    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1995, Book I)]
    [April 26, 1995]
    [Pages 605-606]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks on Counterterrorism Initiatives and an Exchange With Reporters
    April 26, 1995

        The President. I asked the leaders of Congress from both parties to
    come to the White House today because I know that we have a shared
    commitment to do everything we possibly can to stamp out the kind of
    vicious behavior we saw in Oklahoma City. Everyone here is determined to
    do that, and I want us to work together to get the job done.
        On Sunday, I announced the first series of steps we must take to
    combat terrorism in America. Today I'm announcing further measures,
    grounded in common sense and steeled with force. These measures will
    strengthen law enforcement and sharpen their ability to crack down on
    terrorists wherever they're from, be it at home or abroad. This will arm
    them with investigative tools, increased enforcement, and tougher
    penalties.
        I say, again: Justice in this case must be swift, certain, and
    severe. And for anyone who dares to sow terror on American land, justice
    must be swift, certain, and severe. We must move

    [[Page 606]]

    on with law enforcement measures quickly. We must move so that we can
    prevent this kind of thing from happening again. We cannot allow our
    entire country to be subjected to the horror that the people of Oklahoma
    City endured. We can prevent it and must do everything we can to prevent
    it. I know that we would do this together without regard to party, and
    I'm looking forward to this discussion of it.
        Q. Civil libertarians are worried there may be some ability by law
    enforcement agencies to abuse the power that you may be given.
        The President. I think we can strike the right balance. We've got to
    do more to protect the American people.

    Note: The President spoke at 5:09 p.m. in the Cabinet Room at the White
    House, prior to a meeting with congressional leaders. A tape was not
    available for verification of the content of these remarks.