- marriage, not penalize marriage. We chusetts. [Laughter] dropped the lowest bracket to 10 percent, So they asked him, ‘‘How are you going so working families could keep more of their to pay for it?’’ He said, ‘‘Oh, we’ll just tax paychecks. We reduced taxes for everybody the rich.’’ You’ve heard that before, haven’t who pays taxes. After-tax income is up— you? When you run up the top two brackets, that’s money in your pocket to spend—it’s one, he’s taxing a lot of small businesses. Sev- up by about 10 percent since I became your enty percent of job—new jobs in America President. are created by small businesses. Most small I want you to remind your friends and businesses pay individual income-tax rates. neighbors what this economy has been And when you’re running up the taxes, you’re through. Six months prior to our arrival in taxing the job creators, and that is bad eco- Washington, DC, the stock market was in se- nomic policy. When you raise the top two rious decline. And then we faced the reces- brackets, you raise between 600 billion and sion and corporate scandals and the attacks 800 billion dollars. That’s far short of the 2.2 of September the 11th, 2001, which cost us trillion. There is a gap. And guess who usually about a million jobs in the 3 months after pays that gap? that fateful day. Audience members. We do! But our economic policies have put us The President. You do. The good news back on the road to growth. Our economy is, we’re going to carry Iowa. We’re going is growing at rates as fast as any in nearly to win on November the 2d, and he’s not 20 years. The homeownership rate is at an going to tax you. alltime high. Our farmers are making a good The third clear choice in this election in- living. The entrepreneurial spirit is strong. volves the quality of life for our Nation’s fam- Small businesses are flourishing all across our ilies. A good education and quality health country. We’ve added more than 1.9 million care are important to a successful life. When new jobs in the last 13 months. The national I ran for President 4 years ago, I promised unemployment rate is 5.4 percent, lower to challenge the soft bigotry of low expecta- than the average rate of the 1970s, the 1980s, tions in every school in America, and I kept and the 1990s. The unemployment rate in my word. We passed good reforms. The No

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Child Left Behind Act has raised standards. cluding measures like teacher attendance to It believes in local control of schools. Schools judge whether a student can read or write are now more accountable. Our children are or add and subtract. We need to keep high learning to read and write and add and sub- standards in our schools. We’ve got to expect tract. We’re closing achievement gaps all the best for the children. And he voted across this country for minority students. against health savings accounts. He opposes We’ll build on these reforms. We’ll extend association health plans. He voted 10 times high standards to our high schools, so that against medical liability reform. He can run no child is left behind in America. from his record, but he cannot hide. And we’ll continue to improve lives for our No, he’s laid out a plan for health care, families by making health care more afford- and it would be a big-Government health able and accessible. We’ll expand health sav- care plan. Eighty percent of the people who ings accounts so more small businesses can get coverage under his proposal would be en- cover their workers, and more families are rolled in a Government program. Now, lis- able to get health care accounts they can ten, I remember those debates when he manage and call their own. We will help our looked right in the camera with a straight small businesses afford health insurance by face and said, ‘‘The Government has nothing allowing them to pool together so they can to do with it.’’ I could barely contain myself. buy insurance at the same discounts that big [Laughter] The Government has got a lot to companies are able to do. We will expand do with it. It’s a plan that will lead us down community health centers and rural health the road to Federal control of health care. centers to help the poor and the indigent. In all we do to improve health care, we will We’ll make sure every eligible child is en- make sure the decisions are made by doctors rolled in our Government’s low-income and patients, not by officials in Washington, health insurance program. DC. And to make sure health care is available The fourth clear choice in this election in- and affordable, we will do something about volves your retirement. Our Nation has made these frivolous lawsuits that are running up a solemn commitment to America’s seniors the cost of medicine. I’ve met too many ob- on Social Security and Medicare. When I ran gyns around this Nation that are having trou- for President 4 years ago, I promised to keep ble practicing medicine because the lawsuits that commitment and improve Medicare by are running up their premiums and driving adding prescription drug coverage. I kept my them out of business. I’ve met too many word. I want you to remember the history pregnant women who are worried about the on Medicare. Leaders in both political par- quality of the health care they’re receiving ties have talked about strengthening and because their ob-gyn can’t practice in the modernizing Medicare for years. We got the local community. This is a national problem job done. And I want to thank Chairman that requires a national solution. You cannot Chuck Grassley for his hard work on this be pro-doctor and pro-patient and pro-trial- issue. Seniors are getting discounts on medi- lawyer at the same time. You have to make cine with drug discount cards. Low-income a choice. My opponent made his choice, and seniors are getting $600 of help this year and he put a personal injury trial lawyer on the $600 of help next year. And beginning in ticket. 2006, all seniors will be able to get prescrip- Audience members. Boo-o-o! tion drug coverage under Medicare. The President. I made my choice. I have Here we have another difference in this made my choice. I’m standing with the doc- campaign. My opponent voted against the tors, and I’m standing with the patients. I’m Medicare bill that included prescription drug for medical liability reform—now. coverage, even though it was supported by My opponent has a different point of view AARP and other seniors groups. In this cam- when it comes to schools and health care. paign, he said, ‘‘If I’m President, we’re going He voted for the No Child Left Behind Act to repeal that phony bill.’’ Then he went on but now wants to weaken the accountability to say, ‘‘No, I don’t want to repeal it.’’ standards. For example, he’s proposed in- [Laughter] Sounds familiar. [Laughter] As

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your President for the next 4 years, I will stand for the appointment of Federal judges defend the reforms we have worked so hard who know the difference between personal to pass and keep the promise of Medicare opinion and the strict interpretation of the for America’s seniors. And I will keep the law. I believe marriage is a sacred commit- promise of Social Security for our seniors, ment. Marriage is a pillar of civilization, and and we will strengthen Social Security for I will defend it. This is not a partisan issue. generations to come. When Congress passed the Defense of Mar- Now, I want to remind you all what took riage Act, which defined marriage as a union place in the 2000 election and may be taking of a man and a woman, the vast majority of place in this election already, and that is that Democrats supported it, and the bill was every—every campaign cycle it seems like signed by my predecessor. somebody is trying to scare our seniors. See, But Senator Kerry was part of an out-of- in 2000, they said, ‘‘If George W. gets elect- the-mainstream minority that voted against ed, our seniors will not get their checks.’’ As the Defense of Marriage Act. you’re out rounding up the votes, I want you Audience members. Boo-o-o! to remind people, George W. did get elected, The President. I believe that reasonable and our seniors did get their checks. And I people can find common ground on the dif- plan on getting reelected, and our seniors will ficult issues. Republicans and Democrats, continue to get their checks. And baby many citizens on both sides of the life issue boomers like me, we’re in pretty good shape came together and agreed we should ban the when it comes to the Social Security trust. brutal practice of partial-birth abortion. I But we need to worry about our children proudly signed that bill. and our grandchildren. We need to worry Senator Kerry was part of the out-of-the- about whether or not a retirement system— mainstream minority that voted against the a viable retirement system in Social Security ban. will be there when they need it. And that’s Audience members. Boo-o-o! why I believe younger workers ought to be The President. He also voted against pa- allowed to take some of their own payroll rental notification laws. He voted against the taxes and put it in a personal savings account Unborn Victims of Violence Act. I’ll continue that will earn a better rate of return, an ac- to reach out to Americans of every belief and count they own, an account the Government move this goodhearted Nation toward a cul- cannot take away. ture of life. My opponent takes a different approach. My opponent has said that the heart and He said he talks about protecting Social Se- soul of America can be found in Hollywood. curity, but he’s the only candidate in this race Audience members. Boo-o-o! who has voted eight times for higher taxes The President. I know. Most American on Social Security benefits. families do not look to Hollywood for a Audience members. Boo-o-o! source of values. [Laughter] The heart and The President. He might not want us to soul of America is found in caring and loving remind him of that. He can run, but he can- communities like Davenport, Iowa. not hide. All these choices make this one of the most And when it comes to a younger genera- important elections in our history. The secu- tion, he offered nothing, no reforms. The job rity and prosperity of our country, the health of the President is to confront problems, not and education for our families, the retire- to pass them on to future Presidents and fu- ment of our seniors, and the direction of our ture generations. I will bring Republicans culture are all at stake. And the decision is and Democrats together to make sure Social in the best of hands; it’s in the hands of the Security is viable for a younger generation American people. of Americans. I see a great day coming for America. One And the fifth and final clear choice in this of my favorite quotes was written by a fellow election is on the values that are so crucial Texan named Tom Lea. He said, ‘‘Sarah and to keeping America’s families strong. And I live on the east side of the mountain. It’s here, my opponent and I are miles apart. I the sunrise side, not the sunset side. It is

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the side to see the day that is coming, not together in San Jacinto Junior High in Mid- to see the day that has gone.’’ My opponent land, Texas, and then we became re- has spent much of this campaign talking acquainted years later when she was a public about the day that has gone. I’m talking about school librarian. And I asked her to marry the day that’s coming. me—I’m sure some of you can relate to this. You know, we have been through a lot to- She said, ‘‘Fine, but make me a promise.’’ gether over the past years. Because we’ve I said, ‘‘What is it?’’ ‘‘Well, promise me I’ll done the hard work of climbing the moun- never have to give a political speech.’’ tain, we can see the valley below. We’ll pro- [Laughter] I said, ‘‘Okay, you’ve got a deal.’’ tect our families. We’ll build on their pros- [Laughter] Fortunately, she didn’t hold me perity. We’ll defend our Nation’s deepest val- to that promise. She’s giving a lot of speech- ues. We’ll spread freedom in the world, and es, and when she does the American people as we do, we’ll achieve the peace we all long see a warm, compassionate, great First Lady. for. I have been traveling your State a lot, talking When I traveled your State in 2000, asking about the reasons why I think people ought for the vote, first in the caucuses and then to put me back into office. But perhaps the in the general election, I made this pledge: most important one is so that Laura will be I pledged that I would uphold the honor and First Lady for 4 more years. the integrity of the office to which I had been I am proud of my runningmate, Dick Che- elected. With your help, I will do so for 4 ney. In all due respect to those who are here more years. who are follically challenged—[laughter]—I God bless. Thanks for coming. Thank you readily concede my runningmate does not all. Thank you all. have the waviest hair in the race. You’ll be pleased to know I did not pick him because NOTE: The President spoke at 5:30 p.m. at the RiverCenter. In his remarks, he referred to Sen- of his hairdo. [Laughter] I picked him be- ator Zell Miller of Georgia, who made the keynote cause of his experience and his judgment and address at the Republican National Convention; his ability to get the job done. former Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani of New York And I’m proud of your friend Tommy City, and his wife, Judith; Usama bin Laden, lead- Thompson. He has done a great job. I gave er of the Al Qaida terrorist organization; and Gen. him one of the toughest jobs in Washington, Tommy R. Franks, USA, (Ret.), former combatant DC, and he has responded. He has done a commander, U.S. Central Command. He also re- fabulous job to help those who hurt. Just take ferred to the National Commission on Terrorist the issue of Medicare. Tommy and I went Attacks Upon the United States (9/11 Commis- sion). to Washington to solve problems, not to pass them on to future Presidents and future gen- erations. That’s our job, to tackle the tough Remarks in Onalaska, Wisconsin problems. Medicare was a problem. See, October 26, 2004 Medicare hadn’t changed, but medicine had. For example, they pay nearly $100,000 for The President. Thank you all. What a heart surgery, but not one dime for the pre- great way to spend a Tuesday, and that’s to scription drugs that could prevent the heart be on a bus traveling throughout the great surgery from being needed in the first place. State of Wisconsin. Thank you all for coming Tommy recognized that wasn’t fair. I recog- out to say hello. It’s such an honor to be here. nized it wasn’t fair. We brought Republicans Laura and I are—our spirits are lifted up be- and Democrats together. We did what other cause so many have come out to say hello. Presidents and other Secretaries couldn’t do: We’re honored you are here. I’m here to ask We modernized Medicare, and starting in for your vote. I’m here to ask for your help. 2006, our seniors will get prescription drug There’s no doubt in my mind, if we turn out coverage. our vote in Wisconsin, we’ll win a great vic- Let me say one other thing to our seniors tory on November the 2d. here in Wisconsin. You might remember the I don’t know if you know the history of 2000 campaign, when they ran those ads that me and Laura. We were in the seventh grade said, ‘‘If George W. gets elected, our seniors

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are not going to get their Social Security your retirement; and the bedrock values that checks.’’ Remember those? Yes. Well, I want are so critical to our country’s future. you—as you’re gathering up the vote, remind First and foremost, I’ve talked about the your friends and neighbors that George W. quality retirement. When I’m talking about did get elected and our seniors did get their Medicare and making sure it exists and Social Security check. And our seniors will strong, that helps our families. When I’m continue to get their Social Security checks. talking about Social Security and making sure But we’re also going to strengthen Social Se- it’s around today as well as around tomorrow, curity for our younger generation. Our that helps our families. youngsters ought to be allowed to take some But the first, biggest concern of any Presi- of their payroll taxes and set up a personal dent is your security. Our Nation is at war savings account they call their own, an ac- against a terrorist enemy unlike any we have count the Government cannot take away. faced before. The most solemn duty of the I want to thank Congressman Mark Green, American President is to protect the Amer- who is with us today. Congressman, I appre- ican people. We will be relentless, deter- ciate you coming. He’s a fine, good, young mined, steadfast, and strong. We will not re- Member of the House of Representatives. I lent. We will stay on the offensive until the want to thank the mayor of Onalaska with fight is won. us today. Mr. Mayor, I’m proud you’re here. Another big issue, of course, is our econ- Thanks for coming. Fill the potholes. omy. It affects the quality of life. It affects [Laughter] your budget. It affects how much money you have in your wallet. We will expand and I’m proud to be standing with the next strengthen our economic recovery to make United States Senator from Wisconsin, Tim sure opportunity spreads throughout every Michels. He married a lady named Barbara. corner of this country. This campaign offers [Laughter] I know some Barbaras. [Laugh- a clear choice when it comes to the economy ter] One of them is still telling me what to and our vision for how to create jobs. My do. [Laughter] And I’m still listening, I want policies support and strengthen the small you to know. businesses, which are creating most new jobs I’m very impressed by a candidate for Wis- in America. consin’s Third Congressional District, a man I’m going to spend a little time talking I hope you support, the next Congressman, about the vision of enhancing the entrepre- Dale Schultz. neurial spirit. My opponent promises to raise I want to thank the grassroots activists who your taxes. are here, the people who are putting up the Audience members. Boo-o-o! signs, making the phone calls, the people The President. And unfortunately for our who helped turn out such a huge crowd here. small-business owners, that’s a promise most I’m honored to have your support. Now is politicians tend to keep. [Laughter] the time to keep the work up. Now is the Our economy has been through a lot. time to find every single voter and tell them When you’re out there rounding up the vote, we have a duty, a duty in this country to vote. I want you to remind people that 6 months When you get them headed to the polls, re- prior to my arrival, the stock market was in mind them if they want a safer America, a serious decline. Our economy was declining stronger America, and a better America, to in the last half of the year 2000. We fell into put me and Dick Cheney back in office. a recession. We had corporate scandals which Audience members. Four more years! affected our economy. By the way, we passed Four more years! Four more years! tough laws. We have made it abundantly The President. We’re only one week away clear, we will not tolerate dishonesty in the from the vote, and I’m focusing on the big boardrooms of America. issues that are facing our country’s families. We were attacked. And those attacks cost This election comes down to five clear us about a million jobs in the 3 months after choices for our families: your family’s secu- September the 11th. But, see, I understand rity; your family’s budget; your quality of life; something. I understand the engine of

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growth that this economy has found with the Our labor laws ought to change with them. entrepreneurs and workers of America. And Moms and dads ought to be able to have that’s why we passed the largest tax relief the flex-time in the workplace so they can in a generation, tax relief which encouraged balance family and the need to work. consumption and investment. KnobGallery is a thriving, $1.4 million And it’s working. The economic stimulus business. Her family is working in the busi- plan we passed is working. This country cre- ness: Kristina, it turns out, designs the com- ated about 1.9 million jobs in the last 13 pany’s web page. Joan is living the American months. The national unemployment rate is Dream. She has started her own business. down to 5.4 percent. And let me remind you She owns her own company. And she—I of where that stands: That’s lower than the said, ‘‘Are you going to increase the jobs?’’ average rate of the 1970s, the 1980s, and the She said, ‘‘I’m intending to add more people 1990s. The unemployment rate in Wisconsin to work.’’ See, the more Joans that start up is down to 5 percent. That is down almost their own business, the more likely that a full point since the summer of 2003. We’re somebody is going to find a job in America. headed in the right direction in America. The role of the Government is to create an Our farmers are doing well. Farm income environment for the Joan Shelleys to feel is up, and that’s good for our economy. The comfortable in starting and expanding their homeownership rate is at an alltime high in business. America. We’re on the move. We’re going Ric Hartman is with us. There he is. Hi, forward, and we’re not going to go back to Ric. He managed at one time the in-house the days of tax and spend. design shop of a large packaging firm for 15 This is a time of fantastic opportunity. The years. Last October, about a year ago, he job of Government is to create an environ- learned the company was going to close his ment in which the entrepreneurial spirit can operation. So guess what he did? He got flourish, in which people are willing to work some of those people he worked with, put hard to realize their dreams. Government them in a van, went to a local flour mill and doesn’t create wealth. Government creates said, ‘‘This is where we’re going to start our the environment that says, ‘‘Take a risk. Start new company.’’ See, the entrepreneurial a business if you choose to. Own something.’’ spirit must be strong if America is going to Today Joan Shelley is with us. I want you be a hopeful place. Five came with him. to hear her story. Joan is right there. First Today, he runs a profitable small business of all, she is a mom. She and her husband called Hartman Design. Here’s what he said: have got eight children. Listen to her story. ‘‘Deep down, I think every design person She didn’t think she was spending enough wants to run their own shop.’’ Deep down, time—she worked as a nurse—didn’t spend a lot of people in America want to run their enough time at home. First of all, she’s got own shop. Deep down, people have a desire her priorities straight. If you are fortunate to start their own business, and when they enough to be a mom or a dad, your most do, somebody is more likely to find a job. important responsibility is to love your child A hopeful America and one that’s good for with all your heart and all your soul. your budget is one in which small businesses So guess what happened? Six years ago, are thriving, in which people from all walks she decided to start an online business selling of life feel comfortable about starting their cabinet hardware from the basement of her own business. Do you realize minority busi- home. How many times have you heard that nesses are up in America? That is hopeful story? You know, ‘‘I sat around the kitchen and positive for the future of this country. table and came up with an idea and started Seven out of ten new jobs in America are a business.’’ ‘‘I started a business in my ga- created by small businesses. And there is a rage.’’ She started hers in her basement. source of upward mobility in America that Today, KnobGallery employs 20 people, comes with ownership. When a woman owns most of them moms who wanted more flexi- her own business, she’s upwardly mobile. bility for their families. This administration When a Latino or an African American starts believes in flex-time. The world has changed. his or her own business, they become

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upwardly mobile. Ownership is a powerful grows. That’s what you’ve got to understand. part of the American Dream. It’s a difference of opinion. It’s a difference And so the fundamental question in this of philosophy. My opponent believes the campaign, who’s got the best strategy to economy grows by growing the size of the make sure the entrepreneurial spirit is Federal Government. I believe the economy strong? Who’s got the idea, who understands, grows by growing the size of the coffers of and who can best make sure that more small small businesses. businesses grow in America? First, in order Here’s what Paul Schoeneck of New Ber- to make sure the entrepreneurial spirit is lin, Wisconsin, said. See, his business, like strong, America must be the best place in the other two, were Subchapter S corpora- the world to do business. If you want busi- tions. He said about tax relief, ‘‘We have dou- nesses to start, this must be the best place bled our workforce. We’ve increased pay. We in the world to do business. And secondly, have consistently paid out bonuses. We’ve to make sure this is a hopeful world, we’ve significantly increased our gross and net in- got to make sure the workforce is the best come. We’ve increased our production lines trained in the world. A lot of good jobs and by nine, remodeled our offices, and signifi- a lot of good hopes start with good education. cantly improved our infrastructure.’’ That’s First, let me talk about how to make sure what he said. Those aren’t my words. That this is the best place in the world to do busi- is what a small-business owner from Wis- ness. One, we’ve got to keep your taxes low. consin has said about the tax relief. He said, We passed good tax relief. We raised the ‘‘Without tax relief, this would not have been child credit. That helps if you’re a mom or possible.’’ a dad. We reduced the marriage penalty. I I want you, when you hear these people believe strongly the Tax Code ought to en- talking about tax relief, about how it only courage marriage, not penalize marriage. We benefited certain people—this tax relief has created a 10 percent bracket. That helps the helped our small businesses grow and pros- working families. But we also said, ‘‘If you per, and this economy is on the move be- pay taxes, you ought to get relief.’’ If you’re cause the entrepreneurial spirit is strong. going to have tax relief, everybody who pays And taxes are an issue in this campaign. taxes ought to get relief. That’s only fair. I’m running against a fellow who’s promised But guess what happens? What most $2.2 trillion of new Federal spending. That’s Americans don’t know, and evidently what with a ‘‘T.’’ That is—that’s a lot even for a my opponent doesn’t know, is that most small Senator from Massachusetts. [Laughter] So businesses are either a Subchapter S corpora- they said, ‘‘How are you going to pay for it?’’ tion like the two small businesses I just men- He said, ‘‘Oh, we’ll just tax the rich.’’ That tioned or sole proprietorships, which means means raise the top two brackets. By raising you pay tax at the individual income-tax rate. the top two brackets, he’s taxing the small- Ninety percent of businesses in America pay business sector of America. That’s bad eco- individual income taxes, which says when you nomic policy. Just as the economy is begin- cut the taxes on everybody who pays taxes, ning to grow, just as the small businesses are you’re helping the small businesses. See, feeling confident—I talked to the two small- there is a connection between good tax relief business owners here. I said, ‘‘Are you going and growth in the small-business sector. to hire somebody?’’ They said, ‘‘We’re think- And so to encourage small-business invest- ing about hiring new people.’’ But running ment, not only did we say, ‘‘You can have up the taxes on them would make it less likely more money in your coffers so you can ex- they’d hire somebody. It’s bad economic pol- pand your business or pay more money or icy to tax the small-business owners of Amer- better afford health care,’’ but we encour- ica, which is precisely what my opponent’s aged investment by increasing the small- plan would do. business expensing deduction from $25,000 See, when you say you’re going to run up to $100,000. See, I understand if you create the top two brackets, you raise about $600 the demand for goods and services and pro- billion, maybe 800 billion, depending on vide incentives for investment, the economy whose accountant you use. [Laughter] But

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the point is, in either case you’re far short Audience members. Boo-o-o! of the $2.2 trillion that he has promised. The President. Now, I’m going to stand There is a gap. There is a gap between what with our small-business owners and continue he’s promised and what he can deliver. And to be for legal reforms in Washington, DC. guess who usually gets to fill the gap? We need less regulations on our small Audience members. We do! businesses. We need reasonable regulations. The President. Yes, you do. But we’re not I can’t guarantee that anybody in Washington going to let him tax you. We’re going to win has ever read the forms small businesses have on November the 2d. to fill out. I wish I could say they have; I The bottom line about our economic vi- doubt it. But one way to make sure we re- sions is this: To pay for all his new spending duce the burden on our—not only our small he’s proposed, my opponent will have to raise businesses but our—the working people here taxes not just on small-business owners but in America is to reform the Tax Code. It’s on everyone who’s ever worked for a small a complicated mess. It is too complex. I’m business, shopped at a small business, or going to bring people together. Listen, I rec- walked by a small business. [Laughter] We’re ognize the—first of all, the code is a million not going to let him tax you; we’re going to pages long. American workers and small- win. business owners and families spend 6 billion Audience members. Four more years! hours a year filling out the forms. We can Four more years! Four more years! do a better job. We can make this Tax Code The President. To make sure that this pro-growth, pro-family, and fair. And I will economy is strong and the small businesses bring Republicans * and Democrats together can flourish, we’ve got to do something about to do so. the frivolous and junk lawsuits. These kind A couple of other quick points on how to of lawsuits cost our economy about $230 bil- make sure the environment is good for busi- lion a year. This amounts to about $3,000 ness growth so that you’ve got more money, a year for the average family. They’re expen- so that you can manage your budget better, sive, and they’re really expensive on small so that people can find a job. We need— businesses. If part of the vision is to make Congress needs to pass my energy plan. It’s sure the small-business sector of our econ- a plan that makes sense. It’s common sense. omy flourishes, we’ve got to do something It encourages conservation. It encourages the about the liability. The average cost of tort use of renewables like ethanol and biodiesel. liability for a small business is about It uses technologies to help us burn coal $150,000. That’s money that could be better more cleanly. It encourages exploration for used for employees, worker training, health natural gas in environmentally friendly ways. care, expanding the business, creating new To make sure that this environment for jobs. growth is strong, we need to be less depend- My opponent and I have a different ap- ent on foreign sources of energy. proach. He’s sided with the personal-injury Let me talk right quick about education, trial lawyers time and time again. They’re because I believe a good economy requires powerful in Washington, make no mistake this workforce of ours to be educated. I think about it. It’s hard to get good legal reform the two go hand in hand. I don’t think you out of the United States Senate because can have a hopeful environment for growth they’re influential. As a matter of fact, he’s if our people aren’t educated. It all starts with raised more money from lawyers than any the younger kids. That’s why I went to Wash- other Member of the United States Senate. ington, to challenge the soft bigotry of low That’s about $22 million so far since 1989, expectations. You know, this business about and still counting. And there’s a reason why. just shuffling the children through, grade He’s voted five times against protecting small after grade, year after year, without learning businesses on punitive damages. He’s made the basics was not good enough for America, it clear where he stands. He’s made it abun- as far as I’m concerned. I believe every child dantly clear. He’s put a personal-injury trial lawyer on the ticket. * White House correction.

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can learn, and I believe every school must ning up their cost of doing business, their teach. And so we increased funding, particu- premiums. And I’ve met too many patients larly for Title I students. But we said, ‘‘In of ob-gyns who are having to drive for miles, return for extra funding, show us whether wondering whether or not they and their or not a child can read and write and add child will get the health care they need. and subtract.’’ Medical liability is a crisis in America, and See, I understand you can’t solve a prob- it’s a crisis because we can’t get anything lem until you diagnose a problem. You can’t done in the United States Senate because the fix a problem until you fully understand the trial bar is too strong. My opponent has voted nature of the problem. By measuring, we against medical liability reform not once, not now know where the problems exist in Amer- twice but 10 times. In a new term, I’m going ica, and we’re providing the extra money to to bring people together and say, ‘‘The peo- solve them. And guess what’s happening? ple have spoke. We need medical liability re- Kids are learning to read and write and add form now to make sure health care is afford- and subtract. Because we’re measuring, we able and available.’’ now know the benchmarks. We’re seeing We have a big difference when it comes progress. We’re closing the achievement gap to health care in this campaign. And it is a amongst minority students in America. And big difference. I remember that debate when we’re not going to go back to the old days my opponent stood up there with a straight of mediocrity and low standards. face and he said, ‘‘The Government has noth- I think one of the country’s greatest assets ing to do with it,’’—‘‘it’’ being his health care is the community college system. Community plan. I could barely contain myself. [Laugh- colleges are able to adjust their curriculum ter] The Government has got a lot to do with to meet the needs of the job providers. I’ve it—a lot to do with it. Eight out of ten people met small businesses who have told me about would end up on the Government health helping set up a curriculum in our commu- care. Think about this: When you run up the nity colleges so our workers can gain the skills Medicaid, make Medicaid more eligible for necessary to fill the jobs of the 21st century. people, it’s going to provide an incentive for You just heard about Joan’s company, where small businesses to not provide insurance for in her basement, she started a company over their employees because the Government the Internet. In other words, we need new will. That doesn’t make any sense, to be mov- skill sets as this economy of ours changes. ing people from private insurance to the And a great place for America’s workers to Government. When the Government writes gain new skill sets is in the community col- the check, the Government starts setting the lege system all across our country. rules, and you don’t want the Federal Gov- Most of the uninsured in America work ernment making the rules when it comes to for small businesses. Small businesses are your health care. having trouble affording health care. That’s I’ve come here to Wisconsin to tell the why I believe small businesses ought to be people I understand how this economy allowed to pool risk to join together so they works, and my policies are standing square can buy insurance at the same discount that with the workers, the families, and the small- big companies are able to do. business owners of America. I also want to We’ll expand health savings accounts to tell you in changing times, some things do help our families and small businesses to be not change, the values we try to live by, cour- able to better afford health insurance and, age and compassion, reverence and integrity. at the same time, provide a health account In changing times, we will support and must that you can own and you can manage, you support the institutions that give our lives di- can take with you from job to job. And we’ll rection and purpose, our families, our make sure we do something about these friv- schools, and our religious congregations. We olous lawsuits that are running up the cost stand for a culture of life in which every per- of health care. This is a national issue. I have son matters and every being counts. We met too many ob-gyns who are being driven stand for marriage and family, which are the out of practice because the lawsuits are run- foundations of our society. We stand for the

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appointment of Federal judges who know the I want you to tell your children about what difference between personal opinion and the took place in Afghanistan. It wasn’t all that strict interpretation of the law. long ago that young girls lived under the My opponent takes a different approach. reign of the Taliban, a brutal, barbaric peo- His words on these issues are a little murky, ple. They would not let young girls go to but his record is really clear. [Laughter] He school, and if their mothers didn’t toe their says he supports the institution of marriage ideological line, they were taken in the public but voted against the Defense of Marriage square sometimes and whipped. These peo- Act, which overwhelmingly passed with ple were dark and dim. There was darkness Democrat and Republican votes. My prede- in Afghanistan. Because we defended our- cessor signed that bill into law, which defined selves, because we believe in freedom, the marriage as a union between a man and a Afghanistan people went by the millions to woman, and my opponent voted against it. the polls to vote for their President. The first He says—you know, he says he’s got a per- voter—the first voter—was a 19-year-old sonal view on the issue of life, but he voted woman. against the ban on the brutal practice of par- Iraq will have a Presidential election. tial-birth abortion. Think how far that country has come from Audience members. Boo-o-o! the days of torture chambers and mass The President. He’s called the Reagan graves. Freedom is on the march. Freedom years a time of moral darkness. is on the move, and our country is better Audience members. Boo-o-o! for it. The President. There is a mainstream in A President must lead with consistency American politics, and my opponent sits on and strength in these troubling times. In war, the far left bank. My fellow Americans, he sometimes you change your tactics, but you can run from his views, but he cannot hide. never change your principles. And Americans All the progress we hope for in America have seen how I do my job. [Applause] Thank and all the prosperity and opportunity we you. Even when you might not agree with want for every family and for our children me, you know where I stand, what I believe, ultimately depends on the security of our Na- and what I intend to do. On good days and tion. We’re in the middle of a global war on on bad days, whether the polls are up or the terror. We face a determined enemy. In the polls are down, I am determined to win this war on terror, there’s no place for confusion, war on terror, and I will always support the no place for weakness, no substitute for vic- men and women of the United States mili- tory. I believe if America shows uncertainty tary. or weakness in this decade, the world will My opponent has taken a different ap- drift toward tragedy. This will not happen proach. It’s fair to say that consistency has on my watch. not been his strong point. [Laughter] Senator Audience members. Four more years! Kerry says we’re better off with Saddam Hus- Four more years! Four more years! sein out of power, except when he declared The President. Since that terrible morn- that removing Saddam made us less safe. He ing of September the 11th, 2001, we fought stated in our second debate that he always the terrorists across the Earth, not for pride, believed that Saddam was a threat except, not for power but because the lives of our a few questions later, when he said Saddam citizens are at stake. Our strategy is clear. Hussein was not a threat. [Laughter] He says We’re defending the homeland. We’re he was right when he voted to authorize the strengthening our intelligence services. use of force against Saddam Hussein, but We’re transforming our military. There will that I was wrong to use force against Saddam be no draft. The All-Volunteer Army will re- Hussein. [Laughter] main an all-volunteer army. We’re on the of- And now he’s throwing out a wild claim fensive. We will strike the terrorists abroad that he knows where bin Laden was in the so we do not have to face them here at home. fall of 2001, and that our military passed up We’re promoting democracy and liberty, a chance to get him at Tora Bora. It is un- the great alternatives to despair and terror. justified criticism of the military commanders

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in the field. It is the worst kind of Monday was wrong—we’ve got to be fair—Senator morning quarterbacking. Our commander in Kennedy was right. [Laughter] Afghanistan at the time was General Tommy The President must be consistent and Franks, and he wrote this about Tora Bora, strong in these difficult times. Just last year, he said, ‘‘The Senator’s understanding of when American troops were in combat in Af- events does not square with reality.’’ [Laugh- ghanistan and Iraq, I proposed $87 billion ter] That’s what the man who was there said. of increased funding to support our troops He says the American Special Forces were in harm’s way. It was important funding. Bi- actively involved in the search for the terror- partisan support for that funding was very ists in Tora Bora, and that intelligence re- strong. As you round up the vote, I want you ports at the time placed bin Laden in one to remind your friends and neighbors of this of several countries. They didn’t know startling statistic: Only 4 members of the whether he was here, there, or otherwise. In United States Senate—4 out of 100—voted other words, they didn’t have hard intel- to authorize the use of force and then voted ligence. Maybe my opponent has seen some- against funding for our troops in harm’s way, thing we all haven’t seen. and 2 of those 4 were my opponent and his As a matter of fact, Senator Kerry, before runningmate. he got into political difficulty and revised his Audience members. Boo-o-o! views, he said this about Tora Bora on na- The President. You might remember, tional TV, in the fall of 2001, he said, ‘‘I think when they asked him about the vote, he said we have been doing this pretty effectively, this, he said, ‘‘I actually did vote for the $87 and we should continue to do it that way.’’ billion, right before I voted against it.’’ His- At the time, the Senator said about Tora Bora, ‘‘I think we have been smart. I think tory has shown that Senator Kerry was right, the administration leadership has done it then wrong, then briefly right, then wrong well, and we are on the right track.’’ All I again. [Laughter] They finally kept pressing can say about that is, I am George W. Bush, him. He said the whole thing about the $87 and I approve of that message. billion was a complicated matter. My friends, My opponent’s record on national security there is nothing complicated about sup- has a far deeper problem than election-year porting our men and women in combat. flip-flopping. On the largest national security And speaking about those men and issues of our time, he has been consistently women, we have got a fantastic military and wrong. When Ronald Reagan was con- I’m proud to be their Commander in Chief. fronting the Soviet Union at the height of And I want to thank the military families who the cold war, Senator Kerry said that Presi- are here today for your sacrifice. And I want dent Reagan’s policy of peace through to thank the veterans who are here today for strength was making America less safe. His- having set such a great example. tory has shown that Senator Kerry was wrong During the last 20 years, in key moments and President Ronald Reagan was right. of challenge and decision for America, Sen- When former President Bush led a coali- ator Kerry has chosen a position of weakness tion against Saddam Hussein in 1991, Sen- and inaction. With that record, he stands in ator Kerry voted against the use of force to opposition not just to me but to the great liberate Kuwait, even though the United Na- tradition of the Democratic Party. The party tions had passed a resolution and there was of Franklin Roosevelt and Harry Truman and a strong coalition and agreement with U.S. John Kennedy is rightly remembered for policy. History has shown that Senator Kerry confidence and resolve in times of war and was wrong, former President Bush was right. hours of crisis. Senator Kerry has turned his In 1994, just one year after the first bomb- back on ‘‘pay any price’’ and ‘‘bear any bur- ing of the World Trade Center, my opponent den.’’ He’s replaced those commitments with proposed massive cuts in America’s intel- ‘‘wait and see’’ and ‘‘cut and run.’’ Many ligence budget, so massive that even his Mas- Democrats in this country do not recognize sachusetts colleague, Ted Kennedy, opposed their party anymore, and today I want to them. History has shown that Senator Kerry speak to every one of them: If you believe

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America should lead with strength and pur- going to have—we’re going to do it a little pose and confidence and resolve, I’d be hon- interesting way today. I’ve asked some of ored to have your support, and I’m asking your fellow citizens to come up and talk for your vote. about how our policies have affected their Our differences on keeping the security of lives. And this will perhaps give people a the country and protecting our families are clear view of why I have made some of the vast. My opponent says that September the decisions I have made. 11th did not change him much at all. Perhaps the most important reason why Audience members. Boo-o-o! people ought to put me back into office is The President. And his policies make that so that Laura will be the First Lady for 4 clear. He says the war on terror is primarily more years. I’m going to take my jacket off. a law enforcement and intelligence gathering Okay. Some of you all may relate to this. operation. Well, my outlook was changed on When I asked her to marry me—actually, we September the 11th. I’ll never forget going had gone—I don’t know if you know this or to the Ground Zero on September the 14th, not, but we were in seventh grade together 2001. There were workers in hardhats there in San Jacinto Junior High in Midland, Texas. yelling at the top of their lungs, ‘‘Whatever We became reacquainted—are you from it takes.’’ I’ll never forget the sights and Midland? sounds. I’ll never forget the person looking Audience member. Lubbock. me straight in the eye and saying, ‘‘Do not The President. Lubbock, Texas, 150 miles let me down.’’ Ever since that day, I wake south of Midland. Anyway, thank you, wel- up every morning trying to figure out how come. best to protect our country. I will never re- When we became reacquainted, she was lent in defending America, whatever it takes. When I traveled your State 4 years ago, a public school librarian. It’s fitting we’re in I made a pledge that if I was elected, I would a school here, by the way. We want to thank uphold the honor and the dignity of the office the teachers who work in this school to help to which I had been elected. With your help, every child realize their dreams. Thank you. with your hard work, I will do so for 4 more She said, ‘‘Fine, I will marry you’’—this years. is after I asked her, of course—‘‘only if you Thanks for coming. God bless. Thank you make me one promise.’’ I said, ‘‘What is the all. promise?’’ ‘‘Promise me I’ll never have to give a political speech.’’ [Laughter] I, of NOTE: The President spoke at 8:30 a.m. at the course, said, ‘‘Okay, you’ve got a deal.’’ She Onalaska Omni Center. In his remarks, he re- didn’t hold me to the promise, thankfully. ferred to Mayor James Bialecki of Onalaska, WI; She’s giving a lot of speeches, and when she Kristina Shelley, daughter of KnobGallery owner does, the American people see a warm and Joan Shelley; former President Saddam Hussein compassionate and great First Lady. of Iraq; Usama bin Laden, leader of the Al Qaida I want to thank our friend Tommy Thomp- terrorist organization; and Gen. Tommy R. son. I want to thank him for his service to Franks, USA, (Ret.), former combatant com- mander, U.S. Central Command. our country, and I want to thank him for his friendship. Tommy has done a great job in Washington. You trained him well. [Laugh- Remarks in a Discussion in ter] He was a wonderful Governor of Wis- Richland Center, Wisconsin consin; I knew that when I was looking for October 26, 2004 a Cabinet Secretary. I gave him a tough as- signment, and he’s handled it brilliantly. And The President. Thank you all for being I want to thank you, Tommy, for your service. here. Laura and I are—we’re glad you came, Appreciate you. and we are glad we came. I’m here to give You know, Tommy and I went to Wash- you some reasons why I think you ought to ington to get some things done, and one of put me back into office. I’m here to talk the things we had to do was to make sure about issues that matter to our future. We’re our seniors had quality health care. Medicine

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was changing; Medicare was not. For exam- watch TV. [Laughter] And if you’re 18, make ple, the Government would pay thousands sure you vote. of dollars for a heart surgery under Medicare See, that’s what I’m here to do. I’m here but not one dime for the prescription drugs to ask people for the vote and for their help. that could prevent the heart surgery from We have a duty in this country to vote. We being needed in the first place. And Tommy have a duty in democracy to go to the polls. and I understood that didn’t make any sense People need to exercise their right in a free for our seniors and it didn’t make any sense society. And I’m asking you for your help to for the taxpayers, so we worked together with get people to go to the polls. I know you’ve both Republicans and Democrats to done a lot of work in this part of the world. strengthen Medicare, to keep the promise to I’ve seen a lot of signs for me, too, and I our seniors. And beginning in the year 2006, appreciate it. But those signs are important, all seniors will be able to get prescription but they don’t pull the lever. And so coming drug coverage under Medicare. I think it’s down the stretch, I’m here to ask for your important for you to know that when I say help in turning out the vote. And there’s no something, I mean it, and I’m going to get doubt in my mind, with your help, we’re the job done. going to carry the State of Wisconsin. I want to thank thank Congressman Mark We’ve really enjoyed our bus trips through Green. I appreciate you coming, Congress- Wisconsin. Today we stopped off and saw man, a fine young Congressman from Wis- John and Connie Turgasen. consin. He’s not from this part of the world, Audience members. [Inaudible] but you’ll get to know him, and when you The President. Evidently you’ve heard of them. That’s good. [Laughter] Well, I won- do, you’ll like him. He’s a good, honest man. der if they’d reconsider when they saw four I want to thank Jack Voight for being here, buses pull up in their front yard. [Laughter] the State treasurer of the great State of Wis- But they’re dairy farmers. There were four consin. Jack, thank you, sir. Good to see you generations of Turgasens right there, making again. And I want to thank the mayor. a living off that one farm. It reminds me Madam Mayor, thanks for coming. I’m proud about how important it is to support our you’re here. I appreciate you being here. It small businesses, our farmers, our ranchers. means a lot. When you’re getting people to go to the polls, I want to thank U.S. Senate candidate Tim remind them of this, that under the Bush Michels and his wife, Barbara. You need to administration, the farmers are doing just put him in the Senate. He’s a good man. He’s fine. The income is up, and people are mak- got good values. He’ll make you a fine United ing a living. And that’s good for people all States Senator. And I’m going to tell you across this part of the world. We enjoyed who’s going to make you a fine United States going to that farm, and we enjoyed meeting Congressman, and that would be Dale that great Wisconsin family. Schultz. Appreciate you—Schultz. He’s You know, we’ve overcome a lot in this working. He’s shaking a lot of hands. He’s country. I pledged to make this country a putting up a lot of signs. I know firsthand. more hopeful place, and that means hopeful See, I’m taking the bus throughout this part for everybody. But we’ve had to overcome of the world. [Laughter] And I’ve seen a lot a lot in order to make it more hopeful. When of the signs, and that’s a good sign. And I you’re out rounding up the vote, remind peo- also want to thank Rachel—Rachel Schultz, ple about what this economy has been who happens to be the district super- through. You know, a hopeful country is one intendent of the schools. And I want to thank in which people can make a living, people you for your—being in education. I want to can stay on the farm, people who say to me, thank John Cler and all the folks associated ‘‘Mr. President, we’ve been able to support with the high school for letting us come here four generations of Turgasens on this farm.’’ today. I appreciate you coming. I want to But we’ve been through a lot in this econ- thank the students. Thanks for coming, let- omy. You know, the stock market was in seri- ting me come. All right. Study more than you ous decline 6 months prior to my arrival in

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Washington, DC. And then we had a reces- issue. The fellow I’m running against has pro- sion. And then we had some corporate scan- posed $2.2 trillion of new Federal spending. dals, and that affected our economy. It’s now That’s trillion with a ‘‘T.’’ That’s a lot. Even abundantly clear that we’re not going to tol- for a Senator from Massachusetts, that’s a lot. erate dishonesty in the boardrooms of Amer- And so they said—and you know the legiti- ica. We expect people to be responsible citi- mate question is, ‘‘Fine, you made all these zens in this country. And we got attacked. promises; how are you going to pay for And that attack of September the 11th cost them?’’ And he threw out that same old line us nearly a million jobs in the 3 months after we’ve heard almost every campaign: ‘‘Oh, the attack. We’ve had some obstacles put in we’re just going to tax the rich.’’ Now, we’ve our path. heard that before. Let me tell you the two But we acted. I understand that when things wrong with that. somebody’s got more money in their pocket, One is that when you tax the rich—in other they’re likely to demand an additional good words, when you’re running up the top two or a service. And when you demand an addi- income brackets—you’re going to tax small- tional good or a service in our marketplace, business owners. Many small businesses pay somebody is going to produce it. When tax at the individual income-tax rate because somebody produces it, somebody is likely to they’re called Subchapter S corporations or find a job. The tax relief we passed is work- sole proprietorships. Those are fancy legal ing. The tax relief we passed has got this and accounting words which mean they pay economy growing again. income tax at the individual rate. That’s just And the facts are clear. We’ve added 1.9 the truth. About 90 percent of all small busi- million jobs in the last 13 months. We’re ness pay individual income taxes. So when growing at rates as fast as any in nearly 20 you hear somebody say, ‘‘Oh, we’re just going years. Our farmers are doing well. Home- to tax the rich,’’ I want you thinking about ownership rate is at an alltime high. The un- employment rate nationally is 5.4 percent. the truth. And the truth is they’re talking Let me put that in perspective for you: 5.4 about taxing about 900,000 to a million small percent is lower than the average of the businesses. You know what the problem with 1970s, the 1980s, and the 1990s. The unem- that is? Seventy percent of new jobs are cre- ployment rate in the State of Wisconsin is ated by small businesses in America. It makes 5 percent. We’re moving forward, and we’re no sense to be taxing the job creators. not going to go back to the days of tax and And here is the other thing wrong with spend. That’s not an economic policy; that’s it. If you promise 2.2 trillion, but your tax a way to get in your wallet and grow the size plan only raises between 600 and 800 billion, of the Federal Government. there is a gap between what is promised and So there’s more to do. It’s one thing to what can be delivered. Now, there is a—my talk about a record, but the only reason to opponent has a history; it’s a record. I like look back is to be able to say to people, to tell people I’m running on my record. He’s ‘‘Here’s what we’re going to do as we move not running on his; he’s running from his forward.’’ The job of the President is to make record. And part of his record—in his 20 sure the entrepreneurial spirit is strong, the years as Senator, part of his record is he’s environment for small-business creation is voted to raise taxes 98 times. That’s a record; good, that people have a chance to make a that’s what he’s done. I’m not making it up. living. That’s five times every year he’s been in the So what does it take? One, it means we’ve Senate. That’s a predictable pattern. And so got to keep your taxes low. I’m about to talk when you’re trying to find out who’s going to some small-business owners here who to fill the tax gap, think about predictable know what it means to pay high taxes and patterns. In order to fill that gap, in order what it means to have their taxes lowered. to make the difference between what he’s But taxes are an issue in this campaign. As promised and what he can deliver, guess you travel in your district and travel talking who’s going to get stuck with the bill? Yes, to people, remind people that taxes are an that’s always what happens.

