    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2003, Book I)]
    [February 23, 2003]
    [Page 202]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks at a Dinner for the Nation's Governors
    February 23, 2003

        Good evening. Laura and I really look forward
    to these yearly dinners with our Nation's Governors and spouses, and we
    welcome you all back to the White House. For those of you who are first-
    timers here as Governors, we welcome you as well.
        I'm particularly pleased that Lyle Lovett,
    from the great State of Texas, is here with us. We look forward to
    hearing you tonight, Lyle.
        I also welcome former Governors who serve in my Cabinet. Tommy
    Thompson and Christie Todd
    Whitman, Todd John Ashcroft are here. Tom Ridge is now a
    member of my Cabinet; he's not here. He'll still be invited to the
    Cabinet Room. [Laughter] Governors are strong leaders with a practical
    point of view, and I'm really grateful for my former fellow Governors
    for serving their country.
        There are 25 new Governors who are here. I know it's an exciting
    experience for you to set an agenda and to put together a great team to
    solve problems for your State or your territory.
        I loved being the Governor of Texas. In my 6 years, I placed great
    value on the advice of fellow Governors and made many friendships which
    continue to this day. I've grown especially close to the Governor of
    Florida. [Laughter] The man is like a brother to
    me. [Laughter]
        We each have a shared experience, and we have shared
    responsibilities. We share the responsibility for protecting the
    homeland. We share the responsibility for encouraging economic growth
    and jobs. We share the responsibility for making sure every child learns
    and no child is left behind. We share the responsibility for expanding
    access to high-quality, affordable health care and for helping our
    fellow citizens in need. And we'll meet these responsibilities together.
        I'm honored to have you all here. I now ask you to join me in a
    toast to the Governors of the United States. Thank you.

    Note: The President spoke at 8:03 p.m. in the State Dining Room at the
    White House. In his remarks, he referred to entertainer Lyle Lovett. The
    transcript released by the Office of the Press Secretary also included
    the remarks of Gov. Paul E. Patton of Kentucky, chair, National
    Governors Association.