Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents

Monday, November 11, 2002 Volume 38—Number 45 Pages 1927–2016 Contents

Addresses and Remarks Bill Signings Arkansas, remarks in Bentonville—1984 Accountability of Tax Dollars Act of 2002, Florida, remarks in Tampa—1952 statements—2008 Legislation providing for improvement of Georgia Federal education research, statistics, Remarks in —1941 evaluation, information, and dissemination, Remarks in Savannah—1947 and for other purposes, statement—1995 Iftaar dinner—2009 21st Century Department of Justice Illinois, remarks in Springfield—1956 Appropriations Authorization Act, Iowa, remarks in Cedar Rapids—1973 statement—1971 , remarks in Louisville—1927 Communications to Congress Minnesota, remarks in St. Paul—1962 Colombia, letter reporting on military and , remarks in St. Louis—1979 civilian personnel in Colombia supporting Radio address—1940 Plan Colombia—1998 South Dakota, remarks in Sioux Falls—1966 Interviews With the News Media Stanley Cup champion Detroit Red Wings— 2011 Exchange with reporters in Crawford, TX— 1994 Tennessee, remarks in Blountville—1935 News conference, November 7—1998 , remarks in Dallas—1990 United Nations Security Council resolution on Letters and Messages Iraq, passage—2009 Ramadan, message—1995

(Contents continued on the inside of the back cover.)

Editor’s Note: The President was at Camp David, MD, on November 8, 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 regulations prescribed by the Administrative Committee of the Federal Register, approved by the President (37 FR 23607; 1 CFR Part 10). PRESIDENTIAL DOCUMENTS Distribution is made only by the Superintendent of Docu- ments, Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402. Published every Monday by the Office of the Federal Reg- The Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents will be ister, National Archives and Records Administration, Washing- furnished by mail to domestic subscribers for $80.00 per year ton, DC 20408, the Weekly Compilation of Presidential Docu- ($137.00 for mailing first class) and to foreign subscribers for ments contains statements, messages, and other Presidential $93.75 per year, payable to the Superintendent of Documents, materials released by the White House during the preceding Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402. The week. charge for a single copy is $3.00 ($3.75 for foreign mailing). The Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents is pub- There are no restrictions on the republication of material lished pursuant to the authority contained in the Federal Reg- appearing in the Weekly Compilation of Presidential Docu- ister Act (49 Stat. 500, as amended; 44 U.S.C. Ch. 15), under ments. Contents—Continued

Proclamations Statements by the President In Celebration of the Centennial of the West See Bill Signings Wing of the White House—1996 National Adoption Month—1932 Supplementary Materials National American Indian Heritage Month— Acts approved by the President—2015 1933 Checklist of White House press releases— National Employer Support of the Guard and 2015 Reserve Week—2013 Digest of other White House National Hospice Month—1934 announcements—2013 Veterans Day—1997 Nominations submitted to the Senate—2015 Week Ending Friday, November 8, 2002

Remarks in Louisville, Kentucky The President. That’s good. When I said, ‘‘Would you marry me,’’ her state of mind November 1, 2002 was this: She didn’t like politics, and she didn’t care for politicians. [Laughter] And The President. Thank you all. Thank you now she’s doing a fabulous job as our First all very much for coming tonight. I’m here Lady. to talk about the American spirit, and I’m I appreciate Anne’s family. I appreciate here to remind the good folks of this part Woody and all of their kids. Heck, if they of the State of Kentucky that if you’re inter- just get the kids to vote, it would be a land- ested in good Government, if you’re inter- slide. [Laughter] ested in sending somebody to Congress who I’m proud to be up here as well with a will represent all the people of the district, fine Kentucky couple, starting with a United if you want somebody who can do the job, States Senator who has done a fabulous job send Anne Northup back to the United for the people of Kentucky, and that’s Mitch States Congress. McConnell. Like me, he married well—so I love traveling America because it gives well I put Elaine in the Cabinet. [Laughter] me a chance to see firsthand and to feel the She’s doing a really good job on behalf of fact that the American spirit is alive and well. the American people. I’m proud of Elaine. That’s the spirit that says, no matter what I’m also honored to be up here with an- the cost, we’ll defend our freedom. It’s the other great Senator from Kentucky, Jim spirit—the American spirit says to me that Bunning. We need to make sure Mitch goes we’ll serve something greater than ourselves back to the Senate. We need him there for here in this country. The American spirit a lot of reasons. Some of the reasons I’ll talk means that we love freedom. And if you love about later, but one of the key reasons why freedom, you have a duty to participate in Senators McConnell and Bunning are impor- the democratic process. tant to our future is because they know what I’m here to urge all the people of the great I know: We’ve got a problem on our Federal State of Kentucky to vote, Republican, Dem- judiciary. There’s too many vacancies. And ocrat, people who don’t care about any kind there’s too many vacancies because the cur- of political party. You need to do your duty. rent leadership in the Senate has done a But when you get in that poll, I’ve got a sug- lousy job on letting my people have a fair gestion for you: Anne Northup is the right hearing when I nominate them. They don’t choice. like the kind of judges I nominate. I put I wasn’t Anne’s first choice tonight. good, honest, honorable people who under- [Laughter] She wanted Laura. I saw on TV stand their job is to interpret the Constitu- that Laura was campaigning with Elizabeth tion, not use the bench from which to legis- Dole. She got the long straw; you got the late. We don’t need any more legislators. We short straw. But she sends her love. She need good, honorable judges on the bench. sends her best. She’s as strong for Anne as I appreciate so very much . I am. Congressman Ernie Fletcher is with us I want to tell you how proud I am of Laura. today—he’s one of the fine Members of the When I married her, she was a public school Congress—and of librarian. [Applause] I didn’t realize there the , from Kentucky were so many public school librarians here as well. These are two solid Members, Mem- in Louisville. bers with whom I can work for the good of Audience member. [Inaudible] everybody. 1927 1928 Nov. 1 / Administration of George W. , 2002

Also on the stage today we’ve got Geoff I’ve worked closely with Anne on issues Davis, who’s a candidate for the United like adoption. She and Woody are adoptive States Congress. And if you’re living in parents, which in my view is one of the great- Geoff’s district, give him your vote and give est expressions of love. No, Anne Northup him your word. And Mike Sodrel is here. can get things done. She cares deeply about [Applause] Sounds like old Mike’s got some- the citizens of this district. And she knows thing going. We want both these good men that we’ve got some hurdles to cross here in the Congress. We’ve got a lot to do to in America, and I look forward to having her work together. in Congress to work on—working to cross I’m here to thank the grassroots activists those hurdles. as well. I want to thank you for what you One of the biggest problems we’ve got is have done. I want to thank you for what our economy. It’s just bumping along. It’s not you’re fixing to do over the next couple of going like it should. There are too many peo- days. You need to go to your coffee shops ple in America who want to work and cannot and your houses of worship and your commu- find a job. And so long as somebody is look- nity centers and tell the people they need ing for work, that means we’ve got a problem. to go and vote, and tell the people that we’ve And I need people in the United States Con- got some fine candidates. Tell the people that gress who will join me in job creation. Anne Northup is as good as it gets in the But we understand the role of Govern- United States Congress. Urge them to vote, ment. It is not to create wealth; it’s to create and don’t be afraid to talk about good, dis- an environment in which the entrepreneurial cerning Democrats—to talk to good, dis- spirit can flourish. It is to create an environ- cerning Democrats and wise independents. ment in which the small business can grow These people want good Government as well, to be a big business. Anne and I understand just like we do. And the best person to rep- that 70 percent of new jobs are created by resent good Government is Anne Northup. I know Anne well. I know her well. I re- small-business owners. spect her a lot. I value her advice. I appre- If you’re worried about job creation like ciate the way she works hard in Washington we are, then you must put forth policy that to change the tone of politics. People who encourages small-business growth. Most know Anne well know what I’m about to say. small businesses pay taxes at the individual She’s got a big heart. She cares for those who income tax level. Most small businesses are suffer. She doesn’t need a poll or a focus sole proprietorships or limited partnerships. group to tell her what to think. She bases So when you open up your tax forms and her decisions on a deep-seated philosophy. see the individual rates, you’ve got to think She’s decency; she’s great. She needs to be of the fact that most small businesses pay back in the Congress. She’s an effective per- those rates. And therefore, the tax relief plan son. She can get things done. that we passed was the best antidote to a She secured funding for the Ohio River slowing economy. bridges project. She worked hard to make If you’re interested in creating jobs, you sure transportation was effective in this part let small businesses as well as consumers of the world. She worked closely with me keep more of their own money. You see, on making sure that we could get a Faith- when people have more money in their pock- Based Initiative out of the United States et, they’re more likely to demand a good or Congress. Anne feels passionately about that a service. And in the marketplace, when they because, as a Congresswoman, she has demand a good or a service, somebody is reached across the community divides to likely to produce the good or a service. And bring people together. She knows what I when somebody produces the good or a serv- know, that there are people who hurt and ice, somebody is more likely to find work. people who suffer. And one of the ways to The tax relief we plan came at—passed came heal the broken heart is to unleash the great at the right time, and we need people in the faith and compassion of the American peo- United States Congress to make the tax cuts ple. permanent. Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / Nov. 1 1929