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We’re not going to let him tax you; we’re We’re going to talk to a small-business not going to let him tax the small businesses, manufacturer here. He told me he’s had a because we’re going to carry Wisconsin and problem with health care. Small businesses win on November the 2d. are having trouble affording health care. A couple of other things that I want to Most of the uninsured in America work for talk to you right quick about to make sure small businesses. So here’s some common- this economy continues to grow. First, we sense ways to help you on health care. will continue with good farm policy. I’m for Small businesses ought to be able to pool the MILC program—MILC, which is help- together, pool risk so they can buy insurance ing our dairy farmers. I’m for the reauthor- at the same discounts that big companies get ization of that. Ask your dairy farmers wheth- to do. You know, there needs to be econo- er that means something to them, and you’re mies of purchase in the marketplace. If going to find out it does. you’re a stand-alone small business, it costs We’ll continue to open up markets, open- you a lot of money to afford health care. If ing up markets for agriculture products and you’re able to pool across jurisdictional manufacturing products and high-tech prod- boundaries, if you get more people to spread ucts. They’re good for the job creation and the risk, you’re able to get insurance at better the job creators. Listen, we’ve opened up our prices for your workers. That’s a common- market for goods from overseas, and that’s sense way of helping small businesses. good for you as a consumer. Think about how We’ll expand health savings accounts, the market works. If you have more products which are commonsense ways of enabling to choose from, you’re likely to get that which people to be able to manage their own health you want at a better price and higher quality. care account, low-premium, high-deductible That’s how the market works. So instead of accounts where you can save tax-free. It will shutting down our market when it comes to help your families. If you change jobs, you trade and hurting our consumers, our strat- can take your health account with you from egy is to say to places like China, ‘‘You treat year to year. If you save money, you can roll us the way we treat you,’’ is to open up mar- over your savings in your health account tax- kets, is to demand that others are fair to us. free. It’s a way to make sure the decision- And the reason why I do that is because I making is between you and your doctor, not know we can compete with anybody, any- between some insurance person and your time, anywhere, so long as the rules are fair. doctor. The more you’re able to have—the If you want jobs to stay here, we’ve got more you’re involved with your health care to do something about the energy situation. decisions, the more likely it is there’s a cost I submitted a plan to the United States Con- discipline in the marketplace. gress 2 years ago that encourages conserva- Listen, we’ll take care of the needy. We tion, that encourages the use of ethanol and have an obligation in our society to do so. biodiesel. Think about the idea of being able I’m a big believer in community health cen- to say as the President, ‘‘The corn crop is ters, places where the poor and the indigent up, and we’re less dependent.’’ Think about can get good primary and preventative care. that, that someday it’s going to happen. My pledge, I said in the convention speech We’re going to continue to spend research and I’m saying all over the country, is that and development dollars so we can grow our in a new term, we’ll make sure every poor way toward less reliance. county in America has got a community We’re promoting clean coal technology so health center to take the pressure off our that your powerplants can have power. We’re emergency rooms and our hospitals. going to modernize the electricity grid. We’re But let me tell you another practical way going to explore for natural gas in environ- to make sure health care is available and af- mentally friendly ways. What I’m telling you fordable. We must do something about the is this: In order to make sure that jobs con- litigious nature of our society. There’s too tinue to grow, that people can make a living, many lawsuits. Lawsuits are running up the this country must become less dependent on cost of doing business. Lawsuits are running foreign sources of energy. good doctors out of practice. Lawsuits are

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hurting people who need health care. I have 2000 campaign. We were coming down the met too many ob-gyns around this country stretch, and they ran some ads here in this that are having to leave their practice be- State that said to the seniors of Wisconsin, cause these lawsuits are running up their pre- ‘‘If George W. gets elected, you’re not going miums. They cannot afford to practice medi- to get your check.’’ I don’t know if you re- cine. I’ve met too many women who are member those. Tommy sure remembered deeply concerned about their health care and them. Well, I want you to tell your friends the health of their child because their local and neighbors this: George W. did get elect- doctor no longer practices. And that’s not ed, and the seniors got their checks. And the right for America. seniors will continue to get their checks. The If we’re interested in our quality of life, Social Security trust, no matter what the poli- we’d better do something about all these law- ticians say, is in good shape for our seniors. suits. You cannot be pro-doctor, pro-patient, It’s going to meet—the seniors have nothing and pro-personal-injury-trial-lawyer at the to worry about. Every 4 years, the scare tac- same time. You have to choose in life. My tics come out. I just assure you, you’re going opponent made his choice, and he put a per- to get your checks. And baby boomers like sonal injury trial lawyer on the ticket. I have made my choice. I am standing with the Wis- me, we’re in pretty good shape when it consin docs and patients and small-business comes to the Social Security trust. owners. I am for medical liability reform— But a President must deal with prob- now. lems—you want a President who confronts We have a difference of opinion when it problems, not passes them on to future gen- comes to health care. I remember the debate erations and future Presidents. We have a when my opponent—they asked him about problem with Social Security when it comes his health care plan, and he actually looked to our children and our grandchildren. When in the camera and said, ‘‘The Government the baby boomer generation retires, there is has nothing to do with it.’’ You know, I could a question as to whether or not the children barely contain myself when he said that. will have a—Social Security accounts avail- [Laughter] able for them unless we think differently. I The Government has a lot to do with his believe younger workers ought to be allowed plan, and that’s what I want you to under- to take some of their payroll taxes and set stand. His plan is one—for example, when up a personal savings account, a personal sav- you run up Medicaid, run up the eligibility ings account that will earn a greater rate of for Medicaid, it provides an incentive for return than the current Social Security trust, small businesses to not provide insurance for an account they call their own, an account their employees because the Government the Government cannot take away. will. It’s estimated some 8 million people will Eric Sauey is with us. Eric, you ready to go from private insurance to Government in- say something? surance. Eight out of ten people will be Eric Sauey. Yes, sir. signed up to a Government program under The President. Good. [Laughter] I hope his plan. I just strongly disagree. You don’t want the Federal Government running your so. I call him ‘‘Mr. President.’’ He’s the presi- health care. When the Government starts dent of? paying, the Government starts deciding. And Mr. Sauey. Seats, Incorporated. then the Government rations, and the Gov- The President. Based in? ernment chooses your doctor. It is not the Mr. Sauey. Reedsburg, Wisconsin. right way to go when it comes to making sure The President. What do you do? there’s quality health care for the people. Mr. Sauey. We manufacture seating for Let me talk about another issue, and then vehicles with wheels or tracks, other than we’re going to talk to our guests. I have made passenger cars. a commitment to our seniors not only to The President. Okay. [Laughter] good-quality Medicare but to Social Security. And Tommy and I were talking about the

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Mr. Sauey. Some of the markets that we Eric, ‘‘Go for it. Expand. Here’s some extra serve are off-highway equipment, semi trac- money, your money to begin with.’’ And he tors, commercial turf mowers, firetrucks, de- says he’s going to hire. He may come here livery vans, many different custom-types of to Richland Center. seats. And so my opponent says, oh, he’s just The President. Are you making a living? going to tax the rich. You’re looking at the Mr. Sauey. We’re making a living. rich. [Laughter] You’re looking at a man who The President. Good. Tell me—first of said, ‘‘We may come to Richland Center. We all, I want you to know—how are you orga- may hire new people.’’ They’re less likely to nized? expand and to hire new people if the Federal Mr. Sauey. We’re an S corporation. We’re Government takes money from them. That a family-run, family-owned business. We’re just makes sense. That’s just simple econom- an S corporation. We’re in the process of try- ics. ing to expand here into Richland Center. Let me ask you something. Do you ever Some of the things that we have, from the invest? basic values that we have—[applause]. Mr. Sauey. We invest a lot. Every year The President. Sounds like they want you we invest in excess of $11⁄2 million. This last here. [Laughter] year we’ve invested more than $2 million in Mr. Sauey. We have some values of a capital equipment. We are in the process small business that were passed on to me by right now of installing a computerized—[in- my father, who helped start this business, and audible]—machine, a computerized—[in- my mother, that—we can’t take all the profits audible], a 400-ton punch press—[laughter]. out of the business. We have to put them back into the business to grow the business, The President. That sounded like a big to nurture it. I’m second generation. I hope one to me. [Laughter] You see, good tax pol- to pass it—the business goes to my kids or icy says to businessowners, ‘‘Invest,’’ because nieces and nephews, and we can’t do that you know what investment means? Invest- if we’re paying taxes. We need to invest that ment means jobs. And so in our tax policy back into the business for capital, reinvest- we said to small-business owners that you’re ment, R&D. able to deduct up to $100,000 for equipment The President. Perfect. Let me—so expensing in the year in which you buy it, here’s the tax relief. Remember all the rhet- as opposed to $25,000. And why did we do oric about the tax relief, ‘‘only certain people that? Because we want to encourage Eric to benefit.’’ When you cut the taxes for every- invest. And so he says he buys a 400-ton—— body who pays taxes, you’re benefiting small- Mr. Sauey. Punch press. business owners like Subchapter S corpora- The President. Punch press. [Laughter] tions. Have you hired anybody this year? Kind of hard to say if you’re from Texas— Mr. Sauey. We’ve hired a lot of people [laughter]—punch press. But guess what, be- this year. We’re up to about 380 people right cause of the decision he made, two things now; we’re looking to hire more. happened: One, his business is more produc- The President. Yes, see, they’re hiring. tive; it’s more likely that he can compete. They’re expanding. They’re growing. One He’s bought a piece of equipment that makes reason why they’re doing well, they’ve got him more competitive. And we live in a com- innovative leadership. Isn’t that right? petitive world, and the more competitive he Mr. Sauey. Yes, sir. [Laughter] is, the more likely it is someone is going to The President. Another reason why is work for his company. The more competitive they’ve got more money. See, the money is he is, the more likely it is he’s going to ex- not going to the Federal Government; the pand his business here. But guess what else, money is staying with his company, which because he bought the 400-ton punch press, gives him the optimism and confidence to somebody had to make it. And when some- expand. Seventy percent of new jobs are cre- body makes it, somebody is more likely to ated by small businesses. Our economic poli- find work at the punch press manufacturing cies recognize that and we say to people like business.

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This economy is moving because people it’s very important for people to understand like Eric are confident about the future. He’s that the reason we passed tax policy when sitting here in front of all these cameras and we did was to help move this economy for- these people saying, ‘‘I’m going to expand ward, and the best way to move it forward my business.’’ That’s what you want to hear. is to talk—is to address the needs of small- And the question is, which one of the Presi- business owners. If 70 percent of the new dential candidates, one, understands the im- jobs in America are created by the Jims of portance of small businesses and the entre- the world, then we ought to encourage him, preneurial spirit, and which one of us has and we ought to provide incentives for him the plans to make sure Eric feels comfortable to expand his business. investing and expanding his business? And Did you hire anybody? Are you going to I make the case to the people of Wisconsin, hire anybody? Tell me. it is George W. Bush who understands that. Mr. Greeley. Oh, yes, we’ll keep hiring. Ready to go, Greeley? The President. Good. Well, it says here Jim Greeley. I’m ready for you, I think. you hired three in 2004. The President. All right. Jim Greeley, Mr. Greeley. Say again? small-business owner. What do you do? The President. You hired three people in Mr. Greeley. Thank you. 2004. The President. Greeley Signs, yes. Mr. Greeley. Yes, we’ve hired three in Mr. Greeley. Yes. 2004, and we’ll hire more because we have The President. Tell us what you do. plans of continuing to expand. In fact, we Mr. Greeley. Well, Mr. President, I have have dibs on another acre and a half of land. a sign company that I started about 30 years The President. There you go. ago. And I’m at the point now where I’m Mr. Greeley. We want to keep on—— passing it along to my son. But in the last The President. See, here’s what’s hap- 2 years, we’ve expanded with a 20,000 square pening in America. Small businesses hire 3 foot addition. We’ve added new printing people there, 100 here, 50 there, and it’s the equipment so we can print giant posters, real vitality of our economy, when you think such as political posters. If you need any, you about it. know where to look. [Laughter] I want to say something else about small- The President. It’s a little late. You should business ownership, two other things. And have gotten your order in early. But anyway. this relates to our farmers too. You heard [Laughter] both these men say they’re thinking about Mr. Greeley. We’ve added a laser en- passing their business on to their family graver, and we’ve added several other such members, but our Tax Code discourages that. printing equipment—— The Tax Code makes it really hard for some- The President. So you’ve been investing. body—the Turgasens were talking about it, Mr. Greeley. Pardon? how hard it is to pass their dairy farm on The President. You’ve been investing. to the next generation. You know why? Be- Mr. Greeley. I’ve been investing, and cause this Tax Code of ours taxes a person we’ve been putting our money where our twice, once when they’re living and once mouth is. We have to. We have to have con- when they die. And the death tax is hard on fidence in the future of America—— our small-business owners and really hard on The President. Right. our farmers. If you’re interested in keeping Mr. Greeley. ——and confidence in the family farms alive, then you need to support future of this country. me when it comes to getting rid of the death The President. See, he’s investing tax forever. If you want there to be a small $140,000 this year. I hope you didn’t mind business—[applause]. me saying that. [Laughter] And he saved Thank you, sir. You did a great job. $27,000 as a result of the tax relief package, Mr. Greeley. Did you see the Packer-Dal- because of the investments. See, good tax las game? [Laughter] policy says to Jim, ‘‘If you make a capital in- The President. I saw that, and I know the vestment, there’s an incentive to do so.’’ And Wisconsin Badgers are undefeated, you

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know. And let me tell you what else I know. ference. Who do you want spending your I know the Packers beat Dallas at Lambeau own money? Field. Who invited you? [Laughter] See, we’re setting priorities in Washington, Anyway, you know, one of the things we and we’ll meet those priorities. You’re going did—good tax policy also helps families. And to hear me talk about a big priority here pret- part of our tax plan was to help families be ty soon, which is defending the homeland. able to better afford life and better enable But I believe this family can spend their them to raise their children. money better than the Federal Government Margie Seamans is with us. When people can spend their money. are arguing about this Tax Code, remind Thanks for coming, Margie. I appreciate them we raised the child credit to 1,000. We you being here. reduced the marriage penalty. By the way, Finally, we’ve got Corey Kanable. Wel- there is a—I can’t imagine a Tax Code that come. penalizes marriage. The Tax Code ought to Corey Kanable. Thank you. [Applause] encourage marriage. The President. You’ve got quite a fol- And so what do you do? lowing here. [Laughter] I’ll tell you why he’s Margie Seamans. I work at Land’s End, here. He bought a home. You know, one of and I do payroll and scheduling. the greatest things in America is when some- The President. Very good company. Yes. body opens up the door where they live and And David—your husband, David? says, ‘‘Welcome to my home. Welcome to Mrs. Seamans. Yes. My husband, David, my piece of property.’’ Do you realize the is not employed right now. homeownership rate is at an alltime high The President. Right. under my administration. Mrs. Seamans. He has a back injury that So when did you buy it? he had in the service. Mr. Kanable. We bought our home in The President. Service, right. July 2003. Mrs. Seamans. And so he currently stays home right now. The President. Good. What’s it like? You The President. You’re bringing home the like it? money. Mr. Kanable. Oh, we love it. It’s a three- Mrs. Seamans. I’m bringing home the bedroom ranch on the west side of town. It’s money. a nice quiet neighborhood—most of the town The President. And children? is. It’s real comfortable to be in your home- Mrs. Seamans. I have two children— town. My wife, Gretchen, and I both grew Danielle, 13, and Megan, 11. up in this area and wanted to come back here The President. Fabulous. Teenage years, and—— I remember them fondly. [Laughter] The tax The President. Fantastic. Good. relief we passed saved this family $1,700 a Mr. Kanable. It allowed us to do so. year. Now that may not sound a lot to people The President. And you were a renter be- in Washington, DC. It’s a lot for this family. fore? Mrs. Seamans. It was a blessing when we Mr. Kanable. We rented 2 years out of received the child tax credit. My husband the area. And I mean, the American Dream had outstanding medical bills, and we used of owning your own home was realized to those—used that money to pay for those. us because of the tax credit and the interest And just having that lower tax from my pay- rate. We couldn’t go wrong. check each week, it makes a big difference, The President. Well, this is important for, a noticeable difference. I think, for the future of this country, is to The President. See, here’s the funda- encourage owner—homeownership as well mental difference in the campaign. By the as ownership. We want youngsters being able way, my opponent voted against all this tax to own and manage their own Social Security relief. It would have cost the average fam- account. We want businesses flourishing and ily—middle-class family $2,000 extra in Fed- people to own their own small business. And eral taxes, and that’s the philosophical dif- we want people owning their own home. You

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know why? Because when you own some- able to start their career with a college di- thing, you have a vital stake in the future ploma. I’m a big believer in the community of your country. I like to tell people, no one college system, because community colleges ever washes a rental car. [Laughter] are able to devise curriculum for the jobs Mr. Kanable. Absolutely. which actually exist, to be able to help people The President. So how has it changed get the skills necessary to fill the new jobs your life? If somebody is watching and which are being created. hears—says, ‘‘Gosh, I don’t know whether I But in times of change, some things do want to buy a home or not,’’ how has it not change, the values we try to live by, cour- changed your life? age and compassion, reverence and integrity. Mr. Kanable. Oh, it’s great. I mean, you We stand for a culture of life in which every have something of your own, something person matters and every being counts. We you’ve invested in. We’ve had the privilege stand for marriage and families, which are of doing some remodeling to it, things that, the foundations of our society. And we stand you know, it would be great to be able to for judges who know the difference between do. We would like to do this. We recently personal opinion and the strict interpretation were able to get a FEMA grant to fix our of the law. basement; it had a water problem. So now And on these issues, there is a difference we can finish that off. You know, we’re look- of opinion. My opponent’s words on values ing at new siding, new roofing, and maybe issues are a little murky—[laughter]—but his adding a garage on. We’re planning on build- record is clear. You know, the Congress in ing a deck this spring, things that we just— the mid-nineties voted on what was called you know, in an apartment, you can’t do that. the Defense of Marriage Act. It’s an act that The President. Right, it’s your home. defined marriage as between a man and a Mr. Kanable. That’s right. woman. It received big bipartisan support. The President. The tax relief saved this Republicans voted for it. Democrats voted family $1,000 this year and last year. So you for it. President Clinton signed the bill into hear a person say, ‘‘Gosh, I’m thinking about law. My opponent was one of a few out-of- adding a garage,’’ you know, ‘‘I’m thinking the-mainstream Democrats that voted about doing something to my piece of prop- against the Defense of Marriage Act. He erty.’’ Tax relief has helped people realize voted against the ban on the brutal practice their dreams. Tax relief is a vital part not of partial-birth abortion. He has said that the only of helping this economy recover, but it’s Reagan years were a period of moral dark- a vital part of enhancing the quality of life ness. There is a mainstream in American pol- of our citizens. And that’s why I’m going to itics, and he sits on the far left bank. He keep your taxes low. can try to run, but he cannot hide from his I’ve got a couple other things—if you’ve record. got time, I’ve got a couple other things on And finally, I want to talk to you about my mind. how to keep the peace. I want to talk to you First, I’ve been talking about a changing about the overriding issue in this campaign, world, and it’s important that we know the which is the security of the American people. world is changing. In a changing world, jobs See, all we’ve talked about is really impor- change, the nature of jobs change, the skill tant, but unless we’re secure, unless we’re sets necessary to fill jobs change. That’s why able to achieve the peace, we won’t be able education is so vital. That’s why we’ve got to achieve a hopeful America. And the peo- to make sure we get it right. The No Child ple are confronted with a clear choice in this Left Behind Act is a great piece of legislation campaign on this issue. because we believe in high standards and ac- Let me tell you what I have learned and countability. We’re challenging the soft big- what I know about the post-September the otry of low expectations. We want to make 11th world. First, that we’re fighting against sure the high school diploma means some- a ruthless enemy that has no conscience, thing. We’ll expand Pell grants for lower and which means you cannot negotiate with middle-income families so more children are them, you cannot appease them, you cannot

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hope for the best with them. The way to deal believe in our country. And that’s the oppo- with them and protect the American people site of them. They don’t believe that. is to stay on the offense, find them where And so I said, you know, ‘‘If you harbor they hide, defeat them overseas so we do not a terrorist, you’re equally as guilty.’’ And they have to face them here at home. Secondly— just ignored what we said. And we removed [applause]. Thank you. Thank you all. the Taliban from power, thanks to a great I tell people that if we show uncertainty United States military, and as a result—it’s or weakness during these troubled times, this important to uphold doctrine when you say world of ours will drift toward tragedy. It’s it—sent a message throughout the world that not going to happen so long as I’m your when America says something, we mean it. President. I understand that we must not When we say we’re going to defend our- show weakness. We must be certain in our selves, we mean it. resolve. The terrorists must absolutely under- And as a result of the Taliban being re- stand they can’t intimidate us; they can’t moved from power, Al Qaida no longer trains force us to not defend our freedom. in Afghanistan. As a result of the Taliban no Second lesson is that when the President longer being in power, millions of citizens says something, he better mean what he says registered to vote and voted in a Presidential in order to keep this world peaceful. And election. And the first voter was a 19-year- I meant what I said when I said, ‘‘If you har- old woman, the first voter in the Afghanistan bor a terrorist, you’re equally as guilty as the election. Unbelievable moment. terrorists.’’ In other words, this is a different Think about how far that society has come kind of—we have a different challenge to de- in a brief period of time. You know, I’m con- fend our country. And I was speaking at that fident there were a lot of doubters as to moment in time specifically to the Taliban whether or not democracy would take hold in Afghanistan. in Afghanistan. You can understand why. I Why was I doing that? Because you might mean, who would have ever thought that remember, some 31⁄2 years ago, Al Qaida was people that had been subjected to such a bru- training in Afghanistan. They were like the tal life would conceivably want to vote. But parasite, and the host was slowly but surely they forgot what we know: Freedom lurks being overcome by the parasite, it seemed in everybody’s heart. People want to be free like to me. But there was a—kind of a con- in the world. Freedom is on the march, and venience of philosophy. These people are America is more secure for it. ideologues of hate. They have a backward, Thirdly, when we see a threat, we must dim vision of the world. I want the kids here take it seriously before it comes to hurt us. to understand what life was like in Afghani- Prior to September the 11th, if we saw a stan. Young girls could not go to school. threat, we could deal with it or not deal with There was a grim ideology that expected cer- it because we felt secure. We felt oceans tain things, particularly out of women. And could protect us. But we learned a different if the women did not toe the line, they were lesson on September the 11th. It’s essential taken to the public square and whipped and the American people and the American sometimes executed in a sports stadium. President understand that when we see a These are barbaric people, the Taliban. threat, we must take it seriously. Elsewise, This is their view of the world and Al Qaida’s it might come and hurt us. I saw a threat view of the world. They’ve hijacked a great in Saddam Hussein, and the world is better religion. They hate what we stand for be- off with Saddam Hussein sitting in a prison cause we’re the opposite. We believe in free- cell. dom. We believe people can express their And our strategy in Iraq is clear. We’ll opinion anyway they see fit, that you can wor- train Iraqi citizens so they can do the hard ship the Almighty or not worship the Al- work of defending their freedom against the mighty in America and you’re equally Amer- likes of Zarqawi. You know, I’ve heard the ican. And if you choose to worship the Al- critics say, ‘‘Well, if we hadn’t been on the mighty, you’re just as American if you’re a offensive, the terrorists wouldn’t be as active Muslim, Jew, or Christian. That’s what we as they are.’’ Well, Zarqawi was planning in

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Afghanistan; he was in a training camp until of 100, voted to authorize the use of force we arrived and closed the camp down. Then and then voted against the funding to support he moved to Baghdad, where he’s beheading our troops in combat—4 people, 2 of whom people and setting off car bombs. What do were my opponent and his runningmate. these people think Zarqawi would be doing? Think about that—voted ‘‘yes’’ for the au- Do they think he’d be kind of a peaceful thorization but voted ‘‘no’’ when it came time small-business owner? [Laughter] He hates to support the troops. America. It is best we defeat Zarqawi in Iraq They asked him why, and he said, ‘‘I actu- so he doesn’t come here and hurt us. It is ally did vote for the $87 billion, right before best we secure our country by defeating the I voted against it.’’ [Laughter] I haven’t been enemy overseas. in any coffee shops in this part of the world; And we’re training the Iraqis to do the I suspect not a lot of people talk like that. hard work. I remember the debates. He said, [Laughter] He’s given a lot of explanations ‘‘Well, America is suffering all the casual- since, a lot of them. One of the most inter- ties.’’ That excludes and ignores the casual- esting ones of all is, he finally said about the ties being lost by the Iraqi people as they $87 billion vote, ‘‘The whole thing was a com- defend their own country. We mourn every plicated matter.’’ There is nothing com- single life in America, and we mourn the lives plicated about supporting our men and of those brave souls who are defending free- women in harm’s way. dom in Iraq as well. I believe that liberty has the power to Iraq is going to have elections. Think about transform societies. It’s etched in my very how far that country has come in a brief pe- being. Let me help make my case by describ- riod of time from the days of torture cham- ing our relationship to Prime Minister bers and mass graves, the days of a brutal Koizumi of Japan. We like him a lot—I say, tyrant. We’re better off with America helping ‘‘we’’; Laura and I do. We’ve had him to our to promote liberty around the world. And so ranch. He’s a good man. I saw him in the we’ll get those countries on the path to sta- U.N. I said, ‘‘You know, I’m out on the cam- bility and democracy as quickly as we can. paign trail, and I’m telling people about my And then our troops will come home with relationship with you. I hope you don’t the honor they have earned. mind.’’ He said, ‘‘Oh, fine, go ahead and talk I want to thank those who are here who about it.’’ What I didn’t ask him was permis- have set such a great example for those who sion to tell you that Elvis was his favorite wear the uniform, our veterans. I appreciate singer—[laughter]—true. your service to our country. I want to thank Anyway, so we have got a good relationship the military families who are here for your with him. And that’s—I’m sure to some sacrifice. I want to thank those who wear the doesn’t seem odd. ‘‘So what, the President uniform. We got a great United States mili- of the United States and the Prime Minister tary. [Applause] And I want to assure— of Japan working together; it’s happened with please be seated, thank you. We’ve still got other Presidents.’’ That’s right, except it a lot—a little work left to do. Just a little, wasn’t all that long ago that we were at war then we’re heading on the bus to Cuba City. with the Japanese. Some 60 years ago, Japan So I want to assure the loved ones of those was the sworn enemy of the United States who wear the uniform that so long as I’m of America. There’s a generation of Ameri- the Commander in Chief, we’ll give your cans still alive today that fought in that war. loved ones all the support they need to com- My dad was one; your dads—I’m sure some- plete their missions. That’s why I went to body here did that very same thing. There’s the Congress and asked for $87 billion of vital a gentleman right there. Thank you, sir. funding for our troops in harm’s way, and There’s another man. Yes, sir. There’s an- it was important. It was important—such an other gentleman. Thank you. Another one— important request that we got great bipar- well, they’re everywhere. Yes, sir, thanks. It tisan support. I want you tell your friends makes my point. It wasn’t all that long ago and neighbors of this startling statistic: 4 that we were at war with the Japanese. They Members of the United States Senate, 4 out were the bitter enemy of the United States.

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And after we won that war, Harry S. Tru- NOTE: The President spoke at 11:43 a.m. at Rich- man, President of the United States, believed land Center High School. In his remarks, he re- in the power of liberty to transform an enemy ferred to Mayor Rita Kidd of Richland Center, into an ally and worked to build a democracy WI; Dale Schultz, candidate for Congress in Wis- consin’s Third Congressional District, and his in Japan. Now, there was a lot of skeptics. wife, Rachel, district administrator, Richland You can understand why. Why should we School District; John Cler, principal, Richland help an enemy? A lot of people’s lives were Center High School; senior Al Qaida associate turned upside down as a result of that war Abu Musab al Zarqawi; and Prime Minister with the Japanese, and they weren’t inter- Junichiro Koizumi of Japan. ested at all about helping the Japanese. I’m sure there were skeptics saying the enemy couldn’t conceivably become a democracy— Remarks in Cuba City, Wisconsin a lot of doubters. There was also people in October 26, 2004 this country had faith in the ability of liberty to transform societies. As a result of that The President. Thank you all for coming. faith, I sit down at the table with Prime Min- I am honored you’re here. Thanks for coming ister Koizumi, talking about how to keep the today. You know, Cuba City is known as the peace that we all want. City of the Presidents. Kind of makes sense Think about that. Think about what liberty that a President stops in to say hello, doesn’t can do to a society. And that’s what I want it? A few months ago, I was the first sitting the young to understand, what’s taking place President to pass through Cuba City. Today in the world today. Someday, an American I’m the first sitting President to stop in and President will be sitting down with a duly- give a speech. And I’m looking forward to signing my name to the shield of the 43d elected leader from Iraq, talking about the President. peace in the broader Middle East. And our As I’m traveling your beautiful State asking children and our grandchildren will be better for the vote and I’m asking for your help, off for it. I’d like to encourage you to get your friends I believe everybody yearns to be free. I and neighbors to go to the polls. We have believe people in the broader Middle East a duty in this democracy to vote. We have want to be free. I believe that because free- an obligation. When you get them headed dom is not America’s gift to the world; free- to the polls, don’t overlook discerning Demo- dom is the Almighty God’s gift to each man crats—[laughter]—people like Zell Miller, and woman in this world. the Senator from Georgia who is strongly for So I’ve come to your good city to ask for my candidacy. Remind people if they want the vote and ask for your help. I know why a safer America, a stronger America, and a I’m running again. I want to extend pros- better America, to put me and Dick Cheney perity and hope to every corner of the coun- back in office. try. I want to promote an ownership society Listen, I’m going to give you—I’ve been where more and more citizens from all walks traveling Wisconsin a lot, giving people rea- of life can say, ‘‘I own my home. I own my sons to put me back into office. But perhaps business.’’ I want people to be able to realize the most important one of all is so that Laura a great tomorrow by making sure this country is the First Lady for 4 more years. When is safe and secure from an enemy. I know I asked her to marry me, she said, ‘‘Fine, where I want to take us. We’ve done the hard just make me a promise.’’ I said, ‘‘What is work together over 33⁄4 years. We’ve climbed it?’’ She said, ‘‘Promise me I’ll never have the mountain, and now we can see the valley to give a political speech.’’ [Laughter] I said, below, a valley which is hopeful and pros- ‘‘Fine, you know, you’ve got a deal.’’ Fortu- perous and peaceful. And with your help, we nately, she didn’t hold me to the deal. will get there together. [Laughter] She is giving a lot of speeches. God bless. Thank you for coming. I appre- And when she does, the American people see ciate you being here. Thank you all. Thank what I know, that she is compassionate; she you, sir. is warm; she is a strong, great First Lady.

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I asked Tommy to take on a tough job in ferent points of view. You know where I Washington, DC, and he’s done a heck of stand, and sometimes, you even know where a job. I’m proud of Tommy Thompson. My my opponent stands. [Laughter] only problem with being around Tommy, all Now, we both have records. I’m running he wants to do is talk about Wisconsin foot- on mine. He’s running from his, and there’s ball. And of course he did have to bring up a reason why. There is a mainstream in the Packers-Cowboy game as well, played American politics. The fellow I’m running right there at Lambeau Field. [Laughter] against sits on the far left bank. I’m a compas- I want to thank Steve Freese for his intro- sionate conservative and proudly so. duction. I appreciate his service to your com- I have a positive and optimistic vision for munity in the statehouse. I want to thank my our future, a comprehensive strategy for vic- friend Mark Green, Congressman Mark tory in Iraq and for victory in the wider war Green, who’s traveling with us. Thanks for against terror, a plan to make sure our econ- coming, Mark. omy continues to grow so that hope spreads I want to thank the mayor, Dick Davis. its wings in every corner of America. My op- Thank you, Mr. Mayor, for being here. It’s ponent has no plan, no vision, just a long kind for you to come. I want to thank the list of complaints. But a Monday morning members of the City of Presidents Com- quarterback has never led any team to vic- mittee—right there. Thank you all. tory. I’m traveling with a fine man and his wife, This election comes down to five clear Tim and Barbara Michels. He is going to choices for your families, for America’s fami- make a great United States Senator. I appre- lies: your family’s security; your family budg- ciate him coming. And I want to thank my et; your quality of life; your retirement; and friend Dale Schultz, who will also make a the bedrock values that makes this a great great Congressman in the Third Congres- country. sional District. The first clear choice is the most important I want to thank Sam McGrew, the super- one because it concerns the security of your intendent of schools. Appreciate you being family. All progress on every other issue de- here, Mr. Superintendent. I want to remind pends on the safety of our citizens. This will you, Mr. Superintendent, when it came time be the first Presidential election since Sep- to pick a Secretary of Education, I picked tember the 11th, 2001. Americans will go to a superintendent of schools. And the reason the polls in a time of war and ongoing threats. why I did is because I understand local con- The terrorists who killed thousands of inno- trol of schools is important, and I understand cent people are still dangerous, and they’re a superintendent of a school district under- determined. The outcome of this election stands education firsthand. And I appreciate will set the direction of the war on terror. your service. The most solemn duty of the American Presi- And I want to thank Tim Hazen, the prin- dent is to protect the American people. If cipal of the Cuba City High School. Thank America shows weakness or uncertainty in you, sir. [Applause] That’s a good sign, when this decade, this world of ours will drift to- the students are cheering for you. [Laughter] ward tragedy. That’s not going to happen on I want to thank the—Danielle Wallenhorst, my watch. the student council president. Madam Presi- Our strategy is clear. We’ve strengthened dent, thank you for greeting me. Oh, there the protections of our homeland. We’re re- she is. Yes, there she is, good. Listen, I un- forming our intelligence capabilities. We’re derstand the football team has got a game transforming our military. There will be no tonight. I wish you all the best. Good luck draft. The All-Volunteer Army will remain to you. And as Tommy pointed out, the the All-Volunteer Army. We are relentless. volleyball team here is really good too. I ap- We are determined. We’re staying on the of- preciate you being here. fensive. We’re defeating the terrorists over- Listen, thanks for coming. We’re coming seas so we do not have to face them here down the stretch in this campaign. And there in our own country. And we’re making are different candidates running with dif- progress. More than three-quarters of Al

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Qaida’s key members and associates have done it well, and we are on the right track.’’ been brought to justice, and the rest of them All I can say to that is, I am George W. Bush, can be certain of this: We’re on their trail. and I approve of that message. [Laughter] A President has to lead with consistency Audience members. Four more years! and strength. In war, your tactics change but Four more years! Four more years! never your principles. Americans have seen The President. I want to thank those who how I do my job. Even when you don’t agree wear the Nation’s uniform that have joined with me, you know what I believe, where I us today. I appreciate your service. I want stand, and what I intend to do. On the good to thank the veterans who are here, who have days and on the bad days, when the polls set such a great example for those who wear are up or the polls are down, I am deter- the uniform. And I want to thank the military mined to win this war on terror, and I will families who are with us today as well. always support the men and women who And I made a pledge to our troops and wear our Nation’s uniform. their families that they would have all they My opponent in this campaign has taken need to do their jobs and to complete their a different approach. It’s fair to say that con- missions. That’s why I went to the United sistency has not been his strong point. States Congress and proposed $87 billion of [Laughter] Senator Kerry says we’re better supplemental funding to support our troops off with Saddam Hussein out of power, ex- in harm’s way. It was necessary funding. It cept when he declares that removing Saddam was really important and so important that makes us less safe. In our second debate, he we got great bipartisan support for the vote— said he always believed that Saddam was a on the vote to fund the money. As a matter threat, except a few questions later when he of fact, it was so strong that only 12 Members said Saddam was not a threat. [Laughter] He of the United States Senate voted against it. says he was right when he voted to authorize As you’re out rounding up the vote, I want the use of force against Saddam Hussein, but you to remind the people of this important that I was wrong to use force against Saddam part of the State of this startling statistic: 4 Hussein. [Laughter] Members of the United States Senate, 4 out Now he’s saying he knew where bin Laden of 100, voted to authorize the use of force was in the fall of 2001 and that our military and then voted against supporting our troops passed up a chance to get him at Tora Bora. in harm’s way—only 4, 2 of whom are my Let me talk about that for a minute. That’s opponent and his runningmate. unjustified criticism of our military com- Audience members. Boo-o-o! manders in the field. This is the worst kind The President. They asked him, they said, of Monday morning quarterbacking. In fact, ‘‘Well, how could you have made that vote?’’ our commander in Afghanistan, General And he said perhaps the most famous quote Tommy Franks, recently wrote this about of the 2004 campaign—[laughter]—‘‘I actu- Tora Bora: ‘‘The Senator’s understanding of ally did vote for the $87 billion, before I events does not square with reality.’’ The voted against it.’’ [Laughter] Now, look, I general says that American Special Forces didn’t spend any time in the coffee shops were actively involved in the search for the around Cuba City, but I suspect you’re not terrorists in Tora Bora, and the intelligence going to find many people who talk that way reports at the time placed bin Laden in any here. [Laughter] of several countries. He’s given several explanations—you can’t Before Senator Kerry got into political dif- be calibrating the polls when it comes time ficulty and revised his views, he saw our ac- to be supporting our troops. They said, well, tions in Tora Bora differently. In the fall of when did he start changing his mind? Well, 2001, on national TV, he said this about Tora he started changing his mind about his posi- Bora: ‘‘I think we have been doing this pretty tion when it looked like he was losing to effectively, and we should continue to do it Howard Dean in the Democrat primary, that way.’’ At the time, the Senator said this right about the time this vote came up. See, about Tora Bora: ‘‘I think we’ve been smart. earlier on TV, prior to the vote, he said it I think the administration leadership has would be irresponsible not to support our

