    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2002, Book II)]
    [October 16, 2002]
    [Page 1818]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Congressional Action on Election Reform Legislation
    October 16, 2002

        The right to vote is the foundation of our democracy. I commend the
    House and Senate for passing legislation to improve our election
    process. The legislation is consistent with the principles outlined by
    the bipartisan Ford-Carter Commission that respect the primacy of State
    and local governments and envision a limited but responsible role for
    the Federal Government. I look forward to signing these important
    election reforms into law.