    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2004, Book II)]
    [September 8, 2004]
    [Pages 1960-1961]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks on Intelligence Reform
    September 8, 2004

        I want to thank the Members who are here. Thank--thank you all for
    coming today. We are going to discuss intelligence reform. I will be
    submitting a plan to the Congress that strengthens intelligence reform--
    strengthens the intelligence services. We believe that there ought to be
    a National Intelligence Director who has full budgetary authority. We'll
    talk to Members of Congress about how to implement that. I look forward
    to working with the Members to get a bill to my desk as quickly as
    possible.
        It's important we get our intelligence gathering correct. After all,
    we're still at war. We've got to find the enemy before they hurt us.
    We've got to do everything we can to protect the homeland. We're still

    [[Page 1961]]

    on the offense here in this country. We're chasing down these killers
    overseas so we don't have to face them here at home. We're making good
    progress.
        Ultimately, we will prevail because liberty changes countries, and
    liberty changes the habits of people. Liberty promotes peace. And that's
    why we appreciate the sacrifice of the men and women who wear the
    uniform. They're serving a great cause. We mourn every loss of life.
    We'll honor their memories by completing the mission.
        Thank you all for coming.

    Note: The President spoke at 9:15 a.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.