    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2004, Book I)]
    [January 27, 2004]
    [Page 143]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks Prior to a Meeting With Congressional Leaders
    January 27, 2004

    Legislative Agenda

        I want to thank the Members from the Senate and the House who are
    here, both Republicans and Democrat leaders who are here to discuss the
    upcoming session. We've got a lot of common interests this year,
    interests of continuing to fight and win the war against terror. We need
    to protect our homeland. We need to put policies in place that help
    people find work. We'll work together on the health needs of our fellow
    citizens. We've got to be wise with the people's money. I look forward
    to constructive conversation today and working together constructively
    throughout the year. This is an election year. It's a year where people
    say, ``Nothing can get done.'' We need to prove them wrong. We need to
    continue to do the people's business in a sound way.
        I want to thank the Members for coming. I appreciate the chance to
    visit with you, and I look forward to a good relationship here in 2004.

    Note: The President spoke at 3:34 p.m. in the Cabinet Room at the White
    House. A tape was not available for verification of the content of these
    remarks.