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troops in combat. And sure enough, he took ing to figure out how to better protect our a look at the polls and decided not to support country. I will never relent in defending our our troops in combat. A President must be security, whatever it takes. consistent. A President must be willing to The second clear choice involves your stand for what he believes. budget. When I ran for President 4 years ago, In the last 20 years, in key moments of I pledged to lower taxes for American fami- challenge—now remember, my opponent lies, and I kept my word. And remember opposed President Ronald Reagan’s doctrine what we have been through as an economy. of peace through strength. He didn’t support Six months prior to my arrival, the stock mar- removing Saddam Hussein from Kuwait, ket was in serious decline. And then we had even though the international community a recession and corporate scandals and the united in concert. In moments of challenge attack on America, which cost us about a mil- and decision, he has chosen the path of weak- lion jobs in the 3 months after September ness and inaction. Now, look, his record not the 11th. only stands in opposition to me but in opposi- But we acted. I led the Congress to reduce tion to the great tradition of the Democrat your taxes, and our economic policies have Party of America. The party of Franklin Roo- led us back to growth. Think about these sta- sevelt and Harry Truman and John Kennedy tistics and remind your friends and neighbors is rightly remembered for confidence and re- about these statistics. We’ve created 1.9 mil- solve in times of crisis. Senator Kerry has lion jobs in the last 13 months. Farm incomes turned his back on ‘‘pay any price’’ and ‘‘bear are up all across America. The farmers are any burden,’’ and he has replaced those com- making a good living. Homeownership rate mitments with ‘‘wait and see’’ and ‘‘cut and is at an alltime high. The entrepreneurial run.’’ spirit is strong in America. Small businesses Many Democrats in this country do not are flourishing. The national unemployment recognize their party anymore. Today I want rate is 5.4 percent. Let me put that in per- to speak to every one of them: If you believe spective for you: That’s lower than the aver- that America should lead with strength and age rate of the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. The purpose and confidence in our ideals, I’d be unemployment rate in Wisconsin is 5 per- honored to have your support, and I’m asking cent. for your vote. And one of the reasons Wisconsin is doing We have big differences—we have dif- so well is because your small businesses are ferences in this campaign about how to keep flourishing and because the farmers are mak- you secure, and the differences are clear. ing a living. In 4 years, we’ll—the next 4 Senator Kerry says that September the 11th years, we’ll continue to help our dairy farm- did not change him much at all. Those are ers. I support the MILC program to help his words. And the policies make it clear. He the dairy farmers here in Wisconsin. We will said that the war on terror is primarily a law make sure—we’ll continue to open up mar- enforcement and intelligence gathering oper- kets for Wisconsin’s farmers. I understand a ation. Well, I want to tell you something. My good farm economy is necessary for a good outlook changed on September the 11th. I national economy. understand the stakes. I understand the con- Look, we have a different point of view sequences of inaction. I understand the con- when it comes to taxes. My opponent has sequence of sending mixed signals. a different economic plan. It starts with the I remember standing in the ruins of the fact that he said he’s going to raise taxes. And Twin Towers on September the 14th, 2001. that’s a promise most politicians keep. It’s a day I will never forget. I will never [Laughter] He’s promised to spend $2.2 tril- forget the sights and the sounds. I will never lion in new money—spending. That’s trillion forget the hardhats yelling at me at the top with a ‘‘T.’’ That’s a lot even for a Senator of their lungs, ‘‘Whatever it takes.’’ I remem- from Massachusetts. [Laughter] And they ber the guy looking at me straight in the eye, asked him, ‘‘How you going to pay for all and he said, ‘‘Do not let me down.’’ Ever that new spending?’’ And he said, ‘‘Oh, we’re since that day, I wake up every morning try- just going to tax the rich.’’ You’ve heard that

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before, haven’t you? See, there’s a difference can’t practice. I met too many women who between what he’s promised and how much are wondering whether or not they’re going he can raise. He’s promised 2.2 trillion, but to get the quality health care for themselves by running up the top two brackets, he only and their baby because ob-gyns are being run raises about 600 to 800 billion dollars. out of practice. This isn’t right for America. There’s a gap. Guess who usually fills the You cannot be pro-doctor and pro-patient gap? The good news is, we’re not going to and pro-plaintiff-attorney at the same time. let him tax you because we’re going to carry You’ve got to make a choice. My opponent Wisconsin and win a great victory on Novem- made his choice, and he put a personal-injury ber the 2d. trial lawyer on the ticket. A third issue about the quality of our fami- Audience members. Boo-o-o! lies and the life of our families is education The President. I have made my choice. and health care. When I ran for President I’m standing with the doctors and the pa- 4 years ago, I promised to end the soft big- tients and the hospitals and the small-busi- otry of low expectations in our schools. And ness owners. I am for medical liability re- I kept my word. The No Child Left Behind form—now. Act is a good, solid piece of legislation. It You know, in one of our debates, my oppo- says in return for extra Federal money, nent looked right in the camera and said his schools must measure to show us whether health care plan—about his health care plan, or not our children are learning to read and ‘‘The Federal Government has nothing to do write and add and subtract. You can’t solve with it.’’ You know, I could barely contain a problem until you diagnose the problem. myself. [Laughter] See, I understand his And so by measuring early, we’re correcting plan. The Federal Government has got a lot problems before they become too acute, be- to do with it. Eight out of ten people will fore it is too late. And an achievement gap be signed up on a Federal program. When in America is closing all over America. People you make it easier to get on Medicaid, small are learning to read and write and add and businesses will drop insurance for their em- subtract, and we’re not going to go back to ployees because the Government will pay for the old days of mediocrity and low expecta- it, and that will cause about 7 or 8 million tions in our schoolhouses. people to get on Medicaid. And when the And I’ve got a commonsense way to help Government starts writing the checks, the on health care. Most of the uninsured work Government starts writing the rules. And for small businesses. Small businesses ought then when the Government starts writing the to be allowed to pool together to extend risk rules, the Government starts making deci- so they can buy insurance at the same dis- sions for you. They start rationing health counts big companies get to do. I believe we care. They decide what doctor you can go ought to expand health savings accounts, low- see. To me, that is the wrong prescription premium, high-deductible, tax-free policies for health care in America. that enable people to manage and control Here’s what I believe. I believe when it their own health care. I know we’re going comes to health care, the decisions ought to to help the poor and the needy through com- be between patients and doctors, not by offi- munity health centers and rural health cen- cials in Washington, DC. ters. We’re going to help sign up people for The fourth clear choice involves your re- our low-income children’s programs. tirement. Our Nation has made a solemn But also to make sure health care is avail- commitment to our seniors on Social Security able and affordable to you, we’ve got to do and Medicare. When I ran for President 4 something about these junk lawsuits that are years ago, I promised to keep that commit- running good doctors out of practice and ment and improve Medicare by adding pre- running up the cost of medicine. I’ve met scription drugs. I kept my word. And I want too many ob-gyns around our country that to thank Tommy Thompson for his help. You are quitting the practice of medicine because know, you’ve heard this issue debated for these lawsuits are running their premiums up years. Matter of fact, it became such a polit- too high on their insurance policy. They just ical hot potato they called Medicare,

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‘‘Mediscare.’’ But Tommy and I ignored all issue, not have their finger stuck in the wind that, and we decided to do what was right trying to figure out which way the winds are for our seniors. Seniors are now getting dis- blowing but somebody who is going to do counts on medicines with drug discount what is right. And what is right is to protect cards. Low-income seniors are getting $600 Social Security for our seniors and make it this year to help them on their cards and viable for the younger citizens of this coun- $600 next year. And beginning in 2006, all try. seniors will be able to get prescription drug And finally, the final clear choice in this coverage under Medicare. election is on the values that are crucial to Let me talk about Social Security. You all keeping our families strong. And here my op- might remember the 2000 campaign here in ponent and I are miles apart. I stand for the Wisconsin, the ads that said, ‘‘If George W. appointment of Federal judges who know the gets elected, our seniors are not going to get difference between personal opinion and the their checks.’’ That’s the old-style scare tac- strict interpretation of the law. I believe mar- tics. When you’re out there talking to your riage is a sacred commitment, a pillar of our friends and neighbors, remind them, George civilization. I don’t believe this is a partisan W. did get elected, and our seniors got their issue. As a matter of fact, when Congress checks. And our seniors will continue to get passed the Defense of Marriage Act, defining their checks. And baby boomers like me, marriage as the union between a man and we’re in pretty good shape when it comes a woman, the vast majority of Democrats to the Social Security trust. supported it, and President Bill Clinton But we need to worry about our children signed it into law. But Senator Kerry was part and our grandchildren when it comes to So- of an out-of-the-mainstream minority that cial Security. When the baby boomers retire, voted against the Defense of Marriage Act. it’s going to be hard for the next generation Audience members. Boo-o-o! to support us and then have a retirement sys- The President. Listen, reasonable people tem for their own. That’s why we need a can find common ground on the most dif- President to think differently about Social ficult of issues. Republicans and Democrats Security. I think younger workers ought to came together and agreed we should ban the be allowed to take some of their own money brutal practice of partial-birth abortion. I and set up a personal savings account, an ac- proudly signed that bill. But my opponent count that earns better interest, an account was part of an out-of-the-mainstream minor- they call their own, an account the Govern- ity that voted against the ban. ment cannot take away. Audience members. Boo-o-o! You know, we have a difference of opinion The President. See, we just have a dif- on Social Security. My opponent said he’s ference of opinion, a big difference of opin- going to protect Social Security, but what he ion. I’ll continue to reach out to Americans forgot to tell you is he’s voted eight times of every belief and move this goodhearted for higher taxes on Social Security benefits. Nation toward a culture of life. That’s part of that record. See, that’s just— My opponent said the heart and soul of see, he doesn’t want you to know the record. America can be found in Hollywood. [Laugh- He can run, but he cannot hide. That’s what ter] Most American families don’t look to I say. He can run from it, but he can’t hide Hollywood as a source of values. [Laughter] from it. The heart and soul of America is found in And then he said, when it comes to Social communities like Cuba City, Wisconsin. Security, things are okay for the next genera- You know, one of my favorite quotes that tion. I think the job of a President * is to I hope tells you what I believe and how I confront problems, not to pass them on to lead is by a fellow Texan named Tom Lea, future Presidents and future generations. and here’s what he said. He said, ‘‘Sarah and You’ve got to expect from your President I live on the east side of the mountain. It somebody who is willing to take on the tough is the sunrise side, not the sunset side. It is the side to see the day that is coming, not * White House correction. to see the day that has gone.’’ That’s how

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I feel about this country, optimistic and I’ll never have to give a political speech.’’ hopeful. I know we can achieve anything we [Laughter] I said, ‘‘Okay, you’ve got a deal.’’ set our mind to. You know, in the last 4— Fortunately, she is not holding me to that nearly 4 years, we’ve come through a lot to- promise. She’s giving a lot of speeches, and gether. Because we’ve done the hard work when she does, the American people see a of climbing the mountain, we see the valley compassionate, strong, great First Lady. below. And that valley is a valley full of pros- And I’m proud of my runningmate, Dick perity and hope, a valley where people in Cheney. He’s doing a wonderful job. You this country feel comfortable about owning know, I admit it, he does not have the waviest something, a valley where the entrepre- hair in the race. [Laughter] You’ll be happy neurial spirit is strong, where our families are to hear I didn’t pick him because of his hair- strong. We’re going to continue to spread do; I picked him because of his experience, freedom and liberty so we can achieve the his judgment, his ability to get the job done. peace that we all want for generations to I’m proud to be on the stage with Con- come. gressman Jim Nussle, and I want to thank Four years ago, when I traveled your State his wife, Karen, for being here. He’s the asking for the vote, I made you this pledge: chairman of the Budget Committee. He’s I said I would restore the integrity to the watching your money like a hawk—eye. Oval Office. With your help and with your Nussle is a good man, good, solid citizen hard work, I will do so for 4 more years. from the State of Iowa and I’m proud to call Thanks for coming. God bless. I appreciate him friend. it. Now I’m going to sign this shield. You know, we love your Senator, Chuck Grassley. I saw him the other day, and I said, NOTE: The President spoke at 2:43 p.m. at Cuba ‘‘Say, Chuck, you know, the South Lawn has City High School. In his remarks, he referred to got a lot of grass’’—[laughter]—‘‘and we’re Wisconsin State Representative Stephen J. looking for somebody to give us a hand.’’ Freese; Mayor Richard Davis of Cuba City, WI; [Laughter] He’s done a wonderful job as the Samuel McGrew, district administrator, School chairman of the Finance Committee. I know District of Cuba City; former President Saddam the people of Iowa are proud that he’s the Hussein of Iraq; Usama bin Laden, leader of the Senator; I know you’re going to put him back Al Qaida terrorist organization; and Gen. Tommy R. Franks, USA, (Ret.), former combatant com- into office for 6 more years. mander, U.S. Central Command. I want to thank Dale Schultz for coming. Dale is right there. He’s from the Third Con- gressional District in the great State of Wis- Remarks in Dubuque, Iowa consin. He’s been traveling with me all day. October 26, 2004 Just in case anybody from Wisconsin is watching on TV, put this good man in as a The President. Thank you all for coming. Congressman. Listen, Laura and I are glad to be back in I want to thank Dave Vaudt for being here. Dubuque and so honored so many came out I want to thank Dave Roederer. I want to to say hello. You lift our spirits. Really appre- thank Doug Gross. I want to thank the Wil ciate you coming. We’re here, of course, ask- Gravatt Band for entertaining you all. I want ing for the vote and asking for your help. to thank the grassroots activists who are here, We need you to get your friends and neigh- the people putting up all the signs and mak- bors to go to the polls, find our fellow Repub- ing the phone calls and helping turn out peo- licans, find independents, find discerning ple to rallies in the Dubuque area. With your Democrats and remind them if they want a help, there is no doubt in my mind we’re safer America, a stronger America, and a bet- going to carry Iowa and win a great victory ter America, to put me and Dick Cheney in November. back in office. We have just one week to go. Voters have When I asked Laura to marry me, she said, a clear choice between two very different ‘‘Fine, so long as you make me a promise.’’ candidates with dramatically different ap- I said, ‘‘What is it?’’ She said, ‘‘Promise me proaches and records. Now, you know where

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I stand. And sometimes—sometimes you The President has to lead with consistency even know where my opponent stands. and strength. In a war, sometimes your tac- [Laughter] We both have records. I’m tics change but not your principles. Ameri- proudly running on mine. The Senator is run- cans have seen how I do my job. Even when ning from his, and there’s a reason why. you might not agree with me, you know what There’s a mainstream in American politics, I believe, you know where I stand, and you and my opponent sits on the far left bank. know what I intend to do. I’m a compassionate conservative and Audience members. Four more years! proudly so. I have a positive, optimistic vision Four more years! Four more years! for our future and a comprehensive strategy The President. On good days and on bad for victory in Iraq and the wider war against days, whether the polls are up or the polls terror. My opponent has no plan, no vision, are down, I am determined to protect the just a long list of complaints. [Laughter] But American people and I will always support a Monday morning quarterback has never led the men and women who do. any team to victory. My opponent has taken a different ap- This election comes down to five clear proach. It’s fair to say that consistency has choices for America’s families: your family’s not been his strong point. Senator Kerry says security; your family’s budget; your quality we’re better off with Saddam Hussein out of life; your retirement; and the bedrock val- of power, except when he declares that re- ues that are so critical to our families and moving Saddam made us less safe. He said to our future. in our second debate that he always believed The first clear choice is the most important Saddam was a threat, except a few questions because it concerns the security of your fam- later when he said Saddam Hussein was not ily. All progress on every other issue depends a threat. [Laughter] He says he was right on the safety of our citizens. This will be the when he voted to authorize the use of force first Presidential election since September against Saddam Hussein, but that I was the 11th, 2001. Americans will go the polls wrong to use force against Saddam Hussein. in a time of war and ongoing threats. The [Laughter] Now my opponent is throwing terrorists who killed thousands are still dan- out a wild claim that he knows where bin gerous and determined to strike us again. Laden was in the fall of 2001, that our mili- And this outcome—the outcome of this elec- tary passed up a chance to get him at Tora tion will set the direction of the war against Bora. It’s an unjustified criticism of the mili- the terrorists. The most solemn duty of the tary commanders in the field. It is the worst American President is to protect the Amer- kind of Monday morning quarterbacking. ican people. If America shows uncertainty or Tommy Franks was our commander in Af- weakness in this decade, the world will drift ghanistan, and here’s what he said about Tora toward tragedy. This will not happen on my Bora. He said, ‘‘The Senator’s understanding watch. of events does not square with reality.’’ Since that terrible morning of September Tommy was there. Tommy says that Special the 11th, 2001, we fought the terrorists Forces were actively involved in the search across the Earth, not for pride, not for power for the terrorists in Tora Bora and that intel- but because the lives of our citizens are at ligence reports at the time placed bin Laden stake. Our strategy is clear. We’ve strength- in any of several countries. ened the protections for the homeland. Now, before Senator Kerry got into polit- We’re reforming our intelligence capabilities. ical difficulty and revised his views, here’s We’re transforming our military. There will what he said about Tora Bora on national be no draft; the All-Volunteer Army will re- TV in the fall of 2001. He said, ‘‘I think we’ve main an all-volunteer army. We’re staying on been doing this pretty effectively, and we the offensive. We are relentless. We are de- should continue to do it that way.’’ At the termined. We will strike the terrorists abroad time, the Senator said about Tora Bora, ‘‘I so we do not have to face them here at home. think we’ve been smart. I think the adminis- We will continue to spread freedom and lib- tration leadership has done it well, and we erty. And we will prevail. are on the right track.’’ Well, all I can say

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to that is, I am George W. Bush, and I ap- During the last 20 years, in key moments prove of that message. of challenge and decision for America, my Yet, my opponent’s record on national se- opponent has chosen the position of weak- curity has a far deeper problem than elec- ness and inaction. With that record, he stands tion-year flip-flopping. On the largest na- in opposition not just to me but to the great tional security issues of our time, he has been tradition of the Democratic Party. The party consistently wrong. When Ronald Reagan of Franklin Roosevelt, of Harry Truman, of was confronting the Soviet Union at the John Kennedy is rightly remembered for height of the cold war, Senator Kerry said confidence and resolve in times of war and that President Reagan’s policy of peace hours of crisis. Senator Kerry has turned his through strength was making America less back on ‘‘pay any price’’ and ‘‘bear any bur- safe. Well, history has shown that Senator den,’’ and he has placed those commit- Kerry was wrong and President Ronald ments—replaced those commitments with Reagan was right. ‘‘wait and see’’ and ‘‘cut and run.’’ Many When former President Bush led a coali- Democrats in this country do not recognize tion against Saddam Hussein in 1991, Sen- their party anymore. Today I want to speak ator Kerry voted against the use of force to to every one of them: If you believe that liberate Kuwait. If his view had prevailed, America should lead with strength and pur- Saddam Hussein today would dominate the pose and confidence in our ideals, I’d be hon- Middle East and possess the world’s most ored to have your support, and I’m asking dangerous weapons. History has shown that for your vote. Senator Kerry was wrong and former Presi- Audience members. Four more years! dent Bush was right. Four more years! Four more years! In 1994, just one year after the first bomb- The President. All the difference—all the ing of the World Trade Center, Senator differences I’ve outlined today add up to one Kerry proposed massive cuts in America’s in- telligence budget, so massive that even his big difference. My opponent says that Sep- colleague from Massachusetts opposed them. tember the 11th, in his words, did not change Well, history has shown that Senator Kerry him much at all. And his policies make that was wrong and—got to be fair—Senator clear. He says the war on terror is primarily Kennedy was right. a law enforcement and intelligence gathering Just last year, American troops in Iraq and operation. Afghanistan needed $87 billion to help them My outlook was changed on September on their missions, to make sure they had all the 11th. A few days after the attacks, I stood that was necessary in harm’s way. First, Sen- where the buildings fell, in Ground Zero. It’s ator Kerry said it would be irresponsible to a day I’ll never forget—the workers in hard- vote against the troops, then he voted against hats yelling at me at the top of their lungs, the troops. You might remember perhaps the ‘‘Whatever it takes.’’ I remember a guy most famous quote of the 2004 campaign grabbed me by the arm, he looked me square when he said, ‘‘I actually did vote for the in the eye, and he said, ‘‘Do not let me $87 billion, before I voted against it.’’ down.’’ After that morning, I wake—I’ve [Laughter] History has shown that Senator wakened up every morning thinking about Kerry was right, then wrong, then briefly how to better protect America. I will use right, then wrong again. [Laughter] every asset at our disposal. I will never relent You know, he’s given quite a few answers in defending the security of the American about that vote, and finally, at one time he people, whatever it takes. just said, ‘‘The whole thing was a complicated The second clear choice concerns your matter.’’ My fellow Americans, there is noth- family’s budget. When I ran for President 4 ing complicated about supporting our troops years ago, I pledged to lower taxes for Amer- in combat. I thank our troops. I thank the ican families. And I kept my word. We dou- families of our troops. And I thank the vet- bled the child credit to help mothers and erans who have set such a great example to dads raise their children. We reduced the our troops. marriage penalty. Listen, I think the Tax

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Code ought to encourage marriage, not pe- And they asked him how he’s going to pay nalize marriage. We created the lowest for it. And he threw out the same old tired bracket of 10 percent, so to help families. line, ‘‘We’re going to tax the rich.’’ Well, first We’re reduced income taxes for everybody of all, when you run up the top two brackets, who pays taxes. you’re taxing job creators. Do you realize Now, I want you to remind your friends most of the small businesses in America pay and neighbors what we have overcome, the individual income taxes because they’re ei- obstacles this economy has overcome. You ther a Subchapter S or a sole proprietorship? know, the stock market had been in decline Seventy percent of new jobs are created by for 6 months prior to my arrival. We were small businesses. Senator Kerry’s plan would headed into a recession. And these corporate tax the job creators of America, and that is scandals which affected the economy—we bad economic policy. passed tough laws, by the way, and we made And secondly, by taxing people who have it abundantly clear we’re not going to tolerate earned over $200,000 or entities that have dishonesty in the boardrooms of America. earned over $200,000, you raise between 600 And then we got attacked, and those attacks and 800 billion dollars. It doesn’t take much cost us about a million jobs in the 3 months math to figure out that’s far short of the 2.2 after September the 11th. But because we trillion he’s promised. So there’s a gap, a gap cut your taxes, because we encouraged con- between what he’s promised and how he’s sumption and investment, because we recog- going to pay for it. And guess who usually nized the contributions small-business own- fills the gap? ers make in this country, our economic poli- Audience members. We do! The President. You do. The good news cies have led us on the path to growth. is, he’s not going to tax you, because we’re Our economy has been growing at rates going to win Iowa and win a great victory. as fast as any in nearly 20 years. We’ve added The third clear choice involves the quality 1.9 million new jobs since August of 2003. of life for our Nation’s families. A good edu- The national unemployment rate is 5.4 per- cation and quality health care are important cent. Let me put that in perspective for you: for our country’s families. When I ran for That’s lower than the average rate of the President 4 years ago, I promised to chal- 1970s, the 1980s, and the 1990s. Our farm lenge the soft bigotry of low expectations by economy is strong. I campaigned here in the reforming our public schools. I kept my caucuses, and I campaigned in 2000, and I’ve word. We passed education reform to bring been coming back to your State saying, ‘‘I high standards into the classrooms and to support ethanol.’’ We’re supporting ethanol. make our schools accountable to our parents. I said, ‘‘I’m going to come back and open We’re seeing progress. Math and reading up markets so Iowa farm products are all scores are rising. We are closing achievement around the world.’’ We’ve opened up mar- gaps for minority students all across America. kets. Our farmers are making a good living. We’ll build on these reforms. We’ll extend The entrepreneurial spirit is strong. Small them to our high schools so that no child businesses are flourishing. The homeowner- is left behind in America. ship rate is at an alltime high. And the unem- We’ll make sure health care is available ployment rate in the State of Iowa is 4.7 per- and affordable. We’ll expand health savings cent. Our policies are working, and we’re not accounts so small—more small businesses going to go back to the days of Federal can cover their workers and more families spending and Federal taxes. can get health care accounts they call their We have a different point of view on the own and manage. In order to make sure our budget. My opponent has different plans. small businesses can afford health care, we He’s going to take a big chunk out of your ought to allow them to pool together, pool budget. Listen, he’s promised $2.2 trillion in risk so they can afford insurance at the same new spending in this campaign. That’s trillion discount that big companies get. We’re going with a ‘‘T.’’ [Laughter] That’s a lot even for to make sure we take care of the poor and a Senator from Massachusetts. [Laughter] the indigent through community and rural

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health centers. We’ll work hard to make sure is the wrong prescription for health care in every eligible child is enrolled in our Govern- America. In all we do, we’ll make sure the ment’s low-income health insurance pro- health decisions are made by doctors and pa- gram. tients, not by officials in Washington, DC. To make sure health care is available and The fourth clear choice in this election in- affordable for you, we will do something volves your retirement. We made a solemn about the frivolous lawsuits that are running commitment to America’s seniors on Social up the cost of medicine and running good Security and Medicare. When I ran for Presi- doctors out of practice. I have met too many dent 4 years ago, I promised to keep that good doctors who have quit practicing medi- commitment and improve Medicare by add- cine. Some of the saddest tales are those of ing prescription drug coverage. I kept my ob-gyns. These lawsuits are running up the word. You might remember the Medicare cost of premiums to the point where they issue. People in Washington have been de- can’t afford to stay in business. So they leave bating Medicare for years, and nothing got their community. Some of them quit the done. Well, thanks to working with Senator practice of medicine. And that means there Grassley and Congressman Nussle, we got are expectant moms who are desperate— the job done for our seniors. Beginning in desperately worried about whether or not 2006, all seniors will be able to get prescrip- they’ll get the health care they need for their tion drug coverage under Medicare. child and for themselves. I remember coming to eastern Iowa dur- You cannot be pro-doctor and pro-patient ing the congressional campaigns in 2002. I and pro-personal-injury-lawyer at the same said that I understand Iowa’s hospitals are time. You have to make a choice. My oppo- not being treated fairly under Medicare. nent made his choice, and he put a personal- Nussle, you might remember—I stood and injury trial lawyer on the ticket. I have made looked right in the camera. I said, ‘‘I’m going my choice. I’m standing with the patients. to work with Congressman Nussle and Sen- I’m standing with doctors. I’m standing with ator Grassley to make sure Iowa’s rural hos- small-business owners. I’m standing with pitals, in particular, are treated fairly.’’ The hospitals. I’m for medical liability reform— bill I signed not only helps our seniors but now. it helps Iowa hospitals. I kept my word. There is a big difference of opinion when And we will keep the promise of Social it comes to health care between me and my Security for our seniors. And I want to re- opponent. I remember that debate when he mind you what happened in the 2000 cam- looked right in the camera, and they asked paign. I don’t know if it’s happened here yet him about his health care plan, and he said, or not, but it certainly happened in 2000, ‘‘The Government doesn’t have anything to when they made it abundantly clear to peo- do with it.’’ I could barely contain myself. ple that if I got elected, our seniors were [Laughter] not going to get their Social Security checks. The Government has got a lot to do with That’s the old scare tactics that they like to it. Eight out of ten people end up on a Gov- use. You might remember those ads. As you ernment program under his health care. Lis- gather up the vote, I want you to remind ten, when you make Medicaid more attrac- people, George W. did get elected, and our tive, small businesses will stop providing in- seniors did get their checks. I don’t care how surance for their employees because the they put it or how they try to scare you, our Government will. And that moves people seniors will continue to get their checks. And from private care—private insurance to Gov- baby boomers like me, I think we’re in pretty ernment insurance. And you know what I good shape when it comes to getting the know: When the Government starts writing checks when we retire. the checks, the Government starts making But we need to worry about our children the rules; and the Government starts making and our grandchildren when it comes to So- the rules, the Government starts making your cial Security. We need to worry about wheth- decisions. They ration care; they decide what er or not there will be a Social Security sys- doctors you go to. No, Federal health care tem available for them when they retire. And

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that’s why I think we ought to allow younger tinue to reach out to Americans of every be- workers to take some of their own payroll lief and move this goodhearted Nation to- taxes and set them in a personal savings ac- ward a culture of life. count, an account that earns a better rate I don’t know if you remember this in the of return, an account that they can call their campaign, but at one point my opponent said own. you can find the heart and soul of America My opponent has taken a different ap- in Hollywood. proach on this issue. He said he is going to Audience members. Boo-o-o! protect Social Security, but he forgot to tell The President. Most families don’t look you he’s the only candidate in this race who to Hollywood for a source of values. The voted eight times for higher taxes on Social heart and soul of America is found in com- Security benefits. munities like Dubuque, Iowa. Audience members. Boo-o-o! All of these choices make this one of the The President. You’re wondering why you most important elections in our history. The got those taxes on your Social Security bene- security and prosperity of our country is at fits—there’s one reason why, Senator John stake. The health and education for families Kerry. And then when he talks about reform- are important. The retirement of our seniors, ing the system for our youngsters, he had the direction of our culture—they’re all at nothing to offer. The job of a President is stake. And the decision is in the best of to confront problems, not pass them on to hands; it’s in the hands of the American peo- future Presidents and future generations. In ple. a new term, I’ll bring people together to I’ve got a—I see a great America coming. strengthen the Social Security system for a I see a hopeful day. One of my favorite younger generation. And the final clear choice in this election quotes—I hope it helps capture how I feel is on the values that are so crucial to keeping about America—is what a fellow Texan our families strong. And here my opponent named Tom Lea wrote. He said, ‘‘Sarah and and I are miles apart. I stand for the appoint- I live on the east side of the mountain. It’s ment of Federal judges who know the dif- the sunrise side, not the sunset side. It is ference between personal opinion and the the side to see the day that is coming, not strict interpretation of the law. I believe mar- to see the day that has gone.’’ In the course riage is a sacred commitment, a pillar of our of this campaign, my opponent has spent civilization, and I will defend it. This isn’t much of the time talking about the day that a partisan issue. You know, when Congress has gone. I’m talking about the day that is passed the Defense of Marriage Act, which coming. I’m talking about a great day for defined marriage as a union of a man and America. a woman, the vast majority of Democrats We’ve been through a lot together in the supported it and President Bill Clinton last nearly 4 years. Because we’ve done the signed it into law. But Senator Kerry was part hard work of climbing the mountain, we can of the out-of-the-mainstream minority that see the valley below. We’ll protect our fami- voted against the Defense of Marriage Act. lies. We’ll build on their prosperity. We’ll de- Audience members. Boo-o-o! fend the deepest values. We’ll continue to The President. I believe reasonable peo- spread liberty and freedom, achieving the ple can find common ground on difficult peace we all long for. issues. Republicans and Democrats came to- You know, when I campaigned in your gether and agreed we should ban the brutal State—around your State in the caucuses and practice of partial-birth abortion. I proudly in the 2000 general election, I made you this signed that bill. But Senator Kerry was part pledge: I said if I was honored to be elected, of the out-of-the-mainstream minority that I would uphold the honor and the dignity voted against the ban on partial-birth abor- of the office. With your help, with your hard tion. As a matter of fact, he voted against work, I will do so for 4 more years. parental notification laws. He voted against Thanks for coming. God bless. We’re on the Unborn Victims of Violence Act. I’ll con- to victory. Thank you all.

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NOTE: The President spoke at 4:03 p.m. at the do. I picked him because of his judgment. Grand River Center. In his remarks, he referred I picked him because of experience. He’s to Dale Schultz, candidate for Congress in Wis- getting the job done for the American peo- consin’s Third Congressional District; Iowa Audi- ple. tor of State Dave Vaudt; David Roederer, Iowa What a great United States Senator Rick State chair, Bush-Cheney ’04, Inc.; former Presi- dent Saddam Hussein of Iraq; Usama bin Laden, Santorum is. He and Zell serve in the Senate leader of the Al Qaida terrorist organization; and together. I’m proud to have Rick Santorum Gen. Tommy R. Franks, USA, (Ret.), former com- as my campaign manager for the State of batant commander, U.S. Central Command. Pennsylvania. I’m proud to—excuse me— call him friend, and I know you’re proud to call him Senator. And I hope you put Arlen Remarks in Lititz, Pennsylvania Specter back in there. We need to work with October 27, 2004 him for 6 more years. I’m honored to be on the stage with Joe The President. Listen, before I want to Pitts, Congressman from this area. I appre- say something, I’m traveling with a guest and ciate you being here, Joe. Thanks for your a friend who represents thousands of people service. I want to thank Pat Toomey for the all across this country who are affiliated with class he showed during the primary cam- the Democrat Party. My friend has come paign. I appreciate his leadership and his from Georgia to share a message with you service to the Congress. about how we’re going to work with Repub- I want to thank all the candidates who are licans and Democrats and independents to here, people running for office. I wish you carry the great State of Pennsylvania. Please all the best coming down the stretch. I want welcome my friend Senator Zell Miller. [Ap- to thank my friend Daron Norwood and the plause] I’m thrilled to be traveling with him. Matt Goss Band for singing. I told Zell when we landed, I said, ‘‘This Most of all, I want to thank you all. You’ve is a good size crowd here, and there’s a rea- lifted our spirits for being here. You’re kind son why: because we’re going to carry Penn- with your time, and I want to thank you for sylvania on November the 2d.’’ And that’s coming. This election comes down to some what I’m here to do. I’m here to ask for your clear choices—— vote and ask for your help. I’m asking that Audience members. Four more years! you turn out your friends and neighbors to Four more years! Four more years! the polls. I’m asking you to continue to make The President. This election comes down the phone calls and put up the signs. I’m to some clear choices, clear choices for our asking you to do everything you can because families. We have issues of great con- with your help, we’ll make America a safer sequence. The first clear choice is the most country, a stronger country, and a better important because it concerns the security country for every single citizen. of your family. All the progress on every Perhaps the most important reason to put other issue depends on the safety of our citi- me back into office is so that Laura will be zens. It will be the first Presidential election the First Lady for 4 more years. When I since September the 11th, 2001. Americans asked her to marry me, she said, ‘‘Fine, just will go to the polls in a time of war, an ongo- make me a promise.’’ I said, ‘‘What is it?’’ ing threat unlike any we have ever faced be- ‘‘Promise me I’ll never have to give a political fore. The terrorists who killed thousands are speech.’’ [Laughter] I said, ‘‘Okay, you got still dangerous, and they are determined to a deal.’’ Fortunately, she didn’t hold me to strike again. And the outcome of this election that deal. She is giving a lot of speeches, and will set the direction of the war against the when she does, the American people see a terrorists. fine, compassionate, strong First Lady. The most solemn duty of the American I’m proud of my runningmate, Dick Che- President is to protect the American people. ney. I admit it, he does not have the waviest If America shows uncertainty or weakness in hair in the race. [Laughter] You’ll be happy this decade, the world will drift toward trag- to hear I didn’t pick him because of his hair- edy. This will not happen on my watch.

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Since that terrible morning of September the men and women who wear their Nation’s the 11th, 2001, we fought the terrorists uniform. across the Earth, not for pride, not for power I want to thank those who wear the uni- but because the lives of our citizens are at form. I want to thank the families of our mili- stake. Our strategy is clear. We’ve strength- tary. And I want to thank the veterans who ened the protection of the homeland. Tom are here who have set such a great example. Ridge, the former Governor of your State, We have a duty to support those in harm’s is doing a great job as the Secretary of Home- way with all the resources they need, nec- land Security. We’re strengthening our intel- essary for them to do their job. That’s why ligence capabilities. We’re transforming our I went to the United States Congress and military. There will be no draft. The All-Vol- asked for $87 billion of supplemental funding unteer Army will remain an all-volunteer to support our troops in combat. And we got army. We’re staying on the offensive. We’re good support in the Congress. Matter of fact, relentless. We are determined. We will strike the support was so strong that only 12 United the terrorists abroad so we do not have to States Senators voted against the supple- face them here at home. mental funding request, 2 of whom were my And part of our strategy is to spread lib- opponent and his runningmate. erty. We believe in the transformational Audience members. Boo-o-o! power of liberty to change societies. Think The President. As you’re out gathering what happened in Afghanistan; think about the vote and as you’re out talking to people what’s happened there. It wasn’t all that long about this election, remind people of this ago that young girls couldn’t go to school, startling statistic: Only four members of the and if their mothers didn’t toe the line of United States Senate voted to authorize the the ideologues of hate which ran that coun- use of force and then voted against providing try, they were whipped in the public square the funding for our troops in combat—only and sometimes executed in a sports stadium. four, two of whom were my opponent and Because we acted in our self-interest, be- his runningmate. cause we acted to destroy Al Qaida’s capacity Audience members. Boo-o-o! to train in Afghanistan, millions of people The President. So they asked him—they went to vote in a Presidential election. The asked him—I’m sure the people of Lan- first voter in that election was a 19-year-old caster, Pennsylvania, are just as surprised as woman. Freedom is on the march, and people all around the country when he gave America is more secure for it. his famous answer about his vote. He said, Iraq will be having Presidential elections ‘‘I actually did vote for the $87 billion, right in January. That society has come a long way before I voted against it.’’ [Laughter] He’s from the days of torture chambers and mass given a lot of explanations since then, a lot graves. Free societies are hopeful societies. of them. One of the most interesting ones By spreading freedom and liberty, we not of all was that it was just a complicated mat- only secure ourselves in the short term, we ter. There’s nothing complicated about sup- spread the peace that we all long for so our porting our troops in combat. children and our grandchildren can grow up After repeatedly calling Iraq the ‘‘wrong in a hopeful tomorrow. war’’ and a ‘‘diversion,’’ Senator Kerry this A President has to lead with consistency week seemed shocked to learn that Iraq was and strength. In a war, sometimes your tac- a dangerous place full of dangerous weapons. tics have to change but not your principles. [Laughter] The Senator used to know that, Americans have seen how I do my job. Even even though he seems to have forgotten it when you might not agree with me, you know over the course of the campaign. But after what I believe and where I stand and where all, that’s why we’re there. Iraq was a dan- I intend to lead our country. On good days gerous place run by a dangerous tyrant who and on bad days, whether the polls are up had a lot of weapons. We have seized or de- or the polls are down, I am determined to stroyed more than 400,000 tons of munitions, win this war on terror and to protect the including explosives, at more than a—thou- American people. And I will always support sands of different sites, and we’re continuing

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to round up more weapons every day. I want The second clear choice in this election to remind the American people, if Senator concerns your family budget. When I ran for Kerry had his way, we would still be taking President 4 years ago, I pledged to lower our ‘‘global test.’’ Saddam Hussein would still taxes for American families. And I kept my be in power. He would control all those word. We’ve doubled the child credit to weapons and explosives and could have $1,000 per child. We reduced the marriage shared them with our terrorist enemies. penalty. The Tax Code should encourage Now, the Senator is making wild charges marriage, not penalize marriage. We created about missing explosives when his top foreign the lowest—a lower tax bracket of 10 percent policy adviser admits, quote, ‘‘We do not so working families would get help. We re- know the facts.’’ Think about that. The Sen- duced income taxes for everybody who paid ator is denigrating the action of our troops income taxes. We helped our farmers. We and commanders in the field without know- helped our ranchers. We helped our small- ing the facts. Unfortunately, that’s part of a business owners. After-tax income—that’s pattern of saying almost anything to get elect- the money in your pocket—increased by ed, like when Senator Kerry charged that our about 10 percent since I became your Presi- military failed to get Usama bin Laden at dent. Tora Bora, even though our top military com- Our economy has been through a lot, and mander, General Tommy Franks, said, ‘‘The I want you to remind your friends and neigh- Senator’s understanding of events does not bors about these facts. First, 6 months prior square with reality.’’ And our intelligence re- to our arrival in Washington, the stock mar- ports placed bin Laden in any of several dif- ket was in serious decline, and then we had ferent countries at the time. a recession. Then we had corporate scandals, Our military is now investigating a number and then the attacks of September the 11th of possible scenarios, including that the ex- cost us about a million jobs in the 3 months plosives may have been moved before our after that fateful day. troops even arrived at the site. This investiga- But we acted. By cutting the taxes, we tion is important, and it’s ongoing. And a po- spurred consumption and investment, and litical candidate who jumps to conclusions our economic policies have led us back to without knowing the facts is not a person you growth. Our economy is growing faster than want as your Commander in Chief. in any nation in the industrialized world. When it comes to your security—when it We’ve added 1.9 million new jobs since Au- comes to the security of our families, my op- gust of 2003. The national unemployment ponent takes a very different approach. He rate is 5.4 percent, which is lower than the says that September the 11th did not change average rate of the 1970s, the 1980s, and the him much at all. 1990s. The unemployment rate in Pennsyl- Audience members. Boo-o-o! vania is 5.3 percent. Homeownership rate is The President. And his policies make that at an alltime high. Farm income is up. The clear. He says the war on terror is primarily small-business sector of our economy is a law enforcement and intelligence gathering flourishing. The entrepreneurial spirit is operation. Well, September the 11th strong, and we’re not going to go back to changed me. I remember the day I was in the days of tax and spend. the—at Ground Zero, on September the 4th, My opponent has very different plans for 2001. It’s a day I will never forget. There your budget. He’s going to take a big chunk were workers in hardhats there yelling at me out of it. He voted against all the tax relief at the top of their lungs, ‘‘Whatever it takes.’’ that I suggested Congress pass. If he’d had I remember a man grabbed me by the arm, his way, the average family in America would he looked me square in the eye, and he said, be paying $2,000 more in taxes to the Federal ‘‘Do not let me down.’’ Ever since that day, Government. I wake up every morning trying to figure out Audience members. Boo-o-o! how to better protect America. I will never The President. All told, during his 20 relent in defending America, whatever it years in the United States Senate, he has takes. voted to raise taxes 98 times. That’s five times

