Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / Feb. 25

Remarks at the National Governors’ Association Dinner February 24, 2002

Ladies and gentlemen, Laura and I we’re hunting down Al Qaida. We’ve would like to welcome you all to the White worked to take preventive measures to stop House. It’s good to see a lot of our friends, any attack, and we’re prepared to respond and we’re so honored you are here. should they come. Tonight is a special night for us, but The Governors have taken threats seri- it’s no more special—but especially special ously, and you’ve acted quickly to confront for three people, three birthday people: them. And our Nation is grateful. Governor Siegelman, Governor Ryan, and At every stage of this crisis, I have bene- Governor Swift. Happy birthday. fited from your counsel. I’ve been inspired I also want to welcome members of my by your leadership. I was touched by my Cabinet and my team who are here. I’ve friend George Pataki’s calm demeanor dur- assembled a fabulous team. They bring a ing the crisis in New York. I know our lot of experience to their jobs. I’m really Nation needs to develop a national strategy proud of the Cabinet members who have to protect the homeland, and that’s why been Governors: Tommy Thompson, John I picked a fellow Governor, a former Gov- Ashcroft, Tom Ridge, and Christie Whit- ernor, and a good friend, Tom Ridge, to man. They understand firsthand the issues lead the effort. that Governors face every day. And my ad- America’s Governors have displayed lead- ministration is working hard to make sure ership at a time when history demanded the Federal Government is more responsive it. And so it’s with deep respect and grati- to your needs. tude that I offer this toast to the Governors Since we met last, America has been at- of the United States. tacked and has been wounded by terrorists. God bless. We’ve been inspired by acts of courage and generosity. And this Nation has confirmed a deep sense of national purpose. We’re NOTE: The President spoke at 8:10 p.m. in determined to protect the American people the State Dining Room at the White House. by fighting terror wherever it is found. This In his remarks, he referred to Gov. Don cause will take years, require the patience Siegelman of Alabama; Gov. George H. Ryan of the American people, and it will require of Illinois; Gov. Jane Swift of Massachusetts; participation of all levels of government. and Gov. George E. Pataki of New York. This And we’ve made a very good beginning. transcript was released by the Office of the Our military has routed the Taliban, and Press Secretary on February 25.

Remarks on a Comprehensive Energy Policy February 25, 2002

Thank you all for coming today. I’m hon- discuss an energy plan, a comprehensive ored to be joined by Secretary of Energy energy plan that recognizes that through Spence Abraham and Administrator technology, we can increase our national Christie Todd Whitman of the Environ- security and economic security by reducing mental Protection Agency. We’re here to demand for petrochemicals, and at the

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