[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.