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a year. I would call that a predictable pattern. child is enrolled in our Government’s low- [Laughter] When a Senator does something income health insurance programs. that often, he must really enjoy it. [Laughter] And to help the families of Pennsylvania, During this campaign, he’s proposed $2.2 we will do something about the frivolous law- trillion of new spending. Now, that is a tril- suits that are running up the cost of medicine lion with a ‘‘T.’’ That’s a lot even for a Senator and running good doctors out of practice. from Massachusetts. [Laughter] Like other States, you’ve got an issue when So they said, ‘‘How are you going to pay it comes to these medical liability lawsuits. for it?’’ And he said, ‘‘Oh, we’re just going I met too many good ob-gyns who have been to tax the rich.’’ Now, you’ve heard that be- run out of practice because their premiums fore. Be wary when you hear, ‘‘Oh, we’re just have gone up too high. I have met expectant going to tax the rich.’’ My opponent has mothers here in Pennsylvania who are wor- promised 2.2 trillion, but when you run up ried about whether they and their baby will the top two brackets, you only raise between get the health care they need. You cannot 600 and 800 billion. There is a gap between be pro-doctor and pro-patient and pro-per- that which he promised and that which he sonal-trial-lawyer at the same time. You have can deliver. And guess who usually fills that to make your choice. My opponent made his gap? choice, and he put a personal injury trial law- Audience members. We do! yer on the ticket. I have made my choice. The President. We’re not going to let him I’m standing with the doctors of Pennsyl- tax you; we’re going to carry Pennsylvania on vania, with the patients of Pennsylvania. I’m November the 2d and win a great victory. for medical liability reform—now. Audience members. Four more years! My opponent has got a different view Four more years! Four more years! when it comes to health care. I remember The President. The third clear choice in our debate, when he looked right in the cam- this election involves the quality of life of our era and he said his health care plan, ‘‘the families. A good education and quality health Government has nothing to do with it.’’ I care are important to a successful life. As a could barely contain myself. [Laughter] candidate, I pledged to challenge the soft The Government has got a lot to do with bigotry of low expectations by reforming our it. Eight out of ten people would be signed public schools. And as President, I kept my up to a Government program. Think about word. We passed education reforms to bring the idea of making it easier for people to high standards to our classrooms and to make sign up for Medicaid. It means small busi- schools accountable to our parents. We’re nesses will no longer provide coverage for seeing progress all across America. Math and their employees because the Government reading scores are on the rise. Achievement will. And people would be moved from pri- gaps, particularly for minority students, are vate insurance to Government insurance. closing all across our country. We’re building You see, when the Government writes the on these reforms. We’ll extend them to our checks, the Government starts making the high schools so that no child is left behind rules. And when it comes to health care, in America. when the Government makes the rules, the We’ll continue to improve our lives. We’re Government starts making your decisions. making health care more accessible and af- And they start making the decisions for you, fordable. We will expand health savings ac- and they start making the decisions for the counts so small businesses can cover their doctors. workers and more families are able to get His plan is a big Government-run health health care accounts they manage and call care plan. It is the wrong prescription for their own. We will create association health American families. In all we do to reform plans so small businesses can join together health care, we’ll make sure the decisions are and buy insurance at the same discounts that made by doctors and patients, not by officials big companies are able to do. We will help in Washington, DC. families in need by expanding community The fourth clear choice in this election in- health centers. We’ll make sure every eligible volves your retirement. Our Nation has made

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a solemn commitment to America’s seniors en the Social Security system for generations on Social Security and Medicare. When I ran to come. for President 4 years ago, I promised to keep In this campaign, I’m speaking to the that commitment and improve Medicare by hopes of all Americans. The President’s job adding prescription drug coverage. I kept my is not to lead one party, but to serve the en- word. Seniors are now getting discounts on tire Nation. I’m proud to have lifelong medicine with drug discount cards. Low-in- Democrats like Zell Miller by my side, and come seniors are getting $600 of help this he’s joined by millions of other Democrats year and $600 of help next year to help them across our country who are supporting our afford prescription drugs. And beginning in ticket. As the citizens of this Nation prepare 2006, all seniors will be able to get prescrip- to vote, I want to speak directly to the Demo- tion drug coverage under Medicare. crats. I’m a proud Republican, but I believe And we’ll keep the promise of Social Secu- my policies appeal to many Democrats. In rity for our seniors, and as we do so, we’ll fact, I believe my opponent is running away strengthen Social Security for generations to from some of the great traditions of the come. I want you to remember what hap- Democrat Party. If you’re a Democrat and pened in the 2000 campaign. It is—it’s pretty you want America to be strong and confident predictable what takes place when it comes in our ideals, I’d be honored to have your to elections. You might remember, they said, vote. ‘‘If George W. gets elected, our seniors will The Democratic Party has a great tradition not get their checks.’’ Well, I want you to of leading this country with strength and con- remind your friends and neighbors when viction in times of war and crisis. I think of Franklin Roosevelt’s commitment to total you’re out gathering up the vote that George victory. I think of Harry Truman’s clear vi- W. did get elected, and our seniors did get sion at the beginning of the cold war. I think their checks. And our seniors will continue of John Kennedy’s brave declaration of to get their checks under Social Security, no American ideals. President Kennedy said, matter what the politicians try to scare you ‘‘The rights of man come not from the gen- with. Baby boomers like me are in pretty erosity of the state but from the hand of good shape when it comes to the Social Secu- God.’’ rity trust. Many Democrats look at my opponent and But we need to worry about our children wonder where the—that great tradition of and our grandchildren. We need to worry their party has gone. My opponent takes a about whether the Social Security system will narrow, defensive view of the war on terror. be there when they need it. And that’s why As the United States of America hunts down I think younger workers ought to be able to the terrorists and liberates millions from tyr- take some of their own money and put it in anny and aids the rise of liberty in distant a personal savings account, a savings account lands, my opponent counsels retreat, votes that will earn a better rate of return, a savings against supporting our troops in combat, account they call their own, a savings account downplays the power of democracy, and ac- that the Government cannot take away. cepts and adopts a narrow so-called realism My opponent takes a different approach that is little more than defeatism. when it comes to Social Security. He de- I believe American leadership is the hope clared he will protect Social Security. But I of the repressed, the source of our great se- want you to remind people that he voted curity, and the greatest force for good in this eight times for higher taxes on Social Security world. I believe the liberation of captive peo- benefits. And when it comes to the next gen- ples is a noble achievement that all Ameri- eration, he hasn’t offered anything at all cans can be proud of. If you are a Democrat when it comes to strengthening Social Secu- who wants America to lead with strength and rity. The job of a President is to confront idealism, I would be honored to have your problems, not to pass them on to future gen- vote. erations and future Presidents. In a new The Democratic Party has a tradition of term, I’ll bring people together and strength- support for our public schools. The party of

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Lyndon Johnson and Hubert Humphrey al- Casey, who once said that when we look to ways stood up for the right of poor and mi- the unborn child, the real issue is not when nority children to get the best education life begins but when love begins. I remember America could offer. Many Democrats look the moral clarity of the late Senator Daniel at my opponent and wonder where that firm Patrick Moynihan, Democrat of New York, conviction has gone. Just as teachers and who said that partial-birth abortion is, quote, principals across America are lifting the ‘‘as close to infanticide as anything I have sights of our schools and raising the test ever come upon.’’ Many Democrats look at scores of minority children, my opponent is my opponent and see an attitude that is much talking about weakening the standards and more extreme. He says that life begins at going back to the old days of stagnation and conception but denies that our caring society excuses for failure. should prevent even partial-birth abortion. I got into politics and I ran for Governor Preventing partial-birth abortion is an eth- of Texas because I wanted to challenge that ical conviction shared by many people of soft bigotry of low expectations. I didn’t want every faith and by people who have no reli- to stand by and watch another generation of gion at all. I understand good people disagree students miss out on the opportunity of our on the life issue, so I’ve worked with Repub- great country. When I came to Washington, licans and Democrats to find common I made schools my first domestic priority. ground on difficult questions and to move We’ve increased funding to record levels. this goodhearted Nation toward a culture of We’re demanding results for our children of life. If you’re a Democrat who believes that every background. If you’re a Democrat who our society must always have room for the believes in strong public schools that teach voiceless and the vulnerable, I would be hon- every child, I’d be honored to have your vote. ored to have your vote. Americans of both political parties have al- There are Democrats all over America, ways had respect and reverence for the insti- tution of marriage. Never in our history has north and south, east and west, who believe marriage been a partisan issue; it’s not a par- their party’s nominee does not share their tisan issue today. Yet, many Democrats look deepest values. I know the Democrats are at my opponent and wonder, where is his not going to agree with me on every issue. commitment to defending the basic institu- Yet on the big issues of our country’s security, tion of civilization? He says he supports mar- victory in the war against terror, improving riage, but he’ll do nothing to defend it. My our public schools, respecting marriage and opponent even voted against the Defense of human life, I hope people who usually vote Marriage Act, which defined marriage as be- for the other party will take a close look at tween a man and a woman. More than two- my agenda. If you’re a Democrat and your thirds of Democrats in the Senate supported dreams and goals are not found in the far that act, and President Bill Clinton signed left wing of the Democrat Party, I’d be hon- it into law. On the issue of protecting mar- ored to have your vote. And next Tuesday, riage, the Senator from Massachusetts is out- I ask you to stand with me. side the mainstream of America and outside And I want to thank each and every one the mainstream of the Democratic Party. of you who have come today for standing I believe that our society must show toler- with me. I appreciate your support. I appre- ance and respect for every individual, yet I ciate your convictions. I appreciate your good do not believe this commitment of tolerance work. I believe in the future of this country. requires us to redefine marriage. If you are One of my favorite quotes was written by a Democrat who believes that marriage a Texan named Tom Lea. He said this, he should be protected from activist judges, I’d said, ‘‘Sarah and I live on the east side of be honored to have your vote. the mountain. It is the sunrise side, not the The Democrat Party has also a great tradi- sunset side. It is the side to see the day that tion of defending the defenseless. I remem- is coming, not to see the day that is gone.’’ ber the strong conscience of the late Demo- During the course of this campaign, my op- cratic Governor from Pennsylvania, Robert ponent has spent much of the time talking

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about the day that is gone. I’m talking about so that Laura is the First Lady for 4 more the day that is coming. years. I’m sure many of you will relate to We’ve been through a lot together in the this. When I asked Laura to marry me, she last 4 years. Because we’ve done the hard said, ‘‘Fine, but make me a promise.’’ I said, work of climbing that mountain, we can see ‘‘Okay, what is it?’’ She said, ‘‘Promise me the valley below. For the next 4 years, we’ll I’ll never have to give a political speech.’’ protect our families. We’ll build on the pros- [Laughter] I said, ‘‘Okay, you got a deal.’’ perity of our Nation. We will defend our Fortunately, she didn’t hold me to that prom- deepest values. We will spread freedom and ise. She’s giving a lot of speeches, and when liberty around the world and continue to she speaks, the American people see a warm, work for the peace we all long for. compassionate, strong First Lady. You know, when I campaigned across this I’m proud of my runningmate, Dick Che- great State in 2000, I said if you gave me ney. Now, look, I admit it, he does not have a chance to serve, I would uphold the honor the waviest hair in the race. [Laughter] I see and the integrity of the office to which I have some others who are follically challenged. been elected. With your help, with your hard [Laughter] But you’ll be happy to hear I did work, I will do so for 4 more years. not pick the man because of his hairdo. Thanks for coming. God bless. Thank you [Laughter] I picked him because of his expe- all. rience. I picked him because of his judgment. I picked him because he can get the job done NOTE: The President spoke at 11:12 a.m. at the for the American people. Lancaster Airport. In his remarks, he referred to Nothing better than traveling throughout country music entertainer Daron Norwood; Ohio with Zell Miller. What a good man, Usama bin Laden, leader of the Al Qaida terrorist good, down-to-earth, solid citizen of the organization; and Gen. Tommy R. Franks, USA, (Ret.), former combatant commander, U.S. Cen- United States of America. Zell, we’re proud tral Command. you’re here. And I want to thank George McKelvey, the mayor of Youngstown, Ohio. I can’t thank Remarks in Vienna, Ohio him enough for his friendship and his strong October 27, 2004 support. I’m proud to be with your fine Governor, The President. Thank you all for coming. Bob Taft. Governor, thanks for being here. Thanks so much for coming. My fellow Re- I want to thank all the State and local offi- publicans, discerning Democrats, wise inde- cials, all the candidates who are running for pendents, I’m here to ask for your vote and different offices. ask for your help. I want to thank my friend Sammy We’re getting close to voting time here in Kershaw. I appreciate you, Sammy. And I Ohio. It’s coming close to time for people want to thank Lorrie Morgan as well. We’re to get out and exercise their responsibility honored you’re here. I want to thank the in a free society. And so I’m asking you to Boardman High School marching band for get people to go to the polls. I’m asking you being here. to get your friends and neighbors to do their Most of all, I want to thank you all for duty. Don’t overlook discerning Democrats, coming. You’re lifting my soul and lifting my people like the mayor and Senator Miller. spirits. It is so great to see such a big crowd. Don’t overlook people who understand that I want to thank you for putting up the signs. I stand for all of America, that my vision is I want to thank you for making the phone a vision for everybody. And when you get calls. I want to thank you for what you’re them headed to the polls, remind them, if going to do as we’re coming down the they want a safer America, a stronger Amer- stretch, which is to turn out that vote. With ica, and a better America, to put me and Dick your help, there is no doubt in my mind, we Cheney back in office. will carry Ohio again and win a great victory. Perhaps the most important reason why Audience members. Four more years! your fellow citizens ought to vote for me is Four more years! Four more years!

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The President. Thank you all. This elec- lieve everybody wants to be free. We believe tion comes down to some clear choices for in the power of liberty to transform societies. America’s families, choices on issues of great And we believe that not because freedom is consequence. America’s gift to the world; freedom is the The first clear choice is the most important Almighty God’s gift to each man and woman because it concerns the security of your fam- in this world. ily. All progress on every other issue depends A President must lead with consistency on the safety of our citizens. This will be the and strength. In war, sometimes you change first Presidential election since September your tactics but never your principles. Ameri- the 11th, 2001. Americans will go to the polls cans have seen how I do my job. Even when in a time of war and ongoing threats to our you might not agree with me, you know Nation. The terrorists who killed thousands where I stand, you know what I believe, and are still dangerous, and they’re determined. you know where I intend to lead this country. The outcome of this election will set the di- On good days and on bad days, whether the rection of the war against terror. polls are up or the polls are down, I am deter- The most solemn duty of the American mined to protect the American people. I will President is to protect the American people. continue to lead with resolve. And I can as- If America shows uncertainty or weakness in sure you, I will always stand by the men and this decade, the world will drift toward trag- women who wear our Nation’s uniform as edy. This will not happen on my watch. they protect us. Since that terrible morning of September And that’s why I went to the United States the 11th, 2001, we have fought the terrorists Congress in September of 2003, asking for across the Earth, not for pride, not for power, $87 billion to support our troops in harm’s but because the lives of our citizens are at way. It was vital funding request. We got stake. Our strategy is clear. We’ve strength- good support for that request except from ened the protections for the homeland. a handful of people. I see we got a lot of We’re reforming our intelligence services. veterans here. I want to thank you for serving We’re transforming our military. There will and setting such a great example. You all be no draft; the All-Volunteer Army will re- know what I’m talking about when I say ‘‘sup- main an all-volunteer army. We are relent- port our troops in harm’s way.’’ You know less. We are steadfast. We are pursuing the how important that is. Well, most of them enemy across the Earth so we do not have in Congress understood how important it to face them here at home. was. I want you to tell your friends and neigh- And we are spreading liberty. I want you bors, Republicans, Democrats, independ- to tell your children what a monumental ents, about this startling statistic: There were event has taken place in Afghanistan. It only four Members of the United States Sen- wasn’t all that long ago that young girls ate that voted to authorize the use of force couldn’t go to school, and if their mothers and then did not provide the funding to our didn’t toe the line of the ideologues of hate, troops in combat—only four, two of whom the Taliban, they were pulled out in the pub- were my opponent and his runningmate. lic square and whipped and sometimes exe- Audience members. Boo-o-o! cuted. But because we acted in our self-de- The President. So they asked him about fense, because we acted to remove terrorist that vote, and you might remember perhaps training camps in Afghanistan, because we the most famous quote of the 2004 campaign upheld doctrine that said, ‘‘If you harbor a when John Kerry said, ‘‘I actually did vote terrorist, you’re equally as guilty as the ter- for the $87 billion, right before I voted rorist,’’ millions of people in Afghanistan against it.’’ went to the polls to vote for a President. The Audience members. Boo-o-o! first voter was a 19-year-old woman. Free- The President. You know, I haven’t spent dom is on the march. as much time in Youngstown as the mayor Iraq will have Presidential elections. Think has, but you know, I talked to the mayor, how far that country has come from the days and he assures me not many people in of torture chambers and mass graves. We be- Youngstown, Ohio, talk like that. [Laughter]

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People in this part of the world like some- See, our military is now investigating a body who shoots straight with them. number of possible scenarios, including this They finally pressed him, and Senator one: that explosives may have been moved Kerry finally said, after about four or five dif- before our troops even arrived—even arrived ferent answers as to—about why he made at the site. The investigation is important and the vote he made, he said, ‘‘The whole thing ongoing. And a political candidate who jumps was a complicated matter.’’ My fellow Ameri- to conclusions without knowing the facts is cans, there is nothing complicated about sup- not the person you want as the Commander porting our troops in combat. in Chief. A President must be consistent. After re- We have a very different perspective when peatedly calling Iraq the ‘‘wrong war’’ and it comes to protecting the American people. a ‘‘diversion,’’ Senator Kerry this week Senator Kerry says that September the 11th seemed shocked to learn that Iraq was a dan- did not change him much at all. gerous place full of dangerous weapons. Audience members. Boo-o-o! [Laughter] The Senator used to know that, The President. Those were his words. even though he seems to have forgotten it That’s what he said. And his policies make over the course of this campaign. But after that clear. He says the war on terror is pri- all, that’s why we went into Iraq. Iraq was marily a law enforcement and intelligence a dangerous place run by a dangerous tyrant gathering operation. My outlook was who hated America and who had a lot of changed on September the 11th. It changed weapons. We’ve seized or destroyed more my view of risks we face. than 400,000 tons of munitions, including ex- I’ll never forget the day when I was at plosives, at more than thousands of sites. And Ground Zero on September the 14th, 2001. we’re continuing to round up the weapons The sights and sounds of that day will never almost every day. escape my memory. Workers in hardhats I want to remind the American people, if were yelling at me at the top of their lungs, Senator Kerry had his way, we would still ‘‘Whatever it takes.’’ I remember the man be taking our ‘‘global test.’’ coming out and grabbing me by the arm and Audience members. Boo-o-o! looking me square in the eye, and he said, The President. Saddam Hussein would ‘‘Do not let me down.’’ Ever since that day, still be in power. I have awakened wondering how best to pro- Audience members. Boo-o-o! tect this country, trying to figure out every- The President. He would control all those thing we can do to protect you. I will never weapons and explosives and could have relent in defending America, whatever it shared them with our terrorist enemies. takes. Audience members. Boo-o-o! The second clear choice in this election The President. Now the Senator is mak- concerns your families’ budget, your wallet. ing wild charges about missing explosives, When I ran for President 4 years ago, I when his top foreign policy adviser admits, pledged to lower taxes for American families. ‘‘We don’t know the facts,’’ end quote. Think I kept my word. We doubled the child credit about that. The Senator is denigrating the to $1,000 per child to help you raise your actions of our troops and commanders in the kids. We reduced the marriage penalty. We field without knowing the facts. Unfortu- believe the Tax Code ought to encourage nately, that’s part of the pattern of saying marriage, not penalize marriage. We anything it takes to get elected, like when dropped the lowest tax bracket to 10 percent he charged that our military failed to get to help the working Americans. We reduced Usama bin Laden at Tora Bora, even though income taxes for everybody who pays taxes. our top military commander, General I want you to tell your friends and neigh- Tommy Franks, said, ‘‘The Senator’s under- bors, remind them before they go to the standing of events does not square with re- polls, what our economy has been through. ality,’’ and intelligence reports place bin Six months prior to my arrival in Washington, Laden in any of several different countries the stock market was in serious decline—six at the time. months prior to my arrival. Then we had a

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recession. Then we had some corporate scan- a Senator does something that often, he must dals. We passed laws, tough laws that now really enjoy it. [Laughter] I also want to re- make it abundantly clear we will not tolerate mind you, he’s promised $2.2 trillion of new dishonesty in the boardrooms of America. Federal spending. That’s trillion with a ‘‘T.’’ We lost nearly one million jobs after the at- That’s a lot even for a Senator from Massa- tacks on our country on September the 11th, chusetts. 2001. We have been through a lot. So they asked him, ‘‘How are you going But our economic policies, our policies of to pay for it?’’ He threw out that same old, helping the small businesses and helping the tired line we’ve heard every 4 years: ‘‘Oh, families, have led us back to growth. Our I’ll pay for it by taxing the rich.’’ The problem economy is growing as fast as any in nearly is, is that when you raise the top two brack- 20 years. Homeownership rate is at an alltime ets, you only raise between 600 and 800 bil- high in America. We have added 1.9 million lion dollars. There is what I would call a tax new jobs in the last 13 months. The national gap. That would be the difference between unemployment rate is 5.4 percent. That’s what he’s promised and what he can pay for. lower than the average rate of the 1970s, And when you have a tax gap like that and 1980s, and 1990s. I understand you’ve had you’ve got a man of his record running for tough times in Ohio. I know that. I’ve trav- President, guess who usually gets to pay? eled your State a lot. But let me remind you, Audience members. We do! things are getting better here. The unem- The President. Here’s the good news. ployment rate dropped from 6.3 percent to We’re not going to let him tax you; we’re 6 percent last month. We added 5,500 new going to carry Ohio and win a great victory. jobs in one month here in the State of Ohio. Senator Kerry can run from his record, but But there’s more work to be done. There’s he cannot hide. more work to be done. I signed a bill last Third clear choice in this election involves week to help our manufacturing sector here the quality of life for our families. A good in Ohio and across the country. We’ll con- education and quality health care are impor- tinue to support our community colleges. tant for our families. As a candidate, I We’ve expanded trade adjustment assistance pledged to challenge the soft bigotry of low to make sure our workers have got the skills expectations by reforming our public schools. necessary to fill the jobs of the 21st century. I kept my word. We passed education re- We have overcome a lot together. Our econ- forms to bring high standards to our schools. omy is strong, and it is getting stronger. We increased Federal spending, but in- My opponent has a different point of view, stead—in return for Federal spending, in- a different view about your family’s budget. creases of Federal spending, we said, ‘‘Meas- To put it bluntly, he intends to take a big ure. Show us.’’ We believe in accountability. chunk out of it. You cannot solve a problem unless you diag- Audience members. Boo-o-o! nose a problem. We are diagnosing and solv- The President. He voted for all the tax ing problems all across America. Math and relief—against all the tax relief. We put the reading scores are up. The achievement gap tax relief up there to stimulate the economy, for minority students across our country is to encourage consumption, to help invest- closing. We’ll extend these kind of reforms ment, to stimulate our small businesses. And and high standards to our high schools so that he voted ‘‘no.’’ If he had had his way, the no child is left behind in America. average family in America would be paying We’ll improve our lives for our families by 2,000 more dollars in income taxes to the making sure health care is affordable and ac- Federal Government. cessible. We’ll take care of the low-income Audience members. Boo-o-o! and the needy by expanding community The President. He’s been in the United health centers across our country. We will States Senate 20 years, and he’s voted to raise work to make sure our low-income children’s taxes 98 times. That’s five times a year. I health program is fully subscribed. To make would call that a predictable pattern. [Laugh- sure health care is affordable, we will pro- ter] I would call that as an indicator. When mote health savings accounts, which will help

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our families and small businesses better af- health care, we’ll make sure the decisions are ford insurance. We will allow small busi- made by doctors and patients, not by officials nesses to pool risk, to join together so they in Washington, DC. can buy insurance at the same discounts big The fourth clear choice in this election in- companies are able to do. volves your retirement. Our Nation has made And to help families and small businesses a solemn commitment to our seniors on So- afford health care, we will do something cial Security and Medicare. When I ran for about the frivolous lawsuits that are running President 4 years ago, I promised to keep up the cost of health care. We have a prob- that commitment and improve Medicare by lem when it comes to these lawsuits. I have adding prescription drugs. I kept my word. met too many ob-gyns that are being run out We are strengthening Medicare. Seniors are of the practice of medicine because their pre- now getting discounts on medicine with drug miums are too high. I have met too many discount cards. Poor seniors can get $600 pregnant moms who are worried about their worth of help on their drug discount card health care and the health care of their child this year and next year. And beginning in because they can’t find an ob-gyn that’s close to the community in which they live. This 2006, all seniors will be able to get a prescrip- is a national problem that requires a national tion drug benefit when it comes to Medicare. solution. You cannot be pro-doctor, pro-pa- And we’ll keep our promise of Social Secu- tient, and pro-personal-injury-trial-lawyer at rity for our seniors. Let me remind you about the same time. You have to choose. My oppo- what took place in the 2000 campaign. That nent made his choice, and he put a personal same old, tired scare tactic was unleashed— injury trial lawyer on the ticket. probably being done today too, who knows. Audience members. Boo-o-o! People said, ‘‘If George W. gets elected, our The President. I have made my choice. seniors will not get their checks.’’ Now, I I’m standing with the doctors of Ohio, the want you to remind your friends and neigh- patients of Ohio. I’m for medical liability re- bors, George W. did get elected, and the sen- form—now. iors did get their checks. And our seniors will I remember one of those debates when continue to get their checks. And baby my opponent looked straight in the camera boomers like me and a couple of others I and said—when asked about his health care see out there, we’re in pretty good shape plan, he said, ‘‘The Government doesn’t have when it comes to the Social Security trust. anything to do with it.’’ I could barely contain But we need to worry about our children myself. [Laughter] and our grandchildren. We need to worry The Government has got a lot to do with about whether or not Social Security will be it. About 80 percent of the people who sign available for them when they retire. I believe up for health insurance under his plan will younger workers ought to be able to take end up on the Government. Do you realize, some of their own money and set up a per- when you make it easier for people to get sonal savings account, an account that earns on Medicaid, small businesses will no longer a better rate of return, an account they call provide insurance because the Government their own, an account the Government can- will provide insurance, moving people from the private sector to the Government? Now, not take away. listen, when the Government starts writing My opponent takes a different approach. checks, the Government starts making rules. He has said that he is going to protect Social And when the Government starts making Security, but I want you to remind your rules, the Government starts making deci- friends and neighbors of this fact: He’s the sions on behalf of the people, and the Gov- only candidate in this race who has voted ernment starts to ration health care, and they eight times for higher taxes on Social Security decide your doctors, and then they start tell- benefits. ing your doctors what to do. Federally-run Audience members. Boo-o-o! health care is the wrong prescription for The President. He can run from that America’s families. In all we do to improve record, but I’m not going to let him hide.

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And when it comes to the next generation, Americans can be proud of. I believe that when it comes to our children and our grand- our troops in the field need our support 100 children, he hasn’t offered any reform. See, percent of the time. the job of a President is to confront prob- If you are a Democrat who wants America lems, not to pass them on to future genera- to lead with strength and idealism, I would tions and future Presidents. In a new term, be honored to have your support. The Demo- I’ll bring Republicans and Democrats to- cratic party has a tradition for support of our gether to strengthen Social Security so our public schools. I think about Lyndon Johnson children will be able to have a Social Security and Hubert Humphrey, who always stood up system that works. for the right of the poor and minority chil- In this campaign, I’m speaking to the dren to get the best education America could hopes of all Americans. The President’s job offer. Many Democrats look at my opponent is not to lead one party but to serve one Na- and wonder where that firm conviction has tion. I’m proud to have lifelong Democrats gone. Just as teachers and principals across like Zell and George by my side in this cam- America are lifting the sights of our schools paign, and they’re joined by millions of other and raising the test scores of minority chil- Democrats all across this country. As the citi- dren, my opponent is talking about weak- zens of this Nation prepare to vote, I want ening the standards and going back to the to speak directly to the Democrats. I’m a old days of stagnation and excuses for failure. proud Republican, but I believe my policies Audience members. Boo-o-o! appeal to many Democrats. In fact, I believe The President. I got into politics and I my opponent is running away from some of ran for Governor of my State because I the great traditions of the Democratic Party. would not stand by and watch another gen- If you’re a Democrat and you want America eration of students miss out on the oppor- to be strong and confident in our ideals, I tunity of America. And when I came to would be honored to have your vote. Washington, I made schools my top domestic The Democratic Party has a great tradition priority. If you are a Democrat who believes of leading this country with strength and con- in strong public schools that teach every viction in times of war. I think of Franklin child, I’d be honored to have your vote. Roosevelt’s commitment to total victory. I think of Harry Truman’s clear vision at the Americans of both political parties have al- beginning of the cold war. I think of John ways had respect and reverence for the insti- Kennedy’s brave declaration of American tution of marriage. Never in our history has ideals. President Kennedy said, ‘‘The rights marriage been a partisan issue, and it’s not of man come not from the generosity of the a partisan issue today. Yet, many Democrats state, but from the hand of God.’’ look at my opponent and wonder, where is Many Democrats look at my opponent and his commitment to defending the basic insti- wonder where that great tradition of their tution of civilization?. He says he supports party has gone. My opponent takes a narrow, marriage, but he will do nothing to defend defensive view of the war on terror. As the it. United States of America hunts down the ter- Audience members. Boo-o-o! rorists and liberates millions from tyranny The President. My opponent even voted and aids the rise of liberty in distant lands, against the Defense of Marriage Act, which my opponent counsels retreat. He votes defined marriage as between a man and a against supporting our troops in combat. He woman. And two-thirds of the Democrats in downplays the power of democracy and the Senate supported it, and my predecessor, adopts a narrow so-called realism that is little Bill Clinton, signed it into law. On the issue more than defeatism. of protecting marriage, the Senator from I believe—I believe that American leader- Massachusetts is outside the mainstream of ship is the hope of the oppressed, the source America and outside the mainstream of the of security, and the greatest force for good Democratic Party. in this world. I believe the liberation of cap- I believe that our society must show toler- tive peoples is a noble achievement that all ance and respect for every individual. Yet,

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I do not believe this commitment to toler- Audience members. Four more years! ance requires us to redefine marriage. If you Four more years! Four more years! are a Democrat who believes that marriage The President. I am optimistic about our should be protected from activist judges, I’d great land. I love my country. The great be honored to have your vote. strength of America is found in the hearts The Democrat Party is also a great tradi- and souls of our people. What a fantastic land tion of defending the defenseless. I remem- we have. One of my favorite quotes was writ- ber the strong conscience of the late Demo- ten by a fellow Texan, a fellow named Tom cratic Governor of Pennsylvania, Robert Lea. And here’s what he said, he said, ‘‘Sarah Casey, who once said that when he looked and I live on the east side of the mountain. to an unborn child, the real issue is not when It is the sunrise side, not the sunset side. life begins but when love begins. I remember It is the side to see the day that is coming, the moral clarity of the late Senator Daniel not to see the day that is gone.’’ You know, Patrick Moynihan, Democrat of New York, my opponent has spent much of this cam- who said that partial-birth abortion is, quote, paign talking about the day that is gone. I’m ‘‘as close to infanticide as anything I have talking about the day that is coming. come upon.’’ Because we have done the hard work of Many opponents—many Democrats look climbing that mountain, we can see the valley at my opponent and see an attitude that is below. Over the next 4 years, we’ll work to much more extreme. He says that life begins protect our families; we’ll build our pros- at conception but denies that our caring soci- perity; we will defend the deepest values. ety should prevent even partial-birth abor- Over the next 4 years, we’ll continue to tion. spread liberty so we can achieve the peace Audience members. Boo-o-o! we want for our children and our grand- The President. He voted against the ban children. on partial-birth abortion. When I traveled your State 4 years ago, Audience members. Boo-o-o! I made you this pledge: I said if I was—if The President. I proudly signed the ban I happened to win that election, I would up- on partial-birth abortion. Preventing partial- hold the honor and the dignity of the office birth abortion is an ethical conviction shared to which I had been elected. With your help, by many people of every faith and by people I will do so for 4 more years. who have no religion at all. I understand God bless. Thank you all for coming. good people disagree on the life issue, and Thank you all. I’ll continue to work with Republicans and Democrats to find common ground on the NOTE: The President spoke at 2:16 p.m. at the difficult questions and move this good- Youngstown-Warren Regional Airport. In his re- hearted Nation toward a culture of life. If marks, he referred to country music entertainers you are a Democrat who believes that our Sammy Kershaw and Lorrie Morgan; former society must always have room for the voice- President Saddam Hussein of Iraq; Usama bin less and the vulnerable, I would be honored Laden, leader of the Al Qaida terrorist organiza- tion; and Gen. Tommy R. Franks, USA, (Ret.), to have your vote. former combatant commander, U.S. Central I know that Democrats are not going to Command. agree with me on every issue, yet on the big issues of our country’s security, victory in the war against terror, improving our public Remarks in Findlay, Ohio schools, respecting marriage and human life, October 27, 2004 I hope people who usually vote for the other party will take a close look at my agenda. The President. Thank you all for coming. If you are a Democrat and your dreams and You know, it is such a beautiful day in Flag goals are not found on the far left wing of City, I think I’ll just take off my jacket and the Democratic Party, I’d be honored to have stay a while. Thanks for coming out. You are your vote. And next Tuesday, I ask you to lifting our spirits. We’re honored you’re here. stand with me. And Laura and I have come with the great

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Senator from Georgia to not only ask for your party aside and puts his country first, and vote but to ask for your help. We need your for that, I am grateful. help coming down the stretch to get your I call him Ox; you call him Congressman. friends and neighbors to go to the polls. Mike Oxley is as fine as they are in the House We have a duty in our democracy to vote. of Representatives. He’s a good man, and I We have an obligation to vote. So I’m asking appreciate his service. And I want to thank you to tell your friends and neighbors about his wife, Pat, for joining us as well. And I that obligation. Get our Republicans to go am proud to be up here, or close by, with out there. Get independents to go out there. the fine United States Senator, Michael And find those discerning Democrats like DeWine. He’s doing a good job for the peo- Zell Miller and head them to the polls. And ple of Ohio, as is George Voinovich. Make when you get them to the polls, remind sure you put George back in. And I appre- them, if they want a safer America and a ciate Fran DeWine joining us. stronger America and a better America, to I want to thank Congressman Paul put me and Dick Cheney back in office. Gillmore for being here today. Audience members. Four more years! I want to thank your Governor, Bob Taft, Four more years! Four more years! for joining us today. Mr. Governor, I appre- The President. I have been traveling your ciate your service to the State of Ohio. I want State a lot, and I enjoy it. I have had a chance to thank Jennette Bradley for joining us to say hello to a lot of the citizens from Ohio. today, the Lieutenant Governor of the State And I’ve been telling them why they ought of Ohio. to put me back in office. But perhaps the I appreciate Mayor Iriti for joining us most important reason why I ought to have today. Mr. Mayor, you didn’t ask me for any 4 more years is so that Laura is the First advice, but I’m going to give you some: Fill Lady for 4 more years. I’m sure some will the potholes. Mayor Iriti is a good man, and be able to relate to this story. You know, I appreciate him being here. And I want to Laura and I went to the seventh grade to- thank you, Mr. Mayor, for serving. I want gether in San Jacinto Junior High in Midland, to thank all the other State and local officials. Texas. We became reacquainted. She was a I want to thank the Findlay High School public school librarian, and when I asked her Marching Band for joining us. I want to to marry me, she said, ‘‘Fine, but make me thank Wil Gravatt Band for joining us today. a promise.’’ I said, ‘‘Okay, what is it?’’ She Most of all, I want to thank you all. I want said, ‘‘Promise me I’ll never have to give a to thank the grassroots activists, the people political speech.’’ [Laughter] I said, ‘‘Okay, who are putting up the signs, the people you got a deal.’’ Fortunately, she did not hold making the phone calls, the people who have me to that promise. She is giving a lot of worked so hard to make this rally such a suc- speeches, and when she does, the American cessful rally. I want to thank you for what people see a warm, compassionate, strong you have done, and I want to thank you for First Lady. what you are going to do, which is turn out I’m looking around. I see some people out that vote. And with your help, there is no there who are follically challenged. [Laugh- doubt in my mind, we’ll carry Ohio again and ter] And think about that, it reminds me of win a great victory on November the 2d. my Vice President. [Laughter] Dick Cheney This election comes down to some clear is a great Vice President. He does not have choices for America’s families, choices on the waviest hair in the race. [Laughter] But issues of great consequence. The first clear you all will be pleased to hear, I didn’t pick choice is the most important because it con- him because of his hairdo. I picked him be- cerns the security of your family. All progress cause of his judgment. I picked him because on every other issue depends on the safety of his experience. I picked him because he’s of our citizens. This will be the first Presi- getting the job done for the American peo- dential election since September the 11th, ple. 2001. Americans will go to the polls in a time It’s a joy to travel with my friend Zell Mil- of war and of ongoing threat unlike any we ler. He’s strong. He is courageous. He puts have faced before. The terrorists who kill

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thousands of innocent people are still dan- A President must lead with consistency gerous, and they are determined to strike. and strength. In a war, sometimes you have The outcome of this election will set the di- to change your tactics but never your prin- rection of the war against terror. The most ciples. Americans have seen how I do my solemn duty of the American President is to job. Even when you might not agree with protect the American people. If America me, you know what I believe, you know shows uncertainty or weakness in this dec- where I stand, and you know what I intend ade, the world will drift toward tragedy. This to do. On good days and on bad days, wheth- will not happen on my watch. er the polls are up or the polls are down, Since that terrible morning of September I will do everything we can do to defend the the 11th, 2001, we have fought the terrorists American people and win this war against the across the Earth, not for pride, not for power terrorists. And I will always support the men but because the lives of our citizens are at and women who wear our Nation’s uniform. stake. Our strategy is clear. We have We have got a great United States military. strengthened the protections for the home- And I am proud to be their Commander in land. We’re reforming our intelligence capa- Chief. I want to thank the families of those bilities. We’re transforming the United States who wear our Nation’s uniform. I want to military. We will keep the All-Volunteer thank you for your sacrifices. I want to thank Army an all-volunteer army. There will be the veterans who are here today for having no draft. We are relentless. We are deter- set such a great example for those who wear mined. We are staying on the offensive so the uniform. we do not have to face these terrorists here As I’ve told families all across this country, we will make sure your loved ones have the at home. support necessary to complete their missions. And we’re spreading freedom and liberty. And that’s why I went to the United States Some amazing things have happened in a Congress and asked for $87 billion of supple- short period of time. I want the youngsters mental funding in September of 2003, nec- here to understand what has happened in the 1 essary funding, important funding to support world. In Afghanistan, 3 ⁄2 years ago, young our troops in harm’s way. And we received girls couldn’t go to school. And if their moth- good support for that. As a matter of fact, ers did not toe the line of the ideologues of the support was so strong that only 12 Mem- hate who ran that country, they were bers of the United States Senate voted whipped in the public square, sometimes ex- against funding for our troops, 2 of whom ecuted in a sports stadium. We acted to de- were my opponent and his runningmate. fend ourselves. We upheld the doctrine that Audience members. Boo-o-o! said, ‘‘If you harbor a terrorist, you’re equally The President. Now, I would like for you as guilty as the terrorist.’’ And in so doing, to share this startling statistic with your we liberated people from the clutches of friends and neighbors as you get them going those barbaric people called the Taliban. to the polls: There were only 4 Members of Millions of people went to vote in a Presi- the United States Senate—4 out of 100— dential election. The first voter was a 19- that voted to authorize the use of force and year-old woman. Freedom is on the march. then voted against supporting our troops in It’s never easy to go from tyranny to lib- harm’s way, and 2 of those 4 were my oppo- erty, but that’s where we’re headed. There nent and his runningmate. will be elections in Iraq. Think how far that Audience members. Boo-o-o! country has come from the days of mass The President. Now, you might remem- graves and torture chambers. I believe every- ber his—Senator Kerry’s explanation about body in the world yearns to be free. I believe that vote. He said, ‘‘I actually did vote for people deep in their soul want to live in a the $87 billion, right before I voted against free society. I believe that because freedom it.’’ Now, I haven’t spent much time in the is not America’s gift to the world; freedom coffee shops of Findlay, but I suspect you’re is the Almighty God’s gift to each man and not going to find many people in this part woman in this world. of the world who talk that way.