I look forward to working with Anne and teaching our children? And if we are, we’ll other Members of the Congress and working praise the teachers. But if we find children with Mitch to see if we can’t get us a ter- trapped in schools which will not teach and rorism insurance bill, to get construction pro- will not change, we will demand something grams started, projects started, and get the different, because no child should be left be- hardhats working. We want our good hard- hind in the State of Kentucky. hats in America building those buildings and I look forward to working with Anne to building those projects which are stalled be- make sure our medical system works, to cause people can’t find insurance because of make sure that health care is available and the terrorist attacks. But we’d better get us affordable. We’ve got too many lawsuits here a bill that rewards the hardhats, not the trial in America today, too many frivolous and lawyers here in America. junk lawsuits that are running up the cost And we’re going to work together to in- of medicine and making it harder for our crease jobs so people can find work. I’m opti- docs to practice medicine. We need medical mistic about our future when it comes to the liability reform, once and for all, so that med- economy. We’ve got—interest rates are low; inflation is low; productivity is high. We’re icine is affordable for the American con- the best workers, best farmers, best ranchers, sumers. best entrepreneurs in the world. There’s a I look forward to working with Anne and lot going right, but we are not going to rest the other Members of Congress up here to until people can find a job. fulfill our promises to our seniors. We’re And we’re not going to rest until every going to make sure Social Security system child gets educated in this country, either. works. And we’re also going to make sure I worked closely with Anne. Anne Northup Medicare fulfills its promise. Medicine has was a solid backer, strong advocate of the changed. Medicare hasn’t. Medicine is mod- no child should be left behind legislation. To ern because of technologies and innovation. give you a sense of her perspective, let me Medicare is stuck in the past. I’m going to tell you what that bill says. It says every child work with Anne to make sure Medicare is can learn in America. Everybody can learn. modern, and that means prescription drug And therefore, we must set high standards. benefits for our seniors. If you have low expectations and low No, there’s a lot we can do to work to- standards, you’re going to get lousy results. gether on behalf of all of the citizens of Ken- Anne understands that we must challenge tucky and all of the citizens of America. But what I call the soft bigotry of low expecta- the biggest challenge we have, our most im- tions, must raise the bar. portant responsibility, is to protect the home- But at the same time, we’ve got to trust land from further attack. That’s our biggest the people of Kentucky to chart the path for job, because there’s still an enemy out there excellence for every child in Kentucky. We that lurks, an enemy out there which hates believe in local control of schools. Thanks to America because of what we love. We love Anne’s hard work and Mitch’s and Jim’s hard freedom. We love the fact that people can work and other Members of Congress’ hard worship freely in America. We worship the work, the great State of Kentucky is going to receive $650 million in Federal monies fact that we have free elections. We love the for schools this year. Those monies will be fact we have a free press. We love everything used to help disadvantaged children. Those about freedom, and we’re not going to monies will be applied to make sure every change. child can learn. And it’s our fervent love of freedom, and But for the first time in our history, we’ve the fact that we’re not going to change, which asked the question, is the money being well really irritates the enemy. See, they don’t like spent? Show us whether or not the children us. And there’s something else that differen- can read and write and add and subtract. If tiates us between them, and that is, we value you believe every child can learn, then it life. Everybody counts. Everybody is pre- makes sense to ask that question. Are we cious. Every life matters. And these people 1930 Nov. 1 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 are nothing but a bunch of coldblooded kill- I need the capacity to be able to move ers who have hijacked a great religion and the right people at the right time to the right could care less about taking innocent life. place to protect the American people. Mitch We’ve been warned. We’ve been warned. McConnell understands that, and so does Jim And now our most important job is to protect Bunning, and so does Anne Northup. They you. And there’s a lot of good people doing understand that. this. We’ve got people at the Federal level They also understand what I’m about to and at the State level and the local level doing tell you, that the best way to secure America, everything they can to disrupt and deny the the best way to protect you, is to chase the enemy. I’m telling you, anytime we get any killers down, one at a time, and bring them whisper, any hint, any idea that somebody to justice. It’s not an easy task. It’s not an is thinking about doing something to Amer- easy task, because this is a different kind of ica, we’re acting. We’re going to do every- army that we face, a different kind of enemy. thing in our power to prevent the enemy In the old days—I see some guys who were from hitting us again. probably involved with World War II or the And that’s why I went to the United States Korean war. In the old days, if you knocked Congress and asked them to join with me out a couple of tanks or knocked some air- in the creation of a Department of Homeland planes out of the air or sunk a ship, you’d Security. There’s over 100 agencies in Wash- be able to determine whether or not you ington involved with protecting you. It were making progress against the enemy. seemed like, to me, it made sense to put Those were the old days. Today, we’re facing them under one Department so that we coldblooded killers who hide in caves and could set clear priority, so that if need be, send youngsters to their suicidal deaths, and we could change cultures so that our Govern- there is no cave deep enough for America. ment was functioning in concert to do every- Audience members. U.S.A.! U.S.A.! thing we could to protect the homeland. And the House of Representatives passed U.S.A.! a good bill, and I’m honored that Anne and The President. It’s important to see the the other Members of the Congress sup- world the way it is, not to see the way that ported that good bill. But it’s stuck in the we hope it is. It’s important to be cold-eyed Senate. It couldn’t get out of the Senate, be- realists about the threats we face. cause the Senate wanted to take powers away And we’re making progress on this war from the President of the United States. against terror. We’ve hauled in over a couple Audience members. Boo-o-o! thousand of them, and a couple thousand The President. And here’s what they weren’t quite as lucky. Slowly but surely, wanted to do. For 40 years, since John Ken- we’re protecting the American people and nedy was the President, Presidents have had defending our freedom by dismantling the the capacity, the ability to suspend collective terrorist network that came and unmercifully bargaining rules in the name of national secu- murdered American citizens. And so long as rity. In other words, if there were certain I’m the President of the United States, we’re rules which prevented the homeland security going to continue to hunt them down. We council department from doing its job, I owe that to our children. We owe that to couldn’t suspend those rules. If the Senate our children’s children. History has called us had its way—not Senator McConnell or Sen- into action, and this great Nation is going ator Bunning but other Senators—if they had to stay steady and resolute and determined. their way, I would have the capacity, the right I asked the Congress to pass the largest to suspend certain rules at the Department increase in defense spending since Ronald of Agriculture but not at the Department of Reagan was President. And they did, and I Homeland Security. I would have the flexi- want to thank the Members up here who bility necessary to do everything I could for voted with us on that bill. I did so for two the sake of national security at Agriculture, reasons, two important reasons. One, any- but not to protect you through the Depart- time we send our troops into harm’s way, ment of Homeland Security. they deserve