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They kept pressing him about it. He’s debates. Well, this is unjustified criticism of given four or five different explanations our military commanders in the field. This about the vote. One of the most interesting is the kind of—worst kind of Monday morn- ones of all that speaks to my opponent, said, ing quarterbacking, what we’ve come to ex- ‘‘Well, the whole thing was just a complicated pect from him, however. matter.’’ [Laughter] There’s nothing com- In fact, our commander in Afghanistan, plicated about supporting our troops in General Tommy Franks, recently wrote this harm’s way. about Tora Bora: ‘‘The Senator’s under- After repeatedly calling Iraq the ‘‘wrong standing of events does not square with re- war’’ and a ‘‘diversion,’’ Senator Kerry, this ality.’’ He went on to say—the General says, week, seemed shocked to learn that Iraq was ‘‘American Special Forces were actively in- a dangerous place full of dangerous weapons. volved in the search for the terrorists at Tora [Laughter] The Senator used to know that, Bora’’ and that ‘‘intelligence reports at the even though he seems to have forgotten it time placed bin Laden in any of several coun- over the course of the campaign. But that’s tries.’’ That’s what Tommy Franks, who knew why we went there. See, Iraq was a dan- what he’s talking about, said. gerous place run by a dangerous tyrant who Poor Senator Kerry got into political dif- hated the United States. And he had a lot ficulty and revised his views. He saw our ac- of weapons. And we’ve seized or destroyed tions in Tora Bora differently. In the fall of more than 400,000 tons of munitions, includ- 2001, on national television, he said this ing explosives at thousands of sites. And about Tora Bora: ‘‘I think we’ve been doing we’re continuing to round up weapons nearly this pretty effectively, and we should con- every day. tinue to do it that way.’’ At the time, the Now, I want to remind you all, if Senator Senator said about Tora Bora: ‘‘I think we Kerry had had his way, we would still be tak- have been smart. I think the administration ing our ‘‘global test.’’ leadership has done it well, and we are on Audience members. Boo-o-o! the right track,’’ end quote. All I can say The President. And Saddam Hussein about that is, I am George W. Bush, and I would still be in power, and he would control approve of that message. all those weapons and explosives and could The security of our families is vital, and have shared them with a terrorist enemy. it’s important to our people of this country Now, the Senator is making wild charges to understand the records. Senator Kerry’s about missing explosives. One of his top for- record on national security has the far deeper eign policy advisers admits he doesn’t know problem than election-year flip-flopping. On the facts. He said, ‘‘I don’t know the truth,’’ the largest national security issues of our end quote. Well, think about that. The Sen- time, he has been consistently wrong. When ator is denigrating the actions of our troops Ronald Reagan was confronting the Soviet and commanders in the field without know- Union at the height of the cold war, Senator ing the facts. Our military is now inves- Kerry said that President Reagan’s policy of tigating a number of possible scenarios, in- peace through strength was making America cluding that the explosives may have been less safe. History has shown that Senator moved before our troops even arrived at the Kerry was wrong and President Ronald site. This investigation is important, and it Reagan was right. is ongoing. And a political candidate who When former President Bush led a coali- jumps to conclusions without knowing the tion against Saddam Hussein in 1991, Sen- facts is not the person you want as the Com- ator Kerry voted against the use of forces to mander in Chief. liberate Kuwait. History has shown that Sen- Unfortunately, that is part of a pattern. My ator Kerry was wrong and former President opponent is throwing out the wild claim that Bush was right. he knows where bin Laden was in the fall In 1994, just one year after the first bomb- of 2001 and that our military passed up a ing of the World Trade Center, Senator chance to get him at Tora Bora. You might Kerry proposed massive cuts in America’s in- remember that. He kept repeating that in the telligence budget, so massive that even his

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Massachusetts colleague, Ted Kennedy, op- tacked on September the 11th. Those attacks posed them. History has shown that Senator cost us about a million jobs in the 3 months Kerry was wrong and—we have got to be after that fateful day. fair—that Senator Kennedy was right. But our economic policies have led us back During the last 20 years, in key moments to growth. Our economy is growing at rates of challenge and decision for America, Sen- as fast as any in nearly 20 years. Homeowner- ator Kerry has chosen the position of weak- ship in America is at an alltime high. We saw ness and inaction. With that record, he stands a lot of good farmland, flying in today. The in opposition not just to me but to the great farm incomes are up all across America. Our tradition of the Democratic Party. The party small businesses are flourishing. The entre- of Franklin Roosevelt, the party of Harry preneurial spirit is strong. We’ve added 1.9 Truman, the party of John Kennedy is rightly million new jobs since August of 2003. The remembered for confidence and resolve in national unemployment rate is 5.4 percent. times of war and hours of crisis. Senator Let me put that in perspective for you: That’s Kerry has turned his back on ‘‘pay any price’’ lower than the average rate of the 1970s, the and ‘‘bear any burden,’’ and he has replaced 1980s, and the 1990s. those commitments with ‘‘wait and see’’ and I know there are placed hurting here in ‘‘cut and run.’’ Ohio. I’ve traveled into those neighborhoods. Many Democrats in this country do not I’ve talked about an economic plan to con- recognize their party anymore. And traveling tinue growth. But I want to remind you that Ohio, I want to speak to every one of them: just last month, the unemployment rate in If you believe that America should lead with the State of Ohio went from 6.3 percent to strength and purpose and confidence in our 6 percent, and this great State added 5,500 ideals, I would be honored to have your sup- new jobs in 1 month. We’re on the move. port, and I’m asking for your vote. We’re moving forward. Audience members. Four more years! My opponent has very different plans for Four more years! Four more years! your budget. He’s going to take a big chunk The President. The second clear choice out of it. in this election concerns your family’s budg- Audience members. Boo-o-o! et. When I ran for President 4 years ago, The President. He voted against the child I pledged to lower taxes for American fami- tax credit. He voted against marriage penalty lies. And I kept my word. We doubled the relief. He voted against lower taxes. And if child credit to $1,000 per child to help our his way had prevailed, the average family in families. We reduced the marriage penalty. America would have been paying 2,000 more I believe the Tax Code ought to encourage in taxes to the Federal Government. marriage, not penalize marriage. We Audience members. Boo-o-o! dropped the lowest bracket to 10 percent. The President. That may not seem like We reduced income taxes for everybody that a lot to folks in Washington. It means a lot pays income taxes. After-tax income—that’s to people in Findlay, Ohio. money in your pocket—has gone up by about He served in the United States Senate for 10 percent since I became your President. 20 years, and he’s voted for higher taxes 98 And I want you to remind your friends and times. That’s five times every year he served neighbors, when you’re out there getting in the Senate. I would call that a predictable people to the polls, what this economy has pattern—[laughter]—a reliable indicator. been through. Six months prior to my arrival, [Laughter] When a Senator does something the stock market was in serious decline. Then that often, he must really enjoy it. [Laughter] we had a recession. Then we had corporate Around the campaign, he’s been promising scandals. But we passed what’s called the $2.2 trillion in new Federal spending. That’s Sarbanes-Oxley bill, a bill that makes it abun- trillion with a ‘‘T.’’ That’s a lot even for a dantly clear that we will not tolerate dishon- Senator from Massachusetts. [Laughter] esty in the boardrooms of America. And I So they asked him, ‘‘How are you going want to thank Congressman Oxley for au- to pay for it?’’ And he said that same old, thoring this legislation. And then we got at- tired line you’ve heard over and over again,

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‘‘We’re going to tax the rich.’’ Well, there’s too high to practice medicine. And I met too a problem with that. When you run up the many citizens not only in your State but top two brackets, you only raise between 600 across the country, too many moms, expect- and 800 billion dollars. That’s far short of ant moms, who are worried about their the 2.2 trillion he has promised. I would call health care and the health care of their baby that a tax gap. And guess who gets to usually because these lawsuits have made ob-gyn fill that tax gap? care more scarce. This is a national problem. Audience member. We do! You cannot be pro-doctor, pro-patient, and The President. You do. The good news pro-plaintiff-injury-attorney at the same is we’re going to carry Ohio, and we’re not time. You’ve got to make a choice. My oppo- going to let him tax you. nent made his choice, and he put a personal The third choice in this election involves injury trial lawyer on the ticket. the quality of life for our Nation’s families. Audience members. Boo-o-o! A good education and quality health care are The President. I have made my choice. important for your future. As a candidate, I’m standing with the doctors of Ohio. I’m I pledged to end the soft bigotry of low ex- standing with the patients of Ohio. I’m for pectations by reforming our public schools. medical liability reform—now. I kept my word. We passed a really good In one of our debates, my opponent looked piece of reform legislation. We’re raising the straight in the camera when they asked him standards. We’ve increased Federal spend- about his health care plan, and he said, ‘‘The ing, but now we’re asking for results. We Government doesn’t have anything to do want to measure. See, you can’t solve a prob- with it.’’ I’ll be frank with you, I could barely lem unless you’ve diagnosed the problem. contain myself. The Government has got a And we’re diagnosing problems all across lot to do with his plan. Eighty percent of the America, and we’re beginning to solve them. people who sign up on his plan would end Our test scores in reading and math are up. up on the Government. See, if you make it We’re closing achievement gaps for minority easier for people to sign up for Medicaid, students all across America. We’ll build on it means small businesses are likely not to these reforms and extend them to our high provide insurance for their employees be- schools so that no child is left behind in our cause the Government will provide insurance country. for their employees. That’s logical. And when We’ll continue to improve life for our fam- the Government starts writing the checks, ilies by making health care more affordable the Government starts making the rules. And and accessible. We’ll make sure the poor and when it comes to health care when the Gov- the indigent get health care in what’s called ernment’s making the rules, the Government community health centers. We’ll make sure starts making decisions for you and decisions our low-income—our program for low-in- for your doctor. The wrong prescription for come—children in low-income families is health care in America is to increase the role fully subscribed so they get health care. To of the Federal Government. In all we do to make sure health care is affordable, we’ll improve health care, we’ll make sure the de- help our small businesses. We’ll allow them cisions are made by patients and doctors, not to pool together so they can spread risk and by officials in Washington, DC. buy insurance at the same discounts big com- The fourth clear choice in this election panies are able to do. We will expand health comes to your retirement. Our Nation has savings accounts, which will help our families made a solemn commitment to America’s and small-business owners. seniors on Social Security and Medicare. Let me tell you what else we need to do. When I ran for President 4 years ago, I prom- We need to do something about these frivo- ised to keep that commitment and improve lous lawsuits that are running up the cost of Medicare by adding prescription drug cov- medicine and running good doctors out of erage. I kept my word. We have modernized practice. I was in Canton the other day talk- Medicare for our seniors. Beginning in 2006, ing to a ob-gyn who got run out of business all seniors will be able to get prescription because these lawsuits made her premiums drug coverage under Medicare.

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And we’ll keep our promise for Social Se- tisan issue. When Congress passed the De- curity for our seniors, and we will strengthen fense of Marriage Act, defining marriage as Social Security for generations to come. I re- a union of a man and a woman, the vast ma- member the campaign in 2000. I remember jority of Democrats supported it and Presi- those ads they were running. You might re- dent Bill Clinton signed it into law. But Sen- member them. They said, ‘‘If George W. gets ator Kerry was part of an out-of-the-main- elected, the seniors are not going to get their stream minority that voted against the De- checks.’’ They may be doing it again this year. fense of Marriage Act. I want you to remind your friends and neigh- Audience members. Boo-o-o! bors as you get them to the polls that George The President. I believe that reasonable W. did get elected, and our seniors did get people can find common ground on difficult their checks. And our seniors will continue issues. Republicans and Democrats came to- to get their checks. Nobody’s going to take gether and agreed we should ban the brutal away your check. Baby boomers like me, practice of partial-birth abortion. I proudly we’re in pretty good shape when it comes signed that bill. But Senator Kerry was part to the Social Security trust. We’ll probably of an out-of-the-mainstream minority that get our checks. voted against the ban. But we need to worry about our children Audience members. Boo-o-o! and our grandchildren. We need to worry The President. He voted against parental about whether or not the Social Security sys- notification laws and against the Unborn Vic- tem will be there for them when they retire. tims of Violence Act. I will continue to reach That’s why I believe younger workers ought out to Americans of every belief and move to be able to take some of their own money— this goodhearted Nation toward a culture of some of their own payroll taxes—and put it life. in a personal savings account, an account At one point in this campaign, you might they call their own, an account the Govern- remember this: My opponent said that the ment cannot take away. Now, my opponent takes a different ap- heart and soul of America can be found in proach. He says he’s going to strengthen So- Hollywood. cial Security; he’s going to protect it. But you Audience members. Boo-o-o! might remember, he is the only candidate The President. Most American families in this race who has voted eight times for do not look toward—to Hollywood as a higher taxes on Social Security benefits. source of values. The heart and soul of Amer- Audience members. Boo-o-o! ica is found in communities like Flag City, The President. He doesn’t like talking Ohio. about that. He can run, but he cannot hide. All these choices make this one of the most And he offered nothing for the younger important elections in our history. The secu- generation in terms of reform. The job of rity and prosperity of our country, the health a President is to confront problems, not to and education of our families, the retirement pass them on to future Presidents and future of our citizens, and the direction of our cul- generations. In a new term, I will bring Re- ture are all at stake. And the decision is in publicans and Democrats together to the best of hands. It is in the hands of the strengthen the Social Security system for American people. It is in your hands. You generations to come. get to decide. And that gives me great con- And the final choice in this election is on fidence. the values that are so crucial to keeping our See, I’m optimistic about this country and families strong. And here, my opponent and our future. One of my favorite quotes is from I are miles apart. I stand for the appointment a fellow Texan named Tom Lea. He said this, of Federal judges who know the difference he said, ‘‘Sarah and I live on the east side between personal opinion and the strict in- of the mountain. It is the sunrise side, not terpretation of the law. I believe marriage the sunset side. It is the side to see the day is a sacred commitment, a pillar of our civili- that is coming, not to see the day that is zation, and I will defend it. This is not a par- gone.’’ During the course of this campaign,

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my opponent has spent much of his cam- ents and, of course, our fellow Republicans. paign talking about the day that is gone. I’m And when you get them to the polls, remind talking about the day that’s coming. them that if they want a safer America, a We’ve been through a lot together. We stronger America, and a better America, to have been through a lot together during the put me and Dick Cheney back in office. last nearly 4 years. Because we’ve done the You know, Laura and I love to campaign, hard work of climbing the mountain, we can and I like to tell people why I think people see the valley below. The next 4 years, we’ll ought to put me back in. And perhaps the work to protect our families, build our pros- most important reason of all is so that Laura perity, and defend our values. We will work is the First Lady for 4 more years. hard to spread freedom and liberty so we Audience members. Laura! Laura! Laura! can achieve the peace we want for genera- The President. I am proud of my tions to come. runningmate, Dick Cheney. I see some folks Four years ago, when I traveled your great out here who are follically challenged, kind State asking for the vote, I made you this of like the Vice President. I admit it, he pledge, that if I was elected to the office I doesn’t have the waviest hair in the race. hold, I would uphold the honor and its dig- You’ll be pleased to hear, I did not pick him nity. With your help, with your hard work, because of hairdo. I picked him because of I will do so for 4 more years. his judgment. I picked him because of his Thanks for coming. God bless. Thank you experience. I picked him because he’s the all. Thanks for coming. got the ability to get the job done for the American people. NOTE: The President spoke at 4:20 p.m. at the Hancock County Fairgrounds. In his remarks, he I want to thank my friend Michael Wil- referred to Senator Zell Miller of Georgia, who liams for joining us today. And I want to made the keynote address at the Republican Na- thank the other African American leaders I’m tional Convention; Fran DeWine, wife of Senator proud to call friend, who have joined me on Mike DeWine; Gov. Bob Taft and Lt. Gov. this stage, including the Lieutenant Gov- Jennette B. Bradley of Ohio; Mayor Anthony P. ernor from the State of Maryland, Lieutenant Iriti of Findlay, OH; country music entertainers Governor Michael Steele. I appreciate you the Wil Gravatt Band; former President Saddam coming, Michael. Hussein of Iraq; Usama bin Laden, leader of the I want to thank Joe Knollenberg and Thad Al Qaida terrorist organization; and Gen. Tommy McCotter, Members of the United States R. Franks, USA, (Ret.), former combatant com- mander, U.S. Central Command. Congress from Michigan. I particularly want to thank Congresswoman Candice Miller for leading my campaign in Michigan. I want to Remarks in Pontiac, Michigan thank Terri Lynn Land. I want to thank Betsy October 27, 2004 DeVos. I want to thank the entertainers who were here today. The President. Thank you all for coming. And I want to thank all the grassroots activ- Laura and I appreciate you all being here. ists who are here, the people who put up You’re lifting our spirits, and we’re grateful. the signs and made the phone calls and I’m so honored you’re here. I’m here in helped turn out this huge crowd. I want to Michigan today and tomorrow. I’ll be back thank you for what you have done and what on Saturday. I’m here to ask for the vote and you are going to do as we come down the to ask for your help. It is important for all stretch. With your help, with your hard work, of us to vote. In a free society we have a there is no doubt in my mind we will carry duty to go to the polls. And so I’m asking Michigan and win a great victory on Novem- you to get your friends and neighbors to go ber the 2d. to the polls and exercise their duty. And as This election comes down to some clear you get them headed to the polls, make sure choices for our families, issues of great con- you don’t overlook discerning Democrats like sequence. The first clear choice is the most my friend Zell Miller from the great State important because it concerns the security of Georgia. Make sure you talk to independ- of your family. All progress on every other

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issue depends on the safety of our citizens. intend to lead this Nation. On good days and This will be the first Presidential election on bad days, when the polls are up or when since September the 11th, 2001. Americans the polls are down, I will do everything I will go to the polls in a time of war and ongo- can to defend the American people, and I ing threats. The outcome of this election will will support our troops in combat. set the direction of the war against terror. I am honored to be the Commander in The most solemn duty of the American Presi- Chief of such a fine group of people, the dent is to protect the American people. If people in the United States military. I want America shows uncertainty or weakness in to thank the veterans who are here today for this decade, the world will drift toward trag- having set such a great example. I want to edy. This will not happen on my watch. thank the military families who are here. And Our strategy is clear. We’re strengthening I will assure you that so long as I’m the Com- protections for the homeland. We’re reform- mander in Chief, our troops will have that ing our intelligence capabilities. We’re trans- which is necessary to complete their mis- forming the United States military. There sions. will be no draft. We will keep the All-Volun- That’s why I went to the United States teer Army an all-volunteer army. We are de- Congress and asked for $87 billion of supple- termined. We are relentless. We will fight mental funding to support our troops in com- the terrorists overseas so we do not have to bat. As you gather the vote, I want you to face them here at home. And we understand remind people of this startling statistic: There that our long-term security comes from were only four Members of the United States spreading freedom. Senate that voted to authorize the use of I want some of the younger folks here to force and then voted against funding for our understand how far the world has come in troops in harm’s way—only four Members— about 33⁄4 years. It wasn’t all that long ago two of whom were my opponent and his that young girls were not able to go to school runningmate. in Afghanistan because the Taliban was so Audience members. Boo-o-o! barbaric, and if their mothers didn’t toe the The President. They asked him why he line of the ideologues of hate, they’d be taken made his vote, and Senator Kerry uttered in the public square and sometimes killed perhaps the most famous statement of the in a sports stadium. Because we acted to de- 2004 campaign when he said, ‘‘I actually did fend ourselves, because we upheld a doctrine vote for the $87 billion, right before I voted that said, ‘‘If you harbor a terrorist, you’re against it.’’ equally as guilty as the terrorist,’’ millions of Audience members. Boo-o-o! people went to the polls to vote for a Presi- The President. The Commander in Chief dent. The first voter in the Afghan Presi- must be consistent. After repeatedly calling dential election was a 19-year-old woman. Iraq the wrong war and a diversion, Senator There will be Presidential elections in Iraq Kerry this week seemed shocked to learn that in January. Think how far that country has Iraq was a dangerous place full of dangerous come from the days of torture chambers and weapons. The Senator used to know that, mass graves. Freedom is on the march, and even though he seems to have forgotten it we’re more secure for it. Free societies are over the course of the campaign. Of course, peaceful societies, and we believe everyone that’s why we went into Iraq. Iraq was a dan- desires to live in freedom. Freedom is not gerous place run by a dangerous tyrant who America’s gift to the world. Freedom is the hated America and who had a lot of weapons. Almighty God’s gift to each man and woman And we have seized or destroyed more than in this world. 400,000 tons of munitions, including explo- A President must lead with consistency sives, at thousands of different sites. And and strength. In a war, sometimes our tactics we’re continuing to round up more weapons have to change but never your principles. almost every day. Americans have seen how I do my job. Even I want to remind the American people if when you might not agree with me, you know Senator Kerry had had his way, we would what I believe, where I stand, and where I still be taking our ‘‘global test.’’

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Audience members. Boo-o-o! Before Senator Kerry got into political dif- The President. We would be waiting for ficulty and revised his views, he saw our ac- yet another United Nations resolution to tions in Tora Bora differently. In the fall of make us more safe. 2001, on national TV, he said, quote, ‘‘I think Audience members. Boo-o-o! we have been doing this pretty effectively, The President. Saddam Hussein would be and we should continue to do it that way.’’ in power. He would control all those weap- He went on to talk about Tora Bora. The ons and explosives and could have shared Senator said this: ‘‘I think we have been them with the terrorist enemy. smart. I think the administration leadership Audience members. Boo-o-o! has done it well, and we are on the right The President. Now, the Senator is mak- track.’’ All I can say to this is, I am George ing wild charges about missing explosives, W. Bush, and I approve of that message. when his top foreign policy adviser admits Audience members. Four more years! he does not know the facts. He said, quote, Four more years! Four more years! The President. ‘‘I don’t know the truth,’’ end quote. But The security of our fami- lies is very important. And my opponent’s think about that. The Senator is denigrating record on national security has far deeper the actions of our troops and commanders problems with just election-year flip-flop- in the field without knowing the facts. ping. On the largest national security issues Audience members. Boo-o-o! of our time, he has been consistently wrong. The President. Our military is now inves- He has a record. When Ronald Reagan was tigating a number of possible scenarios, in- confronting the Soviet Union at the height cluding that the explosives may have been of the cold war, Senator Kerry said that Presi- moved before our troops arrived. This inves- dent Reagan’s policy of peace through tigation is important. It’s ongoing. And a po- strength was making America less safe. litical candidate who jumps to conclusions Audience members. Boo-o-o! without knowing the facts is not a person you The President. History has shown that want as Commander in Chief. Senator Kerry was wrong and President Ron- Unfortunately—— ald Reagan was right. Audience members. Four more years! When former President Bush led a coali- Four more years! Four more years! tion against Saddam Hussein in 1991, Sen- The President. Unfortunately, that is part ator Kerry voted against the use of force to of a pattern of a candidate who will say any- liberate Kuwait. thing to get elected. My opponent is throw- Audience members. Boo-o-o! ing out the wild claim that he knows where The President. History has shown that bin Laden was in the fall of 2001 and that Senator Kerry was wrong and former Presi- our military passed up a chance to get him dent Bush was right. at Tora Bora. You might remember that dis- In 1994, just 1 year after the first bombing cussion during our debates. I think this is of the World Trade Center, Senator Kerry unjustified criticism of our military com- proposed massive cuts in America’s intel- manders in the field. This is the worst kind ligence budget, so massive that even his col- of Monday morning quarterbacking. league from Massachusetts, Ted Kennedy, Our commander in Afghanistan, General opposed them. [Laughter] History has shown Tommy Franks, recently wrote this about that Senator Kerry was wrong and—we’ve Tora Bora, quote, ‘‘The Senator’s under- got to be fair—Senator Kennedy was right. standing of events doesn’t square with re- During the last 20 years, in key moments ality.’’ That’s what the man knows what— of challenge and decision for America, Sen- who knows what he’s talking about said. The ator Kerry has chosen the position of weak- general says that American Special Forces ness and inaction. With that record, he stands were actively involved in the search for ter- in opposition not just to me but to the great rorists in Tora Bora and that intelligence re- tradition of the Democrat Party. The party ports at the time placed bin Laden in any of Franklin Roosevelt, the party of Harry of several countries. Truman, the party of John Kennedy is rightly

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remembered for confidence and resolve in in Michigan can find work, but one thing is times of war and in hours of crisis. Senator certain: This economy of ours is strong, and Kerry has turned his back on ‘‘pay any price’’ it is getting stronger. and ‘‘bear any burden,’’ and he’s replaced My opponent has a very different view those commitments with ‘‘wait and see’’ and about your budget. He intends to take a big ‘‘cut and run.’’ chunk out of it. Audience members. Boo-o-o! Audience members. Boo-o-o! The President. Many Democrats in this The President. He voted against the high- country do not recognize their party any- er child tax credit. He voted against the mar- more, and today I want to speak to every riage penalty relief. He voted against lower one of them here in the State of Michigan. taxes. If he had had his way over the last If you believe America should lead with 3 years, the average American family would strength and purpose and confidence in our have been paying $2,000 more in Federal ideals, I would be honored to have your sup- taxes. port, and I’m asking for your vote. Audience members. Boo-o-o! The second clear choice in this election The President. That may not sound like concerns your family’s budget. When I ran a lot to people in Washington. It’s a heck for President 4 years ago, I pledged to lower of a lot for people living in Michigan. taxes for American families. I kept my word. You know, my opponent has been in the We doubled the child credit to $1,000 per United States Senate for 20 years. And hear child to help moms and dads. We reduced this fact: He voted for increased taxes 98 the marriage penalty. We believe the Tax times. That’s five times for every year he’s Code ought to encourage marriage, not pe- been in the Senate—nearly five times. I nalize marriage. We lowered—we dropped would call that a predictable pattern. I’d call the lowest tax bracket to 10 percent to help that a indicator. [Laughter] When a Senator our working families. We reduced income does something that often, he must really taxes for everybody who pays taxes. After- enjoy it. [Laughter] The problem is you won’t tax income in America is up by 10 percent enjoy it. If he raises your taxes—as a matter since I’ve become the President. of fact, here’s another indicator. He’s prom- We have overcome a lot. I want you to ised $2.2 trillion of new spending. That’s tril- remind your friends and neighbors about lion with a ‘‘T.’’ That’s a lot even for a senator what this economy has been through. Six from Massachusetts. [Laughter] months prior to my arrival in Washington, And they said, ‘‘How are you going to pay the stock market was in serious decline. Our for it? How are you going to pay for it?’’ He economy was slowing. We had a recession. said, ‘‘Oh, we’ll just tax the rich.’’ Now, we We had corporate scandals. And then the at- have heard that before. Let me tell you two tacks on September the 11th cost us nearly things wrong with that. One, most small busi- a million jobs in the 3 months after those nesses pay tax at the individual income tax. attacks. Ninety percent of small businesses are what But our economic policies are working. they call Subchapter S corporations and sole They’ve led us back to the path of growth. proprietorships, and they pay tax at the indi- We’re growing—our economy is growing vidual income tax rate. Seventy percent of faster than any in the major industrialized new jobs are created by small businesses. world. Small businesses are flourishing. The And so when you start running up the top entrepreneurial spirit is strong in America. two income brackets, guess who you’re tax- Michigan farmers are making a good living ing? You’re taxing the job creators in Amer- under the Bush administration. We’ve added ica, and that makes no economic sense. more than 1.9 million jobs in the last 13 And secondly, by taxing the rich you raise months. The national unemployment rate is about 600 to 800 billion dollars. So you can 5.4 percent. That’s lower than the average see there is a gap between that which he rate of the 1970s, the 1980s, and the 1990s. has promised and that which he can deliver. There is more work to be done to make sure I would call it a tax gap. And guess who usu- this economy continues to grow so people ally gets to fill the tax gap?

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Audience member. We do! lawsuits that are running up the cost of health The President. The good news is we’re care and running good docs out of practice. not going to let him tax you. We’re going You cannot be pro-doctor and pro-patient to carry Michigan and win a great victory. and pro-trial-lawyer at the same time. I think The third clear choice in this election im- you have to make a choice. My opponent proves the quality of life for our families. A made his choice, and he put a personal-injury good education and quality health care are trial lawyer on the ticket. important to a successful life. As a candidate, Audience members. Boo-o-o! I pledged to end the soft bigotry of low ex- The President. I have made my choice. pectations in our schools. And as President, I am standing with the families of Michigan. I have kept my word. We passed the No I am standing with the docs of Michigan. I’m Child Left Behind Act, which is an historic standing with the hospitals of Michigan. I am achievement for public education. We are for real medical liability reform—now. raising the standards in our schools. We’ve We have a difference of opinion when it increased Federal spending, especially for comes to your health care. I don’t know if poor students. But in return for an increase you remember that debate when he—my op- of Federal spending, we’re now saying, ponent, when they asked him about his ‘‘Show us whether or not a child can read health care plan, looked straight in the cam- or write, and add and subtract. Show us era, and he said, ‘‘The Government doesn’t whether or not children are becoming lit- have anything to do with it.’’ You know, I erate. Show us whether or not we’re ending could barely contain myself. [Laughter] The that practice of just shuffling kids through Government has got a lot to do with his school, year after year, without learning the health care plan. Eighty percent of the peo- basics.’’ ple would end up on a Government-run You cannot solve a problem until you diag- health program. See, if you increase Med- nose a problem, and we are diagnosing prob- icaid eligibility, it provides an incentive for lems, and we’re solving more and more prob- many small businesses to drop private cov- lems, so that our children are learning to read erage because the Government will be pro- and write. We’re closing an achievement gap viding coverage for their employees. That’s in America, and we’re not going to go back moving people from the private sector to the to the days of low expectations and mediocre public sector. And when the Government results. writes a check, the Government makes the We will continue to improve life by making rules. And when it comes to your health care, sure health care is affordable and available. when the Government makes the rules, the To make sure health care is available, we will Government starts making decisions for you expand community health centers so the and for your doctors. Federalizing health poor and the indigent can get good primary care is the wrong prescription for America’s and preventative care. We will make sure our families. low-income—children for low-income family In all we do to reform health care, we will program for health care is fully subscribed. make sure the health decisions are made by To make sure health care is affordable, doctors and patients, not by officials in Wash- here are three commonsense ways to help ington, DC. the American family. First, we’ll expand The fourth clear choice in this election in- health savings accounts to help our small volves your retirement. Our Nation has made businesses and families have an affordable a solemn commitment to America’s seniors health care account that you manage and you on Social Security and Medicare. When I ran call your own. Secondly, we will help our for President 4 years ago, I promised to keep small businesses by allowing them to pool that commitment and improve Medicare by risk across jurisdictional boundaries so they adding prescription drug coverage. I kept my can buy insurance at the same discounts that word. Beginning in 2006, all seniors will be big companies are able to do. And thirdly, able to get prescription drug coverage under we will do something about these frivolous Medicare.

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And we’ll keep the promise of Social Secu- tions of our society. When Congress passed rity for our seniors and strengthen it for gen- the Defense of Marriage Act, the vast major- erations to come. I don’t know if you remem- ity of Democrats supported it, and my prede- ber the 2000 campaign, when they were run- cessor, Bill Clinton, signed it into law. But ning ads that said, ‘‘If George W. gets elect- Senator Kerry was part of an out-of-the- ed, our seniors will not get their checks.’’ mainstream minority that voted against the They may be running some here in Michigan Defense of Marriage Act. now for all I know, trying to scare our seniors Audience members. Boo-o-o! again. As you’re rounding up the vote, I want The President. Reasonable people can you to remind your friends and neighbors find common ground on difficult issues. Re- that George W. did get elected, and our sen- publicans and Democrats came together and iors got their checks. And our seniors will agreed we should ban the brutal practice of continue to get their checks. Nobody is going partial-birth abortions. I proudly signed that to take away the Social Security checks of bill into law. My opponent was part of an our seniors. And baby boomers like me, and out-of-the-mainstream minority that voted like a couple others out there I see—[laugh- against the ban on partial-birth abortion. ter]—we’re in pretty good shape when it Audience members. Boo-o-o! comes to Social Security. The President. I’ll continue to reach out But we need to worry about our children to Americans of every belief and move this and our grandchildren. We need to worry good-hearted Nation to a culture of life. about whether the Social Security system will At one point in this campaign you might be there when they need it. And that’s why remember that my opponent said the heart I believe younger workers ought to be able and soul of America can be found in Holly- to take some of their own payroll account— wood. some of their payroll taxes and set up a per- Audience members. Boo-o-o! sonal savings account, an account they call The President. No, I agree. I understand. their own, an account that will earn better I understand most American families do not interest, an account the Government cannot look to Hollywood as a source of values. The take away. heart and soul of America is found in places My opponent takes a different approach like Oakland County, Michigan. on the Social Security issue. He talks about No, this election is an important election. protecting Social Security. But I want you It’s about important choices, and the decision to remind your friends and neighbors about is in the best of hands. It is in the hands this fact: He’s the only candidate in the race of the American people. I am optimistic who has voted eight times for higher taxes about the future of this country. I believe on Social Security benefits. so strongly in what we stand for, and I under- Audience members. Boo-o-o! stand the strength of this country. It lies in The President. He can run, but he cannot the hearts and souls of our fellow citizens. hide. And when it comes to offering help for That’s the true strength of America. the next generation, he’s offered nothing. You know, one of my favorite quotes was The job of a President is to confront prob- written by a fellow Texan named Tom Lea, lems, not to pass them on to future Presi- and here’s what Tom said. He said, ‘‘Sarah dents and future generations. In a new term, and I live on the east side of the mountain. I will bring Republicans and Democrats to- It is the sunrise side, not the sunset side. gether to strengthen the Social Security sys- It is the side to see the day that is coming, tem for generations to come. not to see the day that is gone.’’ During this The fifth clear choice in this election is campaign, my opponent has spent much of on the values that are so crucial to keeping the campaign talking about the day that is America’s families strong. I stand for the ap- gone. I’m talking about the day that is com- pointment of Federal judges who know the ing. difference between personal opinion and the I see a day that’s coming where America strict interpretation of the law. I stand for is more safe and our families are more se- marriage and family, which are the founda- cure, a day when this country is prosperous

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in every corner of the land, a day in which ‘‘What is it?’’ She said, ‘‘Promise me I will every child can read and write and add and never have to give a political speech.’’ subtract, a day in which we defend the bed- [Laughter] I’m sure some of you can relate rock values that make our society such a com- to that. I said, ‘‘Okay, you got a deal.’’ Fortu- passionate, decent place. nately, she didn’t hold me to that deal. She When I campaigned across your State 4 is giving a lot of speeches, and when she years ago, I made this pledge, that if I got does, the American people see a strong, com- elected, I would uphold the honor and the passionate, great First Lady. Perhaps the dignity of the office to which I had been most important reason why people ought to elected. With your help, I will do so for 4 put me back in office is so that Laura will more years. be the First Lady for 4 more years. Thanks for coming. God bless. Thank you Audience members. Four more years! all. Four more years! Four more years! The President. I am proud of my NOTE: The President spoke at 6:33 p.m. at the runningmate, Dick Cheney. He is doing a Pontiac Silverdome. In his remarks, he referred to Senator Zell Miller of Georgia, who made the great job. Although, I admit, he does not keynote address at the Republican National Con- have the waviest hair in the race. [Laughter] vention; Michael L. Williams, commissioner, Rail- You will be pleased I didn’t pick him because road Commission of Texas; Lt. Gov. Michael S. of his hairdo. I picked him because of his Steele of Maryland; Michigan Secretary of State experience. I picked him because of his judg- Terri Lynn Land; Betsy DeVos, chairman, Michi- ment. I picked him because he can get the gan Republican Party; former President Saddam job done for the American people. Hussein of Iraq; Usama bin Laden, leader of the I’m proud to call Dave Camp my friend, Al Qaida terrorist organization; and Gen. Tommy and I know you’re proud to call him Con- R. Franks, USA, (Ret.), former combatant com- mander, U.S. Central Command. gressman. And I want to thank Terri Lynn Land for joining us, the secretary of state for the great State of Michigan. And I wish Remarks in Saginaw, Michigan Myrah Kirkwood all the best in her run for October 28, 2004 the United States Congress. I want to thank Betsy DeVos and all the grassroots activists The President. Thank you all. Thanks for who are here. I want to thank the Saline Fid- coming out to say hello. I got to tell me, you dlers. I want to thank the Saginaw Area have lifted my spirits, for which I am grateful. Band. I want to thank the Wil Gravatt Band It’s good to be back in Saginaw. I’m grateful for joining us. Thank you for entertaining this so many of you came out to say hello. good crowd. Listen, I’m traveling your State asking for Most of all, I want to thank you all. I want the vote and asking for your help. It is close to thank you for what you have done on be- to voting day. We have a duty in our country half of my candidacy and what you’re going to vote. In our free land, free citizens must to do. By working the phones, by getting peo- vote. And so I’m asking you to get your ple to—by reminding people of their duty friends and neighbors to go to the polls, turn to vote, by putting up the signs, by turning out our fellow Republicans, find independ- out that vote, there is no doubt in my mind, ents who understand we have a better tomor- we will carry Michigan and win a great vic- row ahead of us, and don’t overlook dis- tory in November. cerning Democrats. Tell your fellow citizens Five days from now, the people go to the that if they want a safer country, a stronger polls. We are choosing the leader of our country, and a better country, to put me and country at a time of great consequence to Dick Cheney back in office. our Nation. We’re at war against a terrorist My only regret is that Laura is not here enemy unlike any we have ever seen. We to see this fantastic crowd. She headed off have much more to do to win a decisive vic- to campaign today in Florida. You know, tory against the terrorists. The most impor- when I asked her to marry me, she said, ‘‘I’ll tant duty of the American President is to pro- marry you, but make me a promise.’’ I said, tect the American people. If America shows

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uncertainty or weakness in these troubling must lead based on conviction and con- times, the world will drift toward tragedy. science. Especially in a time of war, mixed This will not happen on my watch. signals only confuse our friends, embolden Our economy is in the midst of change our enemies. Mixed signals are the wrong sig- and challenge. It can be a great time of op- nals for the American President to send. portunity if we have the right policies that When America chooses a President, you strengthen rather than stall our economic choose not just a set of positions on issues growth. We have much more to do to create or a philosophy or record; you choose a jobs, to improve our children’s education, to human being who comes with strengths and make health care available and affordable, weaknesses. One of the things I’ve learned and to strengthen Social Security for our sen- about the Presidency is, whatever your iors and for generations to come. And I am strengths are, you’re going to need them, and ready for the job. whatever your shortcomings are, people are My years as your President have confirmed going to notice them. Sometimes I’m a little some lessons and have taught me some new too blunt. I get that from my mother. Some- ones. A President must have a vision. A Presi- dent must set goals and bring people to- times I mangle the English language. gether to achieve those goals. A President [Laughter] I get that from my dad. [Laugh- must surround himself with strong, capable ter] But Americans have learned that when people. And I have done so. A President you disagree with me, at least you know what must make America’s priorities crystal-clear I believe and where I stand. in this uncertain world. I’ve learned to expect Audience members. Four more years! the unexpected, because history can deliver Four more years! Four more years! sudden horror from a soft autumn sky. I The President. You cannot say that about found you better know what you believe or my opponent. [Laughter] Senator Kerry has risk being tossed to-and-fro by the flattery taken a lot of different positions, but he rare- of friends or the chorus of the critics. ly takes a stand. He’s run a campaign of con- I’ve been grateful for the lessons I have tradictions. I think it’s fair to say consistency learned from my parents: Respect every per- is not the Senator’s strong suit. [Laughter] son; do your best; and live every day to its He was for the PATRIOT Act and the No fullest. I have been strengthened by my faith Child Left Behind Act, until he was against and humbled by its reminder that my life key provisions of both of them. He voted to is part of a much bigger story. I’ve learned authorize the use of force in Iraq and then firsthand how hard it is to send young men said I was wrong to use that force. and women into battle, even when the cause Audience members. Boo-o-o! is right. I’ve been reminded that the world The President. When I sent troops into looks to America for leadership and that it Iraq to remove Saddam Hussein from power, is crucial for an American President to be he said it was the right decision. Now he says consistent. it was the ‘‘wrong war.’’ Perhaps most of all, I’ve learned the Amer- Audience members. Boo-o-o! ican President must make decisions on prin- ciple, core convictions from which you must The President. During one of our de- not waver. The issues vary; the challenges bates, he said Saddam Hussein was a threat. are different every day. Tactics and strategy And then a couple of answers later, he said must be flexible, but a President’s convictions there was no threat in Iraq. must be steady and true. As Presidents from Audience members. Boo-o-o! Abraham Lincoln to Franklin Roosevelt to The President. Just last year, American Ronald Reagan so clearly demonstrated, a troops in Afghanistan and Iraq needed $87 President cannot blow in the wind. A Presi- billion for body armor, hazard pay, vehicles, dent has to make tough decisions and stand weapons, and bullets—necessary funding, by them. funding that would keep a commitment we A President must follow the—must not fol- have made to our soldiers and their loved low the path of the latest polls. A President ones. They will have what is necessary to

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complete their mission. Something the vet- the going got tough and when we faced de- erans in this crowd understand, the Govern- termined opposition and things weren’t quite ment must support those in harm’s way. And so popular, the Senator suddenly wasn’t quite I say thanks to our veterans from the bottom so supportive. In fact, he changed his mind of a grateful heart. entirely, deciding it was the ‘‘wrong war at Back to the 87 billion. First Senator Kerry the wrong place at the wrong time.’’ said, ‘‘It would be irresponsible to vote Audience members. Boo-o-o! against the troops.’’ That’s what he said on The President. It’s important for the citi- TV, national TV. Then he did the irrespon- zens of Michigan to think about this. What sible thing and voted against the funding for does that lack of conviction say to our troops our troops. who are risking their lives in a vital cause? Audience members. Boo-o-o! What does it say to our allies who have joined The President. Now, they asked him us in that cause? What does that lack of con- about that vote, and you might remember viction signal to our enemies, that if you perhaps the most famous quote of the 2004 make things uncomfortable, if you stir up campaign when he said, ‘‘I actually did vote trouble, John Kerry will back off? And that’s for the 87 billion, before I voted against it.’’ a very dangerous signal to send during this Pressed further to explain his vote, he’s given time. several explanations. One of the most inter- This week Senator Kerry is again attacking esting was this: ‘‘The whole thing was a com- the actions of our military in Iraq, with com- plicated matter.’’ [Laughter] There’s nothing plete disregard for the facts. Senator Kerry complicated about supporting our troops in will say anything to get elected. The Senator’s combat. willingness to trade principle for political You have to wonder why my opponent has convenience makes it clear that John Kerry taken such different positions at different is the wrong man for the wrong job at the places and different times in this campaign. wrong time. I think you’ll find two reasons why. Senator And there’s another reason the Senator Kerry changes positions because he’s willing changes positions. He doesn’t want you to to say anything he thinks will help him politi- know where he really stands. [Laughter] He cally at the time. And he does so to try to doesn’t want you to know where he stands obscure a 20-year record, 20 years of out- on national security, because he has a record of-the-mainstream votes. That leads to an in- of weakness. When Ronald Reagan was con- escapable conclusion. Senator Kerry has fronting the Soviet Union at the height of been wrong—on the wrong side of the defin- the cold war, Senator Kerry proposed can- ing national security and domestic policy de- cellation of critical defense weapons systems bates for the last two decades. He can run and said that President Reagan’s policy of from his record, but he cannot hide. peace through strength was making America Several times during the course of this less safe. campaign, the Senator has changed his posi- Audience members. Boo-o-o! tions for political convenience. The Senator The President. History has shown that recognized Saddam Hussein was a threat and Senator Kerry was wrong and President Ron- authorized force to remove him, until his ald Reagan was right. Democratic opponent Howard Dean began Former President Bush led a coalition gaining ground as an antiwar candidate. And against Saddam Hussein in 1991. Senator then he decided he had to appeal to that wing Kerry voted against using force to liberate of his party, so he voted against the troops— Kuwait. If his view had prevailed, Saddam after voting to put them at risk in the first Hussein today would dominate the Middle place. See, he looked at the polls and East, possess the world’s most dangerous changed positions. The Senator was all for weapons. History has shown that John Kerry removing Saddam Hussein when we went was wrong and former President Bush was into Baghdad. He was very supportive when right. we captured him. After all, the polls showed In 1994, just one year after the first bomb- that that was very popular at the time. When ing of the World Trade Center, Senator