the best pay, the best training, Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / Nov. 1 1931 and the best possible equipment. And sec- I took the debate to the United States ondly, we just sent a signal to the world, to Congress and, thanks to the Members on this friend and foe alike, we’re in this deal for stage and many others, the United States the long haul. It doesn’t matter how long it now speaks with one voice. And here it is: takes. It doesn’t matter how long it costs. The Either the United Nations will do its job, ei- United States of America will go after those ther the United Nations will show it is not terrorists and bring them to justice. the League of Nations, but a body with the No, it’s important to be open-eyed about capacity to keep the peace, and Saddam Hus- the threats we face. After all, oceans no sein will disarm, or for the sake of peace, longer protect us. See, that’s what’s impor- for the sake of freedom, the United States tant for Americans to understand, that after will lead a mighty coalition to disarm Saddam September the 11th, the stakes changed. See, Hussein. prior to September the 11th, we used to Audience members. U.S.A.! U.S.A.! think that, if there was a conflict or a threat U.S.A.! somewhere else in the world, we could pick The President. I can’t imagine what was and choose whether or not we wanted to deal going through the mind of the enemy when with it, because oceans protected us. The they hit us. They must have thought the na- homeland was secure by geography. tional religion of the United States was mate- We learned a tough lesson on September rialism, that we were so selfish, so self-ab- sorbed, so shallow, that after September the the 11th, which means that, as we see threats, 11th, 2001, we’d take a step back and maybe we must be prepared to deal with them. And file a lawsuit or two. [Laughter] That’s prob- I see a significant threat to the security of ably what they thought. But they found out the United States in Iraq. they are dealing with a different bunch, that Saddam Hussein is a man who told the we love our freedom, that we care deeply world he would not have weapons of mass about our future, that we love peace. destruction, but he does. He not only has The evil done to America has given this them; he’s used them. He has used them great nation to show the world that out of against his neighbors, and incredibly enough, evil can come great good. I believe this. I he’s used them against his own people. This believe that if we stay the course, if we’re is a man who was close to having a nuclear strong, if we fight terror, if we lead a coalition weapon a decade ago. No telling how close of freedom-loving countries, we can achieve he is now. peace. I viewed him as a threat, not only to the I believe we can achieve peace if we re- American people, because he could become member that freedom is not bestowed on the an arsenal to one of these shadow terrorist world by the United States, but freedom is networks. He could use them as surrogates God-given for everybody. I believe that if and not leave any fingerprints behind. we’re strong and resolute, with a clear vision, No, he’s a threat. He’s not only a threat that we see reality the way it is, that we can to us. He’s a threat to our close friends in achieve peace not only for America, but be- the Middle East. Saddam Hussein is a man cause we value all life—everybody is pre- who has defied the United Nations not once, cious—that we can achieve peace in parts of not twice, not 3 times, but 16 times they the world who have quit on peace. I believe passed resolutions. So I went to that august we can achieve peace in the Middle East. body, and I said, ‘‘The time has come for I believe we can achieve peace in South Asia. you to show the world whether or not you’ve No, out of the evil done to America is got the capacity to keep the peace, to defend going to come some incredible good, not only freedom. The time has come for you to show abroad but incredible good here at home. whether or not your resolutions mean any- See, I believe that the evildoers renew the thing.’’ American spirit, that sense of serving some- And I sent the same message to Saddam thing greater than yourself in life. Govern- Hussein. ‘‘You said you would disarm. Dis- ment can help. We’ll work—Members of arm. For the sake of peace, disarm.’’ Congress will work with the administration 1932 Nov. 1 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 to pass laws that will help people help them- of the evil done to America is going to come selves and improve lives. But you’ve got to peace. And out of the evil done to America remember that while Government can pass is going to come a more hopeful tomorrow. out money, it can’t put hope in people’s I predict this. I know it’s going to happen, hearts. It can’t put a sense of purpose in peo- because America is the greatest nation, full ple’s lives. of the finest, most compassionate people on And at the same time, we’ve got to remem- the face of the Earth. ber, amongst all the plenty here in America, Thank you all for coming. May God bless. there are people who hurt. There’s loneliness May God bless America. and addiction and despair. And so long as any of us hurts, we all hurt. And the best NOTE: The President spoke at 5:51 p.m. at the Kentucky International Convention Center. In his way to solve many of the seemingly intrac- remarks, he referred to Representative Anne table problems here in America is for a fellow Northup and her husband, Robert Wood American to put their arm around somebody ‘‘Woody’’ Northup; senatorial candidate Elizabeth who’s lonely, and somebody who suffers, and Dole of North Carolina; , candidate say, ‘‘I love you. What can I do to help you?’’ for Kentucky’s Fourth Congressional District; No, the true strength of America lies in Mike Sodrel, candidate for Indiana’s Ninth Con- the hearts and the souls of our fellow citizens. gressional District; and President Saddam Hus- All across this country there are fine and de- sein of Iraq. This item was not received in time cent people who are helping America for publication in the appropriate issue. change, one heart, one conscience, one soul at a time. And it’s happening. Proclamation 7619—National They woke the great compassion of Amer- Adoption Month, 2002 ica when they attacked us. Perhaps the spirit is best reflected in small ways and large November 1, 2002 ways—small ways like Ray Probus, who I By the President of the United States met. He was at the airport today. He works of America with the Jefferson County police depart- ment’s Volunteers in Police Service program. A Proclamation That’s one way people can help. I’m sure Every year, thousands of American fami- there’s mentors here. I know there are peo- lies are blessed by adoption. Whether ple who worry about feeding the hungry, who through domestic or international adoption worry about the homeless and do something or through the adoption of children from fos- about it. I know there’s people involved in ter care, the love of compassionate families Boy Scouts and Girl Scout troops that are embraces children of all ages and from every sending values to our children. I know there background. During National Adoption are people involved in schools here to make Month, we recognize the heartfelt commit- sure every child can learn. All of us can help ment of these good citizens, and we renew make America a hopeful place. our pledge to make adoption a more acces- Perhaps the biggest lesson of all of what sible and positive path for American families. I’m talking about, that great spirit of Amer- Children thrive in loving families where ica, took place on Flight 93 that fateful day. they are nurtured, comforted, and protected. We had people flying across the country. We are making important progress in placing They heard the plane they were on was going children in foster care with adoptive families; to be used as a weapon to kill Americans. and the overall number of children being They said goodbye to their loved ones. They adopted continues to rise. In the past 5 years, said a prayer. One guy said, ‘‘Let’s roll.’’ And adoptions have increased dramatically; and they took the plane into the ground to serve thus far in 2002, tens of thousands of children something greater than themselves. To me, have already been adopted. that epitomized the greatest of the American Twenty-three States and the Common- spirit, which is alive and well in America. wealth of Puerto Rico received adoption in- No, the enemy hit us—the enemy hit us. centive awards in FY 2001 for increasing the They didn’t know who they were hitting. Out number of children they placed from foster Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / Nov. 1 1933 care into permanent adoptive homes. These be finalized and celebrated. These efforts recipients have reinvested their bonuses to demonstrate our Nation’s dedication to en- help improve their respective adoption and suring that every child can thrive in a secure, child welfare programs. Americans also con- loving, and stable home. tinue to welcome children from other coun- Through adoption, Americans can forever tries into their homes through international change not only a child’s life but also their adoptions. Last year, families in the United own. By providing children in need with the States adopted over 19,000 children from opportunity to grow and succeed through around the world. adoption, we can help them become con- Despite the progress we have made in in- fident, compassionate, and successful mem- creasing our adoption rate, we still have bers of society. much work to do. More than 130,000 chil- Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, dren, ranging from toddlers to teenagers, still President of the United States of America, remain in foster care awaiting adoption. by virtue of the authority vested in me by While foster parents offer temporary essen- the Constitution and laws of the United tial care, the children for whom they care States, do hereby proclaim November 2002 need the stability of a permanent family. It as National Adoption Month. I call on all is often challenging to find families for older Americans to observe this month with appro- children and those children who have special priate programs and activities to honor adop- needs. Yet they deserve a future with a nur- tive families, and to participate in efforts to turing family. find permanent homes for waiting children. To help States promote adoption and sup- In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set port families who adopt, I signed a tax relief my hand this first day of November, in the bill last year that permanently eases the fi- year of our Lord two thousand two, and of nancial burden on families that adopt chil- the Independence of the United States of dren. And in January 2002, I signed into law America the two hundred and twenty-sev- a bill to extend and expand the Promoting enth. Safe and Stable Families Program. Through this legislation, we are strengthening families George W. Bush by promoting adoption, offering post-adop- tive services to families that adopt, and pro- [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., November 5, 2002] viding education and training vouchers to older adopted children and foster youth. NOTE: This proclamation was published in the In July 2002, my Administration launched Federal Register on November 6. This item was the AdoptUSKids national campaign to in- not received in time for publication in the appro- crease awareness about adoption and its role priate issue. in helping all children reach their full poten- tial. We have also created the first Federal adoption photo-listing web site devoted to Proclamation 7620—National children awaiting adoption and families who American Indian Heritage Month, adopt, www.AdoptUSKids.org. During its 2002 first year, the web site will feature pictures November 1, 2002 and profiles of more than 6,500 children awaiting adoption, as well as a database of By the President of the United States approved adoptive families. This unique web of America site will help to connect children from across the country with loving adoptive families, and A Proclamation it will also serve as a great resource for all During American Indian Heritage Month, adoptive families. we celebrate the rich cultural traditions and On November 23, dozens of communities proud ancestry of American Indians and will gather in courtrooms across the country Alaska Natives, and we recognize the vital to celebrate National Adoption Day. On this contributions these groups have made to the momentous day, thousands of adoptions will strength and diversity of our society. 1934 Nov. 1 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002

American Indians and Alaska Natives have will work to promote cooperation and coordi- played a central role in our history. In 1805 nation among Federal agencies for the pur- and 1806, Sakajawea, a Shoshone Indian pose of fostering greater economic develop- woman, helped guide Lewis and Clark on ment of tribal communities. By working to- their historic expedition to explore the un- gether on important economic initiatives, we charted West. This remarkable journey, will strengthen America by building a future known as the ‘‘Voyage of Discovery,’’ would of hope and promise for all Native Ameri- not have been possible without her efforts, cans. and today she remains a proud symbol of Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, American Indian courage and strength. President of the United States of America, We are also grateful to the Navajo by virtue of the authority vested in me by Codetalkers for their service during World the Constitution and laws of the United War II. Participating in every assault the U.S. States, do hereby proclaim November 2002 Marines conducted in the Pacific from 1942– as National American Indian Heritage 1945, the Navajo Codetalkers relayed secret Month. I call upon all Americans to com- messages that helped our Nation and the al- memorate this month with appropriate pro- lies secure victory. The Congress recognized grams and activities. these heroes by authorizing the President to In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set award them Congressional Gold Medals, my hand this first day of November, in the which I was honored to present last year. year of our Lord two thousand two, and of These examples of our true American spirit the Independence of the United States of reflect our shared history and serve as re- America the two hundred and twenty-sev- minders of the unique heritage of American enth. Indians and Alaska Natives. Upon its comple- tion on the National Mall, the Smithsonian George W. Bush Institution’s National Museum of the Amer- ican Indian will help educate all Americans [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, about the lives, contributions, and culture of 8:46 a.m., November 5, 2002] our Native peoples. Education is essential to the future success NOTE: This proclamation was published in the of tribal communities. We will work together Federal Register on November 6. This item was to ensure that our Indian education programs not received in time for publication in the appro- offer high-quality instruction and job training priate issue. that contribute to the vitality of our Native American communities. We will also work to Proclamation 7621—National maintain the legacy of American Indians and Alaska Natives by preserving irreplaceable Hospice Month, 2002 languages and cultural traditions. November 1, 2002 To enhance our efforts to help Indian na- tions be self-governing, self-supporting, and By the President of the United States self-reliant, my Administration will continue of America to honor tribal sovereignty by working on a government-to-government basis with Amer- A Proclamation ican Indians and Alaska Natives. We will Hospice organizations provide people who honor the rights of Indian tribes and work are near the end of their lives with family- to protect and enhance tribal resources. centered, quality care, that emphasizes com- My Administration is working to increase passion, independence, respect, and dignity. employment and expand economic opportu- During National Hospice Month, our Nation nities for all Native Americans. Several Fed- pays tribute to hospice care and the persons eral agencies recently participated in the Na- and organizations involved with it, by recog- tional Summit on Emerging Tribal Econo- nizing and honoring its value and importance mies to help us accomplish this goal. In order for people who are dying, for their families to build upon this effort, my Administration and friends, and for our communities. Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / Nov. 2 1935

Hospice has emerged as a successful year of our Lord two thousand two, and of model of care that helps terminally ill individ- the Independence of the United States of uals achieve practical, physical, psycho- America the two hundred and twenty-sev- logical, and spiritual goals. According to the enth. National Hospice and Palliative Care Organi- zation (NHPCO), in 2001, an estimated George W. Bush 3,200 operating hospice programs in the United States admitted about 775,000 pa- [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, tients. Hospice care relies upon a team of 8:46 a.m., November 5, 2002] committed physicians, nurses, medical social workers, therapists, counselors, and volun- NOTE: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on November 6. This item was teers. This team provides medical services not received in time for publication in the appro- that are designed to improve the comfort of priate issue. the patient, manage symptoms, provide prop- er nutrition, and deal with other difficulties such as emotional distress and grief. Hospice Remarks in Blountville, Tennessee care also provides important emotional and November 2, 2002 spiritual support to families and friends as they cope with their impending loss. Thank you all. Thanks for coming. I’m While we have made great progress in en- honored to be here in East Tennessee. I’ve couraging hospice care, much work remains got a fond spot in my heart for Tennessee, to be done to increase awareness of hospice if you know what I mean. I’ve got a good and its benefits. The NHPCO reports that feeling about the people in this State, and in 2000, 2.4 million people in our Nation I want to thank you for coming this morning. died. It is estimated that one in four used I’m—your Congressman, Bill Jenkins, is hospice care and services. Also, many people doing a fine job, by the way. He said, ‘‘You at the end of life are referred to hospice only know, it’s time to quit sermonizing, and it’s a few days before death. By strengthening time to pass the plate.’’ [Laughter] I think and expanding hospice programs and work- what he meant was, ‘‘It’s close to voting time, ing to promote, where appropriate, their and it’s time for you all to go out and vote services as a positive alternative for termi- for the next Governor of Tennessee, Van nally ill patients, we can make a difference Hilleary.’’ in the lives of countless Americans. See, we have a duty in this country to sup- As we observe National Hospice Month, port our freedoms. And one of the ways we we applaud hospice organizations, health support freedom is to vote. We have an obli- professionals, and other caregivers for their gation as American citizens to vote. So as dedication to ensuring respect and quality of we’re approaching election day, I’m traveling life for all. We also reaffirm our commitment the country, reminding Republicans and as a Nation to honoring the dignity of every Democrats and people who don’t give a hoot person and to promoting compassion and about politics to do their duty and go to the concern for our fellow citizens. polls. But I’ve got some suggestions once Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, they get in the box. [Laughter] President of the United States of America, For the good of Tennessee, for the good by virtue of the authority vested in me by of the taxpayers of Tennessee, for the good the Constitution and laws of the United of the schoolchildren in Tennessee, vote Van States, do hereby proclaim November 2002 Hilleary as your Governor. And for the sake as National Hospice Month. I encourage of making sure the and Americans to increase their awareness of the its important seat stays in the hands of a importance and availability of hospice service good, honest, capable Senator, vote for and to observe this month with appropriate Lamar Alexander. activities and programs. I appreciate Meredith Hilleary working so In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set hard with her husband. She’s going to be a my hand this first day of November, in the great first lady on behalf of the people of 1936 Nov. 2 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002