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Kerry proposed massive cuts in America’s in- in the eye, and he said, ‘‘Do not let me telligence budgets, cuts so extreme that even down.’’ Ever since that day, I wake up every his Massachusetts colleague, Ted Kennedy, morning thinking how to—thinking about opposed them. History has shown that Sen- how to better protect our country. I will ator Kerry was wrong and—we have got to never relent in defending America, whatever be fair—Senator Kennedy was right. [Laugh- it takes. ter] There are other things about his views and When you are one Senator among 100, you his ideas the Senator really doesn’t want you can be wrong without consequence. But the to know about. You might remember the de- President’s opinion decides the security and bate when they asked him about his health the fate of our country. And while the Sen- care plan. He looked straight in the camera ator’s 20-year record of votes is long, it’s also and said, ‘‘The Government doesn’t have lacking of significant reform or achievement. anything to do with it.’’ I could barely contain He talks about bringing new allies to the war myself. [Laughter] against terror—if somehow countries that The Government has got a lot to do with have not yet been involved might want to it. Eighty percent of the people end up, join what he calls the ‘‘wrong war.’’ [Laugh- under his idea, on a Government plan. When ter] Yet he has no history of convincing even you increase Medicaid eligibility, it means his colleagues in the United States Senate small businesses will likely stop writing insur- to join him on signature reforms or achieve- ance because the Government will provide ments. the insurance. That moves people from the The next 4 years, I will work with our private sector to the public sector when it friends and allies. We will strengthen our co- comes to health care. And see, when the alition, but I will never turn over America’s Government starts paying the money, the national security decisions to leaders of other Government starts writing the rules. And countries. when the Government starts writing the rules Audience members. Four more years! when it comes to your health care, the Gov- Four more years! Four more years! ernment starts making decisions for you and The President. The security of our coun- decisions for your doctors and rationing care. try is at stake. Senator Kerry says September Senator Kerry’s plan for health care for the 11th, in his words, ‘‘did not change him America is the wrong prescription. much at all.’’ That’s what he said. We will make health care more affordable Audience members. Boo-o-o! and available for our citizens. We will expand The President. And his policies make that community health centers to help the poor clear. The Senator says the war on terror is and the indigent. We’ll make sure our pro- primarily a law enforcement and intelligence gram for low-income children is fully sub- gathering operation. He says his goal is to scribed. We’ll expand health savings accounts go back to the days of the 1990s when ter- to help our businesses and families with inno- rorism was seen as a ‘‘nuisance’’—— vative ways to manage—so you can manage Audience members. Boo-o-o! your own health care account. We under- The President. ——fought with sub- stand small businesses provide important in- poenas and cruise missiles. surance to the workers, and yet, many small Well, September the 11th changed my businesses are having trouble affording outlook for the world. It made it crystal-clear health care, so we’ll allow small businesses to me the dangers we face. A few days after to join together so they can buy insurance the attacks, I went to Ground Zero, Sep- at the same discounts that big companies are tember 14th, 2001. I stood in the ruins of able to do. the Twin Towers. It’s a day I will never for- And we understand that these frivolous get. The sights and sounds of that day are lawsuits are running up the cost of health always in my mind. Workers in hardhats care for small businesses, for patients, and there yelling at the top of their lungs, ‘‘What- they’re running good doctors out of practice. ever it takes.’’ A man coming out of the rub- You cannot be pro-doctor, pro-patient and ble grabbed me by the arm. He looked me pro-personal-injury-trial-lawyer at the same

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time. You have to make a choice. My oppo- sionate conservative and proudly so. I’m nent made his choice, and he put a personal- more than happy to travel our country talking injury trial lawyer on the ticket. about my record, talking about a record that Audience members. Boo-o-o! has made America a stronger place and a The President. I made my choice. I’m safer place and a better place. standing with the doctors of Michigan. I’m When you’re rounding up the vote, remind standing with the patients of Michigan. I am people what this economy has been through. for medical liability reform—now. Six months prior to my arrival in Washington, This campaign, the Senator doesn’t want the stock market was in serious decline, you to know where he really stands on taxes. which foretold a recession. And then we had He’s going to raise them. To be fair, raising some corporate scandals, passed—we passed taxes is one of the few things that he’s been tough laws, and we have made it abundantly consistent about. You might say he’s made clear that we’re not going to tolerate dishon- a habit out of it. See, he’s been in the United esty in the boardrooms of America. And then States Senate 20 years, and he’s voted to raise the attacks came, and they cost us about a taxes 98 times. That’s five times for every million jobs in the 3 months after September year he’s been in the Senate. I’d call it a pre- the 11th. dictable pattern, an early-warning indicator. But we acted. I led the Congress to cut [Laughter] the taxes on the American people to encour- You know, when we reduced the taxes for age consumption and investment, to stimu- our families by raising the child credit and late the small-business sector of our econ- doing something about the marriage penalty, omy. And our policies are paying off. We’re he voted against it. He voted against that tax growing at rates as fast as any in nearly 20 relief at a vital time. Plus, he’s decided to years. We have added 1.9 million jobs in the raise $2.2 trillion * in new Federal spending. last 13 months. The farmers in Michigan are He’s going to spend it. That’s what he said. making a living. The small-business owners He said, ‘‘I’m going to spend 2.2 trillion new are alive and well. The entrepreneurial spirit money,’’ when you add up all his promises. is strong. The homeownership rate in Amer- He doesn’t really want to clarify that. That’s ica is at an alltime high. More minorities own 2.2 trillion with a ‘‘T.’’ That’s a lot. That is a home than ever before in our Nation’s his- a lot even for a Senator from Massachusetts. tory. The national unemployment rate is 5.4 [Laughter] percent. Let me put that in perspective for And so they asked him, ‘‘How are you you: That is lower than the average rate of going to pay for it?’’ They said, ‘‘How are the 1970s and the 1980s and the 1990s. you going to pay for it?’’ He said, ‘‘Oh, I’m I understand there are some people hurt- just going to tax the rich.’’ Now, people in ing in Michigan, but that’s not a reason to Saginaw, Michigan, have heard that before. go back to tax and spend. The best way to You see, if you raise the top two brackets, make sure people can find work is to con- it raises 600 to 800 billion dollars. That is tinue to promote a pro-growth, pro-entre- short of the 2.2 trillion. That’s called a tax preneur, pro-small-business economic policy, gap. [Laughter] And guess who usually has which is what we have done. Our economy to fill that tax gap? is strong, and it is getting stronger. Audience member. We do! When I ran—when I was running for The President. Yes, you do. The good President 4 years ago, I promised to do some- news is, we’re not going to let him tax you; thing about the public schools. I told the we’re going to carry Michigan and win a vic- American people I was troubled by a system tory. that would shuffle children through, grade No, the Senator doesn’t really want to talk after grade, year after year, without teaching about his record, and there is a reason why. the basics. I call that the soft bigotry of low There is a mainstream in American politics, expectations. So I promised to reform our and he sits on the far left bank. I’m a compas- system. I kept my word. We’ve increased spending, particularly for minority students * White House correction. and poor students. But in return, we’ve now

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said, ‘‘Show us whether or not a child can new cures and diseases, just like I said I read and write and add and subtract.’’ See, would do during the campaign. As we pur- you can’t solve a problem until you diagnose sued threats around the world, as we have the problem. And as a result of the system used our might to protect ourselves and to in place, the system that says we’re going to protect others, we have also delivered Amer- set high standards for every child, we’re diag- ican compassion. We’ve dramatically in- nosing problems and we’re solving them. creased funding to combat AIDS and to help Math and reading scores are up across this developing countries who are making good country. We are closing an achievement gap governance decisions and investing in their for minority students. And we’re not going future. to go back to the days of mediocrity and ex- We’re pursuing a forward strategy of free- cuses for failure in our public schools. dom around the world. We’re promoting de- When I ran for President 4 years ago, I mocracy. I want you to tell your children promised to improve Medicare by adding about what has taken place in a brief period prescription drugs. I kept my word. You of time in this world. You know, it wasn’t might remember the old Medicare debates. all that long ago that young girls couldn’t go They would call it ‘‘Mediscare’’ because poli- to school in Afghanistan because the country ticians wouldn’t talk about it. I came to was run by ideologues of hate called the Washington to solve problems. We had a Taliban. And if their mothers didn’t toe the problem in Medicare. Medicare would pay line, they would be pulled into the public thousands of dollars for the heart surgery but squares and whipped and sometimes shot in not one dime for the prescription drugs that a sports stadium. They were backward. The could prevent the heart surgery from being society was grim and dark. Because we acted needed in the first place. Now we’ve to defend ourselves, because we upheld the strengthened Medicare. We’ve modernized doctrine that said, ‘‘If you harbor a terrorist, Medicare. Beginning in 2006, all seniors will you’re equally as guilty as the terrorist,’’ mil- be able to get prescription drug coverage lions of people in Afghanistan went to the under Medicare. polls to vote for a President. And the first My opponent voted against that bill that voter was a 19-year-old woman. provided prescription drug coverage for our There will be elections in Iraq in January. seniors—— Think how far that society has come from Audience members. Boo-o-o! the days of torture chambers and mass The President. ——even though AARP graves. Freedom is on the march. Liberty will and other senior groups supported it. As your transform societies. I believe everybody President the next 4 years, I will defend the yearns to be free. I believe this not because reforms we put in place for our seniors. We freedom is America’s gift to the world, I be- will keep our promise to America’s seniors lieve this because freedom is the Almighty with modern medicine. God’s gift to each man and woman in this When I ran for President, I said we would world. help those who need help in America, we The role of a President is to confront prob- would help those who could not help them- lems, not to pass them on to future genera- selves. I said Government should not dis- tions and future Presidents. That is how I criminate against faith-based and community have led, and that is how I will continue to groups who provide compassionate care for lead our great Nation. We will keep your the broken heart. And now our Government taxes low so this economy continues to grow. welcomes those groups as partners in meet- We will work on the education reforms and ing the needs of those who need hope and take them to our high schools. We will ex- those who need help. pand Pell grants for low- and middle-income I said we would help the poor and the indi- families so more of our children can start gent with health care, and we’ve expanded their career with a college degree. We’ll community health centers all across this make sure that health decisions are made by country, and we will continue to do so. We’ve doctors and patients, not by officials in Wash- doubled funding for medical research into ington, DC.

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We’ll keep the promise of Social Security Audience members. Boo-o-o! for our seniors. You might remember the The President. The heart and soul of 2000 campaign. Perhaps the same thing is America is found in caring communities like happening in this campaign. It’s kind of the Saginaw, Michigan. old, tired scare tactics. They said, ‘‘If George Now, I’m looking forward to the rest of W. gets elected, our seniors aren’t going to this campaign. I like talking about what we get their checks.’’ That’s what they said 4 have done to make it clear to the American years ago. Please tell your friends and neigh- people I intend to do what I say I’m going bors, George W. did get elected, and our sen- to do during the next 4 years. I got a hopeful iors did get their checks. Our seniors will vision for this country. I see a better day com- continue to get their checks. Baby boomers ing. That stands in contrast with my oppo- like me and a couple others out there I see— nent, who has offered a long litany of com- we’re in pretty good shape when it comes plaints without a significant record. to the Social Security trust. But we need to worry about our children One of my favorite quotes that I hope and our grandchildren. We need to worry helps you understand how I feel about our about whether or not a—Social Security will great country comes from a fellow Texan be available for them when they retire. I be- named Tom Lea. He said, ‘‘Sarah and I live lieve younger workers ought to be able to on the east side of the mountain. It’s the sun- take some of their payroll taxes and set up rise side, not the sunset side. It is the side a personal savings account, a personal savings to see the day that is coming, not to see the account that earns a better rate of return than day that is gone.’’ During the course of this the Social Security trust, an account they call campaign, my opponent has spent much time their own, an account the Government can- talking about the day that is gone. I’m talking not take away. about the day that is coming. Over the next 4 years, I’m going to work I see a prosperous America where people with Republicans and Democrats to do are able to realize their dreams. I see an edu- something about the Tax Code. It is a com- cation system that challenges our children so plicated mess. It is a million pages long. We that no child is left behind. I see a compas- need to make the Tax Code easier to under- sionate health care system run by you, where stand and more fair for the American people. doctors aren’t being sued every day. I see Over the next 4 years, I will defend the a world that is free and therefore peaceful. values that are important for our families and I see the peace that we all long for our chil- our Nation. Marriage and family are the dren and our grandchildren. foundations of our society, and we will keep When I traveled your State 4 years ago, them strong. I believe that this society must I made you this pledge, that if I was elected, promote a culture of life. I was proud to sign I would uphold the honor and the dignity the ban on partial-birth abortion. I stand and of the office. With your help and with your will continue to stand for the appointment of Federal judges who know the difference hard work, I will do so for 4 more years. between personal opinion and the strict in- Thanks for coming. God bless. Thank you terpretation of the law. all. My opponent and I differ on these issues. Look at his record. He voted against the De- NOTE: The President spoke at 9:16 a.m. at the fense of Marriage Act and voted against the Dow Event Center. In his remarks, he referred ban on partial-birth abortion. to Myrah Kirkwood, candidate for Congress in Audience members. Boo-o-o! Michigan’s Fifth Congressional District; Betsy The President. He said he—he said there DeVos, chairman, Michigan Republican Party; the would be a litmus test for his judges. And Saline Fiddlers, a student musical group from Sa- at one point in this campaign, he said that line High School, Saline, MI; and former Presi- you can find the heart and soul of America dent Saddam Hussein of Iraq. in Hollywood.

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Remarks in Dayton, Ohio What a fine American, and I hope you put October 28, 2004 him back in office with a resounding vote. Plus he married well. The President. Thank you all. Thanks for I want to thank my friend George coming. Thanks for coming out today. You’re McKelvey, the—from Youngstown, Ohio. lifting my spirits. I’m honored you’re here. We had a rally there yesterday. A lot of peo- I have come back to the great city of Dayton, ple showed up to see the Mayor. [Laughter] Ohio, to ask for your vote and ask for your They wanted to see their leader. I’m proud help. We have a duty in our country to vote. that George has stood up by me—by side— I’m asking for you to remind your friends side by side with me. There’s a lot of Demo- and neighbors of that duty. We have an obli- crats that are for my candidacy. There’s a gation in a free society to show up to the lot of people around this country who know polls. that the Democrat Party has left them. And I’ve come to Dayton to ask you to get our I welcome every Democrat’s support. You fellow Republicans to vote, to find independ- are welcome on our team. ents to go to the polls, and don’t overlook I want to thank the other United States discerning Democrats like Mayor McKelvey Senator from Ohio for joining us today. Mike from the great city of Youngstown, Ohio. And DeWine and his wife, Fran, are with us. when you get them headed to the polls, re- Thanks, Mike, for coming. I know you’re mind them, if they want a safer America, a proud of Congressman Mike Turner. Mike, stronger America, and a better America for you’re doing a great job. And my friend John all of us, to put me and Dick Cheney back Boehner is with us, Congressman John in office. Boehner—and his wife, Debbie—the author My regret is that Laura is not with me of the No Child Left Behind Act in the today. House of Representatives. Audience members. Aw-w-w! The President. It’s obviously your regret I want to thank Chief Justice Tom Moyer as well. [Laughter] So we were in the seventh for joining us today. Mr. Judge, thanks for grade together at San Jacinto Junior High in being here. I want to thank your mayor, the Midland, Texas. And then we became re- mayor of Trotwood, Ohio, for joining us acquainted when she was a public school li- today. Thanks for coming, Don. I’m proud brarian. And I asked her to marry me, and you’re here. I want to thank all the local and she said, ‘‘Fine, but make me a promise.’’ State officials, all the candidates. I said, ‘‘Okay, what is it?’’ She said, ‘‘Promise But most of all, I want to thank you all. me I’ll never have to give a political speech.’’ I want to thank the grassroots activists, the [Laughter] I said, ‘‘Okay, you got a deal.’’ people putting up the signs, the people mak- Fortunately, she is not holding me to that ing the phone calls, the people doing all the promise. She is giving a lot of speeches, and hard work. I want to thank you for what you when she does, the American people see a have done, and I want to thank you for what strong, a warm, a compassionate First Lady. you’re going to do. With your help, with your I love her dearly. And, as a matter of fact, hard work in turning out that vote, there is just as we pulled into the parking lot I got no doubt in my mind we’ll carry Ohio again a phone call from three other members of and win a great victory on November the 2d. my family. Barbara and Jenna, our twins, are Five days from today, the people of Amer- out campaigning, and guess who they’re ica will go to the polls. We’re choosing the with? They’re with old Number 41. That leader of our country at a time of great con- would be former President Bush. And they sequence in our world. We’re at war against send their best to the good people of Dayton, a terrorist enemy unlike any we have seen. Ohio. We have much more to do to win a decisive And they send their best to my buddy, the victory in the war on terror. The most solemn Senator from Ohio, George Voinovich. I tell duty of the American President is to protect you, you’re lucky to have a man of this caliber the American people. If America shows un- serving you in the United States Senate. certainty or weakness in these troubled

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times, the world will drift toward tragedy. The President must not follow the path This is not going to happen on my watch. of the latest polls. The President must lead Our economy is in the midst of change based on conviction and conscience. Espe- and challenge. It can be a time of great op- cially at a time of war, mixed signals only portunity if we have the right policies to confuse our friends, embolden our enemies. strengthen rather than stall our economic re- Mixed signals are the wrong signals for an covery. We have much more to do to improve American President to send. our children’s education, to make health care When America chooses a President, you more accessible and affordable, to strengthen choose not just a set of positions on issues our Social Security for our children and our of philosophy or record; you choose a human grandchildren. And I’m ready for the job. being who comes with strengths and weak- My 4 years as your President have con- nesses. One of the things I’ve learned about firmed some lessons and have taught some the Presidency is, whatever your strengths new ones. A President must have a vision are, you’re going to need them, and whatever in order to lead this country. You cannot lead your shortcomings are, people are going to if you don’t know where you’re going. A President must set clear goals and bring peo- notice them. [Laughter] Sometimes I’m a lit- ple together to achieve those goals. A Presi- tle too blunt. I get that from my mother. dent must surround himself with smart and Sometimes I mangle the English language. capable people who are willing to express [Laughter] I get that from my dad. But their opinion. I have surrounded myself with Americans have learned this, that even when smart and capable people. you disagree with me, at least you know what A President must make America’s prior- I believe and where I stand. And you cannot ities crystal-clear, especially in an uncertain say that about my opponent. world. I’ve learned to expect the unexpected, Audience members. Boo-o-o! because history can deliver sudden horror The President. Senator Kerry has taken from a soft autumn sky. I have found you a lot of different positions, but he rarely takes better know what you believe or risk being a stand. He has run a campaign of contradic- tossed to-and-fro by the flattery of friends tions. I think it’s fair to say that consistency or the chorus of critics. I’ve been grateful has not been the Senator’s long suit. [Laugh- for the lessons I’ve learned from my parents: ter] He was for the PATRIOT Act and the Respect every person; do your best; live No Child Left Behind Act—until he was every day to its fullest. And I’ve been against key provisions of both of them. He strengthened by my faith and humbled by voted to authorize the use of force in Iraq, its reminder that my life is part of a much then said I was wrong to use that force. When bigger story. I sent troops into Iraq to remove Saddam I have learned firsthand how hard it is to Hussein from power, he said it was the right send young men and women into battle, even decision. Now he says it was the ‘‘wrong when the cause is right. I’ve been reminded war.’’ that the world looks to America for leader- Audience members. Boo-o-o! ship and that it is crucial for the American President to be consistent. I have learned The President. During one of our de- America’s President must base decisions on bates, he said Saddam Hussein was a threat. principle, core convictions from which you Then a couple of answers later, he said there will never waver. The issues vary; the chal- was no threat in Iraq. Just last year, American lenges are different every day in this job. Tac- troops in Afghanistan and Iraq needed $87 tics and strategy must be flexible, but a Presi- billion to help them complete their missions. dent’s convictions must be steady and true. This was vital support. First, Senator Kerry As Presidents from Abraham Lincoln to said, ‘‘It would be irresponsible to vote Franklin Roosevelt to Ronald Reagan so against the troops.’’ He said that on national clearly demonstrated, a President cannot TV. Then he did that irresponsible thing and blow in the wind. A President has to make he voted against the funding for our troops. the tough decisions and stand by them. Audience members. Boo-o-o!

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The President. You might remember per- entirely, saying that Iraq was the ‘‘wrong war haps the most famous quote of the 2004 cam- at the wrong place at the wrong time.’’ paign. When they asked him about his vote, Audience members. Boo-o-o! he said, ‘‘I actually did vote for the 87 billion, The President. What does that lack of before I voted against it.’’ He’s given several conviction say to our troops who are risking explanations of that vote since then, but per- their lives in this vital cause? Think about haps one of the most interesting is, he said, what that says to our allies who have joined ‘‘The whole thing was a complicated matter.’’ our cause. Think about what that says, that There’s nothing complicated about sup- lack of conviction, say to our enemies, that porting our troops in combat. if you make things uncomfortable, if you stir I will always stand with our troops. I want up trouble, John Kerry will back off. And to thank the military families who have joined that’s a very dangerous signal in the world us today. And I want to thank the veterans in which we live. who have set such a great example to those Just this week Senator Kerry showed his who wear the uniform. willingness to put politics ahead of facts and Now, you have to wonder why the Senator the truth. He criticized our military’s han- has taken such different positions at different dling of explosives in Iraq, when his own ad- places and different times in this campaign. visers admitted he didn’t know what had hap- Well, let me give you two reasons. It’s impor- pened. His spokesman has now had to ac- knowledge that the explosives may have been tant for the people of Ohio to understand moved before our troops arrived. A President this. Senator Kerry changes positions be- needs to get all the facts before jumping to cause he’s willing to say anything he thinks politically motivated conclusions. The Sen- that will help him politically at the time. And ator’s willingness to trade principle for polit- he does so to try to obscure a 20-year trail ical convenience makes it clear that John of out-of-the-mainstream votes that leads to Kerry is the wrong man for the wrong job an inescapable conclusion: Senator Kerry has at the wrong time. been on the wrong side of the defining na- There’s another reason the Senator tional security and domestic policy debates changes positions. He doesn’t want you to of the last 2 years. He can run, but he cannot know where he stands. He has a history. He hide. doesn’t want you to know where he really Several times during the course of the stands on national security because he has campaign, the Senator has changed his posi- a record of weakness. When Ronald Reagan tions for political convenience. The Senator was confronting the Soviet Union at the recognized Saddam Hussein was a threat and height of the cold war, Senator Kerry pro- authorized force to remove him, until his posed cancellation of critical defense weap- Democratic opponent, Howard Dean, began ons systems and said that President Reagan’s gaining ground as an antiwar candidate. The policy of peace through strength was making Senator decided he had to appeal to that America less safe. wing of his party, so he voted against the Audience members. Boo-o-o! troops—after voting to put them in risk in The President. History has shown that the first place. Senator Kerry was wrong and President Ron- Audience members. Boo-o-o! ald Reagan was right. The President. The Senator was all for When former President Bush led a coali- removing Saddam Hussein when we went tion against Saddam Hussein in 1991, Sen- into Baghdad, and he was very supportive ator Kerry voted against using force to lib- when we captured him. After all, the polls erate Kuwait. showed that he was—that that was very pop- Audience members. Boo-o-o! ular at the time. People liked that. When the The President. History has shown that going got tough and when we faced deter- Senator Kerry was wrong and former Presi- mined opposition and things weren’t quite dent Bush was right. so popular, the Senator suddenly wasn’t quite In 1994, just one year after the first bomb- so supportive. In fact, he changed his mind ing of the World Trade Center, Senator

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Kerry proposed massive cuts in America’s in- the checks, the Government starts making telligence budget, cuts so extreme that even the rules. And when it comes to your health his Massachusetts colleague, Ted Kennedy, care, when the Government starts making opposed them. History has shown that Sen- the rules, the Government starts making your ator Kerry was wrong and—we’ve got to be decisions, and they start deciding for the fair—Senator Kennedy was right. docs. Federal control of health care is the When you are one Senator among 100, you wrong prescription for American families. can be wrong without consequence. But the I’ve got a better idea. We’ll make sure President’s opinion decides the security and health care is available and affordable. We’d the fate of the American people. take care of the poor and the indigent by We have a different point of view when expanding community health centers across it comes to your security. Senator Kerry says this country. We’ll help make sure low-in- September the 11th did not change him come children are signed up for the health much. That’s what he said. programs available for them. We’re also Audience members. Boo-o-o! going to help our families. We’ll expand The President. And his policies make that health savings accounts so small businesses clear. The Senator says the war on terror is and families can better afford insurance and primarily a law enforcement and intel- manage their own account. We will allow ligence-gathering operation. small businesses to come together so they Audience members. Boo-o-o! can buy insurance at the same discounts that The President. September the 11th big companies are able to do. changed me a lot. In the days after the at- And to make sure health care is available tacks, I went to Ground Zero. On September and affordable, we’re going to do something the 14th, 2001, I stood where those buildings about these frivolous lawsuits that are run- used to stand. I’ll never forget that day, work- ning up the cost of medicine. I have met too ers in hardhats yelling at me at the top of many doctors, here in Ohio and elsewhere, their lungs, ‘‘Whatever it takes.’’ I remember too many ob-gyns that are getting run out the man—I remember one person in par- of practice because these lawsuits are causing ticular, who grabbed me by the arm. His eyes their premiums to go up. And that hurts the were bloodshot, and he looked me square people of Ohio when that happens. I have in the eye and he said, ‘‘Do not let me down.’’ met too many expectant moms who are wor- Ever since that day, I’ve gotten up every ried about the quality of the health care for morning thinking about how to better protect their baby. See, these lawsuits are making our country. I will never relent in defending it hard for you to afford health care. You can- America, whatever it takes. not be pro-doctor and pro-patient and pro- There are other things about my oppo- personal-injury-trial-lawyer at the same time. nent’s positions he doesn’t want you to know. You have to choose. My opponent made his I don’t know if you remember the debate— choice, and he put a personal-injury trial law- one of the debates, they were talking about yer on the ticket. health care. And he looked square in the Audience members. Boo-o-o! camera and he said, ‘‘My plan—the Govern- The President. I have made my choice. ment doesn’t have anything to do with it.’’ I’m standing with the patients of Ohio. I’m [Laughter] I could barely contain myself. standing with the doctors of Ohio. I am for [Laughter] medical liability reform—now. The Government has got a lot to do with The Senator really doesn’t want you to it. Eighty percent of the people in his plan know where he stands on taxes, because he’s end up on a Government plan. You see, if going to raise them. Listen, to be fair, raising you make it easier for people to get on Med- taxes is one of the few things that he has icaid, small businesses will drop coverage for been consistent about. You might say he’s their employees because the Government made a habit of it. He’s been in the Senate will provide the insurance. That’s moving for 20 years. He’s voted to raise taxes 98 people from the private sector to the public times. sector. When the Government starts writing Audience members. Boo-o-o!

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The President. That is five times for every I understand times are tough here in Ohio year he’s been in the Senate. I would call in certain parts of your State. I know that. that a predictable pattern, a leading indi- That’s why I’ve been coming to your State, cator. [Laughter] During the campaign, he’s listening to people, talking about how to promised a lot of new spending, $2.2 trillion make sure this economy continues to grow. of new spending. That’s trillion with a ‘‘T.’’ The unemployment rate went from 6.3 per- That’s a lot even for a Senator from Massa- cent to 6 percent last month. Ohio added chusetts. They asked him how he’s going to 5,500 new jobs last month. We’re on our way pay for it, and he said, ‘‘That’s simple. We’ll to recovery. And the question the Ohio peo- just tax the rich.’’ Most small businesses in ple have got to answer: Who’s got the plan Ohio pay tax at the individual income tax. to make sure this economy continues to One of the reasons why people are finding grow? I do: Low taxes; less regulation; and work here is because the small-business sec- tort reform. tor of your economy is strong and getting When I ran for President 4 years ago, I stronger. Seventy percent of new jobs are promised to challenge the soft bigotry of low created by small businesses. And by raising expectations in our public schools. And I kept the top two brackets, my opponent would be my word. We passed the No Child Left Be- taxing the job creators of Ohio, and that’s hind Act. We are spending more money for bad economic policy. Title I students, trying to help low-income The other thing is, is that by raising the students. But now we’re asking the question, top brackets, you only raise between 600 and ‘‘Can you read and write and add and sub- 800 billion. That is far short of 2.2 trillion. tract?’’ See, in return for excess money, we I would call that a tax gap. That would be want to know whether or not people are the difference between what he has prom- learning. We believe every child can learn. ised to spend and what he can deliver. Guess We believe everybody has got potential, and who usually gets to fill the tax gap? You do. we expect every child to learn in America. But the good news is, we’re not going to let You cannot solve a problem until you diag- him tax you; we’re going to carry Ohio and nose the problem. And now we’re diag- win nationally on November the 2d. nosing, and we’re beginning to solve them. You know where I stand when it comes Math and reading scores are going up. The to taxes. When I campaigned for the Presi- achievement gap amongst minority students dency in 2000, I said we’re going to provide is closing in America. And we’re not going our families tax relief. I kept my word. We to go back to the old days of low expectations increased the child tax credit to help our fam- and mediocrity in our schoolhouses. ilies. We reduced the marriage penalty. We believe the Tax Code should encourage mar- When I ran for President 4 years ago, I riage, not penalize marriage. We provided promised to improve Medicare by adding help for our small businesses. prescription drug coverage for our seniors. This economy of ours is strong, and it is I kept my word. You might remember the getting stronger. We’re growing at rates as old debates of Medicare. They called it fast as any in nearly 20 years. The number ‘‘Mediscare.’’ [Laughter] People weren’t will- of jobs have been increased by 1.9 million ing to really take on the issue. I took on the since August of 2003. The national unem- issue. I was joined by Senator Voinovich and ployment rate is 5.4 percent. Let me put that Senator DeWine, Congressman Boehner, in perspective for you: That’s lower than the Congressman Turner. We go to Washington average rate of the 1970s, the 1980s, and the to do things for the people. Medicare needed 1990s. Ohio’s farmers are making a living. to be strengthened. Medicare needed to be The entrepreneurial spirit is strong in the modernized. You see, Medicare would pay State of Ohio. Homeownership rate is at an thousands of dollars for a heart surgery but alltime high. More minority families own a not one dime for the prescription drugs that home today than ever before in our Nation’s could prevent the heart surgery from being history. needed in the first place. That wasn’t fair to

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our seniors. We got the job done, and begin- our education system fulfills its promise and ning in 2006, all seniors will be able to get to make sure health care is available and af- prescription drug coverage in Medicare. fordable without the Federal Government My opponent voted against the Medicare taking it over. I want to make sure we do bill. our duty to younger generations of Ameri- Audience members. Boo-o-o! cans, and I want to continue to work to The President. In a new term, I will de- spread freedom and liberty so the world is fend the reforms we have put in place and more peaceful. keep our promise to our America’s seniors. I want you to understand what has taken And speaking about our seniors, let me talk place in a brief period of time, particularly about Social Security, now that you got me the youngsters who are here. The Taliban ran on a roll. [Laughter] When you’re out gath- Afghanistan, and young girls could not go to ering up the vote, remind your friends and school because they had a dark vision of the neighbors that in the 2000 campaign, it was world. And if their mothers did not toe their said that if George W. got elected, the seniors ideological line of hatred, they would be would not get their checks. I don’t know if pulled in the public square and whipped and you remember that. It may be happening sometimes killed in a sports stadium. These here in Ohio now. You remind them that people were barbaric people. Because we George W. did get elected, and our seniors acted to defend ourselves, because we got their checks. And our seniors will con- upheld doctrine that said, ‘‘If you harbor a tinue to get their checks. And baby boomers terrorist, you’re equally as guilty as the ter- like me, we’ll probably get our checks. rorist,’’ because we acted in our self-interest But we need to worry about our children to defend ourselves and eradicated those Al and our grandchildren. We need to worry Qaida training camps that were in Afghani- about whether or not Social Security will be stan, millions of people were able to go to there for them when they retire. I believe the polls and vote for a President of Afghani- younger workers ought to be allowed to take stan. And the first voter was a 19-year-old some of their payroll taxes and set up a per- woman. Think about that. sonal savings account, an account they call There will be elections in Iraq. Think how their own, an account the Government can- far Iraq has come from the days of torture not take away. chambers and mass graves. Freedom is on The job of a President is to confront prob- the march, and we’re better off for it. We lems, not to pass them on to future Presi- believe that people want to be free. Freedom dents and future generations. My opponent is not America’s gift to the world. Freedom said he’s going to protect Social Security, but is the Almighty God’s gift to each man and remind your friends and neighbors, he voted woman in this world. eight times to tax Social Security benefits. Over the next 4 years, we’ve got work to Audience members. Boo-o-o! do to make sure our families are secure and The President. And he’s offered nothing prosperous and our children are educated. for the younger generation. In a new term, And we’ve also got work to do to defend the I’ll bring Republicans and Democrats to- values that are important for our country. I gether to strengthen Social Security for gen- believe marriage is a sacred commitment. I erations to come. believe marriage and family are the founda- Let me tell you what else we’re going to tions of our society. I believe in a culture do in a new term. We’re going to simplify of life in America. I proudly signed the ban the Tax Code. It is a complicated mess. It’s on partial-birth abortion. I will name judges a million pages thick. We’re going to make who know the difference between personal it fair for our workers, fair for our business, opinion and the strict interpretation of the and fair for America. law. Now, there’s more to do. I’m asking for My opponent has a different view. He your vote because I know where I want to voted against the Defense of Marriage Act, lead this country. I see a more hopeful Amer- and he voted against the ban on partial-birth ica. I want to work with you to make sure abortion.

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Audience members. Boo-o-o! honored so many came out to say hello. The President. The way I heard it, he says You’ve lifted my spirits. I am here in he’s going to have a litmus test for his judges. Westlake, Ohio, asking for your vote and your He also went on to say that, one time in this help. I am asking you during the next couple campaign, that the heart and soul of America of days to get on the telephone, to tell your can be found in Hollywood. friends and neighbors we have a duty in our Audience members. Boo-o-o! free society to vote. We have an obligation The President. The heart and soul of to vote. Tell them they need to go to the America is found in caring communities like polls, and when you get them headed to the Dayton, Ohio. polls, tell them that if they want a safer I’m optimistic about the future of this America, a stronger America, and a better country. I know we can overcome any prob- America, to put me and Dick Cheney back lem that faces us, because I know the Amer- in office. ican people. I know the strength and courage I am so honored you are here. My only and compassion of the people who live in regret on this beautiful day is that Laura is this land. not here to see the size of this crowd. You know, one of my favorite quotes is Audience members. Aw-w-w! written by a fellow Texan named Tom Lea. The President. I know it. That is generally He said, ‘‘Sarah and I live on the east side the reaction. [Laughter] ‘‘Why didn’t you stay of the mountain. It is the sunrise side, not at home and send her?’’ [Laughter] I don’t the sunset side. It is the side to see the day know if you know this or not, but Laura and that is coming, not to see the day that is I went to the seventh grade together, San gone.’’ You know, in the course of this cam- Jacinto Junior High. By the way, she went paign, my opponent has been talking about to the same high school at the same time the day that is gone. I’m talking about the that Tommy Franks did, in Midland, Texas. day that is coming. He’s older, and she’s prettier. [Laughter] And I see a great day coming for America. And so, I met her again—we became re- I see a hopeful day. And I see the fact that acquainted—and she was a public school li- the hard work we’ve done is paying off. I brarian when I did so. And she said—I said, see peace coming as well, peace for our chil- ‘‘Will you marry me?’’ She said, ‘‘Fine, but dren and our grandchildren. make me a promise.’’ I said, ‘‘What is it?’’ You know, when I campaigned across your She said, ‘‘Promise me I will never have to State, I made this pledge, that if I won in give a political speech.’’ [Laughter] I said, 2000, I would uphold the honor and the dig- ‘‘You got a deal.’’ Fortunately, she didn’t hold nity of the office to which I had been elected. me to that promise. She’s giving a lot of With your help, with your hard work, I will speeches—she’s speaking in Florida today— do so for 4 more years. and when she does, the American people see God bless. Thank you for coming. Thank a strong, compassionate, great First Lady. you all. I’m proud of my runningmate, Dick Che- ney. I readily concede he does not have the NOTE: The President spoke at 12:10 p.m. at the waviest hair in the race. [Laughter] You’ll be Hara Complex. In his remarks, he referred to happy to hear I did not pick him because Mayor George M. McKelvey of Youngstown, OH; of his hairdo. [Laughter] I picked him be- Chief Justice Thomas J. Moyer of the Supreme cause of his judgment. I picked him because Court of Ohio; Mayor Donald K. McLaurin of Trotwood, OH; and former President Saddam of his experience, and he is getting the job Hussein of Iraq. done for the American people. I’m proud and I am honored to be sup- ported by General Tommy Franks. America Remarks in Westlake, Ohio is safer and the world is better off because October 28, 2004 of the leadership of this fine American. God bless you, Tommy. And I’m proud to be here The President. Thank you all for coming. with Senator Bob Dole and all the retired Thank you all for being here today. I am so officers who are on this stage who represent

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hundreds of people, former military leaders to win this war on terror. The primary job who are supporting my candidacy. It means of the President of the United States is to a lot. It means a lot to be standing on the protect the American people. If America stage with people who have served our coun- shows any uncertainty or weakness in these try so courageously. Thank you all for coming troubling times, the world will drift toward today, and thank you for your support. tragedy. This is not going to happen on my I’ve been traveling today with a fine watch. United States Senator in George Voinovich. Our economy is in the midst of change Send him back to Washington. He’s doing and challenge. It can be a time of great op- a great job for you. And so is Mike DeWine. portunity if we have the right policies to I’m proud to call him friend. I know you’re strengthen, rather than stall, the economic proud to call him United States Senator. recovery. We have more to do to make sure I want to thank Lieutenant Governor people can find work in places like Ohio, Jennette Bradley. I want to thank Mayor more to do to improve our children’s edu- Hruby for joining us. And guess who else cation, more to do to make sure health care is with us today, a buddy of mine I’ve been is available and affordable, more to do to traveling with across the State of Ohio, the strengthen Social Security for a generation Democrat mayor of Youngstown, Ohio, to come, and I am ready for the job. George McKelvey. He represents a lot of My 4 years as your President have con- Democrats that are supporting my candidacy. firmed some lessons and taught me some There are a lot of people who understand new ones. The President must have a vision. and remember the great Democrat tradition You must understand where you’re going in of Franklin Roosevelt and Harry Truman and order to lead this Nation. A President must John Kennedy, of standing strong in times set clear goals and bring people together to of crisis. As the mayor puts it, he didn’t leave achieve those goals. A President must sur- the Democrat Party; the Democrat Party round himself with good, capable, strong under John Kerry left him. And I welcome people, and I have done so. every Democrat to my campaign, and I’m I have learned to expect the unexpected. honored you’re here. History can deliver sudden horror from a soft I want to thank all the State and local offi- autumn sky. I’ve found you better know what cials. I appreciate so very much the Fraternal you believe or you risk being tossed to-and- Order of Police folks who are here today. fro by the flattery of friends or the chorus I want to thank you for the endorsement of of the critics. I’ve been grateful for the les- my candidacy for President. sons I’ve learned from my parents, respect I know the great Cleveland Indian, Bob every person, do your best, live every day Feller, is with us today. I’m honored you’re to its fullest. I have been strengthened by here. I appreciate my friend Sammy Kershaw my faith and humbled by its reminder that for being here today. Thank you, Sammy and my life is part of a much bigger story. Lorrie Morgan, his wife, for coming; thanks I have learned firsthand how hard it is to for entertaining everybody. send young men and women into battle, even But most of all, thank you all. I’m here when the cause is right. I’ve been reminded to thank you for what you have done and that the world looks to America for leader- what you’re going to do over the next 5 days. ship and that it is crucial for America’s Presi- Get on that phone. Tell your friends and dent to be consistent. I’ve learned America’s neighbors to vote. There’s no doubt in my President must base decisions on principle, mind, with your help, we will carry Ohio core convictions from which you will not again and win a great victory on November waver. The issues vary; the challenges are dif- the 2nd. ferent every day as your President. Tactics When people go to the polls, we’ll be and strategy will be flexible, but a President’s choosing the leader of our country at a time convictions must be steady, and they must of great consequence in our world. We’re at be true. war against the terrorist enemy unlike any As Presidents from Abraham Lincoln to we have seen. We have much more to do Franklin Roosevelt to Ronald Reagan so

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clearly demonstrated, a President cannot that irresponsible thing and voted against the blow in the wind. A President has to make troops. tough decisions and stand by them. That is Audience members. Boo-o-o! how I have led our country, and that is how The President. You might remember per- I will continue to lead our country for 4 more haps the most famous quote of the 2004 cam- years. paign when they asked him about that vote, Audience members. Four more years! when he said this: ‘‘I actually did vote for Four more years! Four more years! the 87 billion, before I voted against it.’’ I The President. The President must not haven’t spent nearly as much time in these follow the path of the latest polls. The Presi- parts as you have, but I think you’re going dent must lead based on conviction and con- to have trouble finding anybody in Westlake science. Especially in a time of war, mixed who talks that way. signals only confuse our friends, embolden He’s given a lot of answers about that vote. our enemies. Mixed signals are the wrong sig- One of the most interesting ones of all is nals for an American President to send. when he said, ‘‘The whole thing was a com- When America chooses a President, you plicated matter.’’ My fellow Americans, choose not just a set of positions on issues there’s nothing complicated about sup- or a philosophy or record; you choose a porting our troops in combat. human being who comes with strengths and You have to wonder why he’s taken such weaknesses. One of the things I’ve learned dramatically different positions in different about the Presidency is whatever your places in different times in this campaign. strengths are, you are going to need them, Well, here’s two reasons why, and it’s impor- and whatever your shortcomings are, people tant for the Ohio voters to understand this. are going to notice them. [Laughter] Some- Senator Kerry changes positions because he’s times I’m a little too blunt. I get that from willing to say anything he thinks will help my mother. [Laughter] Sometimes I mangle him politically at the time. And he does so the English language. I get that from my fa- to try to obscure a 20-year record of out- ther. [Laughter] But Americans have learned of-the-mainstream votes that leads to this that even when you disagree with me, at least conclusion: Senator Kerry has been on the you know what I believe and where I stand. wrong side of defining national security and You cannot say that about my opponent. domestic policy debates for the last two dec- Senator Kerry has taken a lot of different po- ades. That is his record. He can run, but he sitions, but he rarely takes a stand. He has cannot hide. run a campaign of contradictions. I think it’s Several times during the course of this fair to say consistency has not been the Sen- campaign, the Senator has changed his posi- ator’s strong suit. He was for the PATRIOT tion for political convenience. The Senator Act and the No Child Left Behind Act until recognized Saddam Hussein was a threat and he was against key provisions of both of them. authorized the use of force, until his Demo- He voted to authorize the use of force in cratic opponent Howard Dean began gaining Iraq and then said I was wrong to use that ground as an antiwar candidate. The Senator force. When I sent troops to Iraq to remove decided he had to appeal to that wing of his Saddam Hussein from power, he said it was party. So he voted against the troops after the right decision. Now he says it’s the wrong voting to put them at risk in the first place. war. During one of our debates, he said Sad- The Senator was all for removing Saddam dam Hussein was a threat. Then a couple Hussein when we went into Baghdad and of answers later, he said there was no threat very supportive when we captured him. After in Iraq. all, the polls showed that was popular at the This last year, American troops in Afghani- time. [Laughter] When the going got tough, stan and Iraq needed $87 billion to support when we faced determined opposition and them in their missions. First, Senator Kerry things were not quite so popular, the Senator said on national TV, ‘‘It would be irrespon- suddenly wasn’t quite so supportive. In fact, sible to vote against the troops.’’ Then he did he changed his mind entirely, deciding it was

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the ‘‘wrong war at the wrong place and the ator Kerry was wrong and—we’ve got to be wrong time.’’ fair—[laughter]—Senator Kennedy was Audience members. Boo-o-o! right. When you are one Senator among 100, The President. The voters of Ohio must you can be wrong without consequence. The ask these questions. What does that lack of President’s opinion—the President’s decision conviction say to our troops who are risking decides the security and the fate of our coun- their lives in the vital cause? What does it try. say to our allies who have joined that cause? My opponent and I have a different view And what does his lack of conviction signal about how to protect you, about how to make to our enemies? That if you make things un- this country secure. He’s got a limited, nar- comfortable, if you stir up trouble, John row view of the war on terror. Senator Kerry Kerry will back off. And that’s a very dan- said September the 11th did not change him gerous signal in a world of grave threats. The much at all. President must be consistent. The President Audience members. Boo-o-o! must stand for something. Just this week, Senator Kerry showed his The President. Those are his words, not willingness to put politics ahead of the facts mine. And his policies make that clear. The and the truth. He criticized our military’s Senator says the war on terror is primarily handling of explosives in Iraq, when his own a law enforcement and intelligence gathering advisers admitted he did not know what had operation. happened. His spokesman has now had to Audience members. Boo-o-o! acknowledge that the explosives may have The President. My outlook was changed been moved before our troops ever arrived. by September the 11th. I clearly see the A President needs to get all the facts before threats that we face. A few days after the jumping to politically motivated conclusions. attack, I stood where the buildings fell. I’ll The Senator’s willingness to trade principle never forget the evil of the enemy and the for political convenience makes it clear that suffering of our people. I remember that John Kerry is the wrong man for the wrong day—clearly remember that day. I remember job at the wrong time. the sights and sounds. I remember the work- And there’s another reason why the Sen- ers in hardhats yelling at me at the top of ator changes positions. He doesn’t want you their lungs, ‘‘Whatever it takes.’’ I remember to know where he really stands. He doesn’t looking in the eyes of a man coming out of want you to know where he stands on na- that rubble who said to me, ‘‘Do not let me tional security because he has a record of down.’’ Ever since that day, I’ve waken up weakness. When Ronald Reagan was con- every morning trying to figure out how to fronting the Soviet Union at the height of better protect our country. I will never relent the cold war, Senator Kerry said President in defending America, whatever it takes. Reagan’s policy of peace through strength There are other things about my oppo- was making America less safe. History has shown that Senator Kerry was wrong, and nent’s views he doesn’t want you to know. President Ronald Reagan was right. I don’t know if you remember that in one When former President Bush led a coali- of those debates. He looked square in the tion against Saddam Hussein in 1991, Sen- camera when they asked him about his health ator Kerry voted against using force to lib- care plan, and he said, ‘‘The Government erate Kuwait. History has shown that Senator doesn’t have anything to do with it.’’ I could Kerry was wrong, and former President Bush barely contain myself. [Laughter] The Gov- was right. ernment has got a lot to do with his health In 1994, just one year after the first bomb- care plan. Eighty percent of the people ing of the World Trade Center, Senator would end up on Government insurance. If Kerry proposed massive cuts in America’s in- you increase the Medicaid limits, it provides telligence budget, cuts so extreme that even an incentives for small businesses not to pro- his Massachusetts colleague, Ted Kennedy, vide insurance for their employees, because opposed them. History has shown that Sen-

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the Government is going to provide insur- taxes is one of the view things that he has ance for their employees. You’re moving peo- been consistent about. [Laughter] You might ple from the private sector to the Govern- say he’s made a habit out of it. He’s been ment when it comes to health insurance, and in the Senate 90—he’s been in Senate 20 when the Government writes the checks, the years, and he’s voted to raise your taxes 98 Government makes the rules. And when it times. comes to your health care, when the Govern- Audience members. Boo-o-o! ment makes the rules, the Government starts The President. That’s five times every making decisions for you and starts deciding year he’s been in the Senate. I would call for your doctors. The wrong prescription for that a predictable pattern—[laughter]—a our families’ health care is the Federal con- leading indicator—tells you what he thinks trol of health care. about your wallet. He’s also proposed $2.2 I have got a better idea. We’ll take care trillion in new spending. That’s a lot. That’s of the poor and the indigent through commu- a lot even for a Senator from Massachusetts. nity health centers. We’ll make sure low-in- So they asked him, ‘‘How are you going to come children are fully subscribed into the pay for it?’’ And he threw out that same old health programs aimed for them. I under- tired line, you know, ‘‘We’re just going to stand that most of the uninsured work for tax the rich.’’ Well, the problem is, is that small businesses. Small businesses ought to by running up the top two brackets you raise be allowed to pool risk so they can buy insur- between 600 and 800 billion dollars, and ance at the same discounts that big compa- that’s far short of the 2.2 trillion worth of nies can do. We’ll expand health savings ac- promises. I would call that a tax gap. That counts to help our small businesses and our would be the gap between what he’s prom- families. And to make sure health care is ised and what he can deliver. And guess who available and affordable, we will do some- usually fills the tax gap. thing about the junk lawsuits that are running Audience member. We do! good docs out of practice and running your The President. The good news is we’re bills up. not going to let him tax you. We’re going I was in Canton a while ago and met ob- to carry Ohio and win on November the 2d. gyns that could no longer deliver babies. The Senator’s record is clear. There is a They had to get out of practice because these mainstream in American politics, and he sits lawsuits had run their insurance up so high on the far left bank. I’m a compassionate con- they couldn’t afford to stay in practice. I’ve servative and proudly so. I am glad to talk met too many women around our country about my record. You know, when I ran for who are worried about their baby. They’re office, I said we would cut the taxes on the worried that they can’t get the quality of American people, and I kept my word. We health care that they need. Too many people increased the child credit. We reduced the are driving too far to get good health care marriage penalty. We believe that the Tax because these lawsuits are ruining medicine, Code ought to encourage marriage, not pe- as far as I’m concerned. You can’t be pro- nalize marriage. We created a 10-percent doctor and pro-patient and pro-personal-in- bracket to help our working families. We cut jury-trial-lawyer at the same time. You have the taxes on everybody who pays taxes. We’re to make a choice. My opponent made his helping our small businesses, and our eco- choice, and he put a personal injury trial law- nomic policies are paying off. This economy yer on the ticket. is strong, and it is getting stronger. Audience members. Boo-o-o! You remind your friends and neighbors, The President. I have made my choice. when you’re out gathering the vote, what we I’m standing with the doctors of Ohio. I’m have been through. Six months prior to my standing with the patients of Ohio. We are arrival in Washington, DC, the stock market for medical liability reform. was in serious decline. That foretold a reces- The Senator doesn’t want you to really sion. Then we had some corporate scandals. know where he stands on taxes, because he’s We passed good law that make it abundantly going to raise them. Listen, to be fair, raising clear we’re not going to tolerate dishonesty

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in the boardrooms of America. And finally, Now that you’ve got me on a roll, let me those attacks cost us about a million jobs in talk about Social Security. [Laughter] I the 3 months after September the 11th. promised our seniors we would keep the But our plans are working. We’ve added promise of Social Security, and we did. In 1.9 million new jobs since August of 2003. the 2000 campaign, I remember those— Homeownership rate is at an alltime high in some of those television ads, the fliers that America. More minorities own a home today went out to our seniors that said, ‘‘If George than ever before in our Nation’s history. W. gets elected, our seniors are not going Ohio’s farmers are making a living. The en- to get their checks.’’ You might remember trepreneurial spirit is strong in the State of those, the shameless scare tactics. Well, Ohio. Our small businesses are creating jobs. George W. did get elected, and our seniors I know there’s pockets of problems here got their checks. And our seniors will con- in this State. I understand that. I’ve been tinue to get their checks. And baby boomers traveling your State. I know it well. But I like me—I see a few of us out there—don’t want to remind you, in the month of Sep- admit it—[laughter]—we’re going to get our tember, the unemployment rate went from checks. 6.3 percent to 6 percent in the State of Ohio. But we need to worry about our children You added 5,500 new jobs in this State. and our grandchildren. We need to worry We’re making progress. We’re going forward, about whether Social Security will be there and we’re not going to go back to the days for them when they need it. That’s why I of tax and spend. think younger workers ought to be allowed No, I’m proud to run on my record. When to take some of their payroll taxes and set I campaigned for President 4 years ago, I up a personal savings account, a personal sav- promised to challenge the soft bigotry of low ings account they call their own, that the expectations in our public schools. I kept my Government cannot take away. word. We passed the No Child Left Behind During the debate, I remember my oppo- Act, which is a fine piece of legislation. In nent standing up there saying, well, he’s return for increased Federal spending, we’re going to protect Social Security. But what he now measuring. You know why? Because we forgot to tell you was, he voted eight times believe every child can learn in America, and to raise taxes on Social Security benefits. we expect every school to teach. You cannot solve a problem unless you diagnose the Audience members. Boo-o-o! problem, and we’re now diagnosing problems The President. The good thing about a all across America, and our children are campaign is, you can run, but you cannot learning to read and write and add and sub- hide. tract. The math scores are up. The English He also offered nothing for the younger scores are up. We’re closing an achievement generation. The job of a President is to con- gap among minority students, and we are not front problems, not to pass them on to future going to back to the day of low standards Presidents and future generations. In a new and mediocrity in our classrooms. term, I will bring Republicans and Demo- When I ran for President 4 years ago, I crats together to make sure the Social Secu- promised to improve Medicare by adding rity system is strengthened for generations prescription drug coverage for our seniors. to come. I kept my word. Medicine was changing, and There’s more work to be done. I’m here Medicare wasn’t. We pay thousands of dol- to ask for the vote and let you know I want lars for heart surgery but not one dime for to make sure education systems continue to the prescription drugs that could prevent the work. We’ll expand the high standards to our heart surgery from being needed in the first high schools and expand Pell grants for low- place. I brought Republicans and Democrats and middle-income families so more children together. We have strengthened and mod- can start their career with a college degree. ernized Medicare. Beginning in 2006, all sen- We’ll continue to expand our economy and iors will be able to get prescription drug cov- create an environment for the entrepreneur erage under Medicare. to flourish, by keeping your taxes low and

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doing something about regulations and law- personal opinion and the strict interpretation suits. We’re going to make sure that the com- of the law. I stand for a culture of life in passion of America continues to be un- which every being matters and every person leashed through our faith-based and commu- counts. I proudly signed the ban on partial- nity-based initiatives. And we’ll work hard to birth abortion. I stand strongly for marriage make sure this country is secure, by not only and family, which are the foundations of our chasing the terrorists abroad so we do not society. have to face them here at home but by My opponent and I disagreed on these spreading freedom and liberty. issues. He voted against the ban on partial- I want to thank you all for bringing your birth abortion. children here today. I want to tell the chil- Audience members. Boo-o-o! dren something, and I hope parents reinforce The President. He voted against the De- this. We—we’re changing the world because fense of Marriage Act. of our belief in liberty. It wasn’t all that long Audience members. Boo-o-o! ago in Afghanistan where young girls could The President. As a matter of fact, at one not go to school. Think about a society that time during this campaign, he actually said way. Think about how barbaric and backward he thought you could find the values—find the Taliban were. And if their mothers didn’t the heart and soul of America in Hollywood. toe their ideological line of hatred, they Audience members. Boo-o-o! would be pulled in the public square and whipped; some cases, killed in a sports sta- The President. The heart and soul of dium. America is found right here in places like We acted in our own self-interest in Af- Westlake, Ohio. ghanistan. We acted to uphold a doctrine that It’s an important election. I want to thank I explained to the world, that said, ‘‘If you you all for coming out and giving me a chance harbor a terrorist, you’re equally as guilty as to encourage you to vote and to work the the terrorist.’’ When the President says some- crowd, work the folks—work the folks in your thing, he needs to speak clearly and mean neighborhood and communities—commu- what he says in order to keep the peace. And nity centers and your coffee shops. Tell the I meant what I said, and Tommy knew I people we have an obligation, and when meant what I said. We acted in our interest you’re talking to them, tell them I see such and removed the Taliban—Al Qaida can no a bright future for America. I see a great day longer train there—but in so doing, millions ahead for our citizens. of people voted in a Presidential election. One of my favorite quotes is written by The first voter in the Afghanistan Presi- a fellow Texan named Tom Lea. Here’s what dential election was a 19-year-old woman. he said. He said, ‘‘Sarah and I live on the Think about that. Think about how that soci- east side of the mountain. It is the sunrise ety has gone from darkness to light because side, not the sunset side. It is the side to of freedom. see the day that is coming, not to see the Iraq will hold elections in January. Think day that is gone.’’ The course of this cam- how far that society has come from the days paign, my opponent has spent much of the of torture chambers and mass graves. Free- time talking about the day that is gone. I’m dom is on the march, and America is more talking about the day that’s coming, a better secure because of it. And freedom will stay day for all Americans, a prosperous America, on the march so long as I am your President. an educated America, a compassionate I believe everybody yearns to be free. Free- America, and a peaceful world that we all dom is not America’s gift to the world; free- want. dom is the Almighty God’s gift to each man You know, when I campaigned across your and woman in this world. State 4 years ago, I made you this pledge, Over the next 4 years, we will work to pro- that if I got elected, I would uphold the tect and defend the values that make our honor and the integrity of the office. With country such a unique place. I stand for your help, with your hard work, I will do so judges who know the difference between for 4 more years.

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God bless. Thank you all for coming. ian. She said, ‘‘Fine, I’ll marry you, but make Thank you all. me a promise.’’ I said, ‘‘What is the prom- ise?’’ She said, ‘‘Promise me I’ll never have NOTE: The President spoke at 2:50 p.m. at the to give a political speech.’’ [Laughter] I said, Westlake Recreation Center. In his remarks, he ‘‘Okay, you got a deal.’’ Fortunately, she referred to Gen. Tommy R. Franks, USA, (Ret.), didn’t hold me to that promise. She was in former combatant commander, U.S. Central Florida today giving speeches. When the Command; former Senator Bob Dole; Mayor Jerry N. Hruby of Brecksville, OH; and Baseball people see Laura Bush give a speech, they Hall of Fame pitcher Bob Feller. see a strong, compassionate, great First Lady. I’m proud of my runningmate, Dick Che- ney. I do not want to offend anybody here Remarks in Yardley, Pennsylvania who’s follically challenged, but I admit my October 28, 2004 runningmate does not have the best hairdo in the race. [Laughter] I didn’t pick him be- The President. Thank you all for coming. cause of his hairdo. I picked him because I have had a fabulous day today. What a great of his judgment, his experience. He is getting way to end it. Thanks for lifting my spirits. the job done for the American people. It is such an honor to be back in Bucks Coun- I’m honored to be introduced by Chad ty. Lewis. No, I know you know him as a fine First, I want to thank Ruth Wright, who’s football player. Michele knows him as a lov- the owner of this beautiful farm. And I want ing dad and a great husband. I know him to thank her for enrolling the land in the as a man of character. I’m proud to be stand- Conservation Reserve Program, to help pre- ing on stage with Chad, and I want to thank serve the open spaces of Bucks County. What the other Eagles for coming here today. I’m a great citizen. What a fantastic contribution honored you all are here. Congratulations on to this beautiful part of the world. Ms. a great season. Just don’t be too tough on Wright, we are honored that you let us all the Cowboys. [Laughter] come here. Some of us will stay over after- I want to thank my friend Arlen Specter wards and help clean up. [Laughter] I, of for being here today. I hope you put him course, will be going to another State to keep back in for 6 more years. And I enjoy the putting the message out. other Senator from Pennsylvania, a good I’m here to ask for your vote, and I’m here friend of mine, I know a friend of yours, Rick to ask for your help. We’re coming down the Santorum. stretch. There’s not many days left. We have I’m a little angry at your Congressman. a duty in this country to vote, and I’m asking He’s leaving. I’ve enjoyed working with Jim you to get your friends and neighbors to go Greenwood. He cares deeply about the peo- to the polls. Tell your friends and neighbors ple of Pennsylvania and Bucks County. He that in a free society, all of us have an obliga- has done a fine job as a Member of the tion to participate in our democracy. Make United States Congress, and I wish him all sure our fellow Republicans get the word. the best in this new venture. And I urge you Make sure independents get the word. And to support Mike Fitzpatrick to take his place. don’t overlook discerning Democrats. They I welcome Melissa Brown here. She too too want what we want, which is a safer is running for the United States Congress America, a stronger America, and a better from the Thirteenth Congressional District. America. I wish Melissa all the best. I want to thank I am sorry that Laura is not with me this all the other candidates who are here. I ap- evening. preciate the entertainers who are here. Audience members. Aw-w-w! Most of all, I thank you all for coming. The President. That is generally the reac- Thanks for putting up the signs. Thanks for tion. I take it like, ‘‘Why didn’t you stay home making the phone calls. Thanks for working and send her?’’ [Laughter] What a fabulous hard to turn out such a big crowd. I want woman she is. You know, when I asked her to thank you for what you’re going to do. to marry me, she was a public school librar- Turn out the vote—no doubt in my mind,

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we can carry and will carry Pennsylvania and We’ve got one other asset, and that’s our win a victory on November the 2d. deep belief in liberty and freedom. We be- Audience members. Four more years! lieve in the power of liberty to transform so- Four more years! Four more years! cieties. I want you to tell your children and The President. And one other person I grandchildren about the astonishing events want to recognize, and that’s Sam Evans. that are taking place. Sam Evans is 101 years young. He is with In a short period of time, Afghanistan has us tonight. He is the chairman of the Amer- gone from a country ruled by barbarians who ican Foundation of Negro Affairs. I am proud would not let young girls go to school. And to have his support. Mr. Evans, God bless if their mothers didn’t toe their line of ha- you, and thanks for coming. tred, they were taken into the public squares The election comes down to some clear and whipped and sometimes executed in a choices for America’s families, and that’s sports stadium. Because we defended our- what I’m here to talk about. The first clear selves, because we upheld the doctrine that choice is the most important because it con- said, ‘‘If you harbor a terrorist, you’re equally cerns the security of your family. All progress as guilty as the terrorist,’’ millions of people voted in a Presidential election in Afghani- on every issue depends on the safety of our stan. And the first voter was a 19-year-old citizens. This will be the first election since woman. Because of freedom, that society has September the 11th, 2001. Americans will go gone from darkness to light, and America is to the polls in a time of war and ongoing more secure to have Afghanistan as an ally threats. The terrorists who killed thousands in the war on terror. of innocent people are still dangerous, and Iraq will hold Presidential elections in Jan- they are determined. The outcome of this uary. Think how far that society has come election will set the direction of the war on from the days of mass graves and torture terror. The most solemn duty of the Amer- chambers, from the days of a brutal dictator, ican President is to protect the American Saddam Hussein. Freedom is on the march. people. If America shows uncertainty or The world is changing because of our deep weakness in these troubled times, the world belief in freedom. We believe everybody will drift toward tragedy. This will not hap- wants to be free. Freedom is not America’s pen on my watch. gift to the world. Freedom is the Almighty Since that terrible morning of September God’s gift to each man and woman in this the 11th, 2001, we’ve fought the terrorists world. across the Earth, not for pride, not for power A President must lead with consistency but because the lives of our citizens are at and strength. In a war, sometimes your tac- stake. Our strategy is clear. We’re strength- tics change but not your principles. Ameri- ening the protections of our homeland. The cans have seen how I do my job. Even when former Governor of Pennsylvania, Tom you might not agree with me, you know what Ridge, is doing a great job as the Secretary I believe, you know where I stand, and you of Homeland Security. We’re reforming our know where I’m going to lead this country. intelligence capabilities. We are transforming On good days and on bad days, whether the our military. There will be no draft. The All- polls are up or the polls are down, I am deter- Volunteer Army works, and we’ll keep it an mined to protect the American people, and all-volunteer army. We are relentless. We are I will always support the men and women determined. We are staying on the offense who wear our uniform. against these terrorists so we do not have to I see a sign that says ‘‘Moms of Military.’’ face them here at home. I want to thank the families who are here— And we’re making progress. More than the families of our military who are here for three-quarters of Al Qaida’s key members their sacrifices. I want to thank the veterans and associates have been brought to justice, who are here for having set such a great ex- and the rest of them know we’re on their ample for those who wear the uniform. And trail. And at the same time, we use all our I want to assure those who wear the uniform assets to protect ourselves. and their loved ones, we will make sure they

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have all the resources they need to complete Senator Kerry was wrong and former Presi- their missions. That’s why I went to the dent Bush was right. United States Congress in September of In 1994, just one year after the first bomb- 2003 and asked the Congress for support— ing of the World Trade Center, Senator to support our men and women in harm’s Kerry proposed massive cuts in America’s in- way. We asked for $87 billion, and it was telligence budget, so massive that even his necessary. It was important funding. Massachusetts colleague, Ted Kennedy, op- The bipartisan support for that measure posed them. Well, history has shown that was overwhelming. Republicans and Demo- Senator Kerry was wrong and—we’ve got to crats both understood the need to support be fair—[laughter]—Senator Kennedy was our troops in harm’s way. It was so strong right. that only 12 Members of the United States During the last 20 years, in key moments Senate voted against the funding, 2 of whom of challenge and decision for America, Sen- are my opponent and his runningmate. As ator Kerry has chosen the position of weak- you’re out gathering up the vote, as you find ness and inaction. With that record, he stands people who wonder about which candidate in opposition not just to me but to the great can lead, you might remind them of this star- tradition of the Democratic Party. The party tling statistic: Four Members of the United of Franklin Roosevelt and Harry Truman and States Senate voted to authorize the use of John Kennedy is rightly remembered for force and voted against providing the funding confidence and resolve in times of war. Sen- necessary to support our troops in combat— ator Kerry has turned his back on ‘‘pay and only 4 out of 100—4 Members of the Senate, price’’ and ‘‘bear any burden,’’ and he has 2 of whom are my opponent and his replaced those commitments with ‘‘wait and runningmate. see’’ and ‘‘cut and run.’’ Audience members. Boo-o-o! Many Democrats in this country do not The President. They asked him why, and recognize their party anymore. And today, you might remember the famous quote of here in the great State of Pennsylvania, I the 2004 campaign, when he said, ‘‘I actually want to speak to every one of them: If you did vote for the $87 billion, right before I believe that America should lead with voted against it.’’ He’s given several expla- strength and purpose and confidence in our nations since then about that vote. Perhaps ideals, I would be honored to have your sup- the most interesting and telling of all is when port, and I am asking for your vote. he finally said, ‘‘Well, the whole matter was Audience members. Four more years! a complicated matter.’’ There is nothing Four more years! Four more years! complicated about supporting our troops in The President. The security of our fami- combat. lies is at stake. Senator Kerry says that Sep- Senator Kerry’s record on national security tember the 11th did not change him much has a far deeper problem than election-year at all. That’s what he said. His policies make flip-flopping. On the largest national security that clear. He says the war on terror is pri- issues of our time, he has been consistently marily a law enforcement and intelligence wrong. When Ronald Reagan was con- gathering operation. fronting the Soviet Union at the height of September the 11th changed me, and the cold war, Senator Kerry said that Presi- changed my outlook. I’ll never forget the day dent Reagan’s policy of peace through that I stood in the ruins of the Twin Towers, strength was making America less secure. September the 14th, 2001. I’ll never forget Well, history has shown that Senator Kerry the sights and sounds of that day, the workers was wrong and President Ronald Reagan was in hardhats yelling at me at the top of their right. lungs, ‘‘Whatever it takes.’’ I remember the When former President Bush led a coali- firefighter or police officer, I’m not sure tion against Saddam Hussein in 1991, Sen- which one, who’d come out of the rubble. ator Kerry voted against the use of force to He grabbed me by the arm. He looked me liberate Kuwait. Well, history has shown that square in the eye, and he said, ‘‘Do not let

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me down.’’ Ever since that morning, I’ve got- My opponent has a different plan for your ten up thinking about how to best protect family’s budget. He’s going to take a big America. I will never relent in defending our chunk out of it. You remind your friends and country, whatever it takes. neighbors about these facts. He voted against The second clear choice in this election the child—increasing the child credit. He concerns your family’s budget. When I ran voted against the marriage penalty relief. He for President 4 years ago, I pledged to lower voted against lower taxes. If he had had his taxes for American families. I kept my word. way, the average American family would be We doubled the child credit to $1,000 per paying 2,000 more in Federal income taxes. child to help the moms and dads. We re- Audience members. Boo-o-o! duced the marriage penalty. I believe the Tax The President. That probably doesn’t Code ought to encourage marriage, not pe- seem like a lot to people in Washington. It’s nalize marriage. We dropped the lowest a lot to people who are trying to make ends bracket to 10 percent so working families can meet in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. It mat- take—keep more of their paychecks. We re- ters to families right here in this part of the duced income taxes for everybody who pays world. income taxes. And real after-tax income, the He’s been in the United States Senate 20 money you have in your pocket, is up by years, and he’s voted for higher taxes 98 about 10 percent since I’ve been your Presi- times. That is five times a year. I would call dent. that a predictable pattern, a leading indi- When you’re out gathering the vote, re- cator. When a Senator does something that mind people about what this economy has often, he must really enjoy it. [Laughter] been through. Six months prior to my arrival I want you to couple that fact with this in Washington, the stock market was in seri- one: He’s proposed about $2.2 trillion in new ous decline. It foretold a recession that we Federal spending. That’s trillion with a ‘‘T.’’ went through. And then we had some cor- That’s a lot. That’s a lot even for a Senator porate scandals. But we acted. We passed from Massachusetts. [Laughter] And so they good legislation that made it abundantly clear asked him, ‘‘How are you going to pay for we will not tolerate dishonesty in the board- it?’’ And he threw out that same old tired rooms of America. And then we got attacked, line we’ve heard before. He’s going to tax and those attacks cost us about a million jobs the rich. in the 3 months after September the 11th. Let me tell you two things about that. One, But our economic policies are working. By most small businesses are sole proprietor- stimulating consumption and increasing in- ships or Subchapter S’s. They pay tax at the vestment, this economy is strong, and it is individual income-tax level. Seventy percent getting stronger. Think about what’s taken of new jobs in America are created by small place. Homeownership is at an alltime high businesses. By running up the top two brack- in America. More minority families own a ets, you’re taxing the job creators. You’re tak- home than ever before in our Nation’s his- ing money out of the coffers of small busi- tory. Pennsylvania farmers, like farmers ev- nesses, and that is bad economic policy. erywhere, are making a good living under the This may interest you as well. By raising Bush administration. Small businesses are the top two brackets, by taxing the rich, you flourishing. The entrepreneurial spirit is raise about 600 billion to 800 billion dollars. strong in America. That is far short of the 2.2 trillion that he We’ve added 1.9 million new jobs in the had promised. That’s what we call a tax gap. last 13 months. The national unemployment That’s the difference between what’s prom- rate is 5.4 percent. Let me put that in per- ised and what’s delivered. Guess who usually spective for you: That’s lower than the aver- fills the tax gap? You do. But the good news age rate of the 1970s, the 1980s, and the is, we’re not going to let him tax you; we’re 1990s. The unemployment rate in Pennsyl- going to carry Pennsylvania and win on No- vania is 5.3 percent. This economy is moving vember the 2d. forward, and we’re not going to go back to The third clear choice in this election in- the days of tax and spend. volves the quality of life for our families. A

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good education and quality health care are for not only the mom but the baby. This is important to our families. As a candidate, I a national problem. pledged to challenge the soft bigotry of low You cannot be pro-doctor and pro-patient expectations by reforming our public schools. and pro-personal-injury-trial-lawyer at the I kept my word. I signed the No Child Left same time. You have to make a choice. My Behind Act and proudly so. We’re raising the opponent made his choice, and he put a per- standards. We’re spending more money, but sonal-injury trial lawyer on the ticket. in return, we’re asking for results. We believe Audience members. Boo-o-o! every child can learn, and we expect every The President. He’s voted against medical school to teach. liability reform 10 times in the United States You cannot solve a problem until you diag- Senate. I made my choice. I’m standing with nose the problem, and we’re now diagnosing the doctors of Pennsylvania. I’m standing problems and we’re solving them. Test scores with the patients of Pennsylvania. I am for are up in reading and math. We’re closing real medical liability reform. an achievement gap for minority students all My opponent proposed a plan. You might across America. And we’re not going to go remember, at one of our debates, he looked back to the days of low standards and medi- straight in the camera and he said about his ocrity in our classrooms. plan, ‘‘The Government doesn’t have any- We’ll continue to improve life for our fam- thing to do with it.’’ I could barely contain ilies by making health care more affordable myself. [Laughter] and available. We’ll make it available by mak- ing sure the poor and the indigent are able The Government’s got a lot to do with it. to get care in community health centers, Eighty percent of the people in this plan will places where people can get good preventa- end up on a Government plan. If you make tive care and good primary care without bur- it easier for people to get on Medicaid, it dening the emergency rooms of your local is likely small-business owners will stop pro- hospitals. We’ll make sure that children of viding insurance for their employees because low-income families are—subscribe to the the Government will cover them. That’s mov- programs aimed to help them, to make sure ing people from the private sector to the pub- health care is affordable. lic sector when it comes to health care. And We’ll help our small businesses. Small when the Government writes the checks, the businesses ought to be allowed to pool risk Government makes the rules. And when the across jurisdictional boundaries so they can Government starts making the rules for your buy insurance at the same discounts that big family’s health care, they start making deci- companies are able to do. We will expand sions for you. And they make decision for health savings accounts to help our small- the docs. And they start making decisions on business owners and families afford health rationing of care. insurance and manage their own health care Countries that have tried centralized plans. health care can’t get away from it quick To make sure health care is available and enough. The wrong prescription for Amer- affordable in a State like Pennsylvania and ican families is to federalize health care in others, we will do something about the frivo- America. In all we do to make sure health lous lawsuits that are running up the cost of care is available and affordable, we will make medicine and running good doctors out of sure the decisions are made by doctors and practice. We have a problem in this Nation patients, not by officials in Washington, DC. when it comes to medical liability. There are The fourth clear choice in this election in- too many lawsuits. I have met too many ob- volves your retirement. Our Nation has made gyns from the State of Pennsylvania who are a solemn commitment to America’s seniors being driven out of practice because their on Social Security and Medicare. When I ran premiums are so high because of the law- for President 4 years ago, I promised to keep suits. And I, unfortunately, have met too that commitment and improve Medicare by many patients of ob-gyns who are deeply adding prescription drug coverage. I kept my concerned about the quality of health care word.

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We reformed Medicare. The system need The fifth clear choice in this election is to be fixed. We would pay thousands of dol- on the values that are so crucial to keeping lars for a heart surgery but not one dime for a family strong. I stand for the appointment the prescription drugs that could prevent the of Federal judges who know the difference heart surgery from being needed in the first between personal opinion and the strict in- place. And that was not fair to our seniors, terpretation of the law. I stand for marriage and it certainly wasn’t fair to the taxpayers. and family, which are the foundations of our And so we modernized Medicare. I brought society. I stand for a culture of life in which Republicans and Democrats together. I every person matters and every being counts. proudly signed the Medicare bill. And begin- And I proudly signed the ban on partial-birth ning in 2006, all seniors in America will be abortion. able to get prescription drug coverage under My opponent has taken a different posi- Medicare. tion. He voted against the Defense of Mar- We’ll keep the promise of Social Security riage Act. He voted against the ban on par- for our seniors, and we’ll strengthen Social tial-birth abortion. And at one point in this Security for generations to come. In the 2000 campaign, he actually said that the heart and campaign, I remember some of those ads soul of America can be found in Hollywood. that said, ‘‘If George W. gets elected, our Audience members. Boo-o-o! seniors won’t get their checks.’’ You might The President. That’s what he said. Most remember those. When you’re out gathering Americans do not look to Hollywood as a up the vote, remind people George W. got source of values. The truth of the matter is, elected, and the seniors got their checks. the heart and soul of America is found in Those scare tactics are not going to work in communities in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. 2004. They’re too old, and they’re too tired. I’m running for a reason. I see clearly Seniors will always get their checks. Baby where this country needs to go. boomers like me, like some of you, are in Audience members. Four more years! pretty good shape when it comes to the So- Four more years! Four more years! cial Security trust. The President. I thank you all. I know But we need to worry about our children where I want to lead us. You know, one of and our grandchildren. We need to worry my favorite quotes is from a fellow Texan about whether the Social Security system will named Tom Lea, and he said, ‘‘Sarah and be there when they retire, and that’s why I I live on the east side of the mountain. It think younger workers ought to be allowed is the sunrise side, not the sunset side. It to take some of their own payroll taxes and is the side to see the day that is coming, not set up a personal savings account, a personal to see the day that is gone.’’ The course of savings account that will earn a better rate this campaign, my opponent has spent much of return, a personal savings account they call of it talking about the day that is gone. I’m their own, a personal savings account the talking about the day that’s coming. Government cannot take away. I’m talking about a day in which our fami- My opponent takes a different approach. lies are able to realize their dreams for their He said he’s going to protect Social Security, children. I’m talking about a day where pros- but tell your friends and neighbors about this perity reaches every corner of America, a day fact: He voted eight times for higher taxes in which every school sets high standards so on Social Security benefits. every child can realize the great promise of Audience members. Boo-o-o! America. I’m talking about a day when we The President. And when it comes to the achieve the peace we all desperately want. next generation, he has offered no reform. When I campaigned across Pennsylvania See, the job of a President is to confront 4 years ago, I made this pledge, that I would problems, not to pass them on to future uphold the honor and the dignity of the of- Presidents and future generations. In a new fice. With your help, I will do so for 4 more term, I’ll bring people together to strengthen years. Social Security for generations to come. God bless. On to victory. Thank you all.

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NOTE: The President spoke at 6:25 p.m. at laws be faithfully executed, to supervise the Broadmeadows Farm. In his remarks, he referred unitary executive branch, and as Commander to professional football player Chad Lewis and his in Chief; (2) the statutory grant to the Sec- wife, Michele; Mike Fitzpatrick, candidate for retary of Defense of authority, direction, and Congress in Pennsylvania’s Eighth Congressional District; and former President Saddam Hussein control over the Department of Defense (10 of Iraq. U.S.C. 113(b)); (3) the exercise of statutory authority by the Attorney General (28 U.S.C. 512 and 513) and the general counsel of the Statement on Signing the Ronald W. Department of Defense as its chief legal offi- Reagan National Defense cer (10 U.S.C. 140) to render legal opinions Authorization Act for Fiscal Year that bind all civilian and military attorneys 2005 within the Department of Defense; and (4) October 28, 2004 the exercise of authority under the statutes (10 U.S.C. 3019, 5019, and 8019) by which Today, I have signed into law H.R. 4200, the heads of the military departments may the ‘‘Ronald W. Reagan National Defense prescribe the functions of their respective Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005.’’ The general counsels. Act authorizes funding for defense of the The executive branch shall construe sec- United States and its interests abroad, for tion 1021, purporting to place restrictions on military construction, and for national secu- the use of the U.S. Armed Forces in certain rity-related energy programs. operations, and sections 1092 and 1205, re- Section 326 of the Act, amending sections lating to captured personnel and to con- 3551, 3552, and 3553 of title 31, United tractor support personnel, in a manner con- States Code, purports to require an executive sistent with the President’s constitutional au- branch official to file with the Comptroller thority as Commander in Chief and to super- General a protest of a proposed contract for vise the unitary executive branch. private sector performance of agency func- Section 1203 of the Act creates a Special tions previously performed at higher cost by Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction, Federal employees, whenever a majority of under the joint authority of the Secretaries those Federal employees so requests, unless the official determines, free from any admin- of State and Defense, as a successor to the istrative review, that no reasonable basis ex- Inspector General of the Coalition Provi- ists for the protest. The executive branch sional Authority under title III of Public Law shall construe section 326 in a manner con- 108–106. Title III as amended by section sistent with the President’s constitutional au- 1203 shall be construed in a manner con- thority to supervise the unitary executive sistent with the President’s constitutional au- branch, including the making of determina- thorities to conduct the Nation’s foreign af- tions under section 326. fairs, to supervise the unitary executive Section 574 of the Act amends sections branch, and as Commander in Chief of the 3037, 5046, 5148, and 8037 of title 10, Armed Forces. The Special Inspector Gen- United States Code, to prohibit Department eral shall refrain from initiating, carrying out, of Defense personnel from interfering with or completing an audit or investigation, or the ability of a military department judge ad- from issuing a subpoena, which requires ac- vocate general, and the staff judge advocate cess to sensitive operation plans, intelligence to the Commandant of the Marine Corps, matters, counter-intelligence matters, ongo- to give independent legal advice to the head ing criminal investigations by administrative of a military department or chief of a military units of the Department of Defense related service or with the ability of judge advocates to national security, or other matters the dis- assigned to military units to give independent closure of which would constitute a serious legal advice to unit commanders. The execu- threat to national security. The Secretary of tive branch shall construe section 574 in a State and the Secretary of Defense jointly manner consistent with: (1) the President’s may make exceptions to the foregoing direc- constitutional authorities to take care that the tion in the public interest.

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The executive branch shall construe as ad- A number of provisions of the Act, includ- visory section 1207(b)(1) of the Act, which ing sections 112(b)(6), 213(c), 513(e)(1), purports to direct an executive branch official 912(d), 1021(f), 1022(b), 1042, 1047, 1202, to use the U.S. voice and vote in an inter- 1204, 1207(c) and (d)(2), 1208, 1214, and national organization to achieve specified for- 3166(a) amending section 3624 in Public eign policy objectives, as any other construc- Law 106–398, call for the executive branch tion would impermissibly interfere with the to furnish information to the Congress, a leg- President’s constitutional authorities to con- islative agent, or other entities on various duct the Nation’s foreign affairs and super- subjects. The executive branch shall construe vise the unitary executive branch. The execu- such provisions in a manner consistent with tive branch also shall construe the phrase the President’s constitutional authority to ‘‘generally recognized principles of inter- withhold information the disclosure of which national law’’ in sections 1402(c) and 1406(b) could impair foreign relations, national secu- to refer to customary international law as de- rity, the deliberative processes of the Execu- termined by the President for the Nation, tive, or the performance of the Executive’s as is consistent with the President’s constitu- constitutional duties. tional authority to conduct the Nation’s for- Section 3161 expands the categories of eign affairs. atomic weapons industry employees who may The executive branch shall construe sec- receive direct compensation from the United tion 3147 of the Act, relating to availability States for their work-related illnesses. As a of certain funds if the Government decides result, some claimants from the private sec- to settle certain lawsuits, in a manner con- tor who have occupationally caused asbestos- sistent with the Constitution’s commitment related diseases may be able to receive direct to the President of the executive power and Federal compensation under the Energy the authority to take care that the laws be Employees Occupational Illness Compensa- faithfully executed, including through litiga- tion Act Program. As a general matter, Fed- tion and decisions whether to settle litigation. eral taxpayers should bear no additional bur- Several provisions of the Act, including dens arising from the tort liabilities of private sections 315, 343(2) amending section 391 sector defendants, including contractors of of Public Law 105–85, 506(b), 517(c), 571(b), the United States. The limited extension of 574(d)(8), 576(c), 577(c), 643(c) and (e), Federal responsibility here is unique because 651(g)(2), 666(c), 841(c), 3114(d)(2), and it is solely a replacement for no-fault workers’ 3142(c) call for executive branch officials to compensation payments not otherwise avail- submit to the Congress proposals for legisla- able, in the unique situation in which the tion. The executive branch shall implement Federal Government may have encouraged these provisions in a manner consistent with its contractors to resist workers’ compensa- the President’s constitutional authority to su- tion claims brought by atomic weapons in- pervise the unitary executive branch and to dustry employees with occupational illnesses. recommend for the consideration of the Con- gress such measures as the President judges George W. Bush necessary and expedient. Also, the executive The White House, branch shall construe section 1511(d) of the October 28, 2004. Act, which purports to make consultation with specified Members of Congress a pre- condition to the execution of the law, as call- NOTE: At the time of publication, H.R. 4200, ap- proved October 28, had not been received by the ing for, but not mandating such consultation, Office of the Federal Register in time for assign- as is consistent with the Constitution’s provi- ment of a Public Law number. This statement was sions concerning the separate powers of the released by the Office of the Press Secretary on Congress to legislate and the President to October 29. An original was not available for the execute the laws. verification of the content of this statement.