Tennessee. I’m pretty good about under- But I really want to thank you all and re- standing great First Ladies. The American mind you that not only do you have a duty people are beginning to see why I asked to vote, but if you care about the quality of Laura to marry me. She’s calm and steady government in Nashville and in Washington, under fire. She’s got great, great vision about turn out to vote. Go to your houses of wor- making sure every child gets educated. She’s ship. Go to your coffee shops. When you get got a wonderful heart. A lot of people are there Monday morning, instead of sitting wondering why she said yes. [Laughter] But around worrying about the weather, worry she sends her best to the Hillearys and the about who the next Governor is going to be. Alexanders and the good people of Ten- Worry about who the next Senator is going nessee. She’s doing a fabulous job as our to be. Talk it up with people who may not First Lady, and I’m really proud of her. pay attention to the politics as much as we I’m proud to be up here with two fine do. And don’t be afraid to talk up the story United States Senators. First, we’re going to of Lamar and Van to Democrats. There’s miss Fred Thompson. He’s been a good some discerning Democrats out there. They friend, solid Senator. But we’re not going to want good government, just like we do. They miss him nearly half enough when—half as don’t want higher taxes, just like we do. Find much when Lamar Alexander takes his place. those independents that are open-minded I know you join me in sending our best to and convince them that when you’ve got Fred and expressing our deep appreciation good ones, like Van and Lamar, we have a for his great service to the country. duty in America to support these good peo- And you sent another good one up there, ple. too, and that’s Frist. He’s a good man, a good, We’re going to win this election, come solid citizen. Both of these men are allies. Tuesday, because of good, hard-working Both of them are doing a great job for all folks such as yourself, and I’m here to thank the people of Tennessee. Bill Jenkins is doing you for what you’re going to do. a great job for this congressional district, too. No, there’s some reasons—you know, old He’s a reliable voice who cares deeply about Van, he’s not what we call a show horse; he’s the people of East Tennessee. You ought to a work horse. He can get the job done. He’s be proud of his service to you as well. a plain-spoken fellow. The good thing about I want to thank all the grassroots activists him is, he doesn’t need a poll or a focus who are here. I want to thank you for what group to tell him what to think. He’s well you have done, and I want to thank you for grounded in East Tennessee. He has those what you’re going to do, what you’re going values of faith and family, the kind of man to do for candidates such as Janice Bowling, you can count on. He’s not going to be who’s going to get elected in the congres- swayed by the special interests. He’s going sional district right next door to here. I ap- to do what he thinks is right for all the people preciate Janice. She’s a strong voice. She’s of Tennessee. And that’s important. a solid soul. She’ll make a great Congress- We share a vision about the children of woman. Tennessee too. It says that every child can I also want to thank my friend Darrell learn. You’ve got to have you a Governor who Waltrip. There he is. [Laughter] I’ve known believes every child can learn, somebody him for quite a while. He’s looking younger, who’s willing to set high standards and high and I’m looking older. [Laughter] He’s ask- expectations, somebody who is willing to ing me whether or not he can drive the Presi- challenge the soft bigotry of low expectations. dential limousine. [Laughter] No. [Laughter] See, when you have you a Governor who be- He’s a good, solid man. One of the reasons lieves in not setting high standards, you’re Hilleary is going to win is because he’s going going to get lousy results. Van Hilleary to win the NASCAR vote. worked with me and Members of the United I also appreciate Law and Grace and the States Congress to make sure that the Fed- Singing Sheriffs group for being here. I’m eral bill we passed did two things—provided sorry I didn’t get here in time to hear you. plenty of money for Tennessee. There’s $760 Just leave your CD at the door. [Laughter] million in Federal education money coming Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / Nov. 2 1937 your way, thanks to the hard work of your the State office who understand job creation. Senators and Van Hilleary. The role of Government is not to create But that bill that he worked on said two wealth. The role of Government is to create other things: One, we trust the people of an environment in which the small-business Tennessee to chart the path for excellence person can grow to be a big-business person. for every child. We believe in local control That’s why it’s important you have some- of schools, and that’s the way he’ll be as your body in Nashville who understands the role Governor. And secondly, in return for the of the small-business owner. Seventy percent money spent, we expect results, don’t we. of new jobs in America are created by small You see, we believe every child can learn. businesses, the entrepreneurs. And you bet- Therefore, we expect every child to learn. ter get you somebody as the Governor who And therefore, we’re going to use account- understands that, who understands policy ability to make sure your money is being ought to be to encourage the growth of small spent wisely. We use accountability to praise business. And one way to do that is to let those schools that are meeting expectations, small-business owners and taxpayers keep so we can thank our teachers. We will use more of your own money. accountability, though, to make sure that no That tax relief bill we passed is going to child, not one single child, gets trapped in give Tennessee people $27 billion over the a school which will not teach and will not next 10 years. That’s your money to begin change. Van Hilleary will work with us to with, by the way. That’s not the Govern- make sure no child is left behind in the State ment’s money. It’s your money. And when of Tennessee. you’ve got it in your pocket, you’re going to Our economy is bumping along. It’s not demand a good or a service. If you demand doing as well as it should. After all, we’re a good or a service, somebody is going to coming out of a recession; then the enemy produce that good or a service. And when hit us. That created a problem which we’re somebody produces that good or a service, overcoming. Then we had another problem; somebody is more likely to find work. some of our citizens thought they could You see, if you listen to that other bunch, fudge the numbers, thought it’s okay, if they’re going to say we need to revisit the they’re in positions of responsibility, to not tax relief. That’s Washington, DC, code for, tell the truth. I want to thank the Senators. ‘‘We’re going to get back in your pocket.’’ I want to thank Van Hilleary. I want to thank [Laughter] Tax relief was good for our econ- Bill Jenkins for joining me to pass the most omy. It’s going to be good for our economy. comprehensive corporate reform law since It’s going to be good for the working people, Franklin Roosevelt was the President. See, and we need to make tax relief permanent. our message today—my message today is, No, I look forward to working with Van those who aren’t responsible to shareholder to do a lot of things to help Tennessee— and employee, no easy money in America, make sure that welfare system works. Part just hard time. of the welfare reform that worked and some- I want to thank these Members for under- thing that needs to go forward is to have a standing that confidence in our economy de- Governor work with the Congress to help pends upon us holding people to account if people find work. See, when you work, you they’re not honest with the people. That’s the find dignity. If you want to help people get kind of leadership you need in Nashville, and off welfare, if you want to help them help that’s the kind of leadership you’ve got in themselves, you help them have the skills Washington. necessary to work. Work needs to be the cen- But we need to do more work on our econ- tral core of any good welfare policy. omy. We need to understand, if somebody And Van Hilleary understands that. No, is looking for work and they can’t find a job, when you put Van Hilleary in office, you’re we’ve got a problem. Anybody is looking for going to be putting a good man in office, work and wants to put food on the table, and a man who’s going to work hard to represent they can’t find work, we need to make sure all the people of Tennessee, a man who will we’ve got people in the Federal office and make you proud as Governor, a man with 1938 Nov. 2 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 whom I can work, and a man who will rep- judges in Washington, DC. They don’t like resent that office, that high office, with class the fact that I’m naming good, honorable, and dignity. I’m here to urge the good people decent people who will not use the bench of East Tennessee to turn out to vote next from which to legislate but from which to Tuesday and put Van Hilleary in as Governor interpret the United States Constitution. of the great State. No, there’s a lot of issues we can work And I need Lamar up there in Washington on to make America better for everybody. too, and so do you. He’s got a great record The biggest issue we’ll work together on is for Tennessee. People know that he is what to secure our homeland, prevent the Amer- we call a class act. When given the respon- ican people from coming under attack again sibilities, he handled his business well. More by a bunch of coldblooded killers. These peo- importantly, he cares deeply about the all the ple hate us because of what we love. And citizens of this State. Lamar is going to make we love freedom, and we’re not going to a great United States Senator. And there’s change. a lot of things we can work together on, I asked Congress to join me in a creation whether it be education—of course, he’s an of a Department of Homeland Security. I did expert on that subject—or whether it would so because I want all the agencies involved be making sure our economy grows. I know with protecting you to be under—to have as we’ll have a strong ally, and the people will their priority protection of the American peo- have a strong ally in Lamar Alexander. ple, and if need be, change cultures so people Oh, there’s some things we need to work get it in their head that there’s still an enemy on, like making sure the health care system out there which lurks around, so we can co- works. We need his vote up there to make ordinate better. The House of Representa- sure that you’ve got affordable and accessible tives, thanks to Van and Jenkins, supported health care. We need his vote up there to me on a good bill. The bill is stuck in the make sure the Medicare system works. There Senate. This bill is stuck in the Senate, in are too many lawsuits these days which are spite of the good efforts of Fred Thompson driving up the cost of medicine and driving and Bill Frist. And the reason it is was be- doctors out of the practice of medicine. We cause the Senate wants me to give up a power want the system to work. We want our people that Presidents since John has had, to have access to the courts, of course, but which is the capacity to suspend certain work these frivolous and junk lawsuits are running rules, certain collective bargaining rules, in these docs out of business, running up your the name of national security. price of medicine. We need to have medical I won’t accept a lousy bill out of the Sen- liability reform at the Federal level, and ate. I need a bill to put the right people at Lamar Alexander will vote that way. the right place at the right time to protect And we’ve got to make sure Medicare the American people. Under some Senators’ works. Medicine is becoming modern. Tech- vision, I would have the capacity to make na- nology is changing medicine. New discov- tional security decisions in Agriculture De- eries have changed medicine. But Medicare partment but not in the Department of isn’t modern. It’s stuck in the past. Just ask Homeland Security. That don’t make any our seniors. We need Lamar Alexander in sense to me, and I know it doesn’t make any the United States Senate to work to mod- sense to you. We need Lamar Alexander, and ernize Medicare, which means prescription we need to change the United States Senate. drug benefits for our senior citizens. But the best way to secure the homeland And I need him up there, along with Sen- is to chase the killers down, one at a time, ator Frist, to make sure that our judiciary and bring them to justice, what America is works properly. We can’t get our judges going to do. We’ve got them on the run, and through the United States Senate. There is we’re going to keep them on the run. And a vacancy problem in our Federal courts. Too one of the reasons we’ve got them on the many of our benches have got vacancies, run is, we’ve got a fantastic military. which means you can’t get access to the I signed a good defense bill, thanks to the courts. They’re playing politics with the Senators and thanks to Van and Bill Jenkins, Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / Nov. 2 1939 a good defense bill that pays our people, know the implications of him having a nu- equips our people, and trains our people the clear weapon. way you want them. We’ve got to get them We know that this is a man who has chem- the best pay, the best training, and the best ical weapons, and we know he’s used them. possible equipment. We owe that to the See, he’s used them. He hasn’t stockpiled loved ones. We owe that to our troops. But them. He’s used them in his neighborhood, we’re also sending a clear signal to friend and and he’s used them on his own people. We foe that we’re in this deal for the long haul. know he can’t stand America. We know he We love freedom. It doesn’t matter how long can’t stand some of our closest friends. We it takes to defend America and to protect our know that he has had contacts with terrorist freedoms; we’re going after them, one at a networks like Al Qaida. And we know, clear- time. ly, that one of the dangers we face is him And we’re making progress. Sometimes serving as a training ground and an arsenal you’ll read about it, and sometimes you for one of these shadowy terrorist networks, won’t. Sometimes you’ll see the fact that which could come home, could come home somebody got hauled in, and sometimes it’s here. And so he’s a danger. just not going to make it on to your radar I went to the United Nations because I screen. But make no mistake about it, there’s want that body to be effective to help us keep no cave deep enough, no corner of the world the peace. I said to the United Nations, ‘‘This dark enough to prevent the long arm of jus- man has defied you 16 times. How long is tice from the United States to reach them it going to take for you to show some back- around the world. bone so we can work together to keep the And the reason I feel so strong about it peace? You have a choice to be the United is that I recognize we’re living in a different Nations, which is an effective body to keep world today than we were last—prior to Sep- the peace, or the League of Nations. That’s tember the 11th. It’s a different world be- your choice to make.’’ cause no longer can we be content with the And Saddam Hussein has a choice. He can fact that two oceans protect us from danger. disarm like he said. He can get rid of his It used to be that we don’t have to worry weapons of mass destruction. But if the about some potential threat overseas because United Nations won’t act and if Saddam Hus- oceans protected us. It used to be we could sein won’t disarm, this country, in the name pick or choose whether or not we wanted of peace and in the name of freedom, will to be involved. But at home we were con- lead a coalition to disarm Saddam Hussein. fident we were okay because of oceans, be- I say that as a man who longs for peace. cause of our geography. And that changed I say that as a man who knows the stakes. on that fateful day. Therefore, it’s very im- I say that as a man who’s not going to forget portant for you to elect people to office who September the 11th, 2001, or the attack on are clear-eyed realists, people who see the a French vessel recently or the attack in Bali, world the way it is, not the way we would Indonesia. I say this as a man who is briefed hope it to be. on a daily basis about the threats we face And that’s the reason why I started the in America. I say this as a man who is abso- debate in our Congress and amongst the lutely confident that out of the evil done to American people, in fact, in the world com- America can come some good, because I un- munity, about the threat to America and derstand the nature of this country. I believe threat to our friends and allies from Mr. Sad- if we remain the course and stay strong and dam Hussein. He’s a dangerous man. He told diligent and focused and remember that the world he wouldn’t have weapons of mass freedom is not America’s gift to the world, destruction—11 years ago he said that. He’s it is God’s gift to the world, that we can got them. We found out a while ago that he achieve peace, that we can have a peaceful was close to having a nuclear weapon. We world. dismantled that when he used to let inspec- I believe out of the evil done to America, tors in. We don’t know where he stands we can achieve peace if we’re strong and dili- today, but we know what’s in his mind. We gent and focused, not only here at home 1940 Nov. 2 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 but—because we value each life; everybody No, I boldly predict to you that out of the counts—in parts of the world which have quit evil done to America is going to come a more on peace. I believe peace is possible if we’re peaceful world. And out of the evil done to tough and strong in the Middle East. I be- America will become a more hopeful Amer- lieve peace is possible in South Asia. And ica, because this is the greatest country, full I know at home, out of the evil done to Amer- of the finest people on the face of the Earth. ica can come a more compassionate and bet- Thank you for coming today. May God ter country. bless, and God bless America. See, Government can help, and we will. We’ll all work on laws to make things better. NOTE: The President spoke at 9:50 a.m. at the But what Government cannot do is put love Tri-Cities Regional TN/VA Airport. In his re- in people’s hearts or a sense of purpose in marks, he referred to gubernatorial candidate Van people’s lives. And amongst our plenty we’ve Hilleary and his wife, Meredith; senatorial