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Remarks in Manchester, in place to make sure the entrepreneurial New Hampshire spirit is strong so people can continue to October 29, 2004 work. When I campaigned in 2000, I promised The President. Thank you all. Thank you to challenge the soft bigotry of low expecta- all for coming. Thanks for coming. We are tions in our public schools. I kept my word. honored you are here. Thanks for being here In a new term, we’ll stay on the path of re- today. You’ve lifted our spirits. And with your form and results in all our schools so no child help, we’ll carry New Hampshire and win a is left behind in America. In a new term, great victory next Tuesday. we’ll make sure health care is more afford- I want to thank my friends Senator Judd able and accessible for our families. In all Gregg and Kathy. I want to thank Senator we do to reform health care, we will make Sununu, Congressman Bradley, Congress- sure the health care decisions are made by man Bass, Governor Benson—put him back doctors and patients, not by officials in Wash- in. Put Gregg back in too. Most of all, thank ington, DC. In a new term, we’ll keep the you for coming. promise of Social Security for our seniors and Laura and I are thrilled you are here. You strengthen the system for our children and know, I’m here to tell the people of New our grandchildren. In a new term, we’ll pro- Hampshire, you need to put me back in for tect marriage and family, which are the foun- a reason. Perhaps the most important one dations of our society. of all is so that Laura is the First Lady for And all the progress we hope to make de- 4 more years. I love her dearly. She is a great pends on the security of our Nation. We face First Lady. enemies who hate our country and would do In the final 4 days of this historic cam- anything to harm us. I will fight these en- paign, I’m taking my vision of a more hopeful emies with every asset of our national power. America directly to the people of this coun- We will do our duty, and we will protect the try. That’s what I’ve come to New Hampshire American people. about, to talk about a hopeful future for all Audience members. Four more years! of us. Today, our economy is strong, and it Four more years! Four more years! is getting stronger. The tax relief we passed The President. On September the 11th, is working. Think about this: Homeowner- 2001, our Nation suffered terrible harm, and ship rate is at an alltime high in America. the pain was greatest for our families of the More minority families own a home than lost. With us today are Ernie Strada and his ever before in our Nation’s history. Our wife, Mary Ann, who lost their son, Tom, at farmers are making a good living. The entre- the World Trade Center. Please welcome the preneurial spirit is strong in America. Stradas. The September 11th families will al- In the course of traveling your State, I met ways be in our thoughts and always be in a lot of small-business owners who are mak- our prayers. This Nation must never forget ing a good living because of our tax relief their pain. and because of their ingenuity and vision. On the day of that tragedy, I made a deci- And because they’re making a good living, sion: America will no longer respond to ter- they’re hiring people. We’ve added 1.9 mil- rorist murder with half-measures and empty lion new jobs across this country in the last threats. We will no longer look away from 13 months. The national unemployment rate gathering dangers and simply hope for the is 5.4 percent. Let me put that in perspective best. We are pursuing a comprehensive strat- for you. That’s lower than the average rate egy to fight the terrorist enemy and defend of the 1970s, the 1980s, and the 1990s. The America. We will not relent, and we will pre- unemployment rate in the great State of New vail. Hampshire is 3.5 percent. Our economic First, we’re on the offensive against the policies are working. terrorist networks. The best way to prevent In a new term, we’ll keep your taxes low. future attacks is to go after the enemy. We We’ll reduce the regulations. We’ll do some- will confront the terrorists abroad so we do thing about these lawsuits. We will put plans not have to face them here at home. We are

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waging a global campaign from the moun- rorists on the run. And so long as I am your tains of Central Asia to the deserts of the President, we’ll be determined and steadfast, Middle East, from the Horn of Africa to the and we will keep the terrorists on the run. Philippines. We’re getting results. Since Sep- Audience members. Four more years! tember the 11th, more than three-quarters Four more years! Four more years! of Al Qaida’s key members and associates The President. To win the war on terror, have been detained or killed, and the rest to do our duty, America needs an unwavering of them know we are on their trail. commitment to see the task through. In any Secondly, we are confronting regimes that war, there are good days and there are bad harbor terrorists and feed the terrorists and days, but everyday, you need the same re- support the terrorists. I set a doctrine that solve. these regimes are equally as guilty as the ter- When I took the oath of office 4 years ago, rorists. When a President speaks, he must none of us could have envisioned what these speak clearly and he must mean what he says. years would bring. We’ve been through a lot I meant what I said, and the Taliban regime together. My years as your President have in Afghanistan doubted our commitment. confirmed some lessons and have taught me The regime is no more, and America and the some new ones. One of the things I’ve world are safer. learned about the Presidency is that what- Third, we’re confronting outlaw regimes ever your strengths are, you’re going to need that pursue weapons of mass destruction, them, and whatever your shortcomings are, have ties to terror, and defy the world. A people are going to notice them. [Laughter] lesson of September the 11th is we must Sometimes, I’m a little too blunt. I get that never allow the terrorists to gain the world’s from my mother. Sometimes, I mangle the most dangerous weapons. Saddam Hussein English language. [Laughter] I get that from chose to defy the world. He doubted our re- my dad. But all the times, you know where solve, and America and the world are safer I stand, what I believe, and where I’m going because he is sitting in a prison cell. And to lead this country. that message was heard in Libya, which has A President must make America’s prior- now given up its weapons of mass destruction ities absolutely clear, especially in our uncer- programs, and that has made America and tain world. I’ve learned firsthand how hard the world safer. it is to send young men and women into bat- Fourth, we’re promoting freedom and de- tle, even when the cause is right. I’ve been mocracy in the broader Middle East. If 20 reminded that the world looks to America years from now the Middle East is dominated for leadership, and it is crucial for the Amer- by dictators and mullahs who build weapons ican President to be consistent. I have of mass destruction and harbor terrorists, our learned a President must base decisions on children and our grandchildren will grow up principle, core convictions from which he will in a nightmare world of danger. This does never waver. The issues vary. The challenges not have to happen. We have a duty to pro- are different every day. The polls go up; the tect ourselves and to protect future genera- polls go down. But a President’s convictions tions of Americans. must be consistent and true. By taking the side of reformers and demo- And through these 4 years, I have learned crats in the Middle East, we will gain allies anew the enduring character of this great Na- in the war on terror. And we’ll isolate the tion. I have met exceptional men and women ideology of hatred, and we’ll help defeat the during my time as your President. I have despair and hopelessness that feeds terror. seen their strength and their sacrifice, and So we’re helping to build free societies in their examples have confirmed there is no Afghanistan and Iraq and across that trou- limit to the greatness of America. I have seen bled region. Freedom is on the march, and the character in people like Cheryl America and the world are more secure. McGuinness, Debra Burlingame, and Eliza- Our strategy to win the war on terror is beth Kovalcin, who are with us today. succeeding. We are shrinking the area where Cheryl’s husband, Tom, and Debra’s terrorists can operate freely. We have the ter- brother, Charles, were both pilots who lost

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their lives on September the 11th. Eliza- tory. We’ve risen to great challenges, and beth’s husband, David, was a passenger on every American can be proud of their coun- Flight 11. These women have shown that try. hope can be found even in the worst tragedy. I have seen the spirit of our country in Cheryl says this: ‘‘While those terrorists may those who wear our Nation’s uniform, people have killed almost 3,000 of our husbands and like Mike McNaughton. Mike is a platoon wives, mothers and fathers, children and sergeant from the Louisiana National Guard. friends on that day, they did not take away He enlisted after September the 11th. He our spirit, our hope, or the promise of tomor- fought in Afghanistan and lost two fingers row.’’ There is hope beyond the ashes of Sep- and a leg. I remember visiting Mike in the tember the 11th, and nobody can take that hospital. I said, ‘‘What do you like to do?’’ away from us. He said, ‘‘I like to run.’’ I said, ‘‘Well, some- I’ve seen the character of America in peo- day, you and I are going to run on the South ple like Lisa Beamer and the husband she Lawn of the White House.’’ I don’t know if lost. Todd Beamer and other passengers on he believed me at the time, but one day he Flight 93 rushed those hijackers and led the showed up at the South Lawn of the White first counterattack in the war on terror. House, and we ran. I will never forget his Todd’s final words captured the spirit of a determination and his courage and his sac- nation. He said a prayer, and then he said, rifice for our freedom. ‘‘Let’s roll.’’ Todd’s dad, David Beamer, is I’ve spoken with so many of our people with us today. I have been honored to have in uniform, from bases across America to a met Lisa as well. In terrible sadness, this fam- Thanksgiving in Baghdad. And I know their ily has been a model of grace, their own and courage and their honor. They have fought the grace of God. our enemies with skill. They have treated the Just over a month after her husband’s innocent with kindness, and they have deliv- death, Lisa decided to take the same New- ark-to-San Francisco flight that Todd had ered millions from oppression. taken. And she explained, ‘‘I won’t be held I have returned the salute of the wounded captive by fear.’’ In the years to come, Lisa’s who told me they were only doing their duty. words must be remembered by all Ameri- I’ve tried my best to comfort the families of cans. As we fight the terrorists, they will try the lost who told me to honor their loved to frighten us. They will test our will by their ones by completing the mission. Like the barbaric tactics. We must be resolved. So men of Normandy and Iwo Jima before long as I’m your President, we will not be them, another great generation is serving held captive by fear. America today, and our Nation is proud to The enemies who hit our country on Sep- stand with them. tember the 11th thought Americans would All Americans must always remember the be fearful and weak. Instead, the world saw debt this Nation owes to the men and women courageous rescuers, like New York City fire- who defend us. Those who wear the uniform fighters Michael Boyle and Tim and Tom are people of great character and service and Haskell, who ran toward danger. Michael’s duty and honor. We are thankful. And as we father, Jimmy, is with us today. Also with us remember those who wear the uniform is Ken Haskell, brother of Tim and Tom. today, we must always remember the vet- America honors the courage of our first-re- erans who have set such a good example for sponders. And we must always be grateful today’s men and women. And we are grateful to those who carry out the great tradition of to our military families for their sacrifice. bravery and courage in the likes of Michael, And as long as I am the Commander in Tim, and Tom. Chief, I assure you, we will keep our commit- After September the 11th, the world saw ment we have made to our troops and their strangers comforting each other and a nation families. They will have the resources they united in pride and defiance. For 3 years, need to complete their missions. As America the people of this country have shown pa- saw on the $87 billion supplemental request, tience and purpose in the hard tasks of his- when I say something, I mean it.

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We are not in this war alone. We must I told them, I said, ‘‘Welcome to the Oval remember, our cause has been joined by Office. As we helped secure liberty in your many great nations and strong leaders. I’ve country, we’ll make sure—and you need to seen the determination of allies like Prime make sure—the institutions are bigger than Minister Tony Blair of Great Britain. The the people who occupy the offices.’’ That’s Prime Minister and I come from different certainly the case of the Oval Office. The political backgrounds and traditions, yet we institution of the President is always bigger share a clear understanding of the threat we than the person. I told them that by having face and our duty to defeat it. I remember the institutions bigger than the people, never a phone call I had with Prime Minister Blair again will somebody be able to pluck them on a Sunday morning early last year. I called out of society and arbitrarily cut off their him when he was facing a political crisis at right hands. home. I told him I wanted him as an ally, I will never forget the moment when one but if politics was such that he could not of those Iraqi men grabbed a Sharpie and commit British troops to combat in Iraq, I in his new hand that he was just learning would understand. The Prime Minister re- to use, slowly wrote out in Arabic a prayer plied that he believed our cause was right, for God to bless America. America should and because it was right, Britain would join always be proud that our country remains the us. He said, ‘‘I am with you, and I mean it.’’ hope of the oppressed and the greatest force That day I heard the spirit of Winston for good on this Earth. Churchill in the Prime Minister of Britain. Just last month, I welcomed Iraq’s Prime More than 90 countries share this commit- Minister Allawi to the White House. For dec- ment in the war on terror, because they un- ades, he was a fearless critic of Saddam Hus- derstand this is civilization’s fight. All 26 sein. As a matter of fact, in 1978, a team NATO nations have personnel in Iraq, Af- of assassins sent by the dictator attacked Dr. ghanistan, or both. And 14 of the countries Allawi and his wife with axes and nearly killed that have joined our coalition in Iraq have him. He is a courageous man. Saddam Hus- lost forces in our vital work. In the war on sein knows the man he tried to murder is terror, America has led; many have joined; the leader of a free Iraq. Prime Minister and America and the world are safer. Allawi is now confronting the enemies of We must always remember the steadfast freedom with strong determination. In the conviction of our good allies. Their contribu- Rose Garden, he said that his nation would tions and their sacrifice must never be dis- fight the terrorists in Iraq, room to room and missed or denigrated. They have earned the house to house, so that the people of Iraq gratitude of the American people. In a new would never again have to live in tyranny. term, in order to secure America, I will con- Our mission in Iraq is clear. We are help- tinue to work with our allies. We will ing Iraq’s new Government train armies and strengthen our alliances. But I will never turn police forces and security forces so they can over America’s national security decisions to do the hard work of defending their freedom, leaders of other countries. so they can stand up and fight the terrorists As the President, I’ve also seen the spirit who are trying to stop the advance of liberty. of the people we have liberated. I will never We’ll help Iraq get on the path to stability forget the day when seven Iraqi men came and democracy as quickly as possible, and into the Oval Office. Coming into the Oval then our troops will come home with the Office can be sometimes a awe-inspiring ex- honor they have earned. perience. It’s a magnificent shrine to democ- The will of the Iraqis is strong, and their racy. They came in—they had all had their dream for freedom is moving forward. The right hands cut off by Saddam Hussein. They terrorists are brutal and cruel. Yet everyday, had had their hands cut off because his cur- Iraq and coalition forces are defeating the rency had been devalued and he needed a enemy’s strategic objectives. The enemy in scapegoat. These men had been discovered Iraq wants to establish terrorist bases from in Iraq, had been flown to America to get which to operate. We are on the offensive. a prosthesis, a new hand. We are denying them sanctuary. The enemy

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wants to intimidate Iraqis from joining the the Port Authority of New York and New security forces, yet more 100,000 Iraqi sol- Jersey, was off-duty on September the 11th. diers and police and border guards are brave- But when he learned the news, he went right ly serving their country. The enemy seeks to to the Twin Towers. He died trying to save disrupt the march toward democracy, but others. On that day of September the 14th, Iraqis are preparing for free elections on I met his mom, Arlene, who is with us today. schedule this coming January. The violent She gave me George’s police shield. She acts of a few will not divert Iraqis or our asked me not to forget the fallen. I carry coalition from the mission we have accepted. Shield Number 1012. I will never forget the Iraq will be free. Iraqis will be secure. And fallen. God bless you, Arlene. the terrorists will fail. Time passes, but we must always remem- The Afghan people are also showing their ber the enemy that kills without shame or character. The terrorists did everything they mercy. I will always remember the men in could to stop this month’s elections, but the hardhats at Ground Zero shouting at me at will of the Afghan people was more powerful the top of their lungs, ‘‘Whatever it takes.’’ than the hatred of the killers. Millions of Af- My determination has not faded since that ghans lined up at the polls. The first vote day. My determination is wrong—strong. I in the Presidential election—the first voter will never relent in defending America, what- was a 19-year-old woman. Imagine what the ever it takes. Taliban would have said about that. [Laugh- ter] We have come so far. We’ve accomplished The new President, Hamid Karzai, is a so much. Yet, our work is not finished. All brave, respected leader who traveled south- of us are part of a great historic endeavor. ern Afghanistan by horseback to rally forces We will lead our country through a time of against the Taliban. Three years ago, his danger. We will build a world of freedom country was the training camp of Al Qaida. and peace beyond the war of terror. I know Now it is a democracy, a friend of America, we’ll succeed. I know the character of the and an ally in the war on terror. American people. By acting in Afghanistan and Iraq, we re- The polls open in Manchester at 6 a.m. moved threats. We’re making our country on Tuesday. For a safer America, for a safer. We are also living up to the highest stronger America, and for a better America, calling of our history. We’re the Nation that I ask the people of New Hampshire to vote freed Europe and lifted up former enemies for me. in Germany and Japan. And we gave hope God bless you, and God bless America. to captive peoples behind the Iron Curtain. Thank you all. The liberation of more than 50 million peo- ple in our time is a noble achievement, and NOTE: The President spoke at 10:56 a.m. at the every American can be proud of that achieve- Verizon Wireless Arena. In his remarks, he re- ment. ferred to Kathleen MacLellan Gregg, wife of Sen- We must always remember the principles ator Judd Gregg; Gov. Craig Benson of New of our founding and the hope that our coun- Hampshire; former President Saddam Hussein of try has brought to the world. As long as I’m Iraq; Prime Minister Tony Blair of the United your President, this Nation will stand for Kingdom; Prime Minister Ayad Allawi of the Iraqi freedom and stand by our friends and never Interim Government; and President Hamid cut and run. I believe everybody wants to Karzai of Afghanistan. be free. Freedom is not America’s gift to the world; freedom is the Almighty God’s gift to each man and woman in this world. Remarks in Portsmouth, These experiences have helped shape my New Hampshire view of the world and the kind of leader I October 29, 2004 am. And one of the most powerful and defin- ing experiences took place on September the The President. Thank you all for coming. 14th, 2001. George Howard, an officer with We are honored to be back. Such a beautiful

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day here in the great State of New Hamp- to carry New Hampshire, and we’re going shire. Thank you all for coming out to say to win a great victory in November. hello. I want to thank the grassroots activists who We are here in your State today asking for are here. We made a lot of friends in our your vote and asking for your help. I’m asking travels throughout New Hampshire. I see you to get your friends and neighbors to do Barbara. I know Ruthie is here, people who their duty, and that is to vote. We have a have been friends of ours for a long time. duty in this society of ours, in our free land, I want to thank you for putting up the signs. to vote. And so will you please find fellow I want to thank you for making the phone Republicans and wise independents— calls. I want to thank you for what you have [laughter]—discerning Democrats and head done and what you’re going to do over the them to the polls. And when you get them course of the next 5 days, and that is gather going that way, remind them, if they want up the vote and turn them out for a great a safer America, a stronger America, and a victory. better America, to put Dick Cheney and me The voters have a clear choice between back in office. two very different candidates with dramati- Perhaps the most important reason to put cally different approaches and different me back in is so that Laura will be the First records. You know where I stand. And some- Lady for 4 more years. times, you even know where my opponent I’m proud of my runningmate, Dick Che- stands. [Laughter] We both have records. I’m ney. I don’t want to offend anybody here who proudly running on mine. The Senator is run- is follically challenged—[laughter]—but the ning from his. [Laughter] Vice President doesn’t have the prettiest hair in the race. [Laughter] You’ll be happy to This election comes down to clear choices hear I didn’t pick him because of his hairdo. for our families, issues of great consequence. I picked him because he’s a man of sound The first clear choice is the most important judgment, excellent experience. He’s getting because it concerns the security of your fam- the job done for the American people. ily. All our progress on every other issue de- Two of our favorite people in Washington, pends on the safety of our citizens. Ameri- DC, is Judd and Kathy Gregg. We’re proud cans will go to the polls in a time of war to call him friend. I know you’re proud to and ongoing threats unlike with any we have call him Senator, and you should be. He’s faced before. The terrorists who killed thou- doing a great job for the people of New sands of innocent people are still dangerous, Hampshire. And we’re fond of your junior and they’re determined to strike us again. Senator, John Sununu. What a good job he’s The outcome of this election will set the di- doing. Congressman Jeb Bradley, your Con- rection of the war against terror. The most gressman, is doing a great job in the House solemn duty of the American President is to of Representatives. And Congressman Char- protect the American people. If America lie Bass is with us. I appreciate you coming, shows uncertainty or weakness during these Congressman. He’s a good one. troubled times, the world will drift toward And finally, I’m fond of your Governor. tragedy. This will not happen on my watch. I know something about being a Governor. Since that terrible morning of September I was one—once one. He’s doing a great job the 11th, 2001, we’ve fought the terrorists for the people of New Hampshire. You got across the Earth, not for pride, not for power, to put Governor Benson back into office. but because the lives of our citizens are at I want to thank Paul Needham for joining stake. Our strategy is clear. We’ve strength- us. He’s the former Democrat Derry town ened the protections for the homeland. councilor. He was John Edwards for Presi- We’re reforming our intelligence services. dent State cochair. He’s now a Democrat for We’re transforming our All-Volunteer Army. Bush, and I’m proud he’s here. And he’s not There will be no draft. We are relentless. We alone. A lot of Democrats want a secure are determined. We’re staying on the offen- America. A lot of Democrats want a pros- sive. We’re defeating the terrorists abroad so perous America. With your help, we’re going we do not have to face them here at home.

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Because we have led, Afghanistan is a free uniform. I want to thank those who wear our nation and an ally in the war on terror. Be- uniform. I want to thank the military families cause we led, Pakistan is capturing terrorists, who are here today. And I want to thank the and Saudi Arabia is making raids and arrests. veterans who are here who have set such a Because we led, Libya is dismantling its great example for the men and women of weapons programs. Because we led, the army the military. of a free Iraq is fighting for freedom, and We have made a commitment to support more than three-quarters of Al Qaida’s key our troops in combat. I’m the kind of fellow, members and associates have been brought when I say something, I mean it. I want the to justice. military families to know I mean what I said. And I’ll protect America by leading the That’s why I went to the United States Con- cause of freedom. I believe in the trans- gress in September of 2003 and requested formational power of liberty. I believe liberty $87 billion of important funding to support can transform societies and help us keep the our troops in combat. We received great sup- peace. I want you to remind your sons and port from people of both political parties. As daughters about the amazing history that has a matter of fact, only 12 Members of the taken place in a relatively short period of United States Senate voted against sup- time. Three-and-a-half years ago, young girls porting our troops in harm’s way. Only 12 could not go to school in Afghanistan because voted against the $87 billion, 2 of whom were of the brutality and dark vision of the my opponent and his runningmate. Taliban. And if their mothers didn’t toe their Audience members. Boo-o-o! line of ideological hatred, they were whipped The President. When you’re out gath- in the public square and sometimes executed ering up the vote, I want you to remind peo- in a sports stadium. Because we acted to pro- ple of this startling statistic: Only four Mem- tect ourselves, because we upheld the doc- bers of the United States Senate voted to au- trine that said, ‘‘If you harbor a terrorist, thorize the use of force and then voted you’re equally as guilty as the terrorist,’’ mil- against supporting our troops in combat— lions voted in the Presidential election in Af- four Members, two of whom were my oppo- ghanistan. And the first voter was a 19-year- nent and his runningmate. old woman. Audience members. Boo-o-o! Iraq will have Presidential elections in Jan- The President. You might remember per- uary. Think how far that country has come haps the most famous quote of the 2004 cam- from the days of torture chambers and mass paign. When they asked my opponent about graves. Freedom is on the march, and Amer- his vote, he said, ‘‘I actually did vote for the ica is better for it. Freedom is on the move $87 billion, right before I voted against it.’’ around the world. [Laughter] You know, I spent some time I believe everybody yearns to be free. here in New Hampshire. I’ve been to the That’s what I believe. And it drives much coffee shops. I’ve been to the community of my foreign policy. Listen, I understand centers. I haven’t heard anybody talk that freedom is not America’s gift to the world; way. [Laughter] They asked him several freedom is the Almighty God’s gift to each times about that vote, and he’s given several man and woman in this world. different answers. Perhaps the most reveal- The President has to lead with consistency ing of all was when he said about his vote and strength. In a war, sometimes your tac- against the $87 billion, ‘‘The whole thing was tics change but not your principles. And a complicated matter.’’ [Laughter] My fellow Americans have seen how I do my job. Even Americans, there’s nothing complicated when you might not agree with me, you know about supporting our troops in combat. what I believe and where I stand and what Senator Kerry’s record on national security I intend to do. On good days and on bad has a far deeper problem than election-year days, whether the polls are up or the polls flip-flopping. On the largest national security are down, I am determined to protect the issues of our time, he has been consistently American people, and I will always support wrong. When Ronald Reagan was con- our men and women who wear our Nation’s fronting the Soviet Union at the height of

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the cold war, Senator Kerry said that Presi- stake during this election. Senator Kerry says dent Reagan’s policy of peace through that the war on terror is primarily a law en- strength was making America less safe. He forcement and intelligence gathering oper- voted against many of the weapons systems ation. He says that America must submit to critical to our defense buildup to help us what he calls a ‘‘global test.’’ keep the peace. History has shown that Sen- Audience members. Boo-o-o! ator Kerry was wrong and President Ronald The President. I’m not making that up. Reagan was right. [Laughter] He was standing right about here When former President Bush led a coali- when he said it during one of the debates. tion against Saddam Hussein in 1991, Sen- [Laughter] As far as I can tell, that means ator Kerry voted against the use of force to our country must get permission from for- liberate Kuwait. If his view had prevailed, eign capitals before we act in our own de- Saddam Hussein today would dominate the fense. That’s what the ‘‘global test’’ says to Middle East and would possess the most dan- me. gerous weapons. History has shown that Sen- Audience members. Boo-o-o! ator Kerry was wrong and former President The President. Listen, I’ll always work Bush was right. with our friends and allies. But I will never In 1994, just one year after the first bomb- turn over America’s national security deci- ing of the World Trade Center, Senator sions to leaders of other countries. Kerry proposed massive cuts in Americans’ intelligence budget, so massive that even his We have a big difference of opinion. Re- Massachusetts colleague, Ted Kennedy, op- cently the Senator was quoted as saying posed them. about 9/11 that it didn’t change him much Audience members. Boo-o-o! at all. It changed me. It changed my outlook. The President. History has shown that A few days after the attacks, I stood where Senator Kerry was wrong and—we’ve got to the buildings fell. I will never forget that day. be fair—Senator Kennedy was right. There were workers in hardhats there yelling During the last 20 years, in moments of at me at top of their lungs, ‘‘Whatever it challenge and decision for America, Senator takes.’’ I remember the policeman or fire- Kerry has chosen the position of weakness man—I don’t know which one, where he and inaction. With that record, he stands in worked, but he came out of the rubble, and opposition not just to me but to the great he looked me square in the eye, and he said, tradition of the Democratic Party. The party ‘‘Do not let me down.’’ Ever since that day, of Franklin Roosevelt, the party of Harry I’ve gotten up every morning thinking about Truman, the party of John Kennedy is rightly how to better protect our country. I will remembered for confidence and resolve in never relent in defending America, whatever times of war and hours of crisis. Senator it takes. Kerry has turned his back on ‘‘pay any price’’ The second clear choice in this election and ‘‘bear any burden,’’ and he has replaced concerns your family’s budget. When I ran those commitments with ‘‘wait and see’’ and for President 4 years ago, I pledged to lower ‘‘cut and run.’’ taxes for American families, and I kept my Many Democrats in this country do not word. We doubled the child credit to $1,000 recognize their party anymore. Today I want per child. We reduced the marriage penalty. to speak to every one of them. If you believe We think the Tax Code ought to encourage that America should lead with strength and marriage, not penalize marriage. We purpose and confidence in our ideals, I dropped the lowest bracket to 10 percent. would be honored to have your support, and We reduced income taxes for everybody who I am asking for your vote. pays income taxes. And after-tax income in Audience members. Four more years! America is up by about 10 percent since I Four more years! Four more years! have been your President. That means more The President. There are big differences money in your pocket. between us as to how to best protect our When you’re out gathering the vote, re- country. The security of our families is at mind people about what we have been

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through. The stock market was in serious de- So they asked him—they asked him, how cline 6 months prior to my arrival in Wash- are you going to pay for it? And he trotted ington. Then we had a recession. Then we out that same old, tired line we hear every had corporate scandals. And then we had the campaign. He said, ‘‘Well, I’m just going to attacks of September the 11th that cost us tax the rich.’’ about a million jobs in the 3 months after Well, first of all, most small businesses in September the 11th. New Hampshire and around the country are But our economic policies are working. sole proprietorships or Subchapter S cor- We’re on the path to growth. Our economy porations, which means they pay tax at the is growing at rates as fast as any in 20 years. individual income-tax level. Most small busi- Homeownership is at an alltime high in nesses create most new jobs in America. Sev- America. Our farmers are making a good liv- enty percent of new jobs in this country are ing. The small-business sector of our econ- created by the small-business sector. And so omy is strong. The entrepreneurial spirit is when you’re running up the top two tax flourishing across New Hampshire. Listen, brackets, you’re taxing the job creators. And we’ve added 1.9 million new jobs in the last 13 months. The national unemployment rate that makes no economic sense. is 5.4 percent. Let me put that in perspective Secondly, raising the top two brackets for you. That’s lower than the average rate raises about 600 billion or 800 billion, de- of the 1970s, the 1980s, and the 1990s. The pending on who’s doing the counting. In ei- unemployment rate in New Hampshire is 3.5 ther case, that’s far short of $2.2 trillion of percent. We’ve overcome the obstacles. This spending. See, there’s a gap—[laughter]—a economy is strong, and it is getting stronger. gap between what has been promised and Now, my opponent has very different plans what can be delivered. I would call it a tax for your budget. He intends to take a big gap, and you know who usually gets to fill chunk out of it. He voted against the higher the gap. [Laughter] You do. The good news child tax credit, and he voted against the mar- is, we’re not going to let him tax you; we’re riage penalty relief. He voted against lower going to carry New Hampshire and win on taxes. If he had had his way, the average fam- November the 2d. ily in America would be paying $2,000 more The third clear choice in this election in- to the Federal Government. volves the quality of life for our Nation’s fam- Audience members. Boo-o-o! ilies. A good education and quality health The President. That may not sound like care are important to a successful life. As a a lot to people in Washington. It’s a lot to candidate, I pledged to challenge the soft families right here in New Hampshire. It bigotry of low expectations by reforming our means a lot to you. It means a lot to a mom public schools. I kept my word. I worked or a dad who are trying to raise their chil- with Senator Gregg and others, and we dren. It means a lot to a small-business owner passed the No Child Left Behind Act, a fine who’s expanding his or her company. All told, piece of reform. We’re increasing spending during my opponent’s 20-year career in the at the Federal level, but in return, we’re ask- United States Senate, he voted to raise taxes ing for results. See, we believe every child 98 times. Audience members. Boo-o-o! can learn to read and write and add and sub- The President. That is five times for every tract, and we expect every school to teach. year he’s been in the Senate. That’s what I You cannot solve a problem until you diag- would call a predictable pattern—[laugh- nose the problem. We’re diagnosing the ter]—a leading indicator. [Laughter] When problems all across our country, and the test a Senator does something that often, he must scores are improving. Scores in reading and really enjoy it. [Laughter] He’s also promised math are on the rise, and an achievement $2.2 trillion of new spending in this cam- gap for minority students is closing. In a new paign. That’s trillion with a ‘‘T.’’ That’s a lot term, we’ll build on these reforms. We’ll ex- even for a Senator from Massachusetts. tend them to high schools so that no child [Laughter] is left behind in America.

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We’ll continue to improve the lives of our you make it easier for people to get on Med- families by making health care more acces- icaid, small businesses will start dropping in- sible and affordable. We’ll promote and ex- surance because the Government is going to tend community health centers to help the pay for it, and that moves people from private poor and the indigent get good primary and care to public care. When the Government preventative care. We’ll make sure our pro- starts writing a check, when it comes to your grams for children from low-income families health care, then they start making the rules. will be fully subscribed to help people get And when the Government starts making the the health care they need. In order to make rules, when it comes to your health care, they sure health care is affordable, small business start making decisions for you, and they start ought to be allowed to pool together across making decisions for your docs, and they start jurisdictional boundaries so they can buy in- rationing care. Government-run health care surance at the same discounts big companies is the wrong prescription for health care for get to buy insurance. We’ll expand health America’s families. In all we do to improve savings accounts, which will help our small health care for our families, we’ll make sure businesses and families with more affordable the decisions are made by doctors and pa- health care. tients, not by officials in Washington, DC. To make sure health care is available and The fourth clear choice concerns your re- affordable, not only in New Hampshire but tirement. Our Nation has made a solemn across this country, we must do something commitment to America’s seniors on Social about the frivolous lawsuits that are running Security and Medicare. When I ran for Presi- up the cost of health care. I have met too dent 4 years ago, I promised to keep that many ob-gyns that have been driven out of commitment and improve Medicare by add- practice because of high premiums as a result ing prescription drugs for our seniors. I kept of these lawsuits. I have met too many moms, my word. Medicare needed to be fixed. See, expectant moms, who are concerned about the health care they and their baby will re- we would pay thousands of dollars for a heart ceive because their doctor no longer is in surgery but not one dime for the prescription practice. This is a national problem that re- drugs that could prevent the heart surgery quires a national solution. You cannot be pro- from being needed in the first place. I didn’t doctor, pro-patient, and pro-personal-injury- think that made sense for our seniors. It trial-lawyer at the same time. You have to didn’t make sense for the taxpayers. We choose. My opponent made his choice. He’s brought people together, and I signed a voted against medical liability reform 10 Medicare law. And beginning in 2006, all times in the United States Senate, and he seniors will be able to get prescription drug put a personal injury trial lawyer on the tick- coverage under Medicare. et. And we’ll keep the promise of Social Secu- Audience members. Boo-o-o! rity for our seniors. And we’ll strengthen So- The President. I made my choice. I’m cial Security for generations to come. Now, standing with New Hampshire’s docs. I’m I remember the 2000 campaign, clearly re- standing with New Hampshire’s families. I’m member it. They said in TV ads in those days standing with the patients. I’m for medical and through mailers and word of mouth that, liability reform—now. ‘‘If George W. got elected, the seniors My opponent has a different point of view wouldn’t get their checks.’’ When you’re out when it comes to health care. I don’t know rounding up the vote, please remind people if you remember the debate. They asked him that George W. did get elected and our sen- about his health care plan. He stared straight iors got their checks. And our seniors will in the camera, and he said his plan—‘‘The continue to get their checks. And baby Government has nothing to do with it.’’ boomers like me and Senator Gregg, we’re That’s in reference to his health care plan. in pretty good shape when it comes to the I could barely contain myself. [Laughter] Social Security trust. The Government has got a lot to do with But we need to worry about our children, it. Eighty percent of the people under his and we need to worry about our grand- plan will go to a Government-run plan. If children. We need to worry about whether

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or not Social Security will be there when they his promises, and that will stall our economy. need it. And that is why I believe in personal He cannot lead our troops to victory in a war savings accounts, that a worker ought to take he does not agree with, a war he has called some of their money and set aside a personal wrong. He cannot attract or keep allies in savings account, an account they call their a cause he’s labeled a diversion. own, an account the Government cannot take As your President, I’ll rally the world. I away. will lead our troops. I commit our Nation Now, my opponent takes a different ap- to decisive victory in the war against terror. proach. He talks about protecting Social Se- And my fellow citizens, against this threat to curity. But he’s the only candidate in this race our founding values of freedom and toler- who voted eight times for higher taxes on ance and equality, victory is our only option. Social Security benefits. One of my favorite quotes that I hope Audience members. Boo-o-o! helps capture my feeling about our country The President. On issue after issue, he and about our future came from a fellow tries to run, but we’re not going to let him Texan named Tom Lea. He said, ‘‘Sarah and hide. When it comes to the next generation, I live on the east side of the mountain. It he hasn’t offered anything about fixing the is the sunrise side, not the sunset side. It system. See, the job of a President is to con- is the side to see the day that is coming, not front problems, not to pass them on to future to see the day that is gone.’’ During the Presidents and future generations. In a new course of this campaign, my opponent has term, I’ll bring people together, and we will spent much of this campaign talking about strengthen Social Security for generations to the day that is gone. I’m talking about the come. day that is coming. The fifth clear choice in this election is I see a great day coming for America. And on the values that are crucial to keeping with your help and with your hard work, I’ll America’s families strong. I stand for the ap- be honored to lead this Nation for 4 more pointment of Federal judges who know the years. difference between personal opinion and the God bless. Thanks for coming. Thank you strict interpretation of the law. I stand for all. marriage and family, which are the founda- tions of our society. I stand for a culture of NOTE: The President spoke at 1:07 p.m. at Pease life, and I proudly signed the ban on partial- International Tradeport Airport. In his remarks, birth abortions. he referred to Gov. Craig Benson of New Hamp- My opponent has taken a different ap- shire; Republican Party activist Barbara Russell; proach. He voted against the Defense of Ruth L. Griffin, councilor, District 3, Executive Marriage Act. He voted against the ban on Council of New Hampshire; and former President partial-birth abortion. At one time in his cam- Saddam Hussein of Iraq. paign, he actually said, ‘‘The heart and soul of America can be found in Hollywood.’’ Audience members. Boo-o-o! The President. The heart and soul of Digest of Other America is found in communities all across New Hampshire. White House Announcements I’m asking for your vote based upon my plans for the future, my record, and my phi- The following list includes the President’s public losophy. My opponent’s views are out of the schedule and other items of general interest an- mainstream. I share your values. In a new nounced by the Office of the Press Secretary and term, I will stand for bedrock values of not included elsewhere in this issue. strengthening our economy every day. And I will do everything in my power to keep our country safe. October 23 I’m sure Senator Kerry means well, but In the morning, in St. Pete Beach, FL, his policies are the wrong policies at this time the President had an intelligence briefing. of threat. He’ll raise your taxes to pay for He and Mrs. Bush then traveled to Fort

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Myers, FL. Later, they traveled to Lakeland, arrival, he met with USA Freedom Corps vol- FL. unteer Connie Rutt. In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. Bush traveled to Melbourne, FL. Later, they Bush traveled to Vienna, OH, where, upon traveled to Jacksonville, FL, where, upon ar- arrival, he met with USA Freedom Corps vol- rival, he met with USA Freedom Corps vol- unteer Bill Carney. Later, they traveled to unteer Elwood Thalheimer. Findlay, OH, where, upon arrival, he met In the evening, the President and Mrs. with USA Freedom Corps volunteer Tom Jo- Bush traveled to the Bush Ranch in seph. Crawford, TX. Later in the afternoon, the President and Mrs. Bush traveled to Pontiac, MI, arriving October 24 in the evening. Upon arrival at the Super- In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. dome, they met with African American lead- Bush traveled to Alamogordo, NM, where, ers. upon arrival, he met with USA Freedom Later in the evening, the President and Corps volunteer Nicole Cox. Mrs. Bush traveled to Rochester, MI. Later in the afternoon, the President and Mrs. Bush returned to the Bush Ranch in October 28 Crawford, TX, arriving in the evening. In the morning, the President had an intel- ligence briefing. He then had telephone con- October 25 versations with John W. Henry, principal In the morning, the President and Mrs. owner, Larry Lucchino, president and chief Bush traveled to Greeley, CO. While en executive officer, and Curt Schilling, pitcher, route aboard Air Force One, he had an intel- Boston Red Sox, to congratulate them on ligence briefing. winning the Major League Baseball World Later in the morning, the President and Series. Mrs. Bush traveled to Council Bluffs, IA, Later in the morning, the President trav- where, upon arrival in the afternoon, he met eled to Saginaw, MI. Later, he traveled to with USA Freedom Corps volunteer Donna Dayton, OH. While en route aboard Air Campbell. Later, they traveled to Davenport, Force One, he participated in an interview IA. with Judy Keen of the USA Today news- In the evening, the President and Mrs. paper. Upon arrival in Dayton, he met with Bush traveled to La Crosse, WI. USA Freedom Corps volunteer Carol McClure. October 26 In the afternoon, the President traveled to In the morning, the President had an intel- Westlake, OH, where, upon arrival, he met ligence briefing. He and Mrs. Bush then trav- with USA Freedom Corps volunteer Amy eled to Onalaska, WI. Later, they traveled Poklar. to Richland Center, WI. Later in the afternoon, the President trav- In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. eled to Yardley, PA, where, upon arrival in Bush traveled to Cuba City, WI. Later, they the evening, he met with USA Freedom traveled to Dubuque, IA. Corps volunteer Joe Morrison. Later, he re- Later in the afternoon, the President and turned to Washington, DC. Mrs. Bush returned to Washington, DC, ar- riving in the evening. October 29 In the morning, the President had an intel- October 27 ligence briefing. Later, he and Mrs. Bush In the morning, the President had an intel- traveled to Manchester, NH. ligence briefing. He then participated in an In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. interview with Jim Gray of the ESPN tele- Bush traveled to Portsmouth, NH. Later, vision channel, for later broadcast. they traveled to Toledo, OH, where, upon Later in the morning, the President and arrival, he met with USA Freedom Corps vol- Mrs. Bush traveled to Lititz, PA, where, upon unteer Norm Thal. Later, they participated

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in a Victory 2004 rally at the SeaGate Con- Statement by the Press Secretary on resolu- vention Centre. tion of the dispute investigated by Presi- In the evening, the President and Mrs. dential Emergency Board No. 238 Bush traveled to Columbus, OH, where, Statement by the Press Secretary announcing upon arrival, he met with USA Freedom that on October 28 the President signed H.R. Corps volunteer Peggy Valentino. Later, they 4200 participated in a Victory 2004 rally at the Na- tionwide Arena.

Acts Approved Nominations by the President Submitted to the Senate Approved October 22 *

NOTE: No nominations were submitted to the H.R. 4520 / Public Law 108–357 Senate during the period covered by this issue. American Jobs Creation Act of 2004

S. 2195 / Public Law 108–358 Anabolic Steroid Control Act of 2004 Checklist Approved October 25 of White House Press Releases H.R. 1533 / Public Law 108–359 The following list contains releases of the Office To amend the securities laws to permit of the Press Secretary that are neither printed as church pension plans to be invested in collec- items nor covered by entries in the Digest of tive trusts Other White House Announcements. H.R. 2608 / Public Law 108–360 To reauthorize the National Earthquake Released October 25 Hazards Reduction Program, and for other Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Sec- purposes retary Scott McClellan H.R. 2828 / Public Law 108–361 Statement by the Press Secretary announcing Water Supply, Reliability, and Environ- that the President signed H.R. 1533, H.R. mental Improvement Act 2608, H.R. 2714, H.R. 2828, H.R. 3858, H.R. 4175, H.R. 4278, H.R. 4555, H.R. 5185, S. H.R. 3858 / Public Law 108–362 524, S. 1368, S. 2864, S. 2883, and S. 2896 Pancreatic Islet Cell Transplantation Act of Released October 27 2004 Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Sec- H.R. 4175 / Public Law 108–363 retary Scott McClellan Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Ad- justment Act of 2004 Statement by the Press Secretary announcing that the President signed S. 1134 and S. 1721 H.R. 4278 / Public Law 108–364 Released October 28 Assistive Technology Act of 2004 Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Sec- H.R. 4555 / Public Law 108–365 retary Scott McClellan Mammography Quality Standards Reauthor- ization Act of 2004 Released October 29 Transcript of press gaggles by Press Secretary * These Public Laws were not received in time Scott McClellan for inclusion in the appropriate issue.

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H.R. 5185 / Public Law 108–366 S. 2864 / Public Law 108–369 Higher Education Extension Act of 2004 Family Farmer Bankruptcy Relief Act of 2004 S. 524 / Public Law 108–367 Fort Donelson National Battlefield Expan- sion Act of 2004 S. 2883 / Public Law 108–370 Prevention of Child Abduction Partnership S. 1368 / Public Law 108–368 Act To authorize the President to award a gold medal on behalf of the Congress to Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King, Jr. (post- S. 2896 / Public Law 108–371 humously) and his widow Coretta Scott King To modify and extend certain privatization in recognition of their contributions to the requirements of the Communications Sat- Nation on behalf of the civil rights movement ellite Act of 1962

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