can- got to remember there are some who hurt, didate Lamar Alexander; Janice Bowling, can- some who are lonely, some who are addicted, didate for Tennessee’s Fourth Congressional Dis- some who are wondering whether the Amer- trict; NASCAR driver Darrell Waltrip; and Presi- ican Dream is meant for them. I’m optimistic dent Saddam Hussein of Iraq. that out of the evil done to this country can come a better day where everybody under- stands the great promise of this country, be- The President’s Radio Address cause I know the strength of America, and November 2, 2002 the strength of America is in the hearts and souls of our fellow citizens. If you want to Good morning. The Federal courts play fight evil, if you want to be a patriot, love a central role in American justice, protecting a neighbor just like you’d like to be loved the innocent, punishing the guilty, and up- yourselves. holding the rule of law. Yet, our Federal Today I met Kathy Henderson. She’s an courts today are in crisis. The judicial con- active volunteer at Central Heights Elemen- firmation process does not work as it should. tary School. She decided she wanted to be Nominees are too often mistreated. Votes are part of the army of compassion; she wanted delayed. Hearings are denied, and dozens of to make a difference in somebody’s life. So Federal judgeships sit empty, endangering she’s helping young children learn to read. the quality of justice in America. There’s all kinds of ways where we can Since coming into office, I have sent to change America for the better, whether it be the Senate 32 nominees for the Federal Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts or Boys and Girls courts of appeals. These nominees are men Clubs or mentoring like Kathy. She asked me and women with experience, intelligence, to say she needs volunteers, by the way, on character, and bipartisan home-State sup- the Read Along With Me program. You can port. They represent the mainstream of do it by just telling somebody you love them, American law and American values. Yet the a shut-in, that you love them. You can help Senate has confirmed only 14 of these 32 feed the hungry; you can house the homeless. nominees. As of this week, 15 of my appeals There’s all kinds of ways we can help. court nominees will have been forced to wait No, the enemy had no idea who they were over a year for a hearing, which is more than hitting. Oh, they probably thought we’d file under the previous nine Presidents com- a lawsuit or two. [Laughter] They didn’t real- bined. ize America like we know. The spirit of There is no good reason why any nominee America is alive and well. It’s the spirit which should endure a year, a year and a half, or says, when it comes to the defense of our more without the courtesy of an up-or-down country, we’ll be plenty tough. But the spirit floor vote. Whatever the explanation, we also says that a patriot is somebody who is clearly have a poisoned atmosphere in which willing to serve something greater than them- well-qualified nominees are neither voted up selves. A patriot is willing to help somebody nor voted down; they’re just left in limbo. who hurts. If this situation persists and judicial vacancies Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / Nov. 2 1941 go unfulfilled, the Federal courts will be un- under the Constitution, and it is harming the able to act in a timely manner to enforce administration of justice in America. Our the criminal laws, the environmental laws, country deserves better. The process can and the civil right laws that affect the lives work better, and we can make it better. The of every American. Constitution has given us a shared duty, and The judicial crisis is the result of a broken we must meet that duty together. system, and we have a duty to repair it. I Thank you for listening. want to work with the Senate to fashion a new approach to filling Federal court vacan- cies, a bipartisan approach that would apply NOTE: The address was recorded at 3:52 p.m. on now and in the future. This week, I have of- November 1 at the Seelbach Hilton Hotel in Lou- isville, KY, for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. on Novem- fered four proposals to break the logjam in ber 2. The transcript was made available by the Washington and bring the Federal courts to Office of the Press Secretary on November 1 but full strength. was embargoed for release until the broadcast. First, I call on Federal judges to notify the The Office of the Press Secretary also released President of their intention to retire at least a Spanish language transcript of this address. a year in advance, whenever possible. Be- cause the nomination and confirmation of a Federal judge is a lengthy process, judges Remarks in Atlanta, Georgia who retire without advance notice can unin- November 2, 2002 tentionally create a judicial vacancy for many months. The President. Thank you all very much. Second, I propose that Presidents submit Thank you all. Glad I came. So you’re prob- a nomination to the Senate within 180 days ably wondering what Sonny—I mean, what of receiving notice of a Federal court vacancy Saxby said. He said, ‘‘Keep it short. The Bull- or intended retirement. This will continue dogs are playing.’’ but speed up the process of obtaining rec- Really what he was saying is, ‘‘It’s time to ommendations and evaluations from home- quit the sermons and start passing the plate.’’ State Senators and others, while leaving That means it’s time to turn out the vote. ample time for Presidents to choose nomi- I’m here in the great State of Georgia be- nees of the highest quality. cause I want all the citizens of this State to Third, I called on the Senate Judiciary understand that we have a responsibility, as Committee to commit to holding a hearing Americans in a land of freedom, to vote. See, within 90 days of receiving a nomination. A firm deadline is the best way to ensure that we have a responsibility. If you believe in judicial nominees are promptly considered. democracy, if you love freedom, then you And 90 days is more than enough time for have a responsibility to go to the polls next the committee to conduct necessary research Tuesday. And I’m not talking about just a before holding a hearing, as Democrat Sen- handful of Georgia citizens, I mean every- ators have recognized in the past. body. Republicans and Democrats and peo- Finally, I called on the full Senate to com- ple who could care less about political parties mit to an up-or-down floor vote on each need to do their duty. nominee no later than 180 days after the But when you get inside that box, I’ve got nomination is submitted. This is a very gen- some suggestions: For the good of Georgia erous period of time that will allow all Sen- and for the good of the country, Saxby ators to evaluate nominees and have their Chambliss needs to be the U.S. Senator. For votes counted. the good of the 11th, Phil Gingrey needs to My proposals are fair to all parties and be the U.S. Congressman. And for the good would apply regardless of who is President of the schoolchildren of Georgia and the tax- or which party controls the Senate. payers of Georgia, Sonny Perdue ought to The current state of affairs is not merely be the next Governor. another round of political wrangling. It is a I appreciate Sonny, I appreciate him being disturbing failure to meet a responsibility straightforward, down to earth, tells it like 1942 Nov. 2 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 it is. That’s why he’s going to be a fine Gov- need to win. We’ve got some hurdles to cross ernor. I appreciate the fact that he set edu- here in America. We’ve got some big chal- cation as a priority. That’s why he’s going to lenges ahead of us. One of the biggest chal- be a fine Governor. I appreciate the fact that lenges we have is the fact that our economy he has actually met a payroll before. [Laugh- is just kind of bumping along. It’s not as ter] That’s why he’s going to be a fine Gov- strong as it should be. There are people look- ernor. ing for work, and they can’t find a job, which No, I appreciate Sonny being here. And means we’ve got a problem. People want to I appreciate the members of the mighty put food on the table, and they’re unable to Georgia congressional delegation for being find work, which means we’ve got to have here as well, Mac Collins and Johnny Isakson people in the Senate and in the United States and John Linder and Bob Barr. I appreciate Congress who understand the role of Gov- their friendship, and I appreciate their serv- ernment is not to create wealth but to create ice to our country. an environment in which the small business I want to thank all the candidates who are can grow to be a big business. here. I want to thank the grassroots activists Here’s the page of the textbook we read who have come. And I want to thank you from—the economics textbook, that is. We for accepting the fact that you drew the short strongly believe that if you let a person keep straw today. Laura is in another State. more of their own money, they’re likely to [Laughter] demand a good or a service. And when they Audience members. [Inaudible] demand a good or a service, somebody is The President. I understand. Yes, she was likely to produce the good or a service. And here yesterday; he’s right. You got stuck with when somebody produces that good or a me. But I can’t tell you how proud I am of service, somebody in Georgia and around her. She is a big backer of Saxby and Sonny, America is more likely to find work. The best everybody else running here in Georgia. She way to make sure people can find work is understands good government. How you get to let people keep more of their own money. good government is you put good people in And the best way to do that is to make the place. She sends her best. She sends her love. tax cuts permanent. And I’m telling you, she’s doing a great job The thing I like about Saxby and about as the First Lady of America. Phil is they understand up in Washington I want to thank the grassroots activists who we’re not spending the Government’s have worked so hard in the past for what money. We’re not giving you back the Gov- you’re about to do. Today and tomorrow and ernment’s money. It’s the people’s money. Monday and Tuesday, you need to do every- No, there are some things we can do to thing you can to turn out the vote. You need work together to make the job base increase. to go to your coffee shops and tell people We need to have us a terrorism insurance they’ve got to vote and talk up these good bill. That bill says that terrorists attack, we candidates. You need to go to your houses understand, we need the Government to un- of worship, remind people they have an obli- derwrite insurance so that big construction gation to vote. projects can get going forward, so our hard- And don’t be afraid of taking this message hats can get back to work, so those hard- to discerning Democrats. They want good working Americans all across the country are government. They want the best candidates. able to put food on the table. I look forward And when they hear of the stories of these to working with them and the Congress to three candidates up there, they’re going to get a good bill out, one by the way that re- support them. And don’t be afraid of taking wards the hardhats and not America’s trial your message to independents. Take the lawyers. message, work hard, turn out the vote, and So long as this economy is bumping along when you do, we’ll realize victory on Novem- and so long as people can’t find work, you’ve ber the 5th. just got to know we’re going to be doing ev- And there are reasons why, and there are erything we can to create jobs. And I need important reasons why these good candidates people up in the United States Congress who Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 / Nov. 2 1943 will work with me to do just that. And the ple elected who are willing to challenge the two best people to do just that is Saxby status quo. No child, not one single child, Chambliss for the Senate and Phil Gingrey should be left behind in the State of Georgia. for the United States House of Representa- I appreciate Saxby’s strong support for the tives. education bill and his clear vision for how We need people up there—we can work to improve education for every child, not just together to make sure our education system a few but for every single child who lives is strong. I want to thank Saxby for his strong in the great State of Georgia. support, unwavering support for an edu- I also look forward to working with Saxby cation bill which is going to really help the and Phil on the health issue. We’ve got a schoolchildren of the State of Georgia. He, problem in health. One of the problems is, along with the other Members up here on there’s too many junk lawsuits, too many friv- the stage, worked with me to get $1.2 billion olous lawsuits which make it hard for people of Federal money for the schools of Georgia. to have access to the courts. If you’ve got That’s a good sum of money for the people junk lawsuits clogging up the courts, you of Georgia. can’t get access to the courts. But as impor- But for the first time, we’ve got a new tantly, these frivolous lawsuits are running up frame of mind when it comes to children, the cost of medicine, and they’re driving doc- a frame of mind which shows that Saxby is tors out of the practice of medicine, which an optimistic person about our future. See, makes it harder for people to be able to be it says, every child can learn. That’s what we able to find a professional help they need. believe. Every child can learn. We believe For the sake of good health care, for the sake in high standards and high expectations. We of affordable and accessible health care, we believe strongly in challenging what I call the need medical liability reform at the Federal soft bigotry of low expectations. We under- level. stand if you lower the bar, you’re going to And we need a Medicare system which get lousy results. works. Medicine is modern; it’s evolving. In that bill we also understand that the Technology is changing medicine. New dis- people who care more about the children in coveries are changing medicine. But Medi- Georgia are Georgian citizens, not bureau- care is not changing. It’s stuck in the past. crats in Washington, DC, so we passed power For the sake of fulfilling our promises to our out of Washington. We believe in local con- seniors, we need a Medicare system which trol of schools. is modernized, and that means prescription But also in this bill, we finally started ask- drugs for every senior in America. And Saxby ing the question, when we spend that $1.2 Chambliss and Phil Gingrey will help me de- billion here, are we getting our money’s liver that promise to the seniors. worth? If you believe every child can learn, There’s one other—a lot of issues that are then you want to know if every child is learn- going to be important, and I need an ally ing. If you believe every child can read, then there in the Senate. Saxby is an ally. Make you want to know. And that’s why for the no mistake about it, in this race, if you’re first time in our Nation’s history, we’re seeing interested in sending an ally to the President, a return for this money: ‘‘Why don’t you show that ally is Saxby Chambliss. It doesn’t matter us. Show us whether or not the children are what they’re putting on the TV screens. I learning to read and write and add and sub- know the definition of ally. tract.’’ And when we see they are, I promise I need an ally in the Senate on judges. you, we’ll praise the teachers. And for those We’ve got a problem with our Federal of you who are teachers out there, thank you judges. The Senate has done a lousy job in for being involved in such a noble, important confirming my judges. They have done such profession. a lousy job that there are too many vacancies But it’s also important to understand that around the country. Vacancies on the Fed- if things aren’t working, when we find chil- eral benches mean people are denied justice, dren trapped in schools which won’t teach and that’s not right. Part of the problem is, and won’t change, it’s important to have peo- there’s just too much bickering, too much 1944 Nov. 2 / Administration of George W. Bush, 2002 ugly politics. Part of the problem is, they we are with a threat to the United States don’t like the nature of the people I’m nomi- people, and we can’t get us a homeland secu- nating. See, the kind of people I’ve put up rity bill. And the reason why is, some in the there are honest, honorable people, who will Senate wanted to extract too high a price not use the bench from which to legislate from this President and future Presidents. but will use the bench from which to strictly They asked me to give up a power Presidents interpret the Constitution. If the people of have had for 40 years, since John Kennedy Georgia are interested in a sound judiciary, was the President, and that is the ability to they need to send Saxby Chambliss to the suspend collective bargaining rules in any United States Senate. Department in the Federal Government There’s a lot of issues we’ll work on to- when national security is at stake. gether, but no bigger issue than protecting In other words, I need to be able to sus- the American people from attack. That’s still pend rules that prevents us from doing every- an issue because there’s still an enemy lurk- thing in our power to protect you. If some ing around which hates America, and they of the Senators had their way, these rules hate us for what we love. We love freedom, would apply to the Department of Agri- and we’re not changing. We love the fact that culture but not to the Homeland Security people can worship an almighty God freely Department. These rules would be okay for in America. We love every aspect about free- a Department that deals with farmers but not dom. And as long as we hold freedom dear, with a Department dealing with your na- there’s an enemy lurking around out there tional security. I need to have the ability to which will try to cause further harm on the put the right people at the right place at the American people. That’s just the way it is. right time to protect the American people, That’s the clear reality we face. and Saxby Chambliss understands that. So we have an awesome responsibility to I sure would like to have a Senator do everything we can to protect you. You need to know there’s a lot of really good peo- Chambliss. I wouldn’t have to be worried ple at the Federal, State, and local level about his vote. I wouldn’t have to be worried working hard to protect you, running down about him being captured by special interests every hint, every idea. Anytime we get a in Washington, DC. The only interest he has whisper that somebody is thinking about in mind is the interest I have in mind, which doing something or talking about doing is the protection of the American people. something to the American people, we’re And the best way to protect the American moving on it; we’re disrupting; we’re deny- people is to chase these killers down, one ing. We understand the stakes. at a time, and bring them to justice, which But we can do a better job of protecting is what we’re going to do. Therapy isn’t going the American people. We can do a better to work on them. [Laughter] job by creating a Department of Homeland I asked the Congress to join me in passing Security, one which needs to be set up cor- the largest increase in defense spending since rectly so that it can function properly on be- Ronald Reagan was the President, and they half of the American people. As I was begin- did. And it sends two messages, two messages ning to set up the Department of Homeland I want to share with you today. One, any time Security I knew one person I could turn to we put our troops into harm’s way, they de- for good advice, somebody whose judgment